The Sony RX100 II, much like its predecessor, the Sony RX100, has been well received by discriminating photographers searching for a high-quality compact camera that is small enough to fit in the pocket of a jacket.
The sensor in the RX100 series is a 1-inch type (13.2×8.8mm), which is substantially more significant than the 1/2.3-inch (6.16×4.55mm) and 1/1.7-inch devices that are found in the majority of tiny cameras. This makes the RX100 series distinct from most other pocket-sized compact cameras.
[As of now, the RX100 III (also known as the DSC-RX100 III by certain shops) has been superseded by three subsequent models of cameras, the most recent of which is the RX100 VI.
However, Sony still maintains all previous models in its RX100-series line-up. Even though the RX100 does not feature the most recent and cutting-edge technology, it still has a lot to offer for the price and is considered one of the best cheap cameras available. Its notable features include a convenient retractable viewfinder and a 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 zoom lens.]
Although Sony plans to continue production of the RX100 and the RX100 II, they will release the RX100 III as their “all-rounder” small camera. This is partly due to including a built-in viewfinder in the RX100 III.
This is an electronic gadget; as such, it will indicate the impact of adjustments made to the settings. Additionally, it should simplify the process of producing photos in a powerful light when the primary screen on the back of the camera is difficult to view.
Sony RX100 III View Finder
A viewfinder can be attached externally to the RX100 II, but incorporating one into the camera is more convenient. Regarding this particular aspect, Sony has decided to go with an SVGA OLED Tru-Finder with 1,440,000 dots. In addition, the primary screen is still tiltable but does not respond to touches. It measures 3 inches and has 1,229,000 dots.
However, the degree of tilt has been improved, making it possible for the screen to be lifted through 180 degrees. This allows the screen to be viewed from the front of the device, directly above the camera, making it easier to capture selfies. In the same way, as previously, it tilts down so that it may be used when shooting from above.
Sony RX100 III 4K Output
The Mark III can capture video in XAVC S format, a variation of the XAVC format utilized by professional videographers. This is another improvement over the RX100 II. In addition, the video is generated from a full-pixel readout at a rate of 50Mbps to provide a higher-quality image. It is not feasible to produce a 4K video. However, it is possible to output 4K stills through an HDMI micro lead, resulting in higher image quality when viewed on 4K televisions.
The RX100 III, much like the RX100 II, is equipped with WiFi connectivity and an NFC chip, which facilitates communication with NFC-enabled mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. In addition, it is now compatible with Sony PlayMemories, enabling users to download applications that increase the device’s capabilities.
Sony RX100 III Build Quality
The RX100 III is highly comparable in size to its predecessor, the RX100 II; the only differences are that it is 2.5 millimeters wider and 9 grams heavier than its predecessor. Furthermore, the electronic viewfinder (EVF) was added to the RX100 III. In addition, Sony has maintained an almost similar design and control structure for the new camera compared to the RX100 II.
The electronic viewfinder (EVF) of the RX100 Mark III is an innovative pop-up gadget. This was done so the camera could still fit comfortably in the user’s pocket. It requires two separate actions to be activated: first, the switch on the side of the camera must be flipped to release the finder, and then the rear part of the eyepiece must be pushed back to activate it. A control for adjusting the dioptre may be found on the top of the device once it has been wholly stretched, which takes just around 5 mm.
Sony RX100 III Performance
The Sony RX100 range has been pretty impressive up until now, so the fact that the RX100 III retains the same 20.2-megapixel sensor as the RX 100 II is undoubtedly welcome news.
In general, the RX100 III creates photographs with a natural look while still having a lively appearance. These images seem beautiful right out of the camera.
The RX100 III produces photographs that, upon closer inspection, reveal an abundance of crisp detail since they were captured with lower sensitivity settings. However, when viewed at 100%, the photos, as is customary, show that when the sensitivity is increased, some of the detail is lost.
