Ricoh GR III/GR3 Review in 2025: Why I’m Still Using It

Ricoh GR III: From Skeptic to Believer

I didn’t plan to fall in love with the Ricoh GR III. In fact, I was very close to skipping it entirely. I thought, “Do I really need a compact camera in 2025 when my phone does pretty much everything?”

Turns out, I did. And I’m glad I gave it a chance.

Like many people, I was used to pulling out my phone, swiping up, and capturing life in real-time. But over time, I noticed something strange: I was taking more photos, but remembering less. My phone shots felt… transactional. Disposable. They lived in the cloud but not in my memory.

A camera that doesn’t try to impress, but ends up doing exactly that.

Ricoh GR III / GR 3 Specification

Feature	Specification
Sensor	24.24MP APS-C CMOS
Lens	18.3mm f/2.8 (28mm equivalent)
Image Stabilization	3-axis sensor-shift IS
ISO Range	100 – 102,400
Autofocus System	Hybrid (Phase + Contrast Detection)
LCD Display	3.0″ Touchscreen, 1.04M dots, Fixed
Video Resolution	Full HD 1080p @ 24/30/60 fps
Storage	SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot
Internal Memory	2GB Built-in
Battery Life	~200 shots per charge (DB-110 battery)
Weight	Approx. 257g (with battery and card)
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Macro Focus Distance	As close as 6cm (Macro Mode)
USB Port	USB Type-C

Pocket Power: Why Size Still Matters

Let’s start with what matters most for a point-shoot camera, size. It isn’t just compact; it’s practically invisible. It slips into your front jeans pocket like a phone and doesn’t demand attention when you bring it to eye level. If you’re coming from something like the Fujifilm X100V or even a chunky mirrorless setup, this thing feels like it disappears.

At just 257g with the battery and card, and measuring 109.4 × 61.9 × 33.2 mm, this is about as compact as an APS-C camera gets. There’s no hump, no bulk, just clean lines and a flat profile.

That’s what makes this camera such a staple in the everyday-carry camera world. You don’t think twice about taking it out. Whether you’re slipping it into a jacket pocket or packing light for a trip, it earns its spot without a fight.

If you’re wondering whether it is is pocketable, the answer is a resounding yes. This thing redefines what a pocket-sized photography camera can be.

Image Quality That Shuts Me Up

Look, I’m not gonna throw charts or lab tests at you. This isn’t DPReview. I just care about whether the photos look good? It delivers.

I’ve shot with full-frame beasts like the Sony A7R II. I’ve used cameras that cost 4x what this thing does. And yet, when I look at photos from the camera, especially in good light, I’m always a little surprised. The 24.2MP APS-C sensor is sharp, detailed, and somehow manages to render colors with a kind of understated elegance, not oversaturated, not too clinical, just right.

Here’s the thing: it’s not just the sensor. It’s the combo, the fixed 28mm f/2.8 lens + sensor + Ricoh’s image processing. It all clicks.

Is it noisy at high ISOs? Sure, a bit. But the grain is actually kinda nice, reminds me of film in a nostalgic way. I’ve taken ISO 3200 shots I’d actually print. ISO 800 and below? Practically flawless. And the dynamic range? Way better than I expected for a pocket cam. You can recover shadows without it looking like mud. Highlights roll off gently.

Cropability? Yep. Even though it’s “only” 24MP, I’ve cropped some images 2x and still had something worth posting or printing.

And for those looking for sample images, well… the best way to see what it’s capable of is to use it. But trust me, it’ll surprise you. Street scenes, moody portraits, high-contrast light, it handles them all with poise.

Image Sensor & Lens

APS-C Sensor in Your Pocket

At the heart of the GR III is a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor, the same size you’ll find in many bulkier DSLRs and mirrorless rigs.

But Ricoh did something clever, they ripped out the anti-aliasing filter to squeeze out sharper, more detailed images straight from the jump.

This means clearer edges and textures that stand out, whether you’re shooting brick walls, wet neon signs, wrinkled faces, or cracked pavement. Compared to smartphone photos or small-sensor cameras, the GR III’s images are noticeably cleaner and handle bright skies or dark shadows better.

Pro tip : Shoot RAW (DNG) and pull shadows with abandon, this sensor holds a surprising amount of detail down there.

