As frequently happens with new camera releases, it seems everyone has forgotten about the Sony RX100 Mark VI ever since the Mark VII dropped.

But, given how cheap and how effective the Mark VI is for the everyday photographer, this is quite unfair.

Besides, the Sony RX100 Mark VI is less than two years old, and while some criticized Sony for pricing it too high back then, this price has dropped significantly. Comparing it with Sony RX100 VII would be a good start for this article.

Sony RX100 VI vs Sony RX100 VII

 

^{*Sony RX100 VII pictured above}

The Sony RX100 VII, in comparison with the VI, dropped in 2019 to similar rave reviews. However, when it comes down to it, both of these cameras have very similar features despite their very different price points.

Both cameras feature 20.1MP sensors, 4K video capabilities, a 180-degree up/90-degree down tilting LCD touchscreen, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and designs that are almost identical.

^{*Sony RX100 VI pictured above}

So, what do these two cameras not have in common? 

For one thing, the RX100 VII has a slightly larger ISO range, starting at 100 compared to 125 on the VI. 

Additionally, the RX100 VII has some of the best burst shooting I’ve ever seen at this price point. Sony’s Single Burst Shooting, which is featured on the RX100 VII, allows the camera to shoot 90fps, instead of 24fps on the VI. 

The AF system is also slightly improved in the RX100 VII with 357-points, as opposed to 315-points on the RX100 VI.  

The only change of significance between the two cameras is that the RX100 VII features vertical movie recording and a 3.5mm microphone input.  

However, unless you’re purchasing this camera for videography, it’s safe to say you should go with whatever’s cheapest. 

Sony RX100 VI Specs

The Sony RX100 VI features are pretty incredible. For starters, it features a 20MP 1-inch sensor and 4K video. 

Plus, this camera comes with 24fps burst shooting, as discussed above, and an autofocus system that performs with the best of them.

Other Sony RX100 VI Specs Include:

• 20MP Sensor
• 24-200mm zoom
• 315-point AF system
• 24fps burst mode
• 3” tilting LCD screen with 921-k dots
• 100% viewfinder coverage
• 4K video at 30fps or Full HD video at 120fps
• Built-in Wi-Fi
• 10.6 oz 

Sony RX100 VI Body & Design

This camera is surprisingly small at less than 11 oz and 4 x 2.4 x 1.7 inches. 

For comparison, this camera is smaller than most new smartphones. 

Unfortunately, this can be seen as both a pro and a con. For example, there are not very many buttons on this camera since, really, there’s no room for them. Although, there is a pop-up EVF and built-in flash. 

 

Additionally, the 3” tilting LCD touchscreen helps give the otherwise small camera a little more functionality and range. The touchscreen also features a selfie-mode for shy vacationers or vloggers.  

Plus, it’s impressive that Sony could fit a 24-200mm zoom into such a small thing.  

Sony RX100 VI Build & Handling

Given the Sony RX100 Mark VIs small size, it’s only fair to question how comfortable it can really be to shoot with.

However, Ken Rockwell makes an incredible point. Every one of these buttons are “easy to feel and press,” and as soon as you sit down with your camera to set up the functions, it works as simply as you need it to. Plus, it shoots faster than anything close to its size. 

It comes with one feature I think is invaluable, which is a row of nubbins along the bottom of the camera so you can put it down somewhere flat to shoot and not damage the camera’s body. 

As seen above, the lens retracts when not in use, and pops out when in use (the above positioning is at 24mm). 

Keep in mind that this camera is as small as a smartphone, and is therefore as easy to drop as one, so you should think of investing in a nice strap for it to prevent any heartbreak.  

Sony RX100 VI Video Performance

As you can see in this Fan of Tech video, the Sony RX100 VI is no different than any other Sony camera in that it features incredible video capabilities.

The Sony RX100 VI features slow-motion video at up to 32x. If you’re using the Sony RX100 VI to shoot 4K video you can do so in either Sony’s S-Log or Hybrid Log Gamma profiles, which allow for you to capture gorgeous highlights that are otherwise compressed.

One thing that Hawaii Camera doesn’t point out, though, is that the battery life on the Sony RX100 VI is wanting, especially when shooting video, so if you’re going to be taking it on any long trips to Japan, think about getting a second battery. 

Sony RX100 VI Price

Since you’re opting to purchase a Sony RX100 VI instead of the Sony RX100 VII, I’m going to assume it’s because you recognize that it has almost all of the same features with a cheaper price tag.

So, let me suggest you head over to MPB and buy your VI used to save even more.

In fact, the Sony RX100 Mark VI price starts at the $700 level (even for a camera in “like new” shape). 

That’s a deal you need.