Ricoh GR GR IIIx 2021
The 24.2MP APS-C sensor and sharp 26.1mm F2.8 GR lens (40mm equiv.) deliver a natural perspective in a 261g body, starting up in 0.8 seconds and featuring 4-stop IBIS. Its compact design incorporates a two-stop ND filter and 12cm close focusing, adding creative control for everyday shooting. This camera is best for street photographers and snapshot enthusiasts who want a 40mm field of view in a genuinely pocketable, responsive package.
Acerca de este Camera
1. Newly designed, high-resolution GR lens The RICOH GR IIIx incorporates a newly developed 26.1mm F2.8 GR lens, which harmonizes exceptional image quality with a slim design. Unlike past GR-series models which featured a 28mm wide angle of view for exaggerated perspective, this lens provides a 40mm standard angle of view in the 35mm format, delivering images with a more natural perspective and a more truthful sense of depth for a completely different type of street photography. The newly designed optics incorporates two aspherical optical elements at most effective positions to reduce distortion and chromatic aberration to a minimum, while effectively minimizing the generation of flare and ghost images when shooting against backlight. In macro photography, the camera allows the user to move in on a subject to as close as 12 centimeters from the lens front end. Coupled with the standard focal length, it captures close-up images with a natural perspective, set against a beautifully defocused background. It also comes equipped with an ND (Neutral Density) filter, which closes the aperture down by two stops to capture high-contrast, high-resolution images with a variety of scenes and subjects and under varying shooting conditions. Its nine-blade diaphragm mechanism creates a natural bokeh (defocus) effect and a truthful sense of depth at open and larger apertures, while capturing beautiful light beams at closed-down apertures. 2. High-quality, high-resolution images The GR IIIx incorporates a large APS-C-format CMOS image sensor with an anti-aliasing (AA) filter-less design and a newly developed GR ENGINE 6 imaging engine to optimize its image resolving power. With approximately 24.24 effective megapixels, this image sensor assures super-high-resolution images rich in gradation. It is also compatible with multi-tone 14-bit RAW image recording. The camera also features the RICOH-original accelerator unit designed to optimize the image data delivered by the image sensor, and provides a top sensitivity of ISO 102400 for super-high-sensitivity photography. 3. Hybrid AF system for high-speed, high-precision autofocus operation The GR IIIx features a hybrid AF system combining a contrast-type AF mechanism superior in focusing precision with a phase-detection-type AF mechanism assuring high-speed focusing operation. During autofocus shooting, this AF system detects the subject’s face or eye with precision,* focuses on it, and indicates the in-focus position on the LCD display using the AF frame. When the camera detects multiple faces, it automatically distinguishes the main subject from secondary ones and indicates this on the focus frame. Photographers can also change the main subject with simple touch-screen operation. * A firmware upgrade for the RICOH GR III will be provided soon. GR III users are advised to update the camera’s firmware to use this function. 4. RICOH-original SR mechanism • Three-axis, four-step* shake reduction: The RICOH-original SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism means that the GR IIIx effectively compensates for camera shake at the time of shutter release. The three-axis mechanism minimizes the adverse effects of camera shakecaused by pitch, yaw and roll by as much as four shutter steps. Since the SR mechanism shifts the image sensor to the ideal position horizontally and vertically, the camera lets the user take advantage of the Auto Horizon Correction function to effortlessly optimize image composition. * Measured in conformity with CIPA standards. • RICOH-original AA Filter Simulator*: By applying microscopic vibrations with sub-pixel precision to the image sensor unit during exposure, the camera’s AA (anti-aliasing) Filter Simulator provides the same level of moiré reduction as an optical AA filter. This innovative simulator allows the user not only to switch the AA filter effect on and off, but also to adjust the effect to the level best suited for a given subject. * This function is available at shutter speeds slower than 1/1000 second. 5. Compact, lightweight design Despite the incorporation of the large APS-C-format image sensor and the newly developed optics with a longer focal length, the GR IIIx is designed to be extremely compact, functional and portable, in keeping with the GR-series concept of the camera as a pocketable imaging tool or a handy picture-taking tool. It also provides a host of user-friendly features — such as a short start-up time of approximately 0.8 seconds, control dials conveniently positioned next to the four-way controller, and effortless touch-screen operation — to enhance operability and allow the user to swiftly react to once-in-a-lifetime shutter opportunities. The exterior frame is made of highly rigid magnesium alloy to improve dependability and durability while being carried or stored. 