The BEST Compact Camera EVER Made? | Sony RX100vii in 2024

[@HenryTurnerphoto]

Thanks for watching! What’s your go-to camera for travel or big outdoor adventures where weight needs to be kept to a minimum? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your comments below! 👇

[@bpalotas]

I was really torn between the Sony RX100 VII you review here and the Canon G5X II or G7X III. I got the G7X in the end (found a great deal on a display model from a store nearby), and I love it for the same reasons you do. Compactness, does great video too (better than my Fuji, whose audio recording is terrible!), and I love the portraits I can do with what I call the "Canon colours" and the f/1.8-2.8 lens.

[@sdrtcacgnrjrc]

Panasonic GF7 (one of those tiny m43 models with 16mp and minimal IS). If i bring 24-200mm equivalent, it's tiny compared to APSC or full frame, but still way bigger than the Sony compact.

[@ratgirl13]

The Sony RX100vii. It is a very good camera and pocketable, and has so many fun to use features.

[@metalmick99]

If I had to really keep the weight down but wanted to retain maximum versatility, then the Sony RX10 IV: weathersealed, 24-600mm zoom, video at speeds up to 1,000fps, rapid autofocus, full manual control, and up 24 fps continuous shooting... but at a weight impost of 1,100 grams; slightly lighter would be my OM-1 and I'd lash out for the 12-100 F4. 😛But if weight was really critical, it would be hard to go past the pocketable Sony RX100 VII.

[@NetvoTV]

Hi Henry, my name is Johnny and I'm a freelance logo designer, currently I'm looking for more works, do you love to have a logo for your channel's branding to have a memorable graphic based monogram logo to help your audience recognise and follow your channel easier? I would love to design a photography themed logo inspired by your direction for you! Let me know if you interested to make it happen! :-)

[@KenJJamesK]

I have sold all my DSLR gear in the last 3 months and purchased one of these as a walk around camera. Think I'm silly? Nope, I'm 82, had a stroke and have balance problems. Any of you around those years will understand. I still miss my DSLR but this little beast is pretty darned good. My style of photography has always been colour and contrast, not like Henry and his love of mist and mood, so, basically I'm a sunshine bloke. For that use, it produces very sharp RAW photos. I bought the $19.95 stick on grip from Sony to make it easier for me to hold....brilliant! Sure it is not a DSLR but it rings my bells. Ain't that what photography is about? Ken from New Zealand

[@MrWozzafive]

I'm with you, Ken. I also sold all my large format gear after my stoke 3 years ago. I love the portability of my RX100VII. I'm looking forward to using it when I come over the ditch in November to travel on the Northern Explorer and the Coastal Pacific trains. Regards Warren from Sunbury Australia

[@setnistone]

My exact story... just a tad younger.. last month I missed my Fuji XT3 so much I rented on with a zoom lens and after one day of carrying it around, I sent it back, I'd rented it for a week, Quickly a no go for me... I too have the RX but the M6.

[@KenJJamesK]

@@MrWozzafive G'day Wozza. take a look at the TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth & return. Going to do that one in October when we go down to the South Island for a couple of weeks from our hometown, Napier

[@MrWozzafive]

G'day Ken . Thanks for your suggestion regarding TranzAlpine. The wife and I travelled on it back in 2017. Great experience. Have a great weekend. Regards Warren

[@ricoman7981]

I agree. I’m 67 and just don’t want to carry all my heavy full frame gear anymore. Additionally, photography is a solo sport. My wife doesn’t enjoy it when I want to set up a tripod and play with the settings, etc. Most of my photography is just on vacations with my wife so no more gear. I bought the RX100 V when it came out and was really pleased with my results. When the VI came out with the 200mm equivalent I thought seriously about it but couldn’t justify the cost. Then the VII came out and I went through the same dilemma, is it worth the cost. In 2022 I broke down and bought the VII. I’m very pleased with the decision even though I have yet to sell my original A7 and the 24 X 135 G lens. Having said that, I can’t remember the last time I took the A7 anywhere. Last thought, the VII’s longer range and higher quality sensor is great but personally I think that in many cases the V give slightly sharper results, especially in low light when I’m not zooming so much anyway. Just my thoughts.

[@3456korea]

This camera is still very popular in Korea. A new camera costs $1240. Many people can't buy a used camera even if they want to. People don't sell it. This is one of the cameras I really want. I subscribed to your channel because it was really helpful. Thank you.

[@Stallzyx]

yeah it's only moderately cheaper than new here in the UK to get a used one and so I had to borrow some money but it was important because I needed it in time to capture some important concerts and my sister's graduation. such a good camera and I don't even know if it makes my 750d/700d redundant

[@noth606]

Probably something you've figured out by now but if not - you could look abroad. I'm not familiar with how it is in Korea for customs and so on, but you're close to Japan where there are lots of second hand things for sale for pretty decent prices. I'm on the other side of the planet, but I've still bought more than one thing second hand from Japan because some things are easier to find for sale there in decent shape. This applies very much to Japanese brand things like this.