Even at the maximum sensitivity settings, the JPEG images have very little to no colorful speckling apparent. However, there is a discernible stippled texture. When viewed at 100% on the screen, photographs captured with an ISO setting of 6400 appear to be seen through the stippled glass. However, there is not much evidence of smearing to be found.
Sony RX100 III Image Quality
Throughout the examination, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III generated photographs of exceptionally high quality. In addition, this camera did a fantastic job of handling noise, as it did not become noticeable until the ISO 6400 level. It then worsened at the higher settings of ISO 12800 and 25600. This performance was fantastic for a tiny image sensor with such a high pixel count.
Chromatic aberrations were present but were well-controlled, and only a tiny amount of purple fringing was seen in conditions with a high contrast level.
The photographs were a touch soft right out of the camera when the default setting was used, requiring further sharpening in an application like Adobe Photoshop. Alternatively, in-camera sharpening can be increased to compensate for the images’ lack of sharpness.
The macro performance is relatively strong, letting you focus on the topic from a distance as near as 5 centimeters. In addition, the built-in flash did a fantastic indoor job, producing images free of red-eye and with enough overall exposure.
The cameras have a maximum shutter speed of 30 seconds, enabling them to catch sufficient light for most after-dark scenarios. Moreover, when using the camera in a handheld position at slower shutter speeds, the Steadyshot anti-shake feature performs quite well.
Sony RX100 III Specs
| Body type | Compact |
|---|---|
| Body material | Aluminum |
| Sensor | |
| Max resolution | 5472 x 3648 |
| Other resolutions | 3:2 mode: 3888×2592, 2736×1824; 4:3 mode: 4864×3648, 3648×2736, 2592×1944, 640×480; 16:9 mode: 5472×3080, 2720×1528; 1:1 mode: 3648×3648, 2544×2544, 1920×1920 |
| Image ratio w h | 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 |
| Effective pixels | 20 megapixels |
| Sensor photo detectors | 21 megapixels |
| Sensor size | 1″ (13.2 x 8.8 mm) |
| Sensor type | BSI-CMOS |
| Processor | Bionz X |
| Color space | sRGB, AdobeRGB |
| Color filter array | Primary color filter |
| Image | |
| ISO | Auto, 125-12800 |
| Boosted ISO (minimum) | 80 |
| Boosted ISO (maximum) | 25600 |
| White balance presets | 9 |
| Custom white balance | Yes |
| Image stabilization | Optical |
| Uncompressed format | RAW |
| JPEG quality levels | Extra fine, fine, standard |
| File format | JPEG (Exif v2.3, DCF v2.0)Raw (Sony ARW v2.3) |
| Image parameters | ContrastSaturationSharpnessCreative StyleColor space |
| Optics & Focus | |
| Focal length (equiv.) | 24–70 mm |
| Optical zoom | 2.9× |
| Maximum aperture | F1.8–2.8 |
| Autofocus | Contrast Detect (sensor)Multi-areaCenterSelective single-pointTrackingSingleContinuousFace DetectionLive View. |
| Autofocus assist lamp | Yes |
| Digital zoom | Yes (5.8x) |
| Manual focus | Yes |
| Normal focus range | 5 cm (1.97″) |
| Macro focus range | 5 cm (1.97″) |
| Number of focus points | 25 |
| Screen/viewfinder | |
| Articulated LCD | Tilting |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,228,800 |
| Touch screen | No |
| Screen type | WhiteMagic TFT-LCD |
| Live view | Yes |
| Viewfinder type | Electronic |
| Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
| Viewfinder magnification | 0.59× |
| Viewfinder resolution | 1,440,000 |
| Photography features | |
| Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/2000 sec |
| Exposure modes | Superior AutoIntelligent AutoProgram AutoAperture PriorityShutter PriorityManual Exposure |
| Scene modes | Portrait, sports action, macro, landscape, sunset, night scene, handheld twilight, night portrait, anti-motion blur, pet, gourmet, fireworks, high sensitivity |
| Built-in flash | Yes |
| External flash | No |
| Drive modes | SingleContinuousSpeed prioritySelf-timerSingle bracketContinuous bracket B bracketDRO bracket |
| Continuous drive | 10.0 fps |
| Self-timer | Yes (2 or 10 sec, self-portrait, continuous) |
| Metering modes | MultiCenter-weighted spot |