The Lens: 18.3mm f/2.8 (Don’t Let the Numbers Fool You)

This fixed lens gives you an equivalent field of view of 28mm in full-frame terms, the classic street photography focal length. Wide enough to capture a scene with context. Tight enough to keep subjects punchy and compositions clean.

This is sharp edge-to-edge, even wide open at f/2.8. Yes, there’s a bit of vignetting and a kiss of distortion wide open, but street photographers know that’s character, not flaw.

f/2.8 might sound modest to bokeh addicts, but trust me, at APS-C size, it’s fast enough to get subject separation and hold its own in low light.

Film Simulation

The Ricoh GR series doesn’t offer as many film simulations as Fujifilm, but the ones it does have are well chosen.

For color, the Positive Film and Negative Film simulations are standouts. Positive Film gives deep, punchy colors without feeling artificial, and Negative Film has a softer, more muted look that works well for everyday scenes. These two are many people’s favorites, especially if you want a film-like feel straight out of camera.

For black and white shooting, there are three variations: Soft B&W, Hard B&W, and High Contrast B&W. These give you different ways to handle tones and shadows depending on the mood you want. High Contrast B&W is especially popular for street photography, where strong shapes and silhouettes matter.

Image Stabilization

I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect much out of the stabilization on a camera this small. I mean, how much tech can Ricoh possibly squeeze into something that fits in the same pocket as my iPhone 7?

But man… they pulled it off.

It has a 3-axis in-body image stabilization system (IBIS), and it’s the kind of feature you don’t realize you need until it saves your shot. Whether I’m walking through a market, or capturing a quiet moment in low light, this tiny camera punches way above its weight class.

I’ve handheld shots as slow as 1/4 second and still come out with something usable. Not perfect, but usable and sometimes, that’s all you need. IBIS is especially clutch when you’re working with that fixed 28mm f/2.8 lens and trying to keep your ISO down. The sensor is solid, but the stabilization gives you the flexibility to shoot slower, cleaner, and quieter.

It’s not cinematic-level smooth (and no, I wouldn’t recommend it for video unless you’re documenting a blurry fever dream), but for stills? It absolutely earns its keep.

This is one of the reasons people love the Street Edition too, all the stealth and all the control, with IBIS acting like your invisible tripod.

If you’re comparing it to older models like the Ricoh GR Digital III, or even trying to decide between the III vs IIIx, just know this: stabilization is one of the key upgrades that sets the newer models apart. Especially when you’re trying to keep it light, fast, and in the moment.

ND Filter: How I Use It

The Ricoh GR III and GR IIIx have a built-in 2-stop ND (Neutral Density) filter. Most people leave it set to Auto. In that mode, the camera activates it when you’re shooting in bright light, especially if you’re using a wide aperture. It helps avoid overexposure without forcing you to change your aperture or shutter speed.

I usually leave the ND filter set to Auto. It comes on when I’m shooting in bright light and using a wide aperture. I don’t think about it much, the camera handles it quietly in the background, and it helps avoid overexposure without me having to change settings. When it’s active, a small ND symbol shows on the screen.

Sometimes I use it on purpose to slow the shutter and get motion blur in bright light, like smoothing water or showing movement. Most of the time, though, I just let it manage the light without thinking about it.

Speed

Here’s something I didn’t think I’d care about until I lived with it: how fast it really is. I mean, this little thing moves. From the moment you press that power button, it is ready to shoot in under a second.

I’ve owned cameras that take their sweet time waking up. And sure, a 2-second boot might not sound like a big deal on paper, but in the real world? That’s the difference between catching a moment or missing it entirely. With this camera, I’ve snagged shots I would’ve lost on slower gear. This camera’s responsiveness is one of those quiet wins that make you love it a little more every day.

Snap Focus

One of the Ricoh GR’s secret weapons is something called Snap Focus. It lets you take a photo quickly when you don’t have time to focus.

Snap Focus is basically pre-focused shooting. Instead of half-pressing and waiting for autofocus to hunt, you lock the focus to a set distance (say, 2m or 3m), and the camera instantly fires at that distance the moment you fully press the shutter, no lag, no hesitation. It’s faster than any AF system because it skips focusing altogether.

