Best Memory Cards for Ricoh GR IV
The Ricoh GR IV, often hailed as “the ultimate snap shooter”, is the newest addition to Ricoh’s celebrated GR line. Known for its compact body and uncompromising image quality, the GR IV elevates the experience of everyday photography. With a redesigned 28mm-equivalent lens, a 25.7MP BSI CMOS sensor, and improved autofocus paired with Shake Reduction, it’s a powerful tool wrapped in a pocketable form factor. Add to that an upgraded battery, more internal memory, and the GR WORLD app for wireless image transfer and control, and you get a camera that blends tradition with innovation.
But despite these advancements, one technical detail requires careful attention: the GR IV uses a single microSD card slot limited to UHS-I microSD cards. This makes choosing the right memory card essential for ensuring fast buffering, seamless 4K recording, and long-term reliability.
Not all microSD cards are created equal—some prioritize speed, others durability, and some strike the balance of value and performance. In this guide, we’ll walk through the best memory cards for the Ricoh GR IV, breaking down their specifications, performance, and practical applications. Whether you’re a professional street photographer, a content creator, or an adventurous traveler, this list will help you find the perfect match for your shooting style.
Ricoh GR IV Digital Camera at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
Best Memory Cards for Ricoh GR IV
1. SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card – Best Overall
Specifications
- A2 / UHS-I / V30 / U3 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 190 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 130 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 30 MB/s
- Capacities: 32GB–2TB
- Water / Shock / X-Ray Proof
- Temperature Resistant
- Built-In Write-Protect Switch on Adapter
- RescuePRO Recovery Software (Downloadable)
- microSD to SD Adapter included
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
In Depth Review
The SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card is the most balanced option for Ricoh GR IV users. Long regarded as one of the most reliable cards in the market, it’s built for speed, capacity, and rugged use. Its QuickFlow technology pushes transfer speeds up to 190 MB/s—well above the UHS-I baseline of 104 MB/s—making file transfers from card to computer noticeably faster. For GR IV shooters, this translates into smoother burst shooting and shorter downtime when offloading files.
Its 130 MB/s maximum write speed ensures that the card keeps up with continuous RAW shooting and high-bitrate 4K recording. With V30 and U3 ratings, you can trust it won’t choke during video sessions or rapid-fire street photography. SanDisk also emphasizes durability: this card resists water, shocks, X-rays, and extreme temperatures, so it’s ideal for shooting in unpredictable outdoor conditions.
The extensive range of capacities, from 32GB all the way to 2TB, means you can tailor your choice based on whether you prefer compact storage for daily snapshots or massive space for extended travel projects. Add in the bundled RescuePRO recovery software, and you’ve got a complete package designed for both professionals and enthusiasts.
Best For
Photographers and videographers who want a reliable, all-purpose microSD card with excellent speed, durability, and capacity flexibility.
Buy SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
2. Samsung PRO Plus UHS-I microSD Card – Durability & Value
Specifications
- UHS-I / V30 / U3 / A2 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 180 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 130 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 30 MB/s
- Capacities: 128GB–1TB
- Waterproof, X-Ray, Drop & Magnet Resistant
- Withstands -13°F to 185°F
- Endures 10,000 Insertion Cycles
- microSD to SD Adapter included
- 10-Year Limited Warranty
In Depth Review
The Samsung PRO Plus is an excellent alternative to SanDisk, delivering near-identical speeds but often at a more competitive price point. With read speeds of 180 MB/s and write speeds of 130 MB/s, it keeps pace with the Ricoh GR IV’s demands, whether you’re capturing bursts of RAW files or recording extended 4K sessions. Its V30 and U3 ratings guarantee stable write speeds, preventing frame drops during high-resolution video.
Where Samsung truly shines is in durability. This card can survive seawater immersion for up to 72 hours, extreme temperatures, shocks from accidental drops, and even interference from magnets or X-rays—making it a rugged companion for photographers who travel frequently. Its ability to withstand 10,000 insertion cycles means it’s built for longevity, even with heavy day-to-day use.
Available up to 1TB, the PRO Plus offers ample space for large photo libraries and video projects. The included adapter extends usability to laptops or card readers, while the 10-year warranty adds peace of mind. For outdoor photographers and value-conscious creators, this card is a superb balance of performance and price.
Best For
Adventurous photographers, travel shooters, and users who prioritize durability without compromising on high-speed performance.
Buy Samsung PRO Plus UHS-I microSD Card at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
3. Samsung PRO Ultimate UHS-I microSD Card – Fastest UHS-I Option
Specifications
- UHS-I / V30 / U3 / A2 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 200 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 130 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 30 MB/s
- Capacities: 128GB–512GB
- Resistant to Water, Magnetism, Drops & X-Rays
- Withstands Extreme Temperatures
- 10,000 Insertion Cycle Durability
- Includes microSD to SD Adapter
In Depth Review
The Samsung PRO Ultimate is the fastest UHS-I microSD card available, pushing the limits of the format. With blazing read speeds up to 200 MB/s and writes of 130 MB/s, it’s the ideal card for those who prioritize minimal buffer times and rapid transfers. For Ricoh GR IV users shooting RAW sequences or managing heavy 4K workloads, this speed advantage can be a game-changer.