[@3456korea]

@@noth606 Thanks for the good info.🙏

[@williamruffell3135]

I have the RX100 V1 and l had the same reaction to it, as you have had. I also have a Pentax K1 which with lenses is so heavy that it pulls me over, whereas the Sony can be in your trouser pocket. I am 92 and can't walk far. The Sony has made me able to continue my photography without sacrificing quality. JR

[@Qasibr]

I’m debating getting one, debating whether to upgrade to the latest and greatest iPhone or having this for casual travel photography. Those devices do alot of computational photography, do you feel like it’s much better than the best smartphones?

[@yellowwducky]

I have the v1 as well. This v7 has less aperture so if that v1 stops working, I'd get the v5 if I could as it maintains the same wider aperture albeit at the cost of zoom reach - but speed is more important than zoom to me.

[@JimIBobIJones]

@@Qasibr A 1" sensor with a really good set of lens is going to be in a completely different league to what even the best smartphones can do. Even where smartphones have as large a sensor (xiaomi, oppo, vivo etc). you are getting much worse lenses because a) they are silicone not glass and b) have a lot of compromises to fit into your camera bump. If you aren't going to tweak your exposure in post (lightroom or something similar) you aren't going to be able to take advantage of that though. The "default" JPEG colours are going to be flatter and less vibrant than the computationally "auto-edited" stuff your phone throws out.

[@Qasibr]

@ That does make a lot of sense. Apple's iPhones have something like an 800+ person team working on computational photography, the software aspect of it seems much better than what other DSLRs have at the moment. You're very right on computational photography, taking those raw images and editing them in Lightroom do seem to make for something smartphones can't compete with. There's a real tradeoff in having a great camera that's always in our pockets. It's able to quickly alter parameters and take multiple images to get HDR done really well, I hope 1 inch sensor cameras are able to up their software game to compete with that stuff.

[@gr0wler147]

So glad you raise the issue about image quality, because it's so much better today but we spend less energy on the emotional feel of a photograph. The lighting, color and emotion is so much more important than resolution

[@sigurdrille9693]

Thank you! Finally someone who appreciates this wonderful, albeit expensive, little camera. It has been my travel companion since 2021 and I have taken wonderful shots around the world with it. So versatile, so compact and pocketable, going with me just about everywhere. Too bad Sony does not evolve on it.

[@brianfarrell3987]

I didn't realise HOW expensive until now :-o

[@jbdh6510]

@@brianfarrell3987 well, a new iPhone is the same price minimum.

[@washingtonradio]

I think the issue with even the best point-and-shoots and bridge cameras isn't that their images unacceptable but that once you have been spoiled by a DSLR or mirrorless with some excellent lens your standards are higher, possibly too high, and you might not realize the photo is actually quite good overall.

[@vin424242]

Cameras now have to me are soulless, i have an OM1 and 3 pro zooms i got for a retirement present to me, do i like it ? yes but i dont love it, my favorite camera is my old E3 i got with a pro zoom not long after cos it was cheap and its a joy to use

[@Tharrel]

Nah, for many people it’s the other way round. I had 2 Fuji bodies with 4 nice lenses. No I moved on to Fuji 100vi, and it’s just so nice not having to carry and change lenses. I keep one Fuji body for work, but for hobby I will only use the 100vi

[@cine-ish]

@@vin424242 speak for yourself, fujifilm have soul and resolution

[@isabellelim2573]

Bro is the price bro. I already spent an arm and a leg for my mirrorless and good glass and when I want a small camera to walk around with it wants my other arm bro.

[@jeremyfearon3114]

Weather sealing is a big problem for most smaller cameras. I'm thinking of getting an OM System TG 7 to fill that pocket camera gap. Perhaps you could persuade MPB to let you try one out for comparison. I use Nikon 1s for portability, the 6.7-13 lens can get wider than all the do everything lens on most pocketable cameras.

[@mikesmith3957]

Thank you for reading my comments and an opinion. I think the rx100 is a great little camera that punches well above it's weight. However I watch a lot of your videos and have purchased some of your excellent photos etc. To me your take on things is honest and keep aiming high to hit the middle. I think you are one of the best bloggers or tubers to have sprouted in the last few years and being yourself is where you'll always excel. Being someone with integrity who imparts great wisdom to newer photographers and remotivates us older ones. Cheers.

[@KenJJamesK]

Totally agree Mike, I have been following Henry for some time now and like his channel. Also, he came to New Zealand and took some wonderful photos of some of my favourite beach scenes on Auckland's West Coast. You are always welcome back Henry😁

[@markjones127]

The RX100ii has been my go to for fell running for about 8 years now, I keep it in a sandwich bag in the front pocket of my bumbag and it been through -17c snow blizzards on Foel Fras and even been used in light drizzle a few times and still works perfectly. It has a hotshoe which is handy, it was the one which came with an eye wateringly expensive EVF sold as an attachment which I only finally bought a few years ago in a nice cheap deal on ebay, but I love this little thing, it takes beautiful images, I love hiking and wild camping with my Fuji mirrorless gear but will always have an RX100 for running and when I want to go ultralight on a wild camp, I live just up the road from Tryfan, such a beautiful mountain!

[@charleswittmer833]

Thinking of getting this bad boy for a trip to Lapland this winter. How did you find battery life in the -17?

[@loumason-walsh2062]

I have recently added the RX100 vi to my kit. It goes everywhere with me. I have a filter adapter for the lens so I can take the minimum amount of kit with me on my daily walks and also for street photography. I love the feel of the camera and I have grabbed so many shots I would not have got without it. Having realised that I prefer a camera to my phone.

