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Sony RX1R Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£2,640
  • Sensor size: full frame
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 5.97 µm
  • Weight: 482 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 270 shots

Sony RX1R review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

5.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

5.3

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
5.3

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

8.1

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.6

Photo Features

18.0%

4.2

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.6

Display & Design

8.0%

4.6

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.6

Connectivity & Storage

Good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 5.5
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    9.7

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    7.4

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    2.0

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 3.5
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    6.5

    Weight

    30.0%

    3.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 4.3
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.0

    Price

    20.0%

    6.5

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    3.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 7.8
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.4

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    9.7

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    10

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 4.7
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.5

    Weight

    25.0%

    5.1

    Thickness

    20.0%

    6.3

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 6.8
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.7

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    10

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    7.4

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 3.5
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.5

    Weight

    25.0%

    3.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £2,640

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sony RX1R is a premium full-frame compact camera featuring a 24.3MP Exmor CMOS sensor and a fixed Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* 35mm f/2 lens, distinguished from the original RX1 by the removal of its optical low-pass filter to maximize image sharpness. Its main characteristics include a robust, all-metal pocketable body, a leaf shutter capable of high-speed flash sync up to 1/2000s at f/2, and a dedicated macro switching ring that enables a 20cm close-focusing distance. Key pros are its exceptional 'medium-format' image quality, superb low-light performance with a native ISO range up to 25,600, and a tactile, retro-style manual aperture ring. However, it suffers from several cons, including a lacks an integrated viewfinder, slow contrast-detect autofocus that hunts in low light, poor battery life typically limited to 220 shots, and the absence of weather sealing or built-in image stabilization.

Technical Specifications of Sony RX1R

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

?

Sensor & Image

25.0%

?

Photo Features

18.0%

?

Video & Audio

14.0%

?

Display & Design

8.0%

?

Battery & Power

7.0%

?

Connectivity & Storage

5.3
Sony RX1R has a technical score of 5.26 points, which is higher than 58.1% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
1.0
Sony RX1R has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.3

Overall score

40.0%

1.0

Price

4.0
Sony RX1R has a quality-to-price ratio of 4 points, which is lower than 97.6% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

full frame
Sony RX1R uses a sensor classified as full frame; it is larger than the sensor in 83.7% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 14% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

24.3 MP
Sony RX1R has a main camera resolution of 24.3 MP, which is higher than that of 84.2% of cameras and equal to that of 2.5% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

5.97 µm
Sony RX1R has a main camera pixel size of 5.97 µm which is larger than in 91.6% of cameras and equal to the size in 0.9% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

100
Sony RX1R has a base ISO of 100 which is higher than that of 20.3% of cameras and equal to that of 52% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

25,600
Sony RX1R reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 25,600, which is higher than that of 75.5% of cameras and equal to that of 12.5% of cameras.
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Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony RX1R does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

25
Sony RX1R has 25 focus points, more than the number offered by 50.4% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 4.6% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Sony RX1R does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sony RX1R supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1920 px
Sony RX1R supports 1920 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 28.7% of cameras and equal to that of 47.1% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

28 Mbps
Sony RX1R has a video bitrate of 28 Mbps which is lower than that of 51.9% of cameras and equal to that of 8.7% of cameras.
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Sony RX1R supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Sony RX1R supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

482 g
Sony RX1R weighs 482 g which is heavier than 59.4% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.1% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

113.3 mm
Sony RX1R has a width of 113.3 mm which is narrower than 59.1% of cameras and equal to that of 0.5% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

65.4 mm
Sony RX1R has a height of 65.4 mm which is shorter than 66.1% of cameras and equal to that of 0.3% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

69.6 mm
Sony RX1R has a thickness of 69.6 mm which is thicker than 63.1% of cameras and equal to that of 0.1% of cameras.
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Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

270 shots
Sony RX1R has a CIPA-rated battery life of 270 shots, which is shorter than that of 68% of cameras and equal to that of 1.4% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

1,240 mAh
Sony RX1R has a battery capacity of 1,240 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 57.3% of cameras and equal to those in 3% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony RX1R has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony RX1R does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony RX1R does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony RX1R does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony RX1R does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Sony RX1R vs the average camera

  • 2.63 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Sony RX1R has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (6 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Sony RX1R has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (6 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.5.97 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • 19,200 higher max ISO
    Sony RX1R has a higher max ISO than the average camera (25,600 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
    What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least ISO 25,600

    Sony RX1R has a higher max ISO than the average camera (25,600 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.25,600 vs 6,400
  • Has microphone input
    Sony RX1R has microphone input, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the camera has a microphone input for connecting an external mic.
    When it matters: When you record video and want better audio than the built-in microphones can provide.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony RX1R has microphone input, the average camera does not.
  • 8.1 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Sony RX1R has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (24.3 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 20 MP

    Sony RX1R has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (24.3 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.24.3 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • 77,100 higher expanded ISO
    Sony RX1R has a higher expanded ISO than the average camera (102,400 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
    Multi Frame NR only.
    What it is: The highest extended ISO setting available beyond the standard sensitivity range of the sensor.
    When it matters: When you shoot in very dark conditions and want the option to push sensitivity beyond the normal ISO range.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony RX1R has a higher expanded ISO than the average camera (102,400 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.102,400 vs 25,300
  • 1,695 points higher DxOMark Sports score
    Sony RX1R has a higher DxOMark sports score than the average camera (2,537 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
    What it is: The DxOMark low-light score, reflecting how well the sensor performs at higher sensitivities.
    When it matters: When low-light sensor performance is especially important for the way you shoot.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony RX1R has a higher DxOMark sports score than the average camera (2,537 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.2537 points vs 842 points
  • Larger sensor
    Sony RX1R has a larger sensor than the average camera (full frame vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Sony RX1R has a larger sensor than the average camera (full frame vs APS-C).full frame vs APS-C
  • Higher DxOMark portrait score
    Sony RX1R has a higher DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (25.1 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
    What it is: The DxOMark portrait score, representing measured color depth performance of the sensor.
    When it matters: When accurate color depth and smooth tonal transitions matter for portraits or subtle color work.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony RX1R has a higher DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (25.1 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.25.1 vs 23.0
  • 5 more customizable buttons
    Sony RX1R has more customizable buttons than the average camera (5 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
  • 2.63 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Sony RX1R has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (6 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • 19,200 higher max ISO
    Sony RX1R has a higher max ISO than the average camera (25,600 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 8.1 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Sony RX1R has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (24.3 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • 77,100 higher expanded ISO
    Sony RX1R has a higher expanded ISO than the average camera (102,400 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
  • 1,695 points higher DxOMark Sports score
    Sony RX1R has a higher DxOMark sports score than the average camera (2,537 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
  • Larger sensor
    Sony RX1R has a larger sensor than the average camera (full frame vs APS-C).
  • Higher DxOMark portrait score
    Sony RX1R has a higher DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (25.1 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
  • 18 points higher DxOMark sensor score
    Sony RX1R has a higher DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (91 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
  • Higher DxOMark landscape score
    Sony RX1R has a higher DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (13.6 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
  • Has microphone input
    Sony RX1R has microphone input, the average camera does not.
  • Supports 24p cinema mode
    Sony RX1R supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.

Total
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Video & Audio
  • 22% heavier
    Sony RX1R is heavier than the average camera (482 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 23.6 mm thicker
    Sony RX1R is thicker than the average camera (69.6 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Sony RX1R has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
  • 0.7 fps slower mechanical burst
    Sony RX1R has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • No continuous video AF
    Sony RX1R does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • 60 shots shorter battery life
    Sony RX1R has shorter battery life than the average camera (270 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Sony RX1R has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
    What it is: The lowest light level at which the autofocus system is rated to work reliably.
    When it matters: When you shoot in dim environments and need autofocus that still locks confidently after dark.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony RX1R has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.0 vs -4
  • No continuous video AF
    Sony RX1R does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
    When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony RX1R does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • 60 shots shorter battery life
    Sony RX1R has shorter battery life than the average camera (270 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
    What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
    When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 400 shots

    Sony RX1R has shorter battery life than the average camera (270 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.270 shots vs 330 shots
  • 9.1x more expensive
    Sony RX1R is more expensive than the average camera (£2,640 vs £290).
    Sony RX1R is more expensive than the average camera (£2,640 vs £290).£2,640 vs £290
  • 56.3% worse value for money
    Sony RX1R has a worse value-for-money score than the average camera (3.98 vs 6.224).
    What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.
    When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.
    Sony RX1R has a worse value-for-money score than the average camera (3.98 vs 6.224).3.98 vs 6.22
  • 0.7 fps slower mechanical burst
    Sony RX1R has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
    When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 10 fps

    Sony RX1R has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.5 fps vs 5.7 fps
  • 22% heavier
    Sony RX1R is heavier than the average camera (482 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Sony RX1R is heavier than the average camera (482 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.482 g vs 395 g
  • 23.6 mm thicker
    Sony RX1R is thicker than the average camera (69.6 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
    What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
    When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony RX1R is thicker than the average camera (69.6 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.69.6 mm vs 46 mm
Total
Overall
Display & Design
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Battery & Power

Graphic comparison of Sony RX1R and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sony RX1R?

  • Exceptional full-frame image quality with remarkable sharpness and clarity
  • Highly compact and lightweight design, making it ideal for travel and street photography
  • Premium build quality with a solid, metal-feeling construction
  • Excellent low-light performance with high ISO capabilities and a fast f/2 Zeiss lens
  • Silent leaf shutter, which is beneficial for candid photography and high-speed flash sync
  • Dedicated manual control rings for aperture and focus providing a tactile shooting experience

What customers dislike about Sony RX1R?

  • Poor battery life, often requiring multiple spares for a full day of shooting
  • Slow and sometimes inconsistent autofocus, especially in low-light or low-contrast situations
  • Lacks weather sealing and dust resistance, despite its high price point
  • No built-in viewfinder or image stabilization (IBIS/OIS)
  • Fixed, non-tilting rear LCD screen makes shooting from high or low angles difficult
  • Unintuitive menu system and UI that can be frustrating to navigate

Expert reviews

S
stevehuffphoto.com
08/07/2013
The Sony RX1R Review - Medium format quality in your pocket

The Sony Cyber-shot RX1R is a full-frame compact camera that delivers near digital medium-format image quality by removing the anti-aliasing (low-pass) filter from the original RX1 sensor. This modification drastically increases micro-contrast, resolving power, and sharpness, resulting in rich 24-megapixel RAW files with an exceptional "3D pop" and deep, tonal black-and-white...Read more

E
ephotozine.com
02/08/2013
Sony Cybershot DSC-RX1R Review | ePHOTOzine

The ePHOTOzine review of the Sony Cyber-shot RX1R highlights the camera's ability to deliver exceptional full-frame image quality in a highly portable compact body, featuring a 24.3-megapixel sensor with the optical low-pass filter removed for increased sharpness. Paired with a fixed 35mm f/2.0 Zeiss lens, the camera offers excellent center-to-edge sharpness, superb low-light...Read more

I
imaging-resource.com
04/10/2013
Sony RX1R Review - Imaging Resource

The Sony RX1R is a premium full-frame compact camera that swaps its predecessor's optical low-pass filter to aggressively boost pixel sharpness and fine image details, a change that allows it to output stunning, print-ready JPEG images with exceptional clarity. Retaining the identical lightweight metal body, fast f/2 Carl Zeiss 35mm fixed lens, and 24-megapixel sensor of the...Read more

W
whatdigitalcamera.com
22/07/2013
Sony RX1R Review - What Digital Camera

The What Digital Camera review describes the Sony RX1R as an ultra-premium compact camera featuring a 24.3-megapixel full-frame sensor and a fixed 35mm f/2 lens, distinguished by the removal of the optical low-pass filter to deliver superior detail, resolving 30 lines per millimetre at ISO 200. Key advantages noted include robust build quality, fast file processing, and excellent...Read more

A
amateurphotographer.com
15/07/2013
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R review

The Amateur Photographer review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R highlights the premium compact camera's removal of the optical low-pass filter, resulting in exceptional, high-resolution 24.3-million-pixel images with superior sharpness. Featuring a fixed 35mm f/2 lens, the camera is lauded for its superb image quality, build, and physical controls. However, the removal of the filter...Read more

3
35mmc.com
26/02/2018
Sony RX1R Review - and using it as a Digital Contax G2 To verify these results, you can search for the original Sony DSC-RX1R press release from June...

In his review for 35mmc, photographer Simon King frames the Sony RX1R as a "digital classic" and draws a direct parallel between it and the analog Contax G2 film camera. He notes that both compact systems are uniquely guided by their Zeiss Sonnar lens designs, which deliver identical colour rendering, characterful bokeh, and medium-format levels of image quality. King highlights the...Read more

D
dpreview.com
27/06/2013
Sony Cyber-shot RX1R Preview

The DPReview evaluation of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R highlights a premium, compact camera featuring a 24.3MP full-frame sensor without an anti-aliasing filter, paired with a fixed Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* 35mm F2 lens. This design maximizes fine detail and sharpness, making it exceptional for landscape photography, housed in a durable,, and tactile magnesium alloy body. However, the...Read more

S
slrlounge.com
11/11/2014
Sony RX1R Full Review | Sony's Skunk Works Dark Horse

Sony RX1R Review Summary The Sony RX1R is a high-end compact camera celebrated for its astonishing image quality, which rivals large DSLR cameras. It features a powerful 24-megapixel full-frame sensor paired with a fixed 35mm f/2 Zeiss lens that lacks an optical low-pass filter. This combination creates incredibly sharp, clear, and high-contrast images with punchy, accurate colours....Read more

D
dkamera.de
20/08/2013
Conclusion - Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R Review

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R is a premium, compact camera featuring a 24-megapixel full-frame sensor without an anti-aliasing filter to maximize image detail. It is considered a specialized variant rather than a major upgrade to the original RX1, offering exceptional, near-noise-free image quality up to ISO 1,600, with highly usable results up to ISO 6,400. The fixed 35mm f/2 Carl...Read more

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C
chip.de
02/10/2013
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R (Premium Digital Camera) Review

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R is a luxury, compact digital camera that pairs a massive 24-megapixel full-frame sensor with a premium, fast F2.0 Carl Zeiss 35mm fixed lens. In terms of performance, the camera delivers exceptionally sharp, low-noise images across a wide ISO range from 100 to 6,400. The primary upgrade from its predecessor (the RX1) is the...Read more

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D
digitalkamera.de
28/02/2013
Review: Sony DSC-RX1 and DSC-RX1R", "Test Report: Sony DSC-RX1 and DSC-RX1R

The digitalkamera.de review of the Sony DSC-RX1 and DSC-RX1R praises the cameras for pairing a 24.3-megapixel full-frame sensor with a fixed 35mm f/2 lens to deliver top-tier, corner-to-corner sharp image quality, particularly noting the RX1R’s enhanced detail without an anti-aliasing filter. The premium metal build, quiet leaf shutter, and tactile controls are highlighted as major...Read more

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C
chip.de
02/08/2013
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R - Real-World Test", "Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R - Field Test", "Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R - In-Depth Review

The CHIP review evaluates the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R as a highly specialized, luxury "pleasure camera" that challenges standard expectations of a compact device. Priced at approximately €3,100, its primary selling point is the integration of an XXL full-frame sensor paired with a premium, fixed Carl Zeiss focal length lens. The core benefit of this specific "R" edition is the...Read more

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L
lesnumeriques.com
01/06/2016
Sony RX1R Review: No low-pass filter, but not without flaws

The Les Numériques review characterises the Sony RX1R as a high-end, premium diva that offers spectacular detail but suffers from significant practical flaws. On the positive side, the camera is highly praised for packing a massive 24x36mm full-frame sensor into an exceptionally compact, premium metal body. Thanks to the removal of the optical low-pass (anti-aliasing) filter, the...Read more

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L
lesnumeriques.com
15/11/2012
Sony RX1 Review (Includes RX1R comparison notes) - Les Numériques", "Sony RX1 Test (Including RX1R comparison notes) - Les Numériques

The Sony RX1 is a premium full-frame compact digital camera featuring a 24.3-megapixel CMOS sensor paired with a fixed Carl Zeiss 35 mm f/2 lens. The review highlights its exceptional, high-end metallic build quality and highly customizable physical controls, which include a manual aperture ring. Image quality is a standout feature, delivering sharp, detailed photos with impressive...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
lesnumeriques.com
25/07/2013
Sony RX1R Review - Les Numériques

The Sony RX1R is a high-end compact camera featuring a 24.3-megapixel full-frame (24x36mm) CMOS sensor and a fixed Carl Zeiss 35mm f/2 lens. This model distinguishes itself from its predecessor, the RX1, by completely removing the optical low-pass filter, resulting in significantly sharper, highly detailed image quality and better noise handling at higher sensitivities. Key...Read more

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X
xatakafoto.com
12/09/2013
Sony RX1R Review - Xataka Foto

The Sony RX1R is a luxury compact camera designed for professionals seeking an elite, portable secondary body without compromising on full-frame quality. Built identically to its predecessor (the RX1), its standout upgrade is the complete removal of the optical low-pass filter (OLPF), which works alongside an optimized BIONZ processor to deliver exceptional image sharpness and...Read more

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X
xataka.com
16/09/2013
Sony RX1R in-depth review

The Xataka review highlights the Sony RX1R as a premium, high-end compact camera specifically engineered for a niche market of serious photographers. The primary pros center on its outstanding image quality, achieved by pairing a full-frame 24.3-megapixel CMOS sensor with a sharp, fixed Carl Zeiss 35mm f/2 lens. Crucially, the "R" variant removes the optical low-pass (anti-aliasing)...Read more

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R
revistagq.com
19/10/2025
Sony RX1R III review: the compact camera that got me back out on the streets

Based on the provided review, the Sony RX1R III is highlighted as a remarkably compact, 498-gram full-frame camera that prioritises stealth, portability, and an intuitive shooting experience over extensive physical features. Equipped with a powerful 60.2-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and an integrated AI-driven subject detection autofocus system inherited from the Sony A7R V, it...Read more

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C
camerarace.com
23/07/2026
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R - Review and technical specifications

The CameraRace review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R highlights the camera as a compact, lightweight premium option with a 24.3-megapixel full-frame sensor that, by omitting an optical low-pass filter, delivers exceptional sharpness, color depth, and dynamic range for street and landscape photography. While the camera offers high image quality and a convenient LCD display, it lacks...Read more

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F
fotografidigitali.it
13/11/2013
Sony RX1 and RX1R: It's easy to fall in love with the full-frame compact

The Sony RX1 and RX1 R are premium compact cameras that pair a 24-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor with a fixed Zeiss Sonnar 35mm f/2 lens, delivering exceptional image sharpness and overall optical quality. Reviewers highlight the highly tactile, high-quality metallic build of the camera body and the intuitive physical control layout. The physical aperture ring on the lens barrel...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
nadir.it
Maggio 2013
SONY RX1 (and RX1R) TEST: Road test of the compact camera with a big heart

Based on Michele Vacchiano’s review from Nadir Magazine, the Sony RX1 is an innovative, high-profile compact camera aimed squarely at professional and highly experienced photographers who need a portable alternative to heavy DSLRs. The reviewer praises several key pros, most notably the groundbreaking pairing of a 24-megapixel full-frame sensor with an uncompromising Carl Zeiss...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tuttodigitale.it
14/01/2016
Sony DSC-RX1R II Compact (Includes comparative test with RX1R) (sony.it) | 2013 | Support for DSC-RX1R: Reviews and technical specifications

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1 RII is a luxury, all-in-one compact camera priced at €4,200, designed for photographers seeking maximum full-frame performance in the smallest possible footprint. It is equipped with a backlit 42.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, a powerful Bionz X processor, and a fixed Zeiss Sonnar 35mm f/2 lens that delivers extraordinary image quality, color...Read more

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F
focus-review.com
16/09/2025
Full Review: Sony RX1R III: full-frame in a compact format

The Sony RX1R III is a highly compact, full-frame camera that updates a ten-year-old design with a 60-megapixel sensor and a Bionz XR processor. Weighing just 498 grams, it stands out as the smallest fixed-lens full-frame camera available, making it significantly lighter and more discrete for street and documentary photography than its main competitor, the Leica Q3. Key advantages...Read more

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P
photofacts.nl
23/10/2013
A Week with the Sony RX1 (Includes RX1R details)

Sony Cyber-Shot RX1 The Sony Cyber-Shot RX1 is a highly compact travel camera that delivers exceptional full-frame image quality with a fixed 35mm f/2.0 Zeiss lens. Tested during a family vacation to England, the camera stands out for its remarkably small size compared to traditional DSLRs like the Canon 5D Mark III, allowing it to fit comfortably inside a jacket pocket. The camera...Read more

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