Its robust design makes it a professional-grade option. Resistant to extreme conditions—from sub-zero expeditions to scorching deserts—it ensures reliability no matter where you’re shooting. Add in resistance to water, magnetic interference, and drops, and you’ve got a card that is as rugged as it is fast.
While its price is higher than the PRO Plus or SanDisk Extreme, the investment pays off for professionals who value efficiency. Faster offloading means less waiting and more productivity, particularly for photographers working on tight deadlines.
Best For
Professional shooters who demand the absolute fastest UHS-I speeds and are willing to pay extra for uncompromising performance.
Buy Samsung PRO Ultimate UHS-I microSD Card at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
4. Lexar Professional SILVER PLUS UHS-I microSD Card – High Speed & Rugged Build
Specifications
- UHS-I / V30 / U3 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 205 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 150 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 30 MB/s
- Capacities: 64GB–1TB
- IPX7 Water Resistance
- Resistant to Shock, Drops, Wear, X-Rays & Magnets
- microSD to SD Adapter included
- Recovery Tool Software included
In Depth Review
The Lexar Professional SILVER PLUS pushes UHS-I performance further than most competitors, offering read speeds up to 205 MB/s and write speeds up to 150 MB/s. For Ricoh GR IV photographers, that translates into quick buffering during continuous bursts and reliable 4K/60p recording. The V30 classification ensures write speeds never dip below 30 MB/s, keeping performance steady across demanding tasks.
Lexar also emphasizes data protection and durability. The card is IPX7-rated for water resistance, and it’s engineered to withstand shocks, vibrations, temperature extremes, X-rays, and magnetic fields. These protections make it particularly appealing for outdoor and adventure photographers.
One notable extra is Lexar’s bundled Recovery Tool software, which can restore lost photos or videos—a valuable safety net. With its broad compatibility and included adapter, the SILVER PLUS easily integrates into multi-device workflows.
Best For
Photographers who want near-premium speeds combined with rugged durability and added security features like recovery software.
Buy Lexar Professional SILVER PLUS UHS-I microSDXC Memory Card at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
5. Kingston Canvas Go! Plus UHS-I microSDXC – Adventure Ready
Specifications
- UHS-I / V30 / U3 / A2 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 200 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 160 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 30 MB/s
- Capacities: 64GB–1TB
- Resistant to Extreme Temperatures, Water, X-Rays & Shock
- microSD to SD Adapter included
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
In Depth Review
The Kingston Canvas Go! Plus is designed with adventurers and content creators in mind. Its read speeds of 200 MB/s and write speeds of 160 MB/s make it one of the faster UHS-I options, perfectly capable of handling Ricoh GR IV’s RAW bursts and 4K video demands.
Rated V30 and U3, the card maintains a minimum 30 MB/s write speed for uninterrupted video recording, while its A2 classification ensures excellent performance when used in mobile devices or tablets. This makes it a versatile choice for creators who split their workflows between camera and smartphone.
Durability is another strong point. Kingston engineered the Canvas Go! Plus to withstand harsh conditions, from freezing cold to scorching heat, as well as water, shocks, and X-rays. Backed by a lifetime warranty, it’s a reliable long-term investment for photographers who often shoot outdoors.
Best For
Travel photographers, vloggers, and action shooters who want high-speed performance in a card built for extreme environments.
Buy Kingston Canvas Go! Plus UHS-I microSD Card at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
6. Samsung EVO Select UHS-I microSD Card – Best Budget Pick
Specifications
- UHS-I / V30 / U3 / A2 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 160 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 30 MB/s
- Capacities: 64GB–512GB
- Magnet, X-Ray, Drop & Water Resistant
- Withstands Extreme Temperatures
- microSD to SD Adapter included
- 10-Year Warranty
In Depth Review
The Samsung EVO Select offers solid performance at a price that’s hard to beat. With read speeds up to 160 MB/s and minimum write speeds of 30 MB/s, it’s more than capable of handling Ricoh GR IV’s stills and light 4K video. While it doesn’t reach the high-end performance of the PRO Plus or SanDisk Extreme, it offers dependable speed for everyday shooting.
Durability is not compromised despite its budget status. The EVO Select resists drops, water, extreme heat and cold, and even magnetic interference. Available up to 512GB, it provides enough storage for extended shooting trips without stretching your budget.
For casual photographers, hobbyists, or those seeking a backup card, the EVO Select is a cost-effective solution that doesn’t skimp on reliability. Its balance of price, performance, and protection makes it a standout in the entry-level segment.
Best For
Budget-conscious photographers and casual users who want reliable performance without paying for premium speeds.
Buy Samsung EVO Select UHS-I microSD Card at Amazon, B&H.
Final Thoughts
The Ricoh GR IV is a compact powerhouse, and the right microSD card ensures you unlock its full potential. If you want the best all-around performer, go for the SanDisk Extreme UHS-I. For unbeatable speed, the Samsung PRO Ultimate takes the crown, while the Samsung PRO Plus and Kingston Canvas Go! Plus are excellent mid-range picks with great durability. On a budget? The Samsung EVO Select gives you solid everyday performance at a fraction of the cost.
No matter your choice, investing in a reliable microSD card means faster performance, fewer interruptions, and the confidence that your files are safe—exactly what a camera like the Ricoh GR IV deserves.
