Japanese camera maker Ricoh is expanding its popular GR compact series with a dedicated black-and-white model, the GR IV Monochrome, set for release in 2026.

This marks the first time the GR line will feature a sensor built exclusively for monochrome photography.

The GR IV Monochrome is based on the recently released GR IV, retaining its pocket-friendly body, 18.3mm f/2.8 lens (28mm equivalent), and 3-inch touchscreen LCD.

However, it swaps the standard colour filter array for a monochrome CMOS sensor, allowing the camera to capture pure luminance data.

According to Ricoh this delivers greater tonal depth, sharper fine detail, and improved light sensitivity, particularly in low-light conditions, with a maximum ISO of 409,600.

Ricoh says the camera will also include dedicated Image Control options designed to enhance black-and-white photography, letting users achieve rich textures and expressive contrast without relying on post-processing.

The GR IV Monochrome will store images on roughly 53GB of internal memory and supports microSD expansion.

Alongside the Monochrome model, Ricoh is also releasing the GR IV HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter) in Winter 2025.

The HDF variant softens highlights for a dreamier, cinematic look, contrasting with the GR IV’s usual sharp and punchy output.

While pricing for the Monochrome edition has yet to be confirmed, the standard GR IV retails for around $1,500 (A$2,300).

The exterior design of the Monochrome model is largely unchanged from the GR IV, aside from a subtle black GR logo on the front.

Ricoh’s GR series has been a favourite among street and travel photographers for decades, known for its compact design, fast response and high-quality images.

With the GR IV Monochrome, the company is catering directly to black-and-white purists who want maximum image quality without the need for colour-to-B&W conversion.