Sony RX100M3 Review Part 2: Hands-On Pros and Cons

[@zantigar]

I'm Korean American, and I am so impressed with your energetic but pleasant manner of presentation, thoroughness of thinking, your subtlety and precision. Great review - you do us Asians proud!!!

[@dqstudios]

Wow! Thanks so much for watching and for the kind words. Be blessed!

[@johnnymac8680]

Super review. Good point that the tripod connection is off centre and could cause the camera to fall over if a mini tripod is connected.

[@ronom8856]

I know this very well. Two times my camera fell from a light weight tripod. Now I only use very strong tripods for this camera.

[@Merocity]

Thinking on buying this camera, Great review and straight to the point! Awesome!!

[@geekanoids]

Great video Dave. Waiting for mine to be delivered.

[@dqstudios]

Thanks for the kind words and happy shooting Geekanoids !

[@larrymodzelewski469]

Learned a lot , thanks..As far as a centered tripod mount , I bought a good half case with metal grip and tri. Mount is centered. Just an option .Not sure , but I think you can get an external recording device and attach it to camera, then mount the recorder to a camera bracket..

[@avalovesblcds]

You can hold the power button while closing the viewfinder to keep the camera on! Cheers!

[@johnmfjw]

If you hold down the power button while pushing down the viewfinder it won't not shut the camera off. Very informative video

[@spookyastronauts]

Hey! Great video. Does anyone know what tutorials he filmed on the road with this camera? I've been looking through the videos but they don't say in the description box what camera is used! Help!

[@dqstudios]

spookyastronauts Hi. Because of lack of audio input, it's primarily used as a B-roll cam like in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6HFdHaqob9qd9U

[@mokoforever]

You have a great personality. I love how you express yourself. Great video!

[@dqstudios]

Thanks Jamme Chantler ! Much appreciated and thanks for watching :)

[@143bjmass]

9:28 "silent shutter for kids that don't know me" best .ever. seriously tho, best comprehensive review on M3. thank u

[@dqstudios]

Thanks for the kind words +francis c !! Made my day :) Cheers and happy shooting!

[@143bjmass]

+Dave Cheung I forgot to ask what memory card would you reco to take full advantage of the high bit-rate codec? (I saw a card you posted in your blog but can't find it now) thanks again

[@dqstudios]

+francis c amzn.to/1PofsBX is a great one and a great price! Cheers and please use the links if you need some shopping done :)

[@ChrisIssac]

+Dave Cheung Hey Dave, new to your channel. Great content! Wondering, how do you feel about the RX-100M4? Would like to witness your professional opinion on it. Thanks!

[@alfred1985]

I LOVE your videos! Super informative and very well composed. Just subscribed and can't wait to see more from ya!

[@dqstudios]

Thanks for watching and subscribing alfred1985 ! Makes the effort so much more worthwhile :)

[@HarshadPatilconnect]

Nice video. Can we expect auto review of 2 seconds to be reviewed in following firmware update?

[@dqstudios]

Thanks! I hope so. Best to request make the request to Sony directly and through your national Sony rep.

[@sashabowman1]

Hey Dave ! Great Video ! I am hoping you can Tell me Since you made this video is there now another Sony similar in size etc all the pros you mentioned plus now better for taking food pictures , pictures and videos at night and sport pictures and videos ? Or am I needing a different size camera for this to accommodate all my wishes 😅? Thanks a lot ! And hope you are doing great !

[@MarkMphonoman]

You have a good personality. Funny guy. Nice review, thanks. Mark

[@Aon8889]

Very very nice video review. Thanks for sharing.

[@dqstudios]

Thanks for watching and the kind words sakchai L !

[@barantb]

As a beginner, Should I buy this, or an entry level DSLR? I like the macro that the rx100 has and I needed another opinion

[@mitchcumstein142]

Really good review. I'm looking at a few cameras (like the Canon G1x Mark 2) and the RX100M3 is definitely near the top of my list. You answered a lot of my questions in this vid. :)

[@dqstudios]

Glad to be of help mitch cumstein ! The wirecutter just released their review and came to the same conclusion, so I think the RX100M3 is definitely a solid purchase :) thewirecutter.com/reviews/best-point-and-shoot-camera-under-1000/

[@jendunn]

thanks. That was a really helpful review. I just got the discontinued Nikon J4 for $200. You are really making me want to put in some extra money for this camera. I'm one of those people who just like to set it on auto. Should I return my J4?

[@dqstudios]

jendunn I haven't used the J4, but haven't seen it compared against the behemoth which is the RX100M3. The Sony is a great camera and definitely a class-leader. 2 thumbs up for it for sure :)

[@HermanTse]

Hold the power button when you push the EVF down which prevents the camera from shutting down :)

[@MykBlauuw]

thanks for this! I've been thinking about purchasing my first camera beyond basic entry level point & shoots. I do a lot of traveling & haven't been happy with the quality of images I come back with (I'm sure a lot of it is my low skill level, but I've also had photographer friends tell me the equipment I was using weren't doing me any favors).

[@paulamorera3523]

Can you please make a video on how to export videos to iphone?

[@j_poor]

Hey Dave - keep up the awesomeness :) Love your work - In your opinion which sandisk card is best suited for the Sony RX100 iii? Both for video and photo's. Cheers

[@dqstudios]

Thanks jonathanpobre! Re: SD card. SDXC for sure to take advantage of the 50Mbps video format. I also prefer larger SD cards (64GB) and love Sandisk for reliability so this is my recommendation: amzn.to/1qp3CqG Happy shopping!

[@j_poor]

***** thank you for your advice! Keep up the fab work you do! Cheers :)

[@winlyn_leonor]

***** Whats the difference between the 1 (the one you recommend) and 3? Is 3 better than one or revers? like www.elgiganten.se/product/mobil-tele-gps/minneskort-till-mobil/SF64UX2/sony-sdxc-minneskort-94mb-cl10-64-gb?scid=EXT_PRICECOMP_PRISJAKT_EGAB?

[@dqstudios]

Hi Lyn Leonor: not sure, but the one you link to will work too. The important thing is to make sure it's an SDXC card because the RX100M3 cannot record its highest quality video mode on lesser cards.

[@AtlChildrensTheatre]

Thanks for the great review! Quick question: what camera did you shoot this particular video?

[@dqstudios]

Thanks Spring Mason. My current gear lineup is here: notsoancientchinesecrets.com/our-photo-and-video-gear-2015-collection/

[@GameSubster]

Hey there Dave. I love your videos. When I got my m2 I was watching your videos and I was lucky enough to find a m3 on eBay for an affordable price. Just wondering if Sony ever came out with that update with the electronic view finder.

[@143bjmass]

apparently if you hold down power button while collapsing the EVF it keeps the power on. saw it on a john sisson review. don't think it's Sony sanctioned tho so beware

[@zcarenow]

Dave, I have a RX100, but thinking about the RX100M3 since i want great photos and great video too...i want a good combo...i was thinking about the A6000 and possibly the A77ii, but not really needing the super fast auto focusing that those two provide...wont do much sports photog....still debating though. I do want a viewfinder as my eyes arent great in bright sunlight, thus hating the LCD. excellent review....most extensive review and suggestions than any youtuber...just subscribed to master cheung! thanks

[@dqstudios]

Thanks for watching and the kind words zcarenow! I think the M3 is a substantial upgrade from the original. Smart to also look at the A6000 and other excellent Sony cams. As a pocketable camera, however, it has no peer ... Even amongst the Sony line. Happy shopping and shooting :)

[@iSean1]

Very nice video review! You do an excellent job in explaining key features and offer a very balanced review of the cameras pros and cons. For jpegs, I find I prefer the Clear Creative Style. They are all worth playing around with to find what best suits for various situations. I prefer to turn Auto Review to OFF, rather than 2 seconds, so you don't have that 2 second display issue. EVF Tip. Hold down the power power button as you depress the EFV into the body and the power will remain on :)

[@dqstudios]

Thanks Sean Donnelly ! Shooting mostly B&W for personal images so yes: totally agree on trying out the Creative Styles. The EVF Tip works reliably only after updating my firmware, but yes: also agreed. Thanks for watching and Happy shooting :)

[@mrscillalatte]

Have you tried any of the Sony Mirror-less options, if so can you do a video? Or give us your input. Thank you so much! BTW loved this VIDEO!!!

[@dqstudios]

Thanks for the kid words Cilla Latte ! Have no Sony mirrorless, so waiting for the day they send me stuff to review ;) Blessings and happy shooting!

[@mrscillalatte]

Well we can hope and wish. They should send you ONE your a great photographer and speaker. Have your hopes high you never know! Great success and happiness. Happy shooting as well.

[@RobertLee-ul6uk]

I wish Sony had a touchscreen for focusing and menu selection. Plus a simpler menu system.

[@jason6374]

Thanks for your video. I must first say that I am a camera idiot. So with that being the case I am looking for a point a shoot that is capable of taking good pictures while on my next vacation. Would you recommend this for someone that just likes to turn it on, focus and take the pic? The cost isn't really an issue I know you get what you pay for what you get. And I'm really tired of the so so pictures from the cheap $ range pocket cameras. thanks Dave

[@dqstudios]

Hi not important. Yes: this is a great literal point + shoot. In full program mode it will do a good job, but I would suggest familiarizing yourself with Exposure Compensation (I have a video showing how I set the front lens ring to adjust this) so you can easily and quickly correct for under or over-exposures. Please use the links in the comments or website here when purchasing. Thanks! notsoancientchinesecrets.com/sony-rx100m3-review-best-point-shoot-camera/

[@jason6374]

I watched it, very helpful. I like how you set it up and how well you explained it. thank you.

[@robertktw]

With RX100 iii, is dust or lint an issue? Should i consider a 52 mm UV lens on it? thx!

[@dqstudios]

robert I don't use UV filters anymore as I've noticed added flare and reduced clarity on all my lenses with their use. Because the lens completely retracts, it keeps it relatively protected, but I don't put the camera in my pocket: I put it in a neoprene pouch when not shooting. Lint gets everywhere (take off your smartphone case and check out the nasty details), so would definitely recommend a small pouch or camera case for carry.

[@robertktw]

***** great idea! I wasn't thrilled with those stick on or magnetic filter adapters. thx Dave!

[@shonnyno]

it will be released a rx100m... with 4k support? and with maximum iso selectable for videos? thanks. daylight photos look much better if taken with galaxy note4 than rx100M3 (more detail captured without artifacts). lx100 and fz1000: bad photos. very good videos low light but a lot of defocus..... so I hope rx100M4 (+ gimbal for steady 4K videos )

[@mellyc9341]

Hi this is an amazing review! Do you think I should get this instead of the Samsung nx3000? I want to vlog but I also want amazing quality like the dslr cameras but it's also important for me to have a "selfie screen"! I have a Nikon d7100 but it's annoying to lug around! I travel a lot! And would like to snap and go and transfer through in built wifi. Do you have any recommendations for me? Thank you! You are amazing!

[@dqstudios]

thanks for the kind words melly c . I still use and love my RX100M3 and think it is GREAT! Haven't used the Samsung so can't give a meaningful comparison. The achilles heel of the Sony is definitely the lack of audio input, so it really depends on whether you mind the built-in mic or would rather have something better. Besides that, it's my handy travel companion - I literally carry it everywhere :) Hope this helps and please use our links when you're ready to purchase. Thank you!!

[@LawrenceAlexWu]

Some say that the focus on the video of this camera is slow. What's your opinion Dave? Great video...best being that you go thru the CONs as well. Especially when everyone talks only about hte pro's!

[@dqstudios]

Thanks Lawrence Alex Wu ! Re: video focus. Yes: slow. But it's a tough line to walk: too fast and it'll rack focus back and forth too much. Slow it down and you'll think "when is this thing going to focus?" But not as good as my old Panasonic handycam for focusing but better than DSLR's I've tried. If focus is key, it's easy to switch to manual focus, but hard to use it without shaking the cam.

[@LawrenceAlexWu]

***** Thanks Dave!! Love your (2 of u!!) works!!

[@butipasila]

was wondering whether time-lapse is an option was wondering whether time lapse is an option on the mark 3 camera

[@alanwong402]

Great review! Thanks for covering topics and issues that other reviewers didn't Dave!

[@dqstudios]

Alan Wong Thanks! Blessings and happy shooting!!

[@b4uloveme]

Hi Dave, thanks for your video, it is really a good one to demonstrate RX100M3. Since you have x100s also, I am wondering how do you balance Rx100 with your x100s, if you only have one camera, which one you are going to keep? thanks

[@dqstudios]

James Duan Thanks for the kind words. I've sold the X100s and am very happy with the RX100M3. It was silent and super-stealthy yet gives great results on our last family trip through Europe. Been meaning to update our blog post with pics from that trip and hope to do it soon into the New Year. Happy shooting!

[@ryans7998]

Is it with picking up an rx100 after having an x100? Is it a big size difference? Thanks

[@dqstudios]

Santos Photolog: I did a size comparison with the X100 in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5bMeIZmZbifaqs

[@hazrizam1]

Hey very practical review! Just subs your channel. Keep up the good works

[@dqstudios]

Thanks Mohd Rizam!! Cheers :)

[@4LVFans]

I need help with my RX100M3! I make videos sitting in front of the camera, and I hold items up to the lens while I review them. I can't get the camera to focus on the item, it stays focused on my face, the wall behind me, a random spot on the couch, basically everywhere but the item closest to the lens. I've tried everything. Help!

[@robertktw]

thx dave and love the vid! I am on the verge to purchase m3... and drooling on m4 :D i noticed u didn't have optional grip on m3, in ur experiences with m3, is that necessary? And how do u carry m3 when walking around with it, on wrist strap only? in a bag? or both? what do u suggest? ty :]

[@dqstudios]

Very welcome robert ! I don't use the grip and don't seem to need it. It's so tiny it fits in my hand well, and while I've tried using my beloved Gordy's sling and wrist straps, I prefer to just put it in a neoprene pouch in my messenger bag. When I'm shooting it's very secure in my hands, even for selfies, but I would recommend trying both wrist and strap options and seeing what works for you. Cheers and happy shooting!

[@robertktw]

***** will do, thx again!

[@AestheticPhysiques1]

Hey is it possible for you to help me? im confused on how to set up the video recording mode to get the best background blur on aperture mode. Looking for a set up to vlog and such and with autofocus on continuous. Thank you

[@AliBuchan]

Thank you, enjoyed your review and some great info in there.

[@dqstudios]

Thanks for watching and the kind words Ali Buchan. :)

[@EnzoAmataTV]

What would be your suggestion for someone wanting a a camera to shoot a short movie, with all the things a camera would need to do a good job of shooting a short movie. Something in a similar price range to the Sony RX100M3 or less, preferably less ;) Would you make a video going over all the things a camera would need in your opinion to make a good job of shooting a short movie.

[@dqstudios]

Hi *****. I'm a professional photographer, but still a novice at video and don't feel qualified to recommend. In this price or lower will likely be the sticking issue. But talented people have proven you can do amazing things with simple gear, so YMMV for shizzle :)

[@alphaev7]

Hi Dave, excellent review as always. Do you find the JPEG stills a bit cooler than say Olympus? I tried the two and the Olympus EP3 always has warmer pictures. Wondering if it's just a Sony thing or the WB can be better.

[@dqstudios]

Thanks Eddie Tan . Not sure as I've never shot Olympus, but in general, Sony JPG < Fuji JPG. For most personal work I shoot the Sony in B&W and am very pleased with its internal BW rendition.

[@Cowgirltradingpost]

im looking for a light video to film dancer on the mountains of Sedona in a soft wind with sound mainly...what is your opinion about using this rx100m3 for something like this...thanks

[@dqstudios]

Cowgirltradingpost Built-in mics for sound on this camera will not be adequate. Though the video is nice, it won't compare to either (a) the auto-focus speed of a dedicated camcorder or (b) the beautiful narrow-focus of a dedicated DSLR with prime lens. But again: depends on your budget and quality you expect.

[@barrettbombs7849]

How is the aperture?

[@GoA7250]

1:40 Depth of field is NOT a product of sensor size, but equivalent to lens focal length compared to sensor size (think window). A 12mm lens on a one-inch sensor is a 9.8mm lens, not a 24mm lens. So to fit the same image on a smaller sensor we need to step back resulting in less bokeh, however, if you take the shot at the same distance as a FF, you will get the same DOF. This misinformation needs to stop.

[@baller15g]

very helpful video thank you!

[@paradiseheaven]

Great review! It was very informative for me. Thank you :D

[@dqstudios]

Thanks for watching and happy shooting :)

[@JTheAndroidFreak]

Can you record videos with the flash on? Thanks

[@dqstudios]

J TheAndroidFreak No

[@ethandonald2538]

please dave can i know you point of view in chosing between the the sony RX100III and the canon 70D ,,,pls i am a beginner and the budget is not my problem but i would love a camera that is good in every accept of life that is night picture ,sport video.picture ,sound and you can name it ,please if you have any camera you can recommend for me as well pls do tell me ,,,,,thanks

[@dqstudios]

Hi Ethan, The RX100M3 wouldn't be my choice for sports shooting, but does fine in low light for stills and video. Just responding on your question on the blog as well, but the short answer: no one-camera-does it all, but like I said the in review, the Sony does many things well that it finds a spot in my every-day-carry bag. Hope this helps!

[@heliopijpe]

Busting my brain for 3 days, deciding between this / or mark 2 and the LX100 (love the manual controls) ... sigh, can't figure it out yet :-) -- Both price dropped significantly in Europe (even the FZ1000) - The panning distortion in video mode turns me off .. haha I guess I want it all .. manual controls, sharp images, low light images, natural HiRes video with live controls,, small form factor,, and no interchangeable format.. (I dont like it , but I can live without touch to focus and no external mic headphone in-ou)

[@dqstudios]

I'm still loving my RX100M3 but haven't test driven the LX100. TBH: I haven't noticed the rolling shutter artifact in most of my videos, but I'm not as specialized as a sports/action videographer. I'm continually impressed with the speed of focus and low light capability of the RX100M3 and can see this camera serving me well for many years to come (I don't need 4K or slow-mo video etc).

[@rogeriomoretti3114]

Hey, man! Nice video :D Let me ask you something. I know very very little about photography and want to start knowing more. I will be primarily doing some acoustic music videos and taking casual (high quality though) pictures. Would you recommend the rx100m3? Or maybe the m2? I know that the video quality on the m3 is way better (50mbps) right? Thanks, man!

[@dqstudios]

Hi Rogério Moretti Thanks! Re: video. Really it depends on your quality/budget. The quality of video is great, but you WON'T get super-shallow depth of field shots because of the small sensor size. If it's a super-tight budget, the RX3 is ok, but not my first choice for anything like a music video. I'd prefer to use DSLR's like the Nikon 5300 with large-aperture prime lenses for a true commercial look but that's beyond the scope of my expertise. Hope this helps!

[@james1569]

Have you had any issues with the RX 100 III regarding the lens cover not closing properly?

[@dqstudios]

James 15 nope.

[@james1569]

***** I bought it :) I got very good deal with it! half price and very happy with it! used it hiking, festing and traveling and literally I have it almost daily! I made the same set up as what you have on your Part 3 vid! thanks so much!

[@fitcasttv4894]

really enjoyed this review. Thank you

[@dqstudios]

Very welcome FitCastTV ! Thanks for taking time to watch and comment!

[@LuckXIII]

Love your videos , question though. I already own a ff and like you mentioned need something of a day to day or more light travel friendly camera for use. I've been eyeing the x100 and the rx100 you have there , what are your thoughts with the two compared ? Say if your heading out at this very moment for a family event and both are next to your keys what are you going to grab and why ?

[@dqstudios]

Thanks James Tran. RX100M3 hands down. Sold my X100S' and couldn't be happier with the performance of the RX100M3. Only thing I miss is the better JPEG colors straight out of the Fuji cam. Other than that, the Sony is smaller, focuses faster, does video better (b-cam for this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6HFdHaqob9qd9U ) and the flip screen is GREAT for family selfies :)

[@joshuav3371]

Awesome review! Thanks!

[@dqstudios]

Very welcome Joshua Vuong . Thanks for watching and happy shooting :)

[@TheFaustianMan]

Nice review. Just a heads up, there have been some issues with it needing repair. Google: Mounted C.Board CD-847(S) No camera is perfect, but the amount of bad reviews on B&H seem inordinately high. Maybe it's just how Sample Size Affects the Margin of Error, but then again maybe it's not. - Cheers

[@dqstudios]

The Faustian Man Still has a 4.5 star rating with over 200 reviews so hope you're right about a bad batch. Still loving mine and don't have a reason to upgrade to the M4 so happily shooting away :) Cheers!

[@sevenine9195]

I heard that if you push and hold the power button while pushing the view finder, the camera stays ON. :)

[@dqstudios]

***** Haven't been able to reliably make this trick work :(

[@basic_le]

Do you know if the RX100 iv is going to be released soon? or should I just go for this Rx100iii? I been thinking about this camera for quite sometime, but there's always something new coming out...

[@dqstudios]

lele.vlogs Nobody knows and those who do aren't telling ;) Like with all tech gadgets, I say buy when you have the need to use it and use it HARD! Also, keep all the boxes/paperwork and if they release a newer model within the week, you can return from most reputable resellers.

[@basic_le]

***** I know right! Great review and thanks for replying. Hmm, decisions, decisions...

[@stefanp.1416]

Great video, thanks!

[@dqstudios]

Thanks for watching and the kind words Stefan Postatny ! Happy shooting :)

[@GizmosBushEscapes]

awesome review.thanks mate!

[@dqstudios]

Welcome welcome and happy shooting!

[@davidnorm98]

Best review on video for me.

[@sundeepmehton]

is it good to buy in 2023 ?

[@magdalena5162]

Are the lens interchangeable?

[@magdalena5162]

also not touch screen right?

[@dqstudios]

no

[@garrywright3380]

Super review

[@jag1870]

Excellent review!

[@CoreySteibCameraGuy]

You can never have too many cameras my friend :)

[@Mcdomomon]

a great review!!

[@dqstudios]

squinkie Thanks for watching and the kind words! :)

[@MarcoBianchi313]

"...be asian... Extra point" LOL! Your videos are awesome! Subscribed right now! Great work!

[@dqstudios]

Thanks for subscribing +Marco Bianchi !! Happy 2016 and see you around the internets :)

[@MarcoBianchi313]

Thanks! I wish you a happy year!

[@amoljaiswal1669]

Great review!!! can u charge and use it at the same time with rx100 3

[@jonhermannsson9555]

never enough cameras :) small means less threatening - and yes video a million times better ten the Fuji X100s - On composing with viewfinder - a downside is that most all shots are from your head height - vs if using LCD one can move camera down to waist and lower to get a different perspective for example - so yes using viewfinder as some advantages but not in all respects - Oh yes I agree on Focus vs the Fuji X100s - I think the Fuji X100s gets a bit more hype then deserved - I also got the Fuji X100 which is the worst focusing camera that I own - and I have a lots of gear - so I go the X100s which is a bit better but not good in low light which is a shame as ISO or low light perf. is nice if can focus. So I agree that the RX100m3 deserves lots of praise although the Canon G7X has some advantages - but I also think the X100s is a bit hyped :)

[@dqstudios]

jon hermannsson Hello fellow addicted camera-lover! :) Agreed: X100s was over-hyped. Will be interesting to see where the industry takes mirrorless in 2-3 generations, but for now, they're the technology in waiting. Happy shooting :)

[@jonnelson4]

Great review! Very informative and entertaining-- extra points for being Asian? Lmao! Thank you.

[@dqstudios]

Jon Nelson Glad you enjoyed it :) Happy shooting!

[@bavosidharta]

Try check kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHLMo6qKbK-LgK8 and kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4W2oXSFq7qrpcU for video results

[@andiman45]

I have to say Sony's app and webs site are possibly the worst and most confusing site around. Its 2022 for F-sake...get with the program

[@usmansharipov2532]

made in china

[@fredmiu2001]

+Usman Sharipov hey... 1 of the most popular cameras in the world..... Sony A6000 is also made in China, do u know that? :)

[@0812264]

All Iphones made in china bro