Because smartphones have wiped out the market for low-end compact cameras, producers have put in a lot of effort to keep consumers interested in this industry.
Instead of competing head-to-head with smartphones, Sony came up with the concept of developing a high-end, premium compact camera capable of producing images that were significantly superior to those produced by smartphones but which did not have the size or weight of a mirrorless camera or DSLR.
The first generation of the RX100 was a revolutionary camera. Its success inspired companies like Canon and Panasonic to produce similar models, such as the PowerShot G7 X II and the Lumix LX10/LX15.
Sony RX100 V Features
Although it has the exact 20-megapixel resolution as the original RX100, the RX100 V’s 1.0-inch sensor makes it a very different animal from its predecessor. Using the same stacked Exmor R back-illuminated CMOS sensor technology that we first saw in the RX100 IV, Sony claims that it has tweaked the chip, while the clever stacked sensor design means that it has memory chips built right onto the back of the sensor. But, again, this technology was first seen in the RX100 IV.
Because of this, data does not have to flood out to the edge of the sensor, and when combined with a new LSI processor, the sensor can provide exceptionally rapid readout speeds.
Sony RX100 V Build Quality
If you placed the RX100 V next to its predecessor, the RX100 IV, or even the RX100 III, it would be challenging to differentiate between the three cameras. The only difference would be the model number. The pocket-sized metal body is the same as the one on the original RX100, maintaining the same simple design we saw for the first time on that model.
It has the high-end, luxury feel you would anticipate from a camera of this kind, yet it maintains a sleek, subtle appearance.
On the other hand, the use of the same design philosophy means that Sony continues to steadfastly avoid putting any form of handgrip on the front of the device. So, unfortunately, the smooth finish does not deliver the secure grip we’d like, especially compared to the Canon G7 X Mark II, which has a raised and textured grip to provide a much more satisfying hold on the device.
Sony RX100 V Autofocus
A 315-point phase-detection autofocus system has been added to the RX100 V, which we have never seen in a small camera with a 1.0-inch sensor. This is perhaps the most significant upgrade from the RX100 IV. The coverage is also remarkable, covering most of the frame except for the picture’s extreme left and right borders.
That being said, if you’re shooting in Single AF mode, you’re not likely to appreciate the level of sophistication on offer from the AF, as the RX100 V uses a hybrid AF system. Phase-detect AF is used to initially snap the subject into focus, with contrast-detect taking over to fine-tune focus, so there’s a brief delay (and we’re splitting hairs here) as the system monetarily hunts to acquire a guide. However
If you use the Single AF mode, however, and select the Wide area AF option, you’ll have a quick and easy way to get your images in focus since the camera will decide on its own the region of the frame it wants to highlight when you use this mode.
If you need to point the RX100 V in a specific direction, you can choose between the Center, Flexible Spot, and Expand Flexible Spot modes. The latter two modes allow you to manually move the AF point around the frame, while the former will enable you to choose from eight issues surrounding the desired AF point to assist with AF.
Sony RX100 V Performance
Even though the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II and the Nikon D5 would blush at the Sony RX100 V’s burst shooting speed of 24 frames per second, it is just as impressive that the Sony RX100 V can sustain this for 150 shots (Extra Fine JPEG) before it needs to take a breather. For raw shooters, 72 continuous frames aren’t to be sniffed. The Sony RX100 V also has a maximum constant shooting speed of 72 frames.
Keep the RX100 V set to Sony’s multi-zone mode when it comes to metering, and you will be rewarded with dependable results. You only need to intervene in high-contrast lighting conditions, while the camera’s Auto White Balance does a decent job under various lighting conditions.
Sony RX100 V Image quality
The results you get from the RX100 V are pretty much identical to those you got from its predecessor, but this is in no way a bad thing. Perhaps the only discernible difference is that the RX100 V sharpens JPEG files slightly more than its predecessor.
When shooting at the lower end of the sensitivity range, you can expect plenty of detail from the 20.1MP sensor. Additionally, the camera outputs files at 5472 x 3648 pixels, enabling you to make an A3 print at 300 dpi without increasing the file size.
