The Sony RX100 VI on test: a benchmark or just an overpriced camera?
24.7.2018
Translation: machine translated
Small, big zoom, good image quality: the RX100 VI excels in all areas. I was able to test this all-rounder. In this article, I also compare the latest version with a previous model of the RX100.
The perfect camera is small and light, has a long zoom range, a large sensor and a bright lens, it's fast and has plenty of buttons for manual control. And, of course, it doesn't cost the earth.
There's no such thing as the perfect camera. You always have to make a few compromises. An entry-level SLR offers you high image quality and affordability, but is big and heavy. A typical super-zoom camera offers you a dream zoom, is conveniently sized and affordable, but its image quality isn't particularly good. Each type of camera has its advantages and disadvantages.
A near-perfect model
But even for this camera, concessions had to be made. It's hard to defy the laws of physics. Light intensity is much lower than the old RX100 with less zoom. Even the initial light intensity is relatively modest at f/2.8 compared with the f/1.8 of previous models or even the f/1.4 of the competition.
And let's not even talk about the price. Snif!
The lens seen objectively
In this test, I will often compare the new VI model with the III model. Firstly because I own and can therefore try out the III version myself, and secondly because all the models are still available and it would therefore be unwise to compare it only with the previous year's model.
Here's all the data mentioned above displayed clearly in a table - if you enter any of the missing values in a comment, I'll complete the table.
Image quality
In the practical test, there's virtually no difference between the image quality of version 3 and version 6 of the RX100 (pre-production model). Maybe you don't think that's a good thing, because a newer, even more expensive camera should be better. But don't forget that you generally get more zoom at the expense of image quality. The fact that the camera with a much longer zoom range doesn't take worse pictures is more of a positive for me.
Handling
The LCD screen has also been improved: it can now be unfolded to around 90 degrees instead of just 45 degrees. It's still not possible to turn it sideways.
You can set up the camera to suit your preferences. The functions menu, which displays the most important settings during shooting, is fully configurable. You also have a wide choice of functions for the lens dial.
I've criticised it before in the A7 III and I'll say it again: the user menu on Sony cameras is a nightmare. And the more options, the worse it gets. Incomprehensible and useless abbreviations, cryptic names galore. Existing options are also frequently changed: even experienced Sony photographers get lost in the menu from time to time. At least: the RX100 VI now offers a favourites menu in which you can group the items you use most often.
Like all RX100 models, the number VI also has no lens cap. When you switch it off, slats cover the lens glass. In principle, very practical: the camera is quickly ready for use, the lens can be fully retracted and you don't have to keep looking for the lens cap. Here's the rub: this lamellar solution is much more fragile and breaks quickly. Which can be a problem given the price of the camera.
On my hike, I carried the camera in the belt pocket of my rucksack so that I could quickly take it out at any time. I hit at least two rocks and the camera didn't like it too much. The slats didn't open and close for a while. Thankfully they are working again.
The Sony carrying case offers reliable protection. As the dimensions of the camera are almost still the same, you can also store the new model in it. However, I don't find the case practical if I want to snap a couple of quick shots as I go.
Sport and action fit
Sony praises the speed of the RX100 VI. The burst function takes 24 photos per second, and the hybrid autofocus with 315 contrast points should be very fast. With the telephoto lens, the camera should also be suitable for sports, action and wildlife photography.
And, indeed, it doesn't do badly at all. Of course, if you know you'll be shooting at a sporting event, you're more likely to bring out the heavy artillery. But if, for example, you're out for a walk and an action scene unfolds in front of you, you can capture it with the new RX100 without a problem.
Thankfully, Sony has thought of grouping scenes in display form. A series with 100 photos can thus be deleted in one go.
You can always see the image in the viewfinder during continuous shooting. This makes the viewfinder a great aid when capturing an action scene. With the LCD screen alone, I wouldn't be able to 'capture' the patterns as quickly. Autofocus subject tracking also works well. Thanks to the small sensor, the autofocus doesn't need to be as precise as a full-frame camera.
Video: good, but not much new
Overview
The extended zoom range considerably widens the scope of applications compared to all previous models. Combined with the ultra-fast burst mode, excellent autofocus and viewfinder, the camera is even suitable for action. And the telephoto lens is particularly well suited to this. This camera is a real success story: the individual features work perfectly together.
I only have two points of criticism. Firstly: I find it hard to find my way around the menu structure, even after a long time. Secondly, a camera this expensive should be very robust. This isn't really the case with the lens cover. It's super fragile and if it breaks, you'll have spent 1500 francs in the wind.
The improvements over previous models are significant. But if you don't need a telephoto zoom and you're not interested in action, you don't necessarily need the latest model, because it's excessively expensive. Previous models offer just as good image quality, they're just less versatile.
Updated, 24.7.
David Lee
Senior Editor
David.Lee@digitecgalaxus.chMy interest in IT and writing landed me in tech journalism early on (2000). I want to know how we can use technology without being used. Outside of the office, I’m a keen musician who makes up for lacking talent with excessive enthusiasm.