Here’s how I usually set it up:

Step 1: Go to the menu and set Snap Focus Distance (I often use 2.5m as a good sweet spot).
Step 2: Set Aperture around f/8 — this gives you enough depth of field so even if you’re off a little, most things are still sharp.
Step 3: Turn Full Press Snap ON (this makes Snap Focus trigger when you hard-press the shutter).
Step 4: Set ISO Auto (max ISO 1600–3200) and Shutter speed min 1/250 for freezing motion.

That’s it. Now when you walk around, if something happens fast, a cyclist zips by, or a person steps into a shaft of light, you don’t need to think. Just point and slam the shutter. Bang. Sharp. Done.

Pro tip: Snap Focus feels a lot like using a film camera with zone focus. After a day or two, you’ll start to “see” distances and anticipate your shots better. It rewards muscle memory.

Macro Mode

Here’s the thing about it, you don’t expect it to be good at macro. It’s a 28mm equivalent wide-angle fixed lens, right? Not exactly your typical bug-chasing setup. But then you flip the switch into Macro Mode and boom, you’re suddenly nose-to-nose with the details.

We’re talking focus as close as 6cm. That’s right. Six. Freakin’. Centimetres. You can get up so close you’ll see the fabric weave on a shirt or the texture of peeling paint on an alley wall. For anyone who likes finding micro-universes in everyday stuff? This is pure gold.

Sharpness? Chef’s kiss. The lens holds up surprisingly well at close distances, especially when stopped down a bit. f/5.6 is the sweet spot. You’ll get beautiful depth separation, and when paired with the in-body image stabilization (hello, handheld macro), you’re pretty much unstoppable.

Here’s where it gets creative: I’ve used Macro Mode for everything from moody still life setups to brutalist wall textures to capturing leaf veins like they were topographic maps. The sample images from macro mode? They speak for themselves.

And while we’re at it, if you’re serious about macro with this camera, throw on a GR III-compatible adapter ring and pop on an ND filter or even a tiny diffuser for soft light. That’s one of those underrated accessories of this camera that levels up your close-up game big time.

Memory

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get the spotlight often, but definitely should.

It comes with 2GB of internal memory. Yes, gigabytes. Not a typo. Now, before you laugh and go “Cool, I can store like… 10 RAW files,” let me tell you, it’s a feature you’ll thank the camera gods for at least once. Probably more.

See, I’ve had moments – traveling, outdoor shooting, just vibing – when my SD card either corrupted or I straight-up forgot to bring one. That little 2GB reserve? It’s like a lifeboat. You won’t shoot a full day on it, but you’ll still get a few RAWs in the bag. It’s saved me in Tokyo, and in some random train station in France.

Now obviously, if you’re serious about shooting, grab a solid UHS-I SD card. It supports them and handles them like a champ. I use a 64GB or 128GB card with fast write speeds and haven’t hit a wall yet, even when shooting long stretches on the street.

What’s wild is that the IIIx, Diary Edition, and even the III HDF all rock that same internal memory, it’s like Ricoh knew we’d need a secret backup stash, and honestly, they were right.

Side note: If you’re looking for accessories, make a fast card one of your first buys. This camera’s quick, and there’s no point in bottlenecking it with slow memory.

Battery Life

With that little DB-110 battery inside, you’re looking at around 200 shots per charge. Maybe a little more if you’re conservative, definitely less if you’re chimping every frame, using Wi-Fi, or just vibing on the touchscreen too hard.

But here’s the thing: that number? It’s never told the full story for me.

Out in the real world, the battery life is just enough. I’ve done full afternoons in the city and only needed one spare. It charges via USB-C (praise be), so you can plug it into your power bank, your laptop, your car, whatever. That’s a total game-changer for travelers who hate carrying bulky chargers.

Now if you’re the kind of person who shoots a lot — like, a lot — grab a couple extra batteries. They’re tiny, weigh nothing, and can slip into your coin pocket. Ricoh’s original ones are solid, but the third-party options (Wasabi, Patona, etc.) work just fine too.

Some folks even pair their Diary Edition or IIIx with an external battery grip mod or extended power rig. Personally? I prefer to keep it stealthy and minimal. That’s kind of the whole point of the GR III Ricoh experience — compact, discreet, always ready.

