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The Ricoh GR II continues the lineage of one of street photography’s most respected compact systems. While it doesn’t feature the full‑frame sensor of high‑end rivals like the $3,800 Leica Q, its 16‑megapixel APS‑C sensor and fast f/2.8, 28 mm equivalent lens deliver the sharpness and depth that photographers have trusted for years.
What truly sets the GR II apart is the addition of Wi‑Fi and NFC connectivity. Users can now pair the camera with a smartphone or tablet, control settings remotely, and transfer images instantly—streamlining the workflow for on‑the‑go shooting.
Performance improvements are also tangible: the shutter can now reach 1/2,500 s (up from 1/2,000 s on the original), and the camera offers a 4‑fps burst mode that can capture up to 10 frames per burst—more than double the previous model’s capability.
Beyond these hardware tweaks, Ricoh has refined the firmware to deliver smoother autofocus, better metering, and a more intuitive menu system. The body remains compact and lightweight, with only a subtle change to accommodate the wireless module—so the tactile feel remains unchanged.
Retailing at $799, the GR II matches the original launch price of its predecessor. For those who don’t require wireless features, a used or refurbished first‑generation GR can still be found at a competitive discount.
From our friends at American Photo—see some awesome street photos made with the help of classic compact cameras: American Photo