[@Icelandlover]

I love mine. The best camera is the one you have available at one moment. The portability/quality ratio is perfect for my travel requirements.

[@Benjamin_Jehne]

For my private images I clompletely switched to 1". I use to work with an A7RIII but in 2019 while job in Norway I experienced how nice these little 1" cameras are. Back then it was an Canon G5X MKII which I still love. The quality of the lens is not on par with the Sony but a 24-120mm F1.8-2.8 is really a nice thing to have. I bought the Sony RX100 VII in 2021 and since then, these both little cameras are my go to cameras. From my perspective the Sony has such a nice grade of details. I really enjoy this lens. Since we got all the nice AI stuff in Lightroom last year, you can push the files to an amount, where I don't get the feeling to miss out on something.

[@jim.and.sheilaflood]

I just purchased a brand new one of these in Canada off of Sony‘s website. I guess they release them every once in a while. It was brand new in a box sealed, etc. The RAW capability that the camera has really helps a lot and getting the most out of the 20 megapixels, I find. Also, there are magnetic filter attachments that go onto the lens at the front. I find out what I need to get as an option is the lens hood that magnetically attaches to the front and the little rubber grip that goes on the front to hold it better.

[@trishf29]

The Sony RX100vii was the p/s I always wanted, but was stuck with a Lumix equivalent, where I had to sharpen nearly every image. Instead of buying the Sony I bought into the Olympus system, and quite honestly, have never looked back. My iPhone 14 gives me sharper images than the p/s Lumix, so I use that instead, although rarely! Glad you had fun with a point and shoot! They are not very obtrusive in public areas.

[@mark-h3g5w]

I have had the RX100vii since launch and love it. I have won photo club print competitions (500 x400mm) and digital competitions with images I have shot on it. People assume I have used a DSLR. I love low light shots, and people often say this is a weakness of the camera. I don't think so - I just run them through Topaz Denoise AI. Sometimes images can be soft straight out of the camera - I then use Topaz Sharpen AI. When I crop massively the images can be a bit small and pixelated - then I use Topaz Gigapixel AI. To me there is a workaround for all the issues. And one other thing, the image stabilisation is brilliant. I can hand hold 200mm equivalent at 1/15 second. As Henry says, pixel peep and you can criticise, but for real world use it is brilliant!!! But just my opinion obviously.

[@muhammadraahil5172]

I complete agree with you. This is what made me love this camera again. When I bought it the first time, I didn’t use it properly and I hated the image quality and I sold it off. I gave it another go, did Denoise and sharpening in Lightroom, oh boy, I might have found my favourite camera

[@kkfoto]

If you need all that post-processing to get a good image, use a smartphone :)

[@ronp4529]

I've bought and sold this camera 3 times. Always enticed by the size and focal range, and I have taken shots that I really like... But too often I end up disappointed with the image quality. One thing to keep in mind with a 2.7x crop factor is that shooting above f/5.6 you may notice image quality is affected by diffraction. Keep the f stops low, f/4 is basically f/11 on full frame! I think a m43 point and shoot with a 24-120 might hit a sweet spot in size and capability.

[@ohnoflicks]

Tried to love this camera and just couldn’t do it. Sold it after 6 months. Issues similar to yours as far as image quality. Have many other cameras, so no big deal. But maybe just a bit of a warning to people who have over the top expectations. This camera is not the DO ALL piece of kit that some may think it is.

[@kwdav]

Why don’t try GR III?🤔

[@ronp4529]

@@kwdav they should make a zoom version. Even a 24-50 2.8 equiv would be better than a fixed 28 or 40 to me, especially since that lens pops out anyway. Or just make it 35mm, weather seal it and don't have the lens go in and out. All the wrong compromises for my intended uses.

[@ohnoflicks]

@@kwdav Internal dust issues. I was just hoping for something truly pocketable that was good quality. I went back to my little Canon Elph for pocket fun. I bought the Sony in part because so many raved about it. Yeah I’m a bit of a gear junkie. The camera was just not for me though, and that’s ok. I hope those that do like it continue to enjoy it.

[@FernandoC]

Yes, make it slightly larger with a slightly larger sensor but keep the existing features and it's golden!

[@johnknee89]

I still have my RX100iii from 2015 and I love it

[@jA.78194]

I love how you are telling the good and the bad even though you like the camera. As a beginner what would help me would be to compare it to other cameras like a phone (like the Samsung Galaxy s24 ultra or an iPhone with zoom lens and a full frame camera with more megapixels to see where it goes in between.

[@christopherpackart]

I bought one this year and like it. I got it mainly for when I couldn't take my bigger cameras or just didn't want too. I used it quite a bit in Japan to capture street photography.

[@shattered115]

I've owned one for 4 years and never leave home without it. Many exhibited prints from this little power house. I even carry in my pocket when I have my DSLRs with me. When I am at gallery and talking to other photographers we all reach into our pockets and pull one out.

