Ricoh GR IV Monochrome Priced $700 Higher

Taylor Keatsman

ago 1 hour

Ricoh GR IV Monochrome Priced $700 Higher

Ricoh has officially announced the pricing for its GR IV Monochrome camera. The camera will retail for $2,199.95, marking a significant increase of $700 compared to the base model. This price jump reflects a 46% rise and raises questions among photographers regarding the value of a monochrome-only camera.

Monochrome Models in the Camera Market

Monochrome versions of existing cameras typically carry a premium. However, few brands venture into this territory. Currently, Leica and Ricoh Pentax are the main players, having released dedicated black-and-white cameras.

Previous Releases and Price Comparisons

Leica Q3 Monochrom: Priced at $7,790, over $1,000 more than the base Q3.
Leica M11 Monochrom: Costs $10,160, surpassing the standard M11 price of $9,840.
Ricoh Pentax K-3 III Monochrome: Launched at a $200 premium over the K-3 III, two years later than the standard model.

Evaluating Ricoh’s Pricing Strategy

Ricoh’s decision to charge a premium for the GR IV Monochrome has sparked debate within the photography community. Many professionals express skepticism, feeling they are being asked to pay more for the absence of a color filter in front of the sensor.

The Appeal of Monochrome Photography

Despite the pricing concerns, some photographers believe that a dedicated monochrome camera is worth the investment. PetaPixel reviewer Chris Niccolls argues for the benefits that dedicated tools bring to black-and-white photography. He emphasizes the value of classic color filters and the diverse tonal expressions achieved through this camera.

Features of the GR IV Monochrome

The Ricoh GR IV Monochrome is designed to optimize the capabilities of the GR series. Key features include:

Monochrome-dedicated image sensor: Enhances refined rendering and tonal gradation.
Built-in red filter: Allows for more expressive monochrome photography.
Image Control options: Tailored for diverse monochrome expressions.

Availability and Pre-Order Information

The GR IV Monochrome is available for pre-order starting now. It will hit the market in mid-February. Additionally, it will be showcased at GR Space locations in: