Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V Review: Introduction
At a glance:
- 1in, 20.1-million-pixel, Exmor RS CMOS sensor
- ZeissVario-Sonnar T* 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 lens
- ISO 125-12,800 (expandable to ISO 80 and ISO 100)
- 315-point hybrid AF system
- Up to 24fps continuous shooting
- £999
The lifecycle of different cameras varies considerably, and while it’s not uncommon to wait as long as four years for some DSLRs to be superseded by the next model, the waiting time in a compact series is usually much shorter. A good example is Sony’s RX100 series, which has presented five new models in the space of as many years. The original RX100 that surfaced in 2012 broke new ground in the way it became the first truly pocketable compact of its kind to squeeze a 1-inch size sensor within its petite body – something that helps to give these types of camera an edge over smartphones and much more basic compacts with smaller-sized sensors.
The RX100 V from the top showing its mode dial, zoom lever and on/off button with the zoom extended
Since the early days of the RX100 series, the rivalry in the 1-inch-sensor pocket-compact area of the market has thrived, putting increased pressure on Sony to stay one step ahead. To fight off competition from the likes of Canon and Panasonic, Sony has released its fifth member in the RX100 series, but can this latest model solve some of the criticisms we picked up on when we reviewed the RX100 IV last year upgrade?