6. High-definition LCD monitor with intuitive touch-screen operation The GR IIIx features a 3.0-inch high-definition LCD monitor with approximately 1,037,000 dots. Its touch-screen operation provides swift, intuitive control of various camera functions, such as AF frame shift, menu selection, and image advance/magnification during playback. It also features an air gapless construction, in which special resin is inserted between the LCD touchscreen monitor and a protective cover made of reinforced glass, to effectively reduce the reflection and dispersion of light for improved visibility. The Outdoor View Setting allows the user to instantly adjust the monitor’s brightness to the desired level for greater visibility in difficult lighting conditions. 7. Image Control function to produce desired visual effects The GR IIIx features a creative Image Control function, which integrates effect modes into conventional image setting operations. Using 11 basic Image Control modes, the user can easily adjust various parameters, such as saturation, hue, key, contrast and graininess, to the desired level and create their preferred finishing touch. A set of adjusted parameters can be added as a custom setting to the Image Control function menu. 8. Advanced image editing The GR IIIx provides in-body RAW-data development, while allowing the user to edit a captured image as desired by adjusting such parameters as recoding size, aspect ratio, white balance,Image Control setting, and exposure compensation factor, all without the need of a PC. Since the camera reduces the time required for preview after the user adjusts the parameters of RAW-format images, it enhances the speed of in-body RAW-data development. The camera also lets the user retain the adjusted parameters after the initial RAW-data development is completed, making it possible to make minute re-adjustment of the already-developed image with greater efficiency. The camera’s image quality adjustment function for JPEG images is also upgraded: a newly added monochrome mode allows more minute adjustment of parameters in full-color images, such as filter effect, toning, contrast and sharpness, to create monochrome images with the desired finishing touches. The camera also provides such creative tools as a choice of aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3)* and image rotation in 0.1-degree steps* to facilitate the image editing process. * A firmware upgrade for the RICOH GR III will be provided soon. GR III users are advised to update the camera’s firmware to use these tools. 9. Bluetooth and wireless LAN dual communication The GR IIIx provides wireless LAN functions for easy pairing with mobile devices such as smartphones and tablet computers. By installing the dedicated Image Sync application, the user can transfer captured images to a mobile device, display a Live-View image on the device’s monitor, change various settings remotely, release the shutter from a distance, and even upload captured images to various social media with ease. Even when the camera’s power is turned off, the user can browse and download the images stored on the camera to a mobile device. The user can also send a mobile device’s location data to the camera, and record the data on captured images. The Auto Resize function,* which automatically reduces the image size before transmitting an image to a mobile device, also helps improve the camera’s operability. * A firmware upgrade for the RICOH GR III will be provided soon. GR III users are advised to update the camera’s firmware to use this function. 10. Other features ① Full HD movie recording (1920 x 1080 pixels, 60 frame rate) in the H-264 recording format ➁ New DOF Priority (Deep) * added to the program line to prioritize the closed aperture setting ③ Color Moiré Correction function to reduce the effect of moiré during playback ④ Interval Composite mode, effective in capturing landscapes with traces of the moon and stars ⑤ Electronic Level to check the camera’s inclination ⑥ GT-2 Tele Conversion Lens (optional)** to extend the focal length to approx. 75mm telephoto in the 35mm format, usable in combination with the camera’s auto detection and crop functions ⑦ Compatibility with accessory flash units designed for use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras*** * A firmware upgrade for the RICOH GR III will be provided soon. GR III users are advised to update the camera’s firmware to use this program. ** The GA-2 Lens Adapter — an optional accessory designed exclusively for the GR IIIx — is required to install this lens on the GR IIIx. *** Compatible accessory flash units are: AF540FGZ II, AF360FGZ II, AF540FGZ, AF360FGZ, AF201FG and AF200FG
- [GR with a 40mm angle of view] A focal length of 40mm provides a highly versatile angle of view that is close to the effective field of view of humans. You can enjoy snap expression with a new angle of view that has never been seen before.
- [The ultimate snapshot camera] GR unchanging concept: High image quality, Quick response, Portability, and Evolving
- [High image quality] Equipped with a GR lens that realizes sharp images, a 24.2M APS-C sensor, and a GR engine 6 that achieves both advanced image processing and response.
- [Quick response] High-speed startup of about 0.8 seconds after the power is turned on. Equipped with high-speed hybrid AF that delivers both high-speed autofocus and greater precision.
- [Portability] Controls are improved while maintaining the pursuite of portability.
The 30-Second Version
The Ricoh GR IIIx packs a best-in-class APS-C sensor and a brilliant 40mm f/2.8 lens into a jeans-pocket-friendly body. It starts up in 0.8 seconds and nails the natural perspective street photographers crave. Battery life and video are weak spots, but for stills-focused shooters who value portability above all else, it's unbeatable. Just avoid scalped listings and look for it around $1,200 to $1,500 from legit sellers.
Overview
The Ricoh GR IIIx is a camera that doesn't scream for attention, and that's exactly the point. It's tiny, discreet, and about as intimidating as a pack of gum. But inside that pocketable body sits a 24.2MP APS-C sensor and a newly designed 40mm equivalent f/2.8 lens that churns out images with a natural perspective most compacts can only dream of. If you're the type who wants a dedicated camera that prioritizes being there over looking impressive, this thing is tailor-made. It's not for everyone, but for street photographers and anyone who values seeing the world at a human-like focal length, it's a genuinely special tool.
We've seen plenty of cameras try to balance portability and image quality, but the GR IIIx does it with a focused, almost stubborn, clarity. There's no zoom, no viewfinder built in (you can add one via the hotshoe, but that's extra), and the video specs are modest. What you get is a no-compromise stills machine that starts up in about 0.8 seconds and gets out of your way. It's the kind of camera that makes you want to carry it everywhere, not because it's loaded with features, but because it simplifies the act of taking a photo.
That 40mm focal length is the real story here. It's a departure from the classic 28mm of past GRs, offering a view that feels more like what your eye naturally sees. Combined with a macro mode that lets you focus as close as 12cm and a built-in ND filter, it's versatile in a quiet, unflashy way. The GR IIIx isn't trying to be a do-it-all hybrid; it's a snapshot camera with an almost philosophical dedication to a specific kind of photography. And for the right person, that's everything.
Performance
The sensor in the GR IIIx is a standout. Our database puts it in the top tier for its class, meaning it's one of the best APS-C sensors you'll find in any compact camera right now. In practice, that translates to rich detail, excellent dynamic range, and the kind of color depth that gives your RAW files serious editing latitude. High ISO performance is improved over previous generations, and while it's not going to outgun a full-frame Sony a7 V in near darkness, it holds its own remarkably well for such a small body. The IBIS provides around 4 stops of stabilization, which helps in low light, though it's not class-leading.