| Exposure compensation | ±3 (at 1/3 EV steps) |
| AE Bracketing | ±3 |
| WB Bracketing | Yes |
| Videography features | |
| Resolutions | 1920 x 1080 (60p/60i/24p), 1280 x 720 (60p/30p/24p/120p), 1440 x 1080 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps) |
| Format | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S |
| Videography notes | Supports XAVC S with a 50MBps bit rate |
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | |
| Storage types | SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo |
| Connectivity | |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| HDMI | Yes (micro-HDMI) |
| Microphone port | No |
| Headphone port | No |
| Wireless | Built-In |
| Wireless notes | 802.11b/g/n with NFC |
| Remote control | Yes (with RM-VPR1 wired remote) |
| Physical | |
| Environmentally sealed | No |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | NP-BX1 lithium-ion battery & USB charger |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 320 |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 290 g (0.64 lb / 10.23 oz) |
| Dimensions | 102 x 58 x 41 mm (4.02 x 2.28 x 1.61″) |
| Other features | |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| Timelapse recording | No |
| GPS | None |
Sony RX100 III Verdict
All of the positive aspects of the RX100 II have been preserved, except the hotshoe, and specific user-requested enhancements have also been incorporated. As a result, the sensor’s performance is relatively satisfactory, combined with the superior Bionz X processor.
An electronic viewfinder (EVF) is a significant advantage that facilitates improved image composition under intense illumination and makes it simpler to focus on the photograph’s subject. In addition, the ability to tilt the LCD screen further makes the camera more appealing to people who enjoy taking selfies. The automated countdown feature included while using the camera in “selfie mode” is practical.
Remarkably, Sony was able to include the electronic viewfinder (EVF) into the camera in the form of a collapsible device that does not detract from the sleek lines of the camera and only adds roughly 2.5 millimeters to one of its dimensions.
On the other hand, the EVF’s two-stage construction procedure does not appear to be very streamlined and is a little bit “undone.” It is essential to provide the precise distance between the viewfinder parts; nevertheless, the movement has to be automated to pop out under its power.
Sony RX100 III FAQs
Is Sony RX100 III good for vlogging?
It is true that the Sony RX100 III is an excellent camera for vlogging due to the fact that it is small, has a screen that flips up, and can record high-quality video.
When was Sony RX100 III released?
May of 2014 saw the launch of the third generation Sony RX100 camera.
Is RX100 III full frame?
Contrary to popular belief, the Sony RX100 III is not a full-frame camera. Instead, it has a sensor that is 1 inch in size.
Does Sony RX100 III shoot RAW?
Yes, the Sony RX100 III is capable of shooting in RAW format.
Is Sony RX100 III suitable for beginners?
The Sony RX100 III is a powerful camera, but due to its sophisticated features and complicated menu system, it might not be the best option for newcomers.
Is RX100 III mirrorless?
Mirrorless cameras do exist, and one such camera is the Sony RX100 III.
Is Sony RX100 III good for vlogging?
Because it has a screen that flips up and can record high-quality video, the Sony RX100 III is, in fact, an excellent choice for video blogging.
Which Sony RX100 III has Touch Screen?
Touchscreen functionality was added to subsequent generations of the Sony RX100 III and onwards.
Does Sony RX100 III have hot shoes?
The Sony RX100 III is not equipped with a hot foot.
Does RX100 III have WiFi?
The Sony RX100 III does come equipped with WiFi capabilities.
Can Sony RX100 III replace DSLR?
If you’re a professional photographer, the Sony RX100 III might not be able to replace your DSLR completely. Still, it’s a competent and portable alternative that you should consider.
Is Sony RX100 III worth buying?
It depends on your particular requirements and inclinations as to whether or not purchasing the Sony RX100 III is worthwhile; however, this camera is generally considered high quality and adaptable.