[@anthonywilliams7686]

I gave most of my Sony full-frame gear to my daughter. I had the RX100 V as a backup camera. But in 2023, I bought the RX100 VII. I had used the Lens Mate 52mm filter mount on the V, s I I naturally bought another one for my VII. It is small and unobtrusive on the camera. A great addition gives you the versatility of the full frame kit but without any of the bulk and weight. To keep the overall kit size and weight to a minimum, I found the perfect full-featured min tripod from Ulanzi that is only 25cm when folded. This is my standard onto kit now. RX11 VII 5 52mm filters including a CPL and the mini Tripod. The total weight is less than my former 70 - 200 f4 lens. The back appreciates this for sure

[@boutthere3374]

I bought the RX100m7 instead of another lens for my big cameras. I figured it was smarter money considering what it can do. It quickly became the first thing I'd reach for when packing the kayak/packraft/backpack. Fearing the end of the RX line I just bought another new one at a local store(backup) when they somehow got 3 new ones in. I do hope Sony comes out with an M8. Awesome video.

[@zeframHood]

For me it’s the Panasonic LX15, had it for years and very happy with it.

[@sensingturtle]

Thanks Henry for creating this video. It was extremely insightful :)

[@911skull]

As always, the guy behind the camera is more important than the gear. You did a great job and the pictures turned out fantastic. Me, I bought an used RX100 MkIII for a trip to the Philippines in 2023 and never ever regretted it. Afterwards I used it in Japan and it was just so convenient to bring something tiny with me like the Sony RX100. I really like the look of the pictures and what’s best, you even get a flashlight. Never missed a shot of my girlfriend, doesn’t matter how bad the light conditions were.

[@jongseokbak1384]

I bought this camera twice. I bought it in 2019 and used it, and then disposed of it in early 2021 after hearing rumors about the RX100 VIII. However, the rumored new model never came out. Since I often needed the portability and telephoto range of this camera, I bought it again in late 2022 and have been using it well so far. I use it well when traveling. Even if I carry a full-frame, it is very useful as a camera that can assist with the telephoto range in a small size. It is a pity that a successor model has not come when this model is almost complete, with stable 4K video, microphone input support, etc. It would be perfect if a new model with a new processor, menu system, and 10-bit video shooting was released.

[@thatsamshow]

I use the original Sony RX100 M1 and it's my favourite camera. Now, is it the _"best"_ camera out there? Of course not! The specifications and technology in the latest cameras are mindblowing. However, as someone who has used the camera for nearly a decade, I know everything there is to know about the camera, have everything set up how I want, and have created a ton of shortcut keys and menu modifications, etc. I love walking around with it through the countryside where I'm lucky to live, knowing I have a very adequate camera tucked away in my pocket. I've done portrait, street, landscape, macro, and astrophotography with it-the lot! For me, it's all that I need.

[@hoilp]

I bought one of these in the midst of the pandemic with two uses in mind - video and backpacking. I have not been disappointed. The video quality has been excellent and it has a surprisingly decent microphone, though I rarely use that. It is convenient and simple to add a much better microphone. For backpacking and hiking it has been exactly what I wanted. No, it is not the quality of my DSLR, but as long as I'm not shooting for a billboard (which I don't do) it is perfectly capable. All I have to carry is the camera and a small 10" flexible tripod and I can do most everything I want to with the camera. The 200mm length gives me a shot at wildlife and the wide range gives me ample options for landscapes. Two drawbacks: first, I found were that the viewfinder image is quite small and I find it difficult to see an image through it, especially for vast landscapes; and second, I find the zoom motor is too fast and clunky if there is any movement in the image or if you have to capture something quickly. When shooting video the zoom slows down significantly in order to pan in and out, but in such a small camera, it is not wise to zoom via the camera controls while recording as it creates too much camera shake. Overall, I would say it lives up to its near consensus rating as the best available point and shoot camera. That said, I still think the price point is high for a camera that is essentially a closed system.

[@lukasbabic7001]

i appreciated this honest review v v v much, especially the part about the image quality

[@colinfoyle1856]

Great to see someone else using an RX100M7. My big rigs are the OMDS OM-1 and OM-5, if I am just off for a walk, I'll take the RX100M7. For filters take a look at NISI, they have a device that will just slide onto the end of the lens, and can provide packages with ND, Graduated, and Polarising filters. Better than a stick-on thread in my opinion. Nearly every time I use the RX100 I am bracketing, just to make sure I don't blow out highlights from using Aperture Priority and Auto ISO, but with 5 image bracketing, I can also pretty much eliminate any noise. Walking around my home city of London (UK) this little guy is ideal, and doesn't scream "Pro Camera". The lack of weather-sealing is a concern for me. That's when I either then reach for the OM-5 or the Olympus TG-6. But then the TG-6 has an even smaller sensor. I figure the difference in the sensor size of 1 inch compared to Micro 4/3rds, isn't that different. To be honest, I reach for the RX100 more than I do the OMDS cameras quite a bit. That might be because I am getting older, and don't want to carry weighty cameras all day long any more. Loved the video.

[@watkinsphoto]

Great review. I have had this camera for a couple of years (my "regular" cameras are Sony a7iv and a7cii). The RX100vii is incredibly useful for travel. One thing you did not cover is its absolutely incredible burst mode. I found that amazing for shooting wildlife on a cruise around the Kenai Fjord a couple of years ago and got some amazing photos of Orcas with the camera. It does have limitations. On a recent trip to the UK, it just would not produce usable photos in a cathedral in Liverpool which had challenging lighting conditions (harsh light coming in through the windows into a dim environment). In that situation, I switched to my iPhone 14 Pro. I think it would be great if Sony developed the RX100 series with computational photography. That would be amazing. That said, it is a great little camera and the focal range is very useful.