Autofocus is quick thanks to the hybrid AF system, and Eye AF does a solid job locking onto faces. But it's not in the same league as the speed demons like a Fujifilm X-H2S or a Nikon Z8. Burst shooting is a weak point, landing in the bottom third of our database, so if you're trying to capture fast action or erratic movement, you'll find it underwhelming. The real-world strength here is in deliberate, composed shooting. The lens is tack sharp, with well-controlled distortion and very little flare, giving you images that look like they came from a much larger setup.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Tiny, discreet body you'll actually take everywhere 88th
- Gorgeous 40mm f/2.8 lens renders natural perspective with sharp detail 85th
- APS-C sensor quality is top-tier for a compact 72th
- Snappy 0.8-second startup gets you shooting instantly 71th
- Built-in ND filter and 12cm macro add real flexibility
Cons
- Battery life is mediocre, living in the bottom half of our database 29th
- No built-in viewfinder, and the add-on option is pricey
- Video specs top out at 1080p, with no 4K to be found
- Burst speed is slow, falling behind most competitors
- Weather sealing is absent, so rainy days are a no-go
The Word on the Street
Specifications
Full Specifications
Sensor
| Type | CMOS |
| Size | aps-c |
| Megapixels | 24.24 |
| ISO Range | 100 |
| Processor | GR ENGINE 6 |
Autofocus
| AF Type | Auto-area AF, Zone AF, Select AF, Pinpoint AF, Tracking AF, Cont |
| Eye AF | Yes |
Shooting
| Max Shutter | 1/4000 |
| Electronic Shutter | Yes |
Video
| Max Resolution | 1080p |
| 1080p FPS | 60 |
| RAW Video | Yes |
| Codec | H-264 |
Display & EVF
| Screen Size | 3 |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Articulating | No |
Build
| Weight | 0.3 kg / 0.6 lbs |
Connectivity
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| USB | USB-C 3.2 / 3.1 Gen 1 |
| Hot Shoe | Yes |
Value & Pricing
The pricing situation around the GR IIIx is honestly a bit of a mess. Officially, it should be around the $1,000 mark, but our price data shows a spread from $1,247 all the way up to a baffling $38,790 across different vendors. That extreme high almost certainly represents scalpers or bizarre bundled listings, so don't let it scare you off. The realistic price you'll pay, if you can find one in stock at a reputable retailer, is in that $1,200 to $1,500 range. At that level, you're getting a camera that outshoots any phone and rivals many interchangeable lens setups in image quality, in a package you can slip into a jeans pocket. For street photography and everyday carry, that's a genuinely strong value proposition, even if the lack of 4K video and a built-in EVF make it feel a bit sparse on paper. Just steer clear of the four-figure scalper listings and keep an eye on authorized dealers.
Price History
vs Competition
The cameras our database considers top competitors for the GR IIIx are all full-frame or high-end APS-C mirrorless models like the Sony a7 V, Canon EOS R6 Mark III, Fujifilm X-H2S, Panasonic S5IIX, and Nikon Z8. That alone tells you something. These are big, serious, interchangeable-lens cameras built for everything from sports to video production. Comparing the GR IIIx to them is like comparing a folding bike to a pickup truck; they serve completely different purposes. If you need 8K video, lightning burst rates, or the ability to mount a 70-200mm zoom, any of those will run circles around the Ricoh. But none of them will fit in a coat pocket, weigh 261g, or make you invisible in a crowd.
A more honest rival is the Fujifilm X100 series, though it's not in our formal competitor list. That camera offers a hybrid viewfinder and a more classic design, but it's larger and the lens sticks out. The GR IIIx is all about zero bulk. So if you're torn between a GR and one of those mirrorless monsters, the real question is: do you want a camera that can do everything, or one that you'll actually have with you? The GR IIIx bets everything on the latter, and for the right person, that bet pays off.
| Spec | Ricoh GR GR IIIx | Fujifilm X-H2 X-H2 | Canon EOS R EOS R6 Mark III | Sony a7 a7 V | Panasonic LUMIX GH7 GH7 | Nikon Z Z8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | compact | mirrorless | mirrorless | mirrorless | mirrorless | mirrorless |
| Sensor | 24.2MP aps-c | 40.2MP aps-c | 32.5MP full-frame | 33MP full-frame | 25.2MP micro-four-thirds | 45.7MP full-frame |
| AF Points | - | 425 | 1053 | 759 | 315 | 493 |
| Burst FPS | - | 20 | 40 | 30 | 75 | 30 |
| Video | 1080p | 8K @60fps | 6K @120fps | 4K @120fps | 5K @120fps | 8K @120fps |
| IBIS | true | true | true | true | true | true |
| Weather Sealed | false | true | true | true | true | true |
| Weight (g) | 261 | 579 | 609 | 610 | 721 | 820 |
| Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare |
| Product | Af | Evf | Build | Burst | Video | Sensor | Battery | Display | Connectivity | Social Proof | Stabilization |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ricoh GR GR IIIx | 67.6 | 36.1 | 65.9 | 29.1 | 50.8 | 88.4 | 44.9 | 56.5 | 70.7 | 84.9 | 72.1 |
| Fujifilm X-H2 X-H2 Compare | 88.1 | 95.5 | 89.5 | 85.5 | 99.9 | 97.1 | 97 | 84.3 | 93.3 | 94.6 | 93.5 |
| Canon EOS R EOS R6 Mark III Compare | 98.4 | 88 | 94.9 | 93.1 | 89.6 | 58.8 | 96.6 | 99.2 | 93.3 | 94.6 | 99.5 |
| Sony a7 a7 V Compare | 95.7 | 88.7 | 95 | 91 | 89.6 | 60.1 | 96.6 | 99.6 | 93.3 | 94.6 | 96.1 |
| Panasonic LUMIX GH7 GH7 Compare | 84.7 | 88 | 97.4 | 95.2 | 97.5 | 56.1 | 89.2 | 84.3 | 93.3 | 94.6 | 96.1 |
| Nikon Z Z8 Compare | 90.5 | 89.5 | 98.1 | 96.1 | 99.5 | 65 | 88.9 | 84.3 | 93.3 | 94.6 | 84.7 |
Common Questions
Q: Does the GR IIIx come with a battery and charger?
