Ricoh GR Digital III (2009)

A digital compact camera with a fast 28mm equivalent lens and 10-megapixel CCD sensor, released in July 2009.

Overview

The Ricoh GR Digital III, also known as GRD III, is a digital compact camera made by Ricoh and released in July 2009. It features a fixed 28mm equivalent f/1.9 lens and a 1/1.7" CCD sensor with approximately 10 megapixels. Part of the long-running Ricoh GR Digital series—descended from the GR film cameras—it was praised for its compact size, build quality, handling, and image quality, especially in black and white. The camera offered improved high ISO performance over earlier models and was regarded as a highly portable "take anywhere" camera by enthusiasts.

Specifications

Resolution	Approximately 10 megapixels
Maximum resolution	3648 x 2736 pixels
Lens	Fixed 28mm equivalent f/1.9 lens
Lens note	Among the fastest lenses on a compact camera at its time of release.
Sensor type	CCD
Sensor size	1/1.7"
Sensor dimensions	7.44 x 5.58 mm
Processor	GR engine III
Lens aperture range	f/1.9–9
Minimum focusing distance	0.01 m (0.4 in)
Lens construction	8 elements in 6 groups
LCD screen size	3-Inch
Shutter speed	1 sec to 1/2000 sec
Exposure modes	Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual exposure mode
ISO range	Up to ISO 1600
Weight (inc. batteries)	208 g (7.34 oz)
Dimensions	109 x 59 x 26 mm (4.29 x 2.32 x 1.02″) (DPReview, CameraRace) vs 108.6 x 59.8 x 25.5 mm (Camerapedia)
Battery type	Battery Pack
Operating Temperature Range	0ºC–40ºC
Body material	Magnesium body

Product Family

The GR Digital III is part of the Ricoh GR Digital series, following the GR Digital I and GR Digital II. The series continues the legacy of the earlier GR film cameras, maintaining a focus on compact design and high image quality. A year after the GRD III’s release, Ricoh introduced the GXR in 2010.

Reception

The GR Digital III was praised for its compact size, build quality, intuitive handling, and strong image quality, particularly in black and white photography. Its fast f/1.9 lens provided notable advantages in low-light shooting, especially given its ISO 1600 limit. Enthusiasts valued it as a highly portable “take anywhere” camera with serious photographic capabilities.

Market

The Ricoh GR Digital III had an original price of US$750 (Wikipedia) or $699 (Adorama) at launch. It has appeared in historical listings at prices such as $399.00, reflecting its position in the used market over time.