Ricoh GR III Gets Launched

2019.02.22

A new GR-series camera has been in the works for a long time and showcased at Photo Plus Expo in New York last October and is being officially launched today.

The new Ricoh GR III follows the same large-sensor fixed-lens camera format as its predecessor yet with a completely new imaging pipeline. It sports a 24 megapixels CMOS sensor mounted on a 3-axis image-stabilization system which is effective to 4 stops over hand-holding. This is paired with a 28mm-equivalent F/2.8 lens, all in a 33mm thick body that weights a mere 257g.

The new sensor has an ISO 100-102400 sensitivity range and features on-sensor Phase-Detect AF. Together with the addition of image-stabilization are the most significant changes introduced in this third-generation GR camera by Ricoh. As cameras of type always are, the GR III is designed for efficient operation with dual control-dials and full manual controls.

Ricoh fitted the GR III with plenty of advanced features including bracketing, an Interval-Timer and Time-Lapse Video. The sensor-shift mechanism is used to simulate an anti-alias filter and clean the sensor which is unique among fixed-lens digital cameras. Framing is restricted to a 3" LCD on the back which is covered with a air-gapless tempered glass layer. There is no viewfinder on the GR III, nor provision to add one.

Ricoh expects to ship the GR III next month for $900 USD. They will also have a 21mm wide-angle adapter for it at $250 USD.

• Digital Camera