[@cunningba]

I have a Sony RX100 (original mark 1 if you will) I bought in 2013. I modified it with a after market grip and covered it with Glock pistol grip tape to improve the hand feel and hide the branding. It and my iPhone are still my go to cameras for traveling. I’m 76 and there are a lot of situations where carrying heavier gear would be too exhausting or too much of a hassle taking on a plane. In those cases the comparison between the RX100 and a heavier camera is between having a great many good to very good images vs. having none or only a few larger less noisy images. You’re younger and stronger, so your trade offs will be different. But they should be factored in when doing comparisons. If you can get an images with a small camera in a situation where using a larger camera would be difficult or impossible, the image quality of the larger camera is irrelevant. I’ve found the RX100 to be a excellent camera, with some obvious limitations to be sure. It is sharp - small lettering in signs is reliably readable when shooting in RAW, as I always do. I have taken many huge panoramas handheld with using just the screen level on the display for alignment. For shooting group portraits I find it an excellent choice because I don’t have to pay a lot of attention to it while I’m herding people.

[@ziph3326]

I purchased a Canon G9 many years ago, but haven’t upgraded since getting an iPhone. I am seriously considering the Sony RX100 M7. It appears to be an excellent combination of quality,size, and features. Certainly more than I am used to!

[@ShaunTaylor-bw7jr]

Had different iterations of this camera and been pleased with them all. It has its place and exceeds in the areas designed for. I added the optional stick on Sony grip to support hand held photography.

[@Transterra55]

So glad to see images of Wales, one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited… I look forward to visiting again. Some serious wind!

[@markhamadventures]

LOVE the image at 15:43! Well done!!! I’m currently hauling a Z8 with a 24-120 for my backpacking adventures. Heavy, but I feel it’s part of my enjoyment of the activity itself - the physical work it takes to get the images.

[@bobv7753]

Great review! I've been using this camera for a couple years. Am very satisfied with the performance for all of the reasons you & followers mentioned. For the size benefits it has been my go to for grab, go and very acceptable results. Thanks for your content.

[@ibloodyloveridingmybike]

Great video. I have the Sony RX100 V and thinking of moving to the RX100 VII. I give up the 1.8 and built in ND filter but I’d like the extra 100mm-200mm range. Still undecided.

[@rotdohrn]

Exactly my issue, too. Just got myself a used VII (yesterday) to compare directly with my VA, because I noted that I really miss the zoom on the small one (usually shooting with Oly E-M1 II and just wanted something really small for the pocket for daily use…). From what I can see from the few pics I took, I‘ll probably indeed go with the VII. Low light situations are just 1/4 of all my shoots anyway, if at all, so I will give preference to the zoom. I also have the impression the colours are slightly better on the VII (less post-editing 😉).

[@Kenaroni]

I’ve always loved a good compact camera even going back to film days. I ignored the Sony RX100 for a long time because I don’t like being stuck with an LCD back viewfinder. But as soon as I learned that these have a pop up viewfinder, I bought a used mark III immediately. Great camera.

[@chrisbarker1582]

I used to fly down that valley (the "A5 pass") when returning to RAF Valley in the Hawk, years ago. It's great to see the view up towards Llyn Ogwen, particularly at sunrise.

[@Reedith]

Been waiting for a version of this camera to come out that charges with USB-C 😊

[@thisamazingworld1]

They do have a filter attachment. I also recommend the little rubber thing for the left side for carrying around. It's an awesome travel cam and most of the images will have a better something than just a phone camera no matter how good they get.

[@nigelwest3430]

I usually shoot with a Canon R & R3 and a range of RF glass but my "carry around" camera is my little RX100 mkiii that I've had for about 9 years and I love it, sits in your pocket and produces great images.

[@stephengibson7709]

I purchased a SONY RX100 VII two years ago and love it. I also own a NIKON, but the heavy lenses make it difficult to carry around. The photo quality is fantastic with the RX100 VII. I sometime shoot in RAW plus JPG. This gives me the option of editing the RAW images for very superior results.

[@dutchmanager]

Years of scaling down made me sell camera gear that I never took along. My last camera was a fixed lens fuji APSC. (x100F) and though it was a tremendous camera with great film simulations I hardly ever took it along. So I sold that one too and bought myself a Sony ZV1. Yes it is a camera of which they promote it for vlogging, but it has the same 1 inch sensor as the RX series and it has the 24-70mm equivalent zoom which covers the range I need. Now I actually take the camera along again and shoot photos again. What about image quality? Yes as you said once you compare to full frame and you zoom in big way you surely see differences. I did another attempt: In my little home studio I shot a self portrait using a tripod and 1 flash. Next I printed it on A3 size paper. It is razor sharp. and that is all I care for. I do not have the need to go bigger than that. I am very happy with my 1 inch sensor type camera. this same is valid for the similar sized RX100 mark 7. Since my range was 24 to 70 I could save myself a lot of money, but if you need more you could go for the RX100 Mark 7.

[@Robert-cd5zr]

Whoever comes out with a compact camera with this hardware plus advances in smartphone image processing are going to bring stand alone pocket cameras back in a big way, with better low light, real depth of field and zoom / background compression than flagship phones.