Ricoh GR III vs GR IIIx vs HDF vs Diary Edition

With multiple versions of the Ricoh GR III floating around in 2025, it can be tricky to know which one suits your style best. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Model	Focal Length	Special Features	Best For
GR III (2019)	28mm f/2.8	Classic street shooter, Snap Focus, IBIS	Street photography, wide-angle everyday use
GR IIIx (2021)	40mm f/2.8	Tighter composition, same body, IBIS	Portraits, tighter street framing
GR III HDF (2024)	28mm f/2.8 + HDF	Built-in Highlight Diffusion Filter for a dreamy look	Artistic, film-like JPEGs straight out of camera
Diary Edition (2023)	28mm f/2.8 (or 40mm)	Limited-edition finish, leather accents, unique startup screen	Collectors, travel journaling, aesthetics

Edition	Base Camera	Lens	Finish	Special Modes	Strap/Case
Diary Kit	GR III	28mm	Warm Gray / Brown Grip	Negative Film	Leather hand strap + case
Urban Kit	GR IIIx	40mm	Deep Gray / Blue Accents	Snap Distance Priority	Blue strap + ring cap
Street Kit	GR III	28mm	Asphalt Texture / Yellow Ring	Tap to Full Press Snap	Yellow strap + magnetic case

GR III vs GR IIIx: The core difference is focal length—28mm vs 40mm. It is more “classic street,” while the IIIx offers a more natural perspective and better subject isolation.
GR III HDF: This adds a built-in diffusion filter that softens highlights and gives a film-like character to images, perfect for those chasing a nostalgic aesthetic without editing.
Diary Edition: Same specs as the GR III or GR IIIx underneath, but bundled with a leather strap, custom finish, and a vibe that feels more lifestyle-oriented. Great gift or collector item.

If you’re new to the GR ecosystem, the standard GR III is still the most versatile. But if you know your shooting style leans toward tighter framing or dreamier images, the IIIx or HDF versions might serve you better.

My Honest Take: What I Don’t Love About the Ricoh GR 3

1. The Dust Problem Is Real

I’ve seen this brought up a lot, and now I get it. The GR III and even the GR IIIx have a fixed-lens design that can let in dust over time. There’s no protective lens cover or retracting mechanism, so if you shoot outdoors a lot, especially in dusty environments, you’ll eventually spot tiny specs on your sensor or in your shots. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s definitely annoying. And there’s no weather sealing.

2. The Battery Life Could Be Better

Ricoh says it is good for around 200 shots, but in real-world use, I’ve drained the battery way faster, especially when using Snap Focus, macro mode, or transferring files. If you’re serious about shooting with this camera, an extra battery or two is non-negotiable. This is true across the board, whether you’re using the GR III HDF, the Diary Edition, or even a used GR III.

3. Ricoh’s App? Yikes

The Ricoh Image Sync app is… frustrating. It works, sometimes, but the experience feels dated and unreliable. I’ve had connection issues, random crashes, and painfully slow transfers. If you’re hoping to quickly get your shots onto your phone for editing or social media, prepare for a bit of pain.

4. No Flip Screen or EVF

This might not matter to everyone, but I’ve missed having a flip screen or built-in EVF more than once. The fixed touchscreen is nice and sharp, but it’s hard to frame shots from the hip or shoot in bright light. If you’re considering this for vlogging or more dynamic angles, just know that this isn’t where it shines.

5. Video Is an Afterthought

If you’re thinking, “Hey, maybe I’ll shoot some video too” — this ain’t your camera. It can technically shoot 1080p at 60fps, but it’s super bare-bones. No 4K. No mic input. No real controls. And autofocus during video? Let’s just say it’s… shy. Ricoh built this for stills, the video feels like it’s just there because it had to be.

6. No Flash

It doesn’t have any flash but that just fine with me. The GR is for quiet moments, street corners, late-night walks, not for blinding people with light. It’s a camera that asks you to observe.

Best Accessories

While the GR III keeps it minimal, a few key add-ons can level up your experience:

Case: Look for a snug leather half-case or silicone grip for protection without bulk.
External Viewfinder: If you miss composing with an eye to the frame, Ricoh’s GV-2 or GV-3 viewfinders fit the hot shoe perfectly.
Lens Hood (GN-1): Helps reduce flare during sunny shoots.
Extra Batteries: The DB-110 drains fast, always carry a backup.
Strap or Wrist Loop: Optional, but helpful when navigating tight city corners.

