Sony has clearly set-out to make a high quality camera with the RX100 VII. There are a few hiccups here and there, such as the less-than-stellar battery life and the lacking 4K video quality, but overall the RX100 is a fine addition to the Sony line-up of cameras. Check out our best vlogging camera list for more!
Why We Like It – Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 Digital Camera
To review Sony cameras is not an easy task because of the plethora of features they offer in such a compact package. This RX100 review is no different. With high-quality features like high image quality even at high ISO, fast shutter speeds, and a fantastic LCD screen, Sony has once again made a camera that will be tough to beat.
- High resolution images at high ISO
- 3.6x zoom range and larger image sensor
- Fast lens and shutter speed
- 4K video quality is a little lacking
- Shooting raw isn’t possible in certain modes
- Below-average battery life
Performance
The Sony Cyber Shot DSC RX-100’s lens is produced by Carl Zeiss and performs well even under direct sunlight. The Cyber-Shot RX100 has a Dynamic Range Optimiser function which analyzes a scene for areas of high light and low light and adjusts exposure accordingly. Images shot at a high ISO still have a good detail and image quality, the focusing is high speed at 0.13 seconds in bright conditions, and the larger sensor allows for creative images with blurred backgrounds. Unfortunately, shooting raw files isn’t possible in the Sony Cyber Shot DSC’s Clear Zoom mode for some reason. If all these features seem a little daunting, try the Canon Vixia HF R700 Camcorder for a more beginner-style approach to vlogging. If you want another camera with great image quality, then you need to read our Sony A6400 review.
Design
The DSC-RX100 mirrorless camera is a small camera or, if you prefer, a compact camera. The Sony Cyber Shot RX100 has a control ring around the lens, 3.6x digital zoom lens, an LCD screen (though not a touchscreen), and a 20.9 MP one inch sensor. It’s actually impressive that the Sony DSC RX100 was able to produce such a large sensor while still keeping the camera compact. It’s a little bit bigger, but not by much. If a touchscreen, and a very good one at that, is on your list of must-haves, consider the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II. For another compact camera, please see our Sony ZV1 review.
Value
The Sony RX100 offers 10fps continuous shooting, a focal length of 10.4-37.1mm, a focal range of 1.97” and up, four main shooting modes, 30 ~ 1/2000 sec shutter speed, and 1080p video capture at 60fps. Yes, the Sony RX100 is a lot to take in, but all of these features are enough to justify its $398.00 price tag. And in all honesty, as far as mirrorless lens cameras are concerned, this price is an absolute bargain. It doesn’t shoot in 4K very well though (most of the tech is focused on picture quality), so consider the Panasonic Lumix LX10 if you want to be able to shoot in 4K.
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 Digital Camera Wrap Up
The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 is a fine addition to the Sony line-up of cameras and is a great addition to any vloggers arsenal. The design is a little dated in some places, but your audience won’t be able to see the camera, will they? And for only $398.00, it’s an excellent investment for any beginning or experienced vlogger.
