Sony announces the 6th generation RX100 series camera and it offers a 24-200mm effective optical range while maintaining the same size camera body. The NEW Sony RX100 VI also offers a refined pop-up viewfinder that is easier to utilize and less cumbersome. $1198 US is what Sony decided to price this ultra compact high quality digital camera at….
So, what else? Basically the same as the RX100 V really, but the new optics are a really big deal if you ask me. The limited zoom range on the RX100 series was one of the features holding people back from making the plunge I believe. Other than the “pro” price point of course, but now with all that zoom range this camera can really be used for so many more real world applications.
For example, now this camera can be used on the sidelines at games or at the play, and actually get good well framed captures of your given subject.
Sony RX100 VI – Key Features:
- 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS Sensor
- BIONZ X Image Processor & Front-End LSI
- ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* f/2.8-4.5 Lens
- 24-200mm (35mm Equivalent)
- UHD 4K30p Video with HLG & S-Log3 Gammas
- HFR Mode for Full HD Video up to 960 fps
- 0.39″ 2.36m-Dot OLED Pop-Up EVF
- 3.0″ 921.6k-Dot 180° Tilting Touchscreen
- Fast Hybrid AF System with 315 Points
- ISO 12800 and 24 fps Continuous Shooting
- Weight = 10.62 oz / 301 g with battery and memory card
- Price = $1198 US
Anything Missing?
A mic input is clearly still missing which will piss off a lot of the hardcore folks looking to use this camera for higher end filming. I am not surprised by this, because Sony seams to want people to use the RX10 series cameras, or the mirrorless cameras for this purpose, and not the RX100 series. Is this a mistake by Sony? I say yes, but in the long run as far as company sustainability, product line differentiation and what not, I don’t honestly know. Other than that, for this ultra compact size, I can’t really see adding anything else? Please share your thoughts below!
Also missing is the built in ND filter…. That really is unfortunate and worth noting!
The ultra compact design, insane power, and feature set are really what sets apart the RX100 series from all the cameras in Sony’s line. However, if you are looking for an interchangeable lens options (E-mount), then consider checking out the Sony A6000 series or the Sony A7 Series Camera Guide This Way >>… Also,
ll available E-Mount Lens Options this way >>
If you are interested in the most powerful all-in-one camera ever made by Sony, then be sure to check out my highly detailed Sony RX10 IV Review Here >>
Bottom Line
This new RX100 VI is not expected to perform quite as good as the RX100 V in low light due to the approximate 1 stop slower optics… However, it will certainly be more than good enough in the real world based on all the testing I have done over the years.
In my opinion, the RX100 series cameras are great for vacation, family functions, nights on the town with friends, and for just having on hand all the time. The quality is so much better than a cell phone for example… Also, when carrying much larger and heavier pro gear is not ideal or really warranted, the ultra compact RX100 series shines with it’s versatility, output quality, and overall power to size ratio. A pro photographers go to camera for the ultra compact pocketable needs!
With this new effective 24-200mm lens zoom range, the RX100 VI now offers the user way more photo/ composition opportunities. In addition, with video you can now really get some compelling zoom in and out effects, impressive depth of field, and killer focus sweeps!!
Price point wise, the RX100 VI is going for $1198 US, and that is a lot of money! Sony is really making you pay for that super small form factor, power, build and output quality. Considering what else you could buy for that money, you really need to be one of those people demanding the best and requiring the smallest possible form factor while still being fairly easy to use ergonomically.
In this “in hand” photo, you can see just how tiny the RX100 VI actually is….
Sony Promo Videos and First Looks…
For some camera porn, check out these Sony Promo videos which will show off and breakdown the newest features with a bit more detail and visual clarity 😉
Check out this new awesome looking Sony VCT-SGR1 Shooting Grip which is coming soon and perfect for so many photo and video applications!
First Look | Sony RX100 VI – Courtesy of BH
Closing
With the huge optical range gains, superb build quality and pocket-ability, the RX100 VI is certainly going to catch the eye of the enthusiast photographer and pro looking for an ultra compact, ultra high quality, all-in-on solution for video and photography. I will probably review this camera when it comes out officially, but please let me know if you would like to see the new RX100 IV reviewed or not. I’m curious about the interest you guys have or don’t have when it comes to this camera… Thanks!
If your looking for a faster optic with less range, then the previous generation RX100 V with the 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 lens can be had for ~$998 US currently…
That is about it for this article, but please be sure to leave your thoughts and questions below, and have a wonderful day!
Pre-Order the Sony RX100 VI for $1198 US @ BHPhoto
Order the Sony RX100 V for ~$948 US @ BHPhoto