Buying Used or Refurbished Ricoh GR 3? Read This First

If you’re on a budget, used or a refurbished model can be a smart way to save some cash, especially since Ricoh cameras tend to hold up well over time.

Look for these when buying secondhand:

Shutter count (under 20,000 is ideal)
Scratches near lens or screen
Dead pixels or IBIS issues
Check if the original box, charger, and manual are included

Platforms like KEH, B&H Refurb, or even eBay (with seller ratings) can be solid for Ricoh GR III for sale listings. Just confirm the return policy before hitting “Buy.”

Ricoh GR III Review – Final Thoughts

The Ricoh GR III isn’t trying to be everything and that’s what makes it everything I want in a daily shooter.

It’s compact but never compromised. Fast, without feeling frantic. Subtle, yet sharp in all the right ways. Whether you’re coming from the Ricoh GR Digital III days or just curious about how this thing stacks up in 2025, the GR III is still holding its ground and then some.

This camera disappears into a pocket but still delivers DSLR-quality results. It’s not flashy, but it doesn’t need to be. The IBIS, that razor-sharp lens, the tactile controls, it’s a tool that asks you to notice more, carry less, and shoot constantly.

And now with the GR III HDF option giving your images that creamy, analog glow? Yeah, we’re getting dangerously close to film-like magic in a digital shell. I’ve shot side by side with the GR IIIx, and while the 40mm field of view has its moments, the 28mm on the original GR III still feels more honest. Wider. Grittier. More alive.

If you’re looking at the Ricoh GR III vs GR IIIx, just ask yourself this: do you want to step into the scene or stand just outside it?

Ricoh GR III FAQs

Is Ricoh GR III better than iPhone?

In many ways, yes — especially if you care about photography. The GR III has a larger APS-C sensor, better dynamic range, and more manual control. iPhones are versatile and great for video or convenience, but for pure image quality and creative control, the GR III wins.

Is the Ricoh GR IIIx camera any good?

Absolutely. It’s the same core camera as the GR III, but with a tighter 40mm equivalent lens. If you prefer more subject separation or portrait-style shooting, the GR IIIx is the better pick. People love it for street and candid portrait work.

What are the cons of the Ricoh GR III?

From real users on coummnity forums, the four major issues are: average battery life (~200 shots), laggy menu/UI at times, occasional dust on the sensor due to lack of weather sealing, and unimpressive video quality. This camera’s all about stills.

Which is better, GR III or GR IIIx?

It depends on your shooting style. GR III has a 28mm lens (wider, more environmental), while the GR IIIx has a 40mm (tighter, more intimate). Many street photographers prefer the GR III, but if you're into portraits or tighter compositions, go with the IIIx.

How long does a GR III battery last?

Roughly 200 shots per charge. It’s manageable but not amazing. Most GR III shooters recommend carrying an extra DB-110 battery, especially for travel or long sessions.

Is the Ricoh GR III weather sealed?

No, and this is one of the bigger complaints from users. Since the lens extends when powering on, there’s a risk of dust getting into the sensor chamber. Some people mentioned getting dust spots after a few months of use.

Is 40mm a good focal length?

It’s kind of a sweet spot. Not as wide as 28mm, not as tight as 50mm — 40mm feels natural for many shooters. It’s great for street portraits, detail shots, and still has a bit of environmental context. Many users say it's more versatile than they expected.

When did the Ricoh GR III come out?

It was released in March 2019. The GR IIIx followed in September 2021 with the same internals but a different lens (40mm equivalent).

Does the Ricoh GR III have film simulation?

Not like Fujifilm, but it does have custom JPEG profiles like Positive Film, Bleach Bypass, and Cross Process. Some users shared stunning SOOC (straight out of camera) JPEGs using these profiles.

How much is the Ricoh GR III?

As of now, it retails around $900–$1,000 USD new. Used prices vary, and people often mention snagging a deal for $600–$800 depending on condition.

What lens is in the Ricoh GR IIIx?

It has a 26.1mm f/2.8 lens, which gives you a 40mm equivalent on APS-C. It’s sharp, compact, and tuned specifically for that sensor — perfect combo.

Who makes Ricoh cameras?

Ricoh Imaging Company, Ltd. — a Japanese firm that also owns the Pentax brand. They’ve been making compact cameras and DSLRs for decades, and the GR series is kind of their cult-classic masterpiece.

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