Sony RX1 Hands-On Test (With Cats!)

[@livedeliciously]

You really do post the best camera reviews on KZbin. Not boring, informative, straightforward, organized, unbiased.

[@marshman9322]

I bought this camera back in december and I am truly happy with it. always wanted full frame quality but didn't want the imposing size of one. you were spot on with your review points and it's advantages and quirks make me love it even more. =)

[@ronancullen4565]

Here in 2021, still awesome camera

[@TheEvilstunts]

wow you showed the greatness in the rx1 and been very transparent on the negatives.. soon you be the most viewed camera reviewer in youtube.. awesome work

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Hey everybody, my mistake, the RX1 does not stabilize in photo although I will say that it is a very stable platform even at very slow shutter speeds. It does utilize steady shot stabilization during video which works very effectively. Also we are definitely using a full production camera and so yes the autofocus is slow and makes annoying robot sounds. Thanks for watching, we'll try to keep errors to a minimum. Chris @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

You make a good point, but we only had an evening to do this shoot and it is REALLY cold in Canada right now. Also don't underestimate how many people absolutely will shoot only cats with cameras like these. We've seen more than our fair share. Thanks for watching! Chris @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

We definitely feel that the RX1 is a quiet camera in regards to the shutter sound and of course the autofocus beep can be turned off as well. Our issue is with the autofocus motor during focusing which makes a distinct whirring noise. This issue is present on the production models and although not loud or obvious to bystanders is distracting none the less. Chris @ The Camera Store

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

We didn't have the light to compare it to the Merrill cameras. Remember, ISO 200 is as far as you want to go with the Foveon cameras. If we were shooting outside, the Sigmas would have been brought out. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@vincephan7729]

@9:24 is the cat wearing blue nail polish?

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

Simple explanation: Chris shot the first part of this video without a card in the camera. We re-shot the images with the same exposure after, but of course the cat poses had changed. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

That's the Sony VG20 field test. Thanks for watching!

[@Seapatico]

Great review! Thanks! But two big problems: 1. The camera does NOT have image stabilization during photo. 2. The model Chris is using is a pre-production model; current production models have almost entirely silent autofocus. Please put an Update screen at the end. I own one and it is completely silent. And actually relatively quick to focus.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

If we can find a good location,we're hoping to shoot it next week. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

I love my cats but I also love my couches. We put blue rubber caps on their claws because I just don't feel right about chopping off the ends of their fingers. Besides don't we all feel like painting our nails once in awhile? Anybody? Chris @ The Camera Store

[@lenrek]

Great review! However, do take note, 1)there is no image stablizer for photo, only available in video. 2)there is available external battery charger, but you have to buy separately.

[@12345vjd]

It's a beautiful camera that takes fantastic photos. Full frame too. Plus, there is a real advantage to bringing a camera with you that does not look like a DSLR. I have DSLR's and if I show them in public (one at a time of course), I might as well be saying: Warning; here comes a photographer" or "oh wow, rob me; I have a DSLR, go for it." There is something to be said about just carrying around a nondescript, small, touristy looking camera (without the branded neck strap of course) as opposed to the usual 4-5 pounds hanging from your neck along with the usually 10 pounds of equipment in hand!

[@alexands1]

There is no image stabilization for stills on the RX1 (only video) as stated on video.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

We used a Lumahawk 876A light. It's a powerful LED light that runs on lithium batteries. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@munchableis]

You guys gotta hit up Greg and Billy for the X100S. It would be really interesting to see if Fuji have extracted the digit and made it focus like a real camera.

[@GetOutsideYourself]

I had a chance to shoot with the RX-1 yesterday and found that the "zone" AF mode was really slow and wonky. Things worked much better either in center point or in local focus modes. The handling was fabulous though and I couldn't believe the IQ from a camera so small -- equal if not better than my a99. I'd love to have one, but the price . . . .

[@myoslonorway]

Here in 2024. Still lovin it!

[@AgnostosGnostos]

The Sony RX-1 is made in Japan🇯🇵. And that is indicative of quality. All the e-mount cameras are made in Thailand including the a7 series.

[@BodethIII]

Huh, is there something inherent with the Sony sensor that makes it better than the Mark III? Just the way the colors are so?

[@BeingWolfy]

OMG, dude. Throwing that lens cap on the table was the funniest thing I've seen in a long time. Thanks for your great videos.

[@sevendhappy]

Just wondering why there was no review of the Olympus OM-D E-M5? It's been out for a while.

[@jason950216]

Very logical and serious review. Non biased especially. The RX1 is truly a revolution of the camera industry. You do have to admit that Sony really did a great job on this. About the price, I think it is a matter of time when other competitors hit the market with similar products, both optical quality and size.

[@leiya107]

I bought a slightly beat-up Leica X1 recently, which is a similar sort of camera as this - 35mm fixed lens, main emphasis on image quality and portability. The X1 focuses A LOT slower than this RX1, and the lens is only an f/2.8, plus it's APS-C. But I love the X1. Not because "it's a Leica", but it guides you back to the basics of photography. Also, with the limitations, you end up concentrate even more. The RX1 doesn't have those drawbacks, Chris' criticisms might be non-issues here.

[@motnahpraw37]

You should turn off the shutter click sound noise because the leaf shutter itself is extremely quiet and that combined with the tiny size makes it an incredibly discrete full-frame camera. Other than that, fantastic review!

[@howardkahn717]

This is your most honest review in my opinion......A Fantastic review! Your mother would be proud of you.....Winner, most informative, best review ever made by anyone anywhere.....

[@limatubs]

Hi Chris. One question, I bought a RX100. Im a amateur and very happy with it. But I like to ask you, Which one is the best RX1 & RX100 besides the price for you? And whats the most important "thing" to consider... ? Thanks.

[@Lofote]

Hi TheCameraStoryTV guys, why did you expect a fast AF? It's slower than A99 because no phase-AF with huge AF sensors is present. It's slower than NEX, because the sensor is bigger, the depth of field smaller and so its harder for the camera to find the correct focus (thats why a RX100, a Nikon 1 or even a mFT beats a Sony NEX in AF speed). So: huge sensor, no phase AF - definitiely the combination that results in: slow contrast AF.

[@Flick4U2]

Yes, so I see. A discussion of the RX-1's lens cap I just found..."However the nice handsome metal lens cap is probably worth 5% of the camera price." Thanks for pointing it out. It makes me love the RX-1 even more, if that could even be possible. Still getting blown away by its photos.

[@olznillz]

You can turn off the focusing sound as well as the shutter sound from the menu.

[@DiamondHell]

You sure about that - DPReview info seems to disagree about the sensor size, with the RX100 pegged at 13.2mm x 8.8mm and the X10 sensor at 8.8mm x 6.6mm. Are they just flat out wrong?

[@knopfman184]

Well that would change the perspective. The only way you can zoom in is by cropping, but you know you're gonna have to sacrifice some resolution.

[@ETH8N]

there are crop modes that simulate longer focal lengths- much like in fullframe Nikons

[@lenrek]

I do have one little question, is the CZ lens on D600 an AF lens? If it is not, I don't think it is exactly a correct comparison.

[@borden17]

ha i was wondering if the blue paws are or was just a weird artifact produced by the lens or something

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

No, the RX1 has a fixed 35mm lens. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@ChickenNoodo]

01:17 Any chance you could reveal the kind of lighting you're using in this scene? Much appreciated! Love the channel, love the store; you guys are doing it right!

[@theSUBVERSIVE]

I know I'm not Chris but, I doubt it. The X100s has some major improvements over the X100. X-Trans sensor with Hybrid - and blazing fast - AF, split focus, 1080p60 36mbps video, more pocketable, it may be wider, but the lens is smaller. It just feels like the ultimate street photography camera, small, nice looking, discrete, fast and with very good optics.

[@Flick4U2]

My Sony RX-1 arrived at my door when first it was released and after my first experience with it I never looked back. Previously, I had been pleased with my Canon 5D Mark III but even with the RX-1 fixed lens limitations, I find myself picking the RX-1 shots over the 5D Mark III time and time again--the Sony puts it to shame. (The gradation of color is amazing!) My RX-1 experience has been mind-blowing. If Sony's a99 is at least as good, I'd trade in my Canon in a flash--I'm in a quandary.

[@DigitalSamTV]

nice review. the cam looks great, but the lack of interchangeable lens makes it a lost cause... (or a second body simply for fun and for taking in the pocket when u dont want to take larger slr - expensive for a fun toy though)

[@Review1234]

Your cat is really a perfect model for this camera review. Awesome!

[@peteduxon8658]

as ever Chris a nicely balanced review. IF it was your money would you reckon it is worth the extra over the Fuji x100s? assuming sensor is identical to that in the XE1

[@onaradu]

They'll probably launch FF lenses aswell, since it's been said that the FF NEX is coming soon. Let's not forget there's already a FF E-mount camera there (VG900), so it's just a matter of time since the package will be complete.

[@TheLefse]

What did you use to light the cat? Very soft and flattering.

[@Snruff]

First review of yours I have watched and I'm coming back for more. I got all the info I needed without all the BS and tech chat. A lot of these reviews seem far too 'forced casual'. This? Just someone letting you know what they think of a product with straight evidence to support that opinion. Nice one.

[@bikuda]

Perdón, pero creo que no se pueden utilizar lentes para sensores APS-C en Full Frame, la imagen saldría incompletas con los bordes

[@pokeken]

Joking aside what did you think about how the RX1 handles? I played with one recently and felt that the grip is too short (due to massive lens) and affects how it handles....a big problem for me

[@iPhoneiPadReview]

You can't really compare the price with the a99 because with the a99, you won't get any lens with it. Great review as always!

[@DaveLundy]

Check out the Panasonic DMC-GH3 for a relatively small camera with fast focusing. Pair it with the Panny 20mm f/1.7 lens, or the Sigma 30mm F2.8 EX DN- Micro 4/3 lens, or maybe the Panny 35-100mm f/2.8 lens for street photography.

[@Spawn666949]

I've seen other low-light-high-iso pics from this camera, and, it still amazes me how well it does at some pretty ridiculous high iso's. I agree with another commenter, I wish they'd put that sensor in the NEX.

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

6D review is in the pipeline! Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@Fat-totoro-cat]

I would love to the the D600-RX1 comparison with the D600 + the new Sigma 35mm f1.4...

[@luis6674]

Does the camera have image stabilization??? It's the first time I hear about it.

[@Cataniza]

Does this camera auto-focus slower than a Leica X1? How does the IQ compare to the Leica X1 and X2? Thanks in advance!

[@MrPhotographerDude]

So is there or is there not image stabilization in the RX1? No one can give a definitive answer. I feel like it does have it, because I know what cameras that don't have it feel like.

[@dagkaszlikowski8358]

No, it doesn't have image stabilisation. Only for video by cropping. Still pictures have no stabilisation. You can check it with Sony RX1 manual.

[@mula2626]

This cat is a Tabby. Why does yours have blue claws? I can only assume they're little rubber coverings to stop your furniture from getting destroyed.

[@Mkvkuv]

You can disable the autofocus sound if you like

[@iancandler5446]

11 yrs down the road and I’ve just picked up an RX1-R for £750 as due to failing eye sight i wanted something with AF again. It’s actually surprised me. In some ways it reminds me of my old A7-R from years ago it produces those same lovely images and i dont find the AF an issue, maybe its because i use a large bloop soft release so squeeze the shutter rather than stab at it with my finger tip? Who knows. The downside is the viewfinders are still expensive with both the zeiss optical finder and Sony older finder going for around £300 secondhand.

[@souchivy]

Can you upload the photos with original resolution?

[@mela28xcom]

I thought x100s would be the first review,... Sony rx 1 little bit late.. But im happy to see you guys back to work.. @ chris why is youre house so grey?and no photographs on the wall PS: whats that blue thing on cats feet.

[@NSAwatchesME]

oh ok i'm sorry, thanks for the reply Chris :D p.s. do you have a flickr stream or something where i can check out your pictures? i'm sure you've got some great ones :D

[@fikboomboompow]

yummy.. full frame.. any other reviews coming up for any full frame cameras this 2013..? good start for this 2013..!! Keep up the good work guys..!

[@igetsmart]

Your reviews are the best - look forward to a comparison between the Fuji X20 and the Sony RX100 - please do one of those - also maybe a comparison between the Fuji X100s and the Sony RX1

[@maheshg212]

Hey Chris, Sony RX1 or Fuji XE-1 + 35mm? What would you chose for the picture quality?

[@mishkathlay]

I put the blue caps on my cat too...then found them all over the house. Fun review.

[@Phuzz828]

would be great to see a comparison against the new fuji x100s when that comes out

[@Cataniza]

One more thing... can you use pocket wizards to fire remote flashes with this camera? I agree with what some others have said... you guys do the best reviews far and away. Thanks for providing camera shoppers with these in depth reviews.

[@Syrvanu]

What happened to the audio at about 9:10? Other than that, the review was great as usual :)

[@unixrevolution]

Okay, I know a lot of people don't like the USB charging, BUT I DO. Here's why: When I put my camera on charge, it sits there, and as soon as I take it off the charger, it's ready to go. I don't have to disassemble it, I don't have to take the case off. It's brilliant. That's why phones charge with the batteries in, people! Also, I'm not likely to take a camera out with no battery in cause the batt's in the charger. I've done that.

[@joebob8560]

Very good review. Do you reccemond the Nikon coolpix S800c??

[@Sam081590]

It's not plastic. Drop your lens cap on asphalt as i did accidentally and you'll see.

[@MonteOlsen]

The best reviews bar none. Thank you for your integrity and plain spoken truth.

[@DarrenKrusi]

D600 has a bit of purple fringing around the eyes?

[@jpdj2715]

Nice review. The problem with SLR cameras is the mirror house/cage/room. With longer focal lengths, this is not a problem, but with shorter - wide angle - it is. In the old days, e.g. Hasselblad solved this with their "SWC" model. It omitted the mirror house and the body was about 20mm thick for a fixed Zeiss "Biogon" lens with 38mm focal length (wide angle for the 56x56mm size). Shooting 4"x5" or 8"x10" one might have preferred Gaussian lenses all the time. But not possible with wide angle in a camera with a mirror house. This RX1 camera does away with the mirror house problem in a similar way. But there is another theoretical problem - this one associated with the digital sensor. Light falling on the sensor further away from the optical axis suffers increasingly from some quality loss. Leica solved this with individual lenses over each pixel with changing angles (compare Fresnel lens). Zeiss solved this for the RX1 instead with an array of glass that guides the light in a way that makes it fall perpendicularly on the sensor over the entire image diameter. Or so I hypothesize. When I saw the first details of this camera, I was considering a first serious FX digital. If Sony had announced next to the 35mm Sonnar a, say 18mm or 20mm version (Biogon?) and a 90mm version (Planar?), I might have actually stepped into that. Three small fixed lens cameras, instead of a big heavy body, big lenses and lots of worries about dust. That said, I would have expected better than what we get, with zero barrel distortion and zero longitudinal chromatic aberration considering the ambition of this RX1 project. That said, my Nikkor 35mm/1.4G does a lot worse in these areas. Oh well, the camera by itself does not shoot artsy photos anyway.

