SUMMARY
The author compared the Ricoh GR IV Monochrome, featuring a dedicated monochrome sensor without a color filter array, against the GR IV HDF, which can shoot in both color and black-and-white. Despite the GR IV HDF's monochrome mode, the GR IV Monochrome produced cleaner images with less noise and smoother grain, even at base ISO. The monochrome camera also offered greater flexibility in brightening shadows from RAW files. While both cameras performed well, the dedicated monochrome sensor provided a noticeable advantage in image quality for black-and-white photography.
TAKEAWAYS
Dedicated monochrome sensor allows more light and reduces noise/grain.
GR IV Monochrome shows less noise and smoother grain than GR IV HDF.
Monochrome camera offers superior shadow recovery from RAW files.
Both cameras are visually similar, distinguished by subtle markings.