Sony RX100 V Specs
| MSRP | $899 |
|---|---|
| Body type | Compact |
| Max resolution | 5472 x 3648 |
| Other resolutions | 3:2 (3888 x 2592, 2736 x 1824), 4:3 (4864 x 3648, 3648 x 2736, 2592 x 1944), 16:9 (5472 x 3080, 3648 x 2056, 2720 x 1528), 1:1 (3648 x 3648, 2544 x 2544, 1920 x 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 | Stacked CMOS |
| Processor | Bionz X |
| 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 |
| Focal length (equiv.) | 24–70 mm |
| Optical zoom | 2.9× |
| Maximum aperture | F1.8–2.8 |
| Autofocus | Contrast Detect (sensor)Phase DetectMulti-areaCenterSelective single-pointTrackingSingleContinuousFace DetectionLive View. |
| Digital zoom | Yes (3.8x) |
| Manual focus | Yes |
| Normal focus range | 5 cm (1.97″) |
| Macro focus range | 5 cm (1.97″) |
| Number of focus points | 315 |
| Articulated LCD | Tilting |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,228,800 |
| Touch screen | No |
| Screen type | TFT LCD |
| Live View | Yes |
| Viewfinder type | Electronic |
| Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
| Viewfinder magnification | 0.59× |
| Viewfinder resolution | 2,359,296 |
| Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/2000 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed (electronic) | 1/32000 sec |
| Aperture priority | Yes |
| Shutter priority | Yes |
| Manual exposure mode | Yes |
| Subject/scene modes | Yes |
| Built-in flash | Yes |
| Flash Range | 10.20 m (at Auto ISO) |
| External flash | No |
| Continuous drive | 24.0 fps |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Metering modes | MultiCenter-weighted spot |
| Exposure compensation | ±3 (at 1/3 EV steps) |
| AE Bracketing | ±3 (3 frames ) |
| WB Bracketing | Yes |
| Format | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S |
| Modes | 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 100p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 100p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 17 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 28 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 16 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 16 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 17 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital1280 x 720 @ 30p / 6 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC1280 x 720 @ 25p / 6 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC |
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage types | SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| HDMI | Yes (micro-HDMI with uncompressed 4K/30p output) |
| Microphone port | No |
| Headphone port | No |
| Wireless | Built-In |
| Wireless notes | 802.11b/g/n with NFC |
| Remote control | Yes (wired or smartphone) |
| Environmentally sealed | No |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | NP-BX1 lithium-ion battery & USB charger |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 220 |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 299 g (0.66 lb / 10.55 oz) |
| Dimensions | 102 x 58 x 41 mm (4.02 x 2.28 x 1.61″) |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| Timelapse recording | No |
| GPS | None |
Sony RX100 V Verdict
The RX100 V is one of the most advanced compacts we have seen. Its specification is packed to the brim with cutting-edge features that put other, more expensive mirrorless and DSLR cameras to shame.
The RX100 V is almost too advanced for its sound, and you have to wonder how many photographers genuinely require such a high level of performance in a pocket camera. On the other hand, this is mostly a positive thing; nevertheless, there is one drawback to this. It’s fantastic to shoot at a burst rate of 24 frames per second, but with 2.9x optical zoom, your options for using this feature are pretty restricted.
It is also a camera that frequently causes users much frustration when used. We don’t want to keep harping on the lack of a touchscreen, but it would completely change how the camera is handled. It’s also disappointing that there isn’t a good hand grip included with the camera, especially considering how much the RX100 V costs. At the very least, the AG-R2 grip ought to be included in the package.
Sony RX100 V FAQs
Is RX100 a full frame?
The Sony RX100 is not a full-frame camera, despite popular belief. Instead, it has a 1-inch sensor, more diminutive than full-frame sensors but more significant than the sensors found in most portable cameras.
What is the difference between Sony RX100 V and VA?
The Sony RX100 VA is an upgraded version of the RX100 V; improvements have been made to the functionality of the autofocus system, and a new feature called “my menu” has been added, which enables users to customize the camera’s menu settings. Otherwise, the two cameras are very comparable in features and specifications.
Is the Sony RX100 V mirrorless?
The Sony RX100 V is, in fact, a mirrorless camera, which means that, unlike conventional DSLR cameras, it does not have a mechanism for reflecting the image onto the sensor. This makes it possible to have a construction that is more compact and to have quicker shooting velocities.
Is the Sony RX100 V weather sealed?
No, the Sony RX100 V is not weather-sealed, which means that it is not recommended for use in environments that are dirty or muggy or particularly severe weather conditions.
Does Sony RX 100 V have wifi?
The Sony RX100 comes equipped with wifi connectivity, which paves the way for the quick and painless transmission of still pictures and movies to other electronic devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, and personal computers.
How long does the Sony RX100V battery last?
The highest number of shots that can be taken on a single charge with the Sony RX100 V battery is approximately 240.
This is a comparatively low number compared to some other cameras’ battery life. But on the other hand, the camera does come with a USB charging cable, which makes it convenient to charge the device while traveling.
Does Sony RX100 V shoot RAW?
RAW files are picture files that are not compressed and contain all of the original data recorded by the camera’s sensor. The Sony RX100 V can take photos that are saved in RAW format. As a result, when shooting in RAW, you have more flexibility in the post-processing and editing stages of the workflow.
Is RX100 V suitable for beginners?
The Sony RX100 V is an excellent option for novice photographers looking for a compact camera that combines high-quality construction with sophisticated features.
Because it provides a variety of manual controls and shooting options, it is an excellent option for photographers who wish to exert greater artistic control over their photographs.
When did Sony RX100 V come out?
The Sony RX100 V is one of the most recent contributions to the RX100 series of compact cameras, having been launched in October of 2016, making it one of the most recent models in the series.
Which Sony RX100 V has Touch Screen?
The Sony RX100 V comes standard with a touch screen that enables users to easily navigate the menus and settings, as well as touch-to-focus and touch-to-shoot capabilities. This feature is included in all models of the camera.