Sony RX100 VII Camera
If you are already familiar with the RX100 series, you might have an idea of what to expect. If not, let’s quickly introduce it as a compact, high-end super-zoom camera with great image quality and versatile functions.
Without a doubt, travelers and photo enthusiasts will find a use for the Sony RX100 VII. We can tell this because its predecessor already had pretty stunning features such as a large 1” sensor, 4K video recording and 24 fps burst rate. The latest camera in the RX100 series can only be better, right?! One of the finest DSLR camera Sony A7 has similar features same as RX100 mainly compact size and fantastic image quality.
In the video above, I outline what's new about the Sony RX100 VII, what I like and dislike, and whether it's a good buy.
For more details, check the review below!
Sony RX100 VII Specs
Like its predecessor, the Sony RX 100 VII features a large 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor. Although the camera fits into a jacket pocket, its powerful sensor allows it to deliver sharp and rich-in-detail 20-megapixel photos.
Another great thing about the RX100 VII is that it comes with a 24-200mm equivalent F2.8-4.5 lens which is great for wide-angle and telephoto shooting. Whether you want to take an image of the close target or a distant object, this camera will make the best out of it.
The Sony RX100 VII has a continuous shooting speed of 20 frames per second. This is particularly useful for shooting moving targets such as animals or sports players. Although the RX100 Mark VI had slightly bigger burst rate (24 frames per second), it also had viewfinder blackout.
With the RX100 VII, you can apply burst shooting without blacking out the viewfinder, which is much more useful and practical. Additionally, the camera shoots seven-image bursts at up to 90 frames per second.
The best thing about the Mark VII is that it carries big improvements in autofocus technology. The camera has 357 phase-detection and 425 contrast-detection AF points and it can acquire focus in 0.02 seconds. In addition, the camera uses the most advanced Real-time Tracking and Real-time Eye AF.
Sony RX100 VII Body & Design
The Sony RX100 VII is a very tiny camera. It measures 4.02 x 2.28 x 1.69 inches and weighs only 0.67 lb. The camera easily fits into a pocket so it can follow you everywhere you go.
Overall, the new camera shares the same design as its predecessors. In order to save some space, the RX100 VII features a pop-up viewfinder. Additionally, it also has a built-in flash and tilting screen.
The LCD screen is touch-sensitive which is very practical for repositioning the focus area. Moreover, it folds up 180 degrees and down 90 degrees. This is very convenient for vlogging or shooting images from uncomfortable angles.
Sony RX100 VII Build & Handling
The Sony RX100 VII can be a bit complicated in terms of handling. Its buttons and controls are small, as is the camera body, so unless you have very delicate fingers, this camera can be a little difficult to handle.
As it is the case with most of the compact cameras, the RX100 VII doesn’t have weather-sealed protection. With this being said, try not to expose the camera to water, sand or freezing temperatures.
However, Sony has also introduced a new leather-look body case for the RX100 series, which includes a lens jacket and shoulder strap to protect the camera from bumps and shocks. If you intend to use the RX100 VII as a traveling camera, it is worth considering buying it.
Sony RX100 VII Video Performance
When it comes to video capabilities, the RX100 VII shoots 4K video at up to 30p and Full HD video at up to 120p. These are the same features as in the Mark VI, however, the Mark VII adds a 3.5mm mic socket, more effective stabilization, and a better autofocus system.
The RX100 VII is generally a good camera for vlogging. First of all, it has amazing video features. Moreover, it has an articulating screen, while it is also very portable and easy for use.
4K videos are limited to only 5 minutes in order to protect the camera from overheating. There is an option to manually disable this limit, but Sony recommends you to use a tripod while recording movies with this setting.
Sony RX100 VII Lens
The Sony RX100 VII comes with a 24-200mm f/2.8-4.5 Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens. Due to its big focal range, the camera provides versatility which makes it great for many different uses. However, it is not the best option for night photography because this lens does not perform as well under low light conditions as in other environments.
The RX100 VII is particularly good for travel photography. The only disadvantage is that it can take only about 250 shots on a full charge. If you spend a lot of time taking pictures, it’s good to know that you can charge the camera via the USB-C port. Also, using a viewfinder instead of an LCD screen might save some battery life.
Sony RX100 VII Price
Clearly, the Sony RX100 VII has a very interesting set of features. Although it is no bigger than an average smartphone, it produces stunning and authentic images. Still, this does not come at a cheap price.
At the moment, it's priced at $1,298.00.
If this is out of your budget, you might consider getting some other camera model from the RX100 series, such as the Sony RX100 V or Sony RX100 VI.
Both of these cameras are also worth buying in 2019, and you can have them at a low price if you don’t mind buying used. Check out MPB.com, where you can get them for a good deal.