Panasonic Lumix LX100 II vs Sony RX1R II: A Definitive Hands-On Comparison for Serious Photographers

Selecting the ideal large-sensor compact camera is a nuanced task. Both the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II and Sony RX1R II have earned respect among photography enthusiasts and professionals alike, but they cater to subtly different needs. Having extensively tested both models in real-world shooting scenarios and technical benchmarks over the years, I’m here to break down their capabilities - honestly and insightfully.

Whether you prioritize portability, image quality, lens versatility, or video prowess, this in-depth comparison will help you make an informed choice that aligns with your photographic ambitions.

Sizing Up the Contenders: Design, Build, and Handling

Both the Panasonic LX100 II and Sony RX1R II fall into the large sensor compact category, designed for photographers craving DSLR-like quality without the bulk. Let’s start by sizing them up.

Panasonic LX100 II

• Dimensions: 115×66×64 mm
• Weight: 392g
• Grip is modest but well-contoured for comfortable handling
• Traditional control layout, with a multimedia-focused 3" touchscreen

Sony RX1R II

• Dimensions: 113×65×72 mm
• Weight: 507g
• Slightly heavier and thicker due to full-frame sensor and robust lens construction
• More compact for a full-frame camera but still feels substantial in hand

I found the LX100 II is more pocketable and lighter, which will appeal to street shooters and travelers seeking discreetness without sacrificing sensor size. The RX1R II’s heft, meanwhile, contributes to a balanced feel when shooting with its high-quality fixed 35mm lens.

Top Controls and User Interface: Intuitive Operation in Focus

Next, I compared how these cameras feel during active shooting sessions.

The LX100 II impresses with a traditional three-ring lens control (aperture, zoom, focus) which gives you tactile precision, especially useful for manual focus enthusiasts. The intuitive mode dial and dedicated exposure compensation dial add immediacy. Its 3-inch touchscreen LCD enhances navigation and quick menu access.

Sony RX1R II opts for a minimalist approach: fewer dials and buttons but a high-quality tilting screen. It lacks a touchscreen, which I found slows down menu changes under pressure. The dedicated aperture ring on the lens provides quick control but zooming isn’t applicable here since it’s a prime.

Both models feature electronic viewfinders (EVF), with the LX100 II sporting a slightly higher resolution EVF for more detailed framing and focusing.

The Heart of the Image: Sensor Size and Quality

Image quality starts with the sensor, so let’s dive deep into what differentiates these cameras here.

Panasonic LX100 II uses a Four Thirds system-sized sensor optimized for versatility and compactness. Its 17 megapixels balance resolution with good noise control. The inclusion of an antialiasing filter reduces moiré but slightly softens microdetail.

The Sony RX1R II boasts a true full-frame sensor delivering a staggering 42MP resolution, unmatched in this niche category. Its back-illuminated (BSI) design improves light sensitivity, contributing to excellent dynamic range and low noise, whereas the absence of an antialiasing filter ensures razor-sharp images.

In practical shooting, I noticed the RX1R II producing extraordinarily detailed, crisp images suitable for large prints and aggressive cropping. The LX100 II holds its own admirably, especially given its smaller sensor, offering punchy color and reliable detail at base ISO, suitable for smaller prints and online sharing.

LCD Screens and Viewfinders: Composing Your Shot

How you compose and review images plays a crucial role in workflow.

• LX100 II offers a 3-inch fixed touchscreen with 1,240k dots resolution, making menu navigation, focus point selection, and image zooming fast and intuitive.
• RX1R II has a 3-inch tilting screen (1229k dots) but lacks touch functionality, which can be a disadvantage for swift AF area selection.

Both cameras sport EVFs but the LX100 II’s 2,760k dot EVF exceeds the RX1R II’s 2,359k dot resolution, giving a crisper preview with 100% frame coverage in both cases. The LX100 II’s EVF magnification is slightly smaller at 0.7x versus the RX1R II’s 0.74x, but this subtle difference is insignificant to most users.

Personally, the LX100 II’s touchscreen combined with the high-res EVF made a streamlined shooting experience, especially for dynamic street or travel scenarios. The RX1R II’s bright viewfinder impressed for critical framing, but the lack of touchscreen felt dated.

Autofocus Systems: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus (AF) is pivotal for capturing decisive moments. Both cameras employ different technologies and philosophies here.

The LX100 II relies exclusively on contrast-detection AF but amplifies this with fast processing and touch-to-focus capabilities, enabling solid focus lock even in challenging light. Tracking is reasonably reliable for subjects with some contrast. The 11fps burst rate supports action photography effectively.

The RX1R II’s hybrid AF with phase detection adds precision, especially that you can achieve pinpoint focusing on a scattered 25-point grid. However, its lower burst speed (5fps) and limited continuous AF performance make it less suited to fast sports or wildlife tracking.

Through my field tests - including portrait and wildlife shoots - I found the LX100 II faster at acquiring focus in live tracking, while the RX1R II excelled in stationary subjects with perfect focus criticality.