[@Dwyeb73]

Totally agree.

[@TheStarHound]

Beautiful images, Henry. I have traded with MPB's USA outlet. I have gotten great gear from them and it's always been super easy.

[@michaelreid2143]

Had my Nikon P7800 for 10yrs now; 12mp, 28-200 zoom, full manual if I need it: just like a mini dslr without the bother of changing lenses. Fits in with my other Nikon cameras a treat & can slip it in a pocket. Always have it with me for everything from macro to zoom all in one light, portable and compatible tool: and the images aren’t half bad neither!

[@cramias1]

Its a brilliant camera for exactly the use case depicted in this video, backpacking (or wild camping as called in the UK), where every ounce matters. I still use a mirrorless for when I'm car based, but there's so many places that can only be accessed on foot and its not always practical to haul a great heavy kit with you.

[@rs779]

I initially got the RX100M3 after water damage to a Panasonic P&S. Loved the portability, Raw capability, and plethora of features - most that you have noted. Added the Sony stick on grip - recommended. We travel a lot and as an amateur I only want IQ good enough to create travel books and 11”x14” prints max. But I found the zoom limiting and 3 years ago added the Sony RX10iv. A great addition that is more travel friendly than most options with the need for multiple lenses. The similar menu system was a consideration. We don’t check bags, so carry-on only for trips up to a month. Add a laptop, iPad and miscellaneous electronics and even this setup gets challenging-but doable. While iPhones have improved (have an iPhone 13Pro) I would say the RX100 offers more shooting flexibility over just P&S with a great size factor. Editing in LR but Topaz helps for some shots on both the RX100 and RX10 regarding IQ and this combination works great for me. I prefer the RX100 for walking around towns but often carry all three. Love your channel and used your guide when we visited the Lake District and Wales last spring. Keep up the good work - love watching your work and humour.

[@richardlevesconte7952]

Hi Henry. I bought this camera and love it for street photography. The image quality is great. I also bought a polariser and neutral density filter kit for the Vii from NISI. The one thing to watch with the filter kit is it will fall off of the lens closes.

[@zero2espect]

I have an earlier model with the faster fstop, and it's still on my belt every day. The best photos are the ones you take, and having something with that quality with you all the time...well. You nailed it with the brackets, the smaller sensor gives you a lot when you stack it in light room - the brackets give you the freedom to not stretch the capability of the sensor. As you will have seen the colours in the video capture side of the camera is also simply beautiful. The only real negative is these things are simply not coming down in price......

[@valentinstefan8528]

This is my go to camera for portability - hiking, skiing, on the beach everyday with the family. I also own and use x100V and xt50 but I find I use this sony a lot more where weight and portability are really important. I wish its intelligent auto was more inteligent and I did not have to fiddle with the menus so much.

[@NSXTypeRGTRLM]

I have a first generation Sony RX100 and when it focuses correctly it makes some great images!

[@adrongoddard7479]

I was tempted to buy one of these, but then I sat down and had a good chat with myself "No more cameras" was the conclusion of that discussion 😊. I would say that this camera is probably for someone who would like to go beyond the mobile phone snaps, and wants to explore photography a little further, without the bulkiness of an SLR and lenses. The size and portablity are excellent, and dare I mention it, the image quality is acceptable (as long as you're not looking to blow up the images too much).

[@ajgeeeee]

I still have my mark IV and can’t let it go even after all these years, such a compact beast the RX line is!

[@kozy112]

I’ve had the RX100m2 since 2016. Captured some great moments on my travels and yes, the best part is the portability. On the streets you might loose a moment very quickly but this camera is alwys ready, out of the pocket and boom, done. Out in the wild, hiking or ski touring it has been a good light companion and helped me document the experiences. Image quality is good enough till you don’t start to make a fuss about every little detail. In general the images are great as long as you get the settings afjusted to the light conditions. Ithe only thing is thati it is a bit fragile. Have hd to swap lenses twise over 8 years. But then gain, the camera was not meant to hike in the humid jungles or the cold snowy mountains. Thnks for giving a positive review on the thing.

[@moopuna]

Where did you get a new lens for it?

[@Iandreid]

The most recent improvements to noise reduction and sharpening by Adobe and ON1 make this my go to camera these days. It even does sport well with amazing focus tracking and frame rates. For travel I take the RX100 and iPhone and leave my big cameras at home.

[@GroundedTech]

I'm only just starting my camera/photography journey but as someone who goes from phone to phone looking for the perfect camera experience you're right about the "comparison is the thief of joy" remark. Need to just enjoy using what I have and enjoy the process of taking photos. First time viewer btw. Had to sub.

[@HenryTurnerphoto]

Thanks a lot! 🙏🏻

[@dennisvondutch-dhb]

11:00 thanks for the honesty here. This camera is for much of what it is: splendid!

[@donaldgould9074]

The 1" sensor is s compromise and we just have to accept the quality it offers, still better than phones. I bought the ZV1 which does not have evf and is 24-70 equivaldnt. Same sensor and image as RX 100 but wad about half the price. It is intended as a vlogging camera but suits me as I just use it to keep in my bag so it is always with me.. I normally use Oly E M 1mk3. Quite happy with the Sony for my intended use.