Yes, the base kit includes a rechargeable battery. However, note that the camera charges via USB-C, but there's no separate external wall charger in the box. You'll be charging the battery inside the camera using a USB-C cable connected to a power source, which is fine for most but might be a minor inconvenience if you want to charge a spare battery externally.
Q: How does the sensor handle low light and high ISO shooting?
The APS-C sensor is one of the best in its class, and high ISO performance has been notably improved over previous GR generations. While it's not going to match a modern full-frame camera at extreme ISOs, you can comfortably shoot at ISO 6400 and get very usable results, especially if you shoot RAW. The 4-stop IBIS also helps you keep the ISO lower by allowing slower shutter speeds handheld, so for static scenes in dim light, it's quite capable.
Q: Is there a way to attach a viewfinder?
There is no built-in EVF, but the hotshoe on top accepts an optional external optical viewfinder (sold separately). This gives you a simple framing aid, though it doesn't show exposure or focus information. Some photographers prefer the rear touch screen for discreet shooting, but if you must have a viewfinder, factor in the extra cost and bulk.
Q: Can I shoot decent video with the GR IIIx?
Video is not this camera's strength. It tops out at 1080p at 60fps, which is usable for casual clips but lacks the 4K most modern cameras offer. The footage is clean and the IBIS helps with handheld stability, but if video is a priority, you'll be much happier with any of the mirrorless competitors. Think of the video mode as a bonus for quick social media snippets, not a production tool.
Who Should Skip This
If you need a camera that can handle fast action, wildlife, or sports, the GR IIIx will frustrate you. Its burst rate is sluggish, and the autofocus, while snappy for still subjects, isn't built for tracking erratic movement. Similarly, if video is even a secondary consideration, you should look elsewhere. The 1080p ceiling and lack of advanced video features make it a poor choice for content creators. In those cases, a Sony a7 V or Fujifilm X-H2S will serve you far better, even if they're larger. And if you absolutely need weather sealing for shooting in rain or dust, this camera's lack of it is a dealbreaker. Consider the Fujifilm X100V (if you can find one) or a weather-sealed mirrorless with a compact prime lens instead.
Verdict
If you're a street photographer, a traveler who hates lugging gear, or just someone who wants a dedicated camera that won't dominate your bag, the GR IIIx is a no-brainer. The 40mm lens gives you a perspective that feels natural and unforced, and the image quality is so good you'll start leaving your bigger kit at home. It's quick to power on, discreet to shoot with, and the files are a joy to edit. The lack of weather sealing and mediocre battery life are the only real pains, but you learn to work around them.
For anyone who shoots action, needs robust video, or relies on a viewfinder, this isn't your camera. The burst mode won't keep up with kids running around, and the 1080p video feels like an afterthought. If you're a hybrid shooter, look at something like the Sony a7 V or Fujifilm X-H2S. But if your aim is to capture everyday moments with an artist's eye and a journalist's stealth, the GR IIIx is in a class of its own.
