Ricoh officially introduced the GR IV HDF on December 16, 2025. The camera is a specialized variant of its GR IV compact, replacing the standard model’s built‑in ND filter with a proprietary Highlight Diffusion Filter for softer, more nostalgic images straight out of camera.
The GR IV HDF builds on the success of the standard GR IV by targeting users who want a film‑like glow in highlights without relying on post‑processing. It enters a premium compact segment dominated by models such as the Fujifilm X100VI and Leica Q3.
Priced at $1,599, which is $100 more than the base GR IV, the HDF edition is aimed at street shooters and creatives who prefer character‑driven rendering over a purely clinical look.
Highlight Diffusion Filter Explained
The defining feature of the GR IV HDF is Ricoh’s Highlight Diffusion Filter (HDF).
Developed using inkjet printing technology, the filter softens point light sources and gently diffuses highlights. The result is a mellow and cinematic aesthetic reminiscent of classic film photography.
The effect can be toggled on or off via a dedicated function button or the newly styled grayish‑silver shutter release. When enabled, highlights bloom subtly while the camera retains its sharp core rendering, thanks to the 25.74‑megapixel APS‑C BSI CMOS sensor and redesigned 28mm equivalent f/2.8 lens.
ND Filter Trade Off and Shutter System
The traditional 2EV ND filter found in the standard GR IV is not included in this model.
To compensate, Ricoh equips the GR IV HDF with an electronic shutter capable of speeds up to 1/16000s, alongside a mechanical shutter rated up to 1/4000s. This allows wide‑open shooting in bright conditions without the need for neutral density filtration.
Ricoh has also confirmed that a firmware update will bring electronic shutter support to existing GR IV units.
Performance and Video Capabilities
In terms of performance, the GR IV HDF closely mirrors the base model.
It features 5‑axis sensor‑shift image stabilization rated at up to 6 stops and fast hybrid autofocus combining phase‑detection and contrast‑detection methods.
Video is limited to Full HD recording, captured in MPEG‑4 AVC/H.264 format within a MOV container. Frame rates reach up to 60p, with individual clips capped at 25 minutes or 4GB. Recording will stop automatically if internal temperatures rise too high.
Body Design and Handling
The magnesium alloy body remains compact and pocketable, maintaining the GR series’ reputation for portability.
Storage includes approximately 53GB of internal memory, along with support for microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards conforming to UHS‑I standards. Button tactility has been refined, and the 3.0‑inch touchscreen LCD offers wide viewing angles and capacitive touch control.
Early Impressions and Use Cases
Early hands‑on impressions highlight the subtle but transformative nature of the HDF effect.
Harsh highlights are rendered as soft, atmospheric glows, making the camera particularly appealing for moody urban scenes and night photography. Some long‑time GR users may miss the ND filter for deliberate long‑exposure work, but the added creative character is likely to outweigh that trade‑off for many photographers.
Market Position and Strategy
Ricoh’s strategy reflects growing demand for in‑camera character and specialized shooting tools.
The earlier GR III HDF sold out quickly, suggesting strong interest in diffusion‑based rendering. At $1,599, the GR IV HDF risks overlapping with the standard GR IV, but the dedicated filter and electronic shutter upgrade make it an attractive sidegrade.
With a Monochrome variant expected in spring 2026, Ricoh appears committed to expanding the GR lineup through focused, character‑driven models.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Lens | 18.3mm (Approx. 28mm in 35mm equivalent focal length), F2.8～F16 |
| Lens Construction | 7 elements in 5 groups, including 3 aspherical elements |
| Format | APS‑C |
| Sensor | 25.74MP BSI CMOS |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor‑shift SR, 5‑axis, 6-step |
| Highlight Diffusion Filter | Built‑in, on or off |
| Shutter | Mechanical 1/4000s to 30s, electronic up to 1/16000s |
| ISO Range | ISO 100 to 204800 |
| Autofocus | Hybrid AF with phase and contrast detection |
| Video | Full HD 1080p at 60p, 30p, or 24p |
| Video Codec | MPEG‑4 AVC/H.264, MOV |
| Storage | Internal memory approx. 53GB plus microSD UHS‑I |
| Wireless | Wi‑Fi with IEEE 802.11ax support, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Battery Life | Approx. 250 shots CIPA |
| Dimensions | Approx. 109.4 × 61.1 × 32.7 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 262g with battery and card, 228g body only |
The Ricoh GR IV HDF retails for $1,599 and is scheduled to ship in late January 2026 through Ricoh and authorized retailers worldwide.