[@IgnacioCuriel]

"Comparison is the thief of joy". I loved your phrase, I have never heard it before. I own an RX100 M7 too, and I love using it. I am amazed about so many videos posted about this little camera, even it being 5-6 years old. Too bad Sony did not do a successor (yet?)

[@MoserTimmy]

Professional here looking to buy this camera. Truly appreciate your honest reaction and slight dissatisfaction

[@stevehageman6785]

My RX100M6 is simply an unbelievable "Super Camera". Super sharp edge to edge, even in the diagonal corners. I even have very good bird photos where I have cropped 100% (400mm Equiv). Sure, high ISO could be better (but the latest noise reduction software gives you a huge fix for that) and the buttons are sooo small. But if those are the only tradeoffs, then so be it. It is truly the best compact camera ever. 🙂

[@butchgo5346]

When I was your age, I carried heavy DSLRs and lenses to include other heavy photographic equipment and frowned on small frame cameras whose raw file photos can't just compare with full frames. Now, I'm pushing towards my 80's and I have with me only a small compact, Sony RX100V 1.8-2.8 24-70mm zoom, to keep on shooting. In essence, small cameras are for those who can no longer lug bulky DSLRs and lenses (like me) and as tradeoff has to contend with mediocre raw file images compacts produce.

[@markstevens6682]

Henry, I use my Sony RX 100 M4 when I’m scouting for photos. Sometimes even when scouting I’ll get an awesome photo opportunity, if I want to use that photo for printing or in a book, that can’t be done with a smartphone photo… That said these are awesome little cameras, just never drop them! Lol

[@kencox2267]

I bought the VI for many of the same reasons as others have mentioned. It is slightly less technically advanced as the VII, but it is a fantastic companion to my a6600. I get the same menus and have become very comfortable with using both…in the right situation. As always, thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts with us. Your videos are certainly motivating!

[@davidjensen41]

Although my "big bag" contains a Fuji GFX100s, I have used a Sony RX100 Mk5 for several years and it is great for when I don't want to carry a full bag. As far as durability, I ran mine over with my car while it was in a padded case and it still works. The view screen is shot, so I use the EVF. Most of the time, I keep it in my truck for those moments that pop up and I need a quick shot.

[@SuperDare83]

For the size/compactness the pics looked amazing

[@MattTaggart]

I picked up this compact for travelling light. I agree w remark about filter threads and weather sealing. This was a concern going in and out of A/C in humid Caribbean conditions. I picked up a 3rd party Ever Ready case. It makes this little compact feel more robust in my big hands. It is a plenty powerful camera and makes images worth printing.

[@t.breeze8659]

I've owned this camera for several years. It's really compact it's it's durability is also impressive. For video, my cellphone has caught up with it in some ways. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has better image stabilization and built-in mic. Because that gap has narrowed, I'm not sure that I would spend as much on the Sony but I'm glad to have it.

[@arctis_shark]

That place feels unreal!

[@martinhommel9967]

Thanks for your video. I believe their is a space for compact cameras, convenience, capturing the moment. The image quality is usually good enough if you don't spent too much time pixel peeping. I use them myself. Nice pics as always.

[@ianslingsby3415]

Love my RX100VII. The shots are as good as my full frame. I can always have it in my pocket it's expensive but quality costs. The lens as you said is versatile. And the view finder made it a must.

[@benbentley26]

Nice to see you looking at my camera brand. I use the Sony A7r3. Love it, best camera I've owned..... so far

[@Paul-vy1ev]

If you want a camera small & light with a view finder the lumix dmc-gm5 it is as small as the sony with mirco 4/3 senor . Pair it with a micro 4/3 len and got a perfect travel/landscape camera. 😊👍

[@danneukirch4486]

I could relate to how you felt about the RX100. Years ago I bought the mark 3 version, mainly for hiking / camping like you were doing. But I just wasn't that happy with the image quality. The noise and dynamic range were actually solid and what I expected but the lens sharpness wasn't there. So I ended up instead doing my big overnight hike with 5kg of camera gear and regretted that lol. I sold the RX100 which never got much use.

[@ElectronInc]

Hi Henry. My go-to camera is my OM-D E-M10 MkII because of size and mostly, because of the FUN it brings me, I cannot explain why. I have nothing but haste and joy when I have it in my hands. I do have an E-M1 MkII too, but for some reason, my heart always leans towards the E-M10...

[@yuanjieliu4578]

When I was in college, I bought the first generation of rx100. Nine years later, I bought a fifth generation camera in good condition this year. In my opinion, it is small enough and has a viewfinder, which can give me more creative opportunities. I have a6400, but I prefer to take the rx out for travel.

[@yehenbimsara]

if it helps you can reduce the shutter speed to about 15 and reduce the ISO as needed about a fort of what you have set to at 30/1 and in smartphones which I use to take photos this helps a lot with noise of the small sensor.

[@lucbotha]

I’d love to get this camera. Currently using a Canon M50 M2 but want to use something more compact but can still do both photo and video. This thing is a beast for its size and would be a wonderful upgrade. Just need to save up! Thanks for this video, wonderful to watch.

[@jgettier]

I'm looking at this not to replace a DSLR, but to get better travel photos than my cell phone. I don't think I'ld be as disappointed when approaching from that stand point.

