Compact cameras have been fighting for relevance in a market dominated by smartphones. One camera that made a significant impact is the Sony RX100. Why did it leave such a mark on the industry?
Coming to you from Robin Wong, this insightful video discusses how the Sony RX100 revolutionized compact cameras when it was launched in 2012. With smartphone cameras improving rapidly, compact camera sales were plummeting. Sony, however, saw an opportunity. By introducing a 1-inch image sensor, they significantly enhanced image quality, setting the RX100 apart from both smartphones and other compact cameras.
Wong found a used Sony RX100 original and took it out for street photography. He was impressed by several aspects of the camera. The compact size and lightweight design make it an ideal everyday carry. The camera’s all-black, minimalist look is sleek and doesn’t draw attention. The 1-inch sensor paired with a versatile zoom lens (28-100mm equivalent) produces high-quality images, rivaling those of DSLR and mirrorless cameras in good lighting conditions. This combination of portability and image quality made the RX100 a hit. I had one for several years and absolutely loved it.
However, Wong also pointed out several flaws in the RX100. First, the handling is poor. The camera lacks a proper grip, making it uncomfortable to hold for extended periods. Second, the LCD screen has a low refresh rate, which results in a laggy and choppy live view experience. Third, the camera’s performance is sometimes sluggish, with noticeable delays when navigating menus or reviewing images. Finally, there are optical issues, such as soft corners and noticeable distortion, which detract from the overall image quality.
Despite these flaws, the RX100 was ahead of its time. Its large sensor and fast aperture were significant selling points, and it set a new standard for compact cameras. However, Wong argues that Sony didn’t design this camera with photographers in mind. Important aspects like handling and smooth performance were overlooked. Instead, Sony focused on impressive specifications to attract a broader audience.
Since the original RX100, Sony has made numerous improvements in subsequent models, addressing many of the issues Wong highlighted. Newer versions feature better screens, built-in electronic viewfinders, improved autofocus, and more efficient sensors. The RX100 line continues to be popular, with models up to the RX100 VII.
The Sony RX100 was a groundbreaking camera that significantly improved compact camera performance. The RX100 series has evolved, addressing many of these issues, and remains a strong contender in the compact camera market. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Wong.
Robin should, first, review the current VII, not the years old original. Second, the inexpensive addon grip and, supplied, small hand strap make holding much more comfortable and confident
I still have the M2 version. Definitely the laggy side of it did not improve from the original, but I got used for it
Ok...Improvise, Adapt, Overcome!!!! In the years past there were many small cameras that all buyers had to do with what they could. Remember the film days and the little 110 cameras, one in every pocket just about. The early digital cameras like the Fujifilm FinePix Series XP20 (14.2 MP) or even the Vivitar 8300s (8.1MP), I still have and use. All, during their time, were the cats meow for fitting in a pocket and with a small SD card was like the film days and you took to a film developing place to get prints made. If anyone still has their images made with one you will see the sharpness and clarity not needing much post processing but that was the key back then for having a computer with software to edit like PS/Lr cost more than the camera ($800+ and for each full update). It was the age of the digital pocket camera.
I found an M5 of the RX100 in a thrift shop for 7 dollars. I could not test it since there was no battery. It looked trashed. I bought some batteries and carefully cleaned it and touched up the dings. It's back from the, almost, dead and works great. The lens was fine. It even has the add on grip. It is now my go to on trips and such. Finding it was a lucky accident. Most of the problems described were fixed by the model V, or also called M5. I will use it until it goes TU....
I also discovered how to completely restore the rear screen.