[@theSUBVERSIVE]

I can't wait for some hands-on preview or possibly a actual review of the X100s AND X20! I'm very interested in the X20 - with a X-Trans sensor - to the point I might dump my NEX camera - which suffers from lens eco system from Sony - as my middle camera.

[@carlomolina576]

I really love the sarcasm in this video

[@Sam081590]

If my Leica M isn't coming soon .. I'm seriously considering "downgrading" to this spectacular camera. Focusing is my only concern seeing as I plan to do street photography. X100s is pretty neat with their rangefinder-esque twin image focusing thing lol.

[@longstaffkj]

Good review. I was wondering what the af speed would be like on this camera. It was hard to find an objective review, as it seems at this price point I find other reviewers blowing smoke up Sony's proverbial. I wonder if Olympus or Fuji well have an answer to the rx1 later this year.

[@mp4podcastDOTcom]

At 3:54 bottom left there is some blue stuff on the cats paw. Maybe a bad RAM or JPEG file, or KZbin had a data error in encoding the video.

[@photographerjonathan]

I guess you don't understand that it has already been done, the Olympus OMD has faster autofocus than my 5D mark lll, and it focuses rite to the edge of the live view, not just wear the limited focus points are, mirrors are from a time wear we didn't have the technology to make a camera without them

[@DiamondHell]

The argument for the 5D2 was that it only cost me £750. If I had RX1 money I'd go get a 5D3 to use on my existing Canon lenses. However, as soon as you bring SLRs into the discussion you're missing the point - the RX1 is very compact and far more discrete. Trying to promote one brand's camera by saying it's significantly superior these days is pretty stupid - they're all fantastic bits of kit at this level - just choose the feature-set or niche product that best suits you and go with it.

[@targit999]

Cant wait for you guys to get your hands on the Fuji X100S!

[@Dragonuver]

What's a Fujifilm? I think instead of "retro" you mean "point and shoot sized" or "fixed lens camera"

[@davidvanchu]

You have a Noguchi table! I had to write a paper on him back in high school.

[@NathanielGonzalez7]

NIce review but when you were comparing it to the Sony a99 you forget to mention that is body only. To get a Zeiss 35mm 2.0 then it will be at least $1,200. Therefore, you get the camera for a little over $2k. At $2k the price for a full frame is a good deal IMO.

[@photographerjonathan]

who said anything about parting with optical viewfinders ?

[@TheJPower]

What have your cat on the paw in 9:25 ????

[@Flick4U2]

My RX-1 focuses in less than a second--rapid speed. I must have lucked out with one that wasn't made on a Monday or something.

[@myscrnnm]

One isn't simply better than the other. Despite both being premium cameras, the RX1 and RX100 II are made for completely different purposes. Some will demand the full frame sensor and solid build quality that the RX1 offers, while others want the compact size and versatile zoom of the RX100 II. Of course if we're talking about image quality alone, the RX1 will probably beat out the RX100 II, especially with that tailored, fixed focal length Zeiss Sonnar lens.

[@tmensonides123]

When is the 6D review coming?

[@FanaticDrummer]

This camera is about quality, and I still think for street photography and candid portraits its an amazing camera. Sure $2700 is steep but if you only work professionally in the field this is a worthy investment. And daylight it handles even better. Your paying for quality and the technology. It's not for everyone.

[@matthewhewes]

Did you really paint the claws on your cat blue?

[@tommylerenard]

Would be interesting to do a face-off with the Fuji x100s

[@howardkahn717]

IN REFERENCE TO RAW MODE, YOU CAN ONLY TAKE RAW IMAGES IN NORMAL 35MM SETTING, IF YOU USE THE ZOOM, NO CAN TAKE IMAGE IN RAW MODE...

[@eriadnile]

Love the reviews, Chris is a much better presenter than Kai from DigitalRev. Only wish you guys would post more videos! :)

[@sonjibbayen8289]

do you know, or any idea.... when hx 400v may come???

[@ERP_Klim]

Can u review Sony Nex-vg30eh PLEASE!!!