[@StewartBell-im8qg]

Exactly what I need for my landscape images when I’m in the Alps 🎉

[@George_Bass_UK]

I’ve been using this camera for over a year now at wrestling shows. Even in challenging low light and fast action conditions, this little camera is a phenomenal piece of kit. I’ve even had canvas’s and prints made from my favourite shots and for me the image quality is outstanding.

[@45eno]

I bought a like new RX100M1 for $140 back in 2018. Then in 2023 I stopped into a pawn shop that I pick up $2 blu ray movies from and saw a RX100M5 sitting inside the glass case. The pricing was crossed out and rewritten but I couldn't see what the price was. So I played uninterested and said yeah if this is cheap enough I might be interested like $150 or so. (just to the cut the price down as low as possible). I think they had it originally listed for $499 but I was able to get it out the door for $220 with tax included. I was so excited as I knew it had some great improvements over my Mark 1 including 4k and the superior auto focus system. I sold my Mark 1 to family for $100.

[@CrescentRollCarl]

I wish the manufacturers hadn't turned their back on the pocket sized point and shoot. Only Ricoh is doing it now it seems. I have the GR IIIx, which I absolutely love, but wouldn't mind also having a little zoom lens that takes decent video like this one.

[@didierroubinet4610]

I really enjoy mine for years. Image quality is so good for such a tiny camera and its versatility is outstanding. Thank you for your much appreciated videos ;-)🙏

[@Hikebike365]

Fantastic little camera for sure i just printed a cropped landscape 16x21 and you can't tell it from the prints of my bigger cameras. Have the 28-70 version since it's release and got a mk6 with a viewfinder and 200mm last year. Love them both but i will give a small ding to the new one as it consumes the battery at rest. The old one is always good to go. Hope they continue to release improved versions

[@Boozecruiser911]

Im interested in compact cameras as someone coming from a phone and looking for a way to step up without a complicated exchangeable lens setup. Would love to see details re: how it compares to a phone

[@dozerblade]

I have a Panasonic small camera which also has a viewfinder, an essential i feel.

[@Matthewa0227]

really thinking about selling my Ricoh GR3 and buying one of these… the zoom is intriguing

[@daviddunmore7076]

I have an RX 100 iv, mainly for the fast 1.8 - 2.8 lens. image quality is superb, I've added a self adhesive 52mm filter ringso I can use my many filters and close-up auxiliary lenses.

[@diskettencharly]

Had one of the earlier ones for a long time, fabulous travel cams!

[@lukapogo]

I have a rx100M5a. To me, the 1.8/2.8 aperture was much more important than the 200mm reach. Great camera, carry it everywhere

[@dkbaghel123]

same here, 5yrs back had option to buy m5a/vii went ahead with m5a faster 1.8 lens, 3x zoom is good enough for taking personal pics kids stage show or in playground, 200mm is for shooting random people/animal in far away places....quality is good enough to print 3x3 feet large photo frames..something you cannot achieve from cellphone

[@MonkeyClub]

@@dkbaghel123 m5a 4k only 5min?

[@dkbaghel123]

@@MonkeyClub yes because it records true 4k, and let me tell you the truth, most of the cellphones record fhd/qhd and then upscale it, they dont capture true 4k.

[@MonkeyClub]

@@dkbaghel123 NO, 5K

[@sang3Eta]

F1.8-2.8 4k video get a Sony ZV-1

[@RichardPaterson-r5s]

I've had the same experience and thoughts. I have a Nikon D 850 and a Sony Rx 100 V6. For the reasons you rightly point out I have been a bit disappointed at times with the images from the Sony. Having said that in the right situations it has given me some of my best images and you can't beat it for mirroring the majority of the functionality of a DSLR all in your pocket. Fantastic for travel and those situations when you can't take your full kit. NiSi also do a mini filter set which is compatible with the camera if you want to go that far.

[@jethrowingnut13]

Agree 100% Bought one of these about a year ago for our trip around Tasmania. Used Video if not more than Photo. Fantastic results. Great for Timelapse's as well. Not as automatic as your phone, but well worth it.

[@bwest6275]

I say this about every single rx100 after the ii: Sony, please bring back the mi shoe. I’m still using my RX100ii because it works amazing with my flashes off-camera. Would love to see the mi shoe come back to the rx100 series and a modern sensor. The rx100 and a few flashes are the perfect travel package.

[@sdutango]

Good honest review, helps for people like us that used to with good camera but trying to find a decent small travel camera, inage quality is important to me but size is second.

[@TicaHikes]

Hi Henry. I own 2 cameras and funny enough, they are the Sony rx100 m7 and the Nikon Z 7ii with the 24-200 lens. I love my 7ii but when I go multiday hiking and either have to carry my camping kit or have to carry a lot of food (or both), I often choose to take the Sony RX100 m7. I bought the thread kit and can use a polarizer and ND filters. I also use the RX100 for street photography because people don't get annoyed when you are pointing such a small thing at them. I've had several of the RX100 models. I have sold them and had seller's remorse and either bought the camera back or bought the new version. It is a very expensive camera but it dies everything I want and the lens is very good.

[@frankcosgrove9958]

I have 3 of them, RX100 mk4 for rough hiking where and scuba diving inside a case. Mk5 for landscape and portrait shots when hiking , I also use it as a B cam for video. Mk 7 i being everywhere and used a lot of sports where I need the reach , it’s also a great video camera and I use it with external Mic