Lens Specifications and Impact on Image Quality

Both cameras come with fixed lenses - a double-edged sword: limited in zoom but optimized for quality.

The LX100 II’s 24-75mm equivalent zoom provides unmatched compositional versatility in a compact body. The fast f/1.7 at wide and f/2.8 at telephoto range performs well for low light and shallow depth of field effects.

Sony RX1R II’s fixed 35mm f/2.0 lens is legendary for sharpness, minimal distortion, and creamy bokeh - hallmark traits for portrait and landscape excellence. However, the lack of zoom demands forethought in composition.

Image stabilization is integrated in the LX100 II, a big boon when shooting handheld in low light or video. The RX1R II lacks stabilization, necessitating tripods or fast shutter speeds.

For macro, the LX100 II’s close focusing range (3cm) allows more intimate close-ups than the RX1R II’s 14cm limit. I found this handy for detail work and product photography.

Video Capabilities: Shooting Moving Images

In today’s hybrid workflows, video features cannot be ignored.

The LX100 II is the clear leader for video creators, offering 4K capture at 30fps, 4K Photo modes that let you extract stills from video, and built-in optical stabilization to keep footage steady. Its touchscreen simplifies focus pulling during video.

The RX1R II caps at full HD 1080p and lacks in-body stabilization, which combined with no touchscreen, limits user control for video. However, the presence of a mic input makes it more adaptable for audio recording when paired with external mics.

If video is a major consideration, the Panasonic wins hands down.

Battery Life and Storage Considerations

Reliable operation on the go matters - let’s see which model keeps powering your shoots longer.

The LX100 II offers longer battery life, an appreciable advantage for travel and event photographers who shoot all day without charging options. The Sony’s shorter battery life requires carrying extras on extended outings.

Memory support in Panasonic is straightforward and modern; Sony offers dual format (SD and Memory Stick) compatibility, handy for users integrated into Sony’s broader ecosystem.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Modern workflows demand smooth connectivity for quick sharing and remote control.

• Panasonic LX100 II: Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth support, USB charging
• Sony RX1R II: Wi-Fi and NFC only, no Bluetooth, USB 2.0 (slower)

Panasonic’s Bluetooth paired with Wi-Fi provides a more seamless tethering and image transfer experience, especially through Panasonic’s well-developed smartphone app.

Durability and Weather Sealing

For adventure and outdoor photographers, environmental sealing can be a deciding factor.

Neither camera offers official weather sealing or ruggedization. Both require protective measures in challenging conditions.

Real-World Use Across Photography Genres

Let’s analyze performance and suitability across major photography disciplines, with insights from extensive shooting tests.

Portrait Photography

• RX1R II’s 42MP sensor and sharp 35mm f/2 lens deliver breathtaking skin detail and creamy bokeh, ideal for controlled studio portraits or outdoor portraits with stable lighting.
• LX100 II’s 24-75mm zoom offers flexibility to adjust framing on the fly, with a shallow enough aperture at wider focal lengths for pleasant background separation.
• Both feature face detection AF; LX100 II adds touch AF aiding quick focus shifts during shoots.
• If eye-detection AF is a priority, both lack modern dedicated eye AF found on newer cameras.

Landscape Photography

• RX1R II’s high resolution and full-frame sensor enable remarkable image quality with superb dynamic range (DxOmark 13.9 stops), perfect for large prints.
• LX100 II’s Four Thirds sensor delivers respectable detail and DR but with less tonality retention in highlights/shadows.
• Lack of weather sealing requires care in adverse weather.
• LX100 II’s versatile zoom helps compose tight or expansive scenes without changing position.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• LX100 II shines with 11fps burst and 49 AF points with continuous tracking; compact and quiet for elusive wildlife.
• RX1R II’s slower 5fps and fewer AF points limit action capability.
• Lack of telephoto zoom on both restricts reach; LX100 II’s 75mm max is short, RX1R II fixed 35mm.
• LX100 II’s image stabilization helps handheld shooting in the field.

Street Photography

• LX100 II’s compact profile, fast lens, touch AF, and stabilization make it ideal for quick candid shots.
• RX1R II’s prime lens and premium image quality offer artistic flair but calls for more deliberate shooting.
• LX100 II’s lighter weight and zoom versatility enhances candid flexibility.

Macro Photography

• LX100 II’s close focus distance of 3cm with zoom flexibility makes macro shooting possible without attachments.
• RX1R II macro limited by 14cm minimum distance; would need close-up filters.
• LX100 II preferred for casual macro shooters.

Night & Astro Photography

• RX1R II’s full-frame BSI sensor and high dynamic range provide superior low noise performance at high ISO (DxO low-light score 3204 ISO).
• LX100 II’s smaller sensor limits noise control at extreme ISO, but f/1.7 aperture helps in lower light.
• Longer exposures better handled with tripods on both.

Video Uses

• LX100 II offers 4K video, touchscreen focusing, and stabilization, making it a strong hybrