Sony’s Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 is a digital still camera with an integrated zoom lens, and a decent one, but at $1,300 it’s tough not to consider the NEX or alpha series cameras. Sony’s fancy mirrorless and DSLR cameras certainly offer bang for the buck.
Fortunately, Sony has improved the RX10 in two key areas – video quality, and price.
Sony’s new firmware 2.0 release (installed by Mac or PC) allows the RX10 to now record video in high quality XAVC-S, Sony’s ultra high end consumer mp4 wrapping codec.
The sweet format will support recording 60p/30p/24p/120p, taking advantage of the high end integrated optics, large 1" 20.2MP Exmor R® sensor, and fast autofocus using Sony’s new BIONZ® X processing engine.
While the lack of an interchangeable lens might seem a disadvantage, the RX10 comes with a highly versatile, f/2.8 Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar T* 24-200mm lens.
A look at the feature list helps make the case for the DSC-RX10:
- 1" 20.2MP Exmor R® sensor for low light shots
- f/2.8 Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar T* 24-200mm lens
- Ultra-fast AF via new BIONZ® X processing engine
- Selectable click/click-less ring
- Full exposure HD movies at 60p/24p1
- Dust and moisture-resistant mag-alloy body
- Up to ISO 12800 sensitivity with ANR
- 3" multi-angle LCD and XGA OLED viewfinder
- Multi-interface accessory shoe
- Simple smartphone connectivity via Wi-Fi® or NFC
Combine the new firmware with this feature list and a $1,000 price tag, and those considering other Sony offerings may want to look to the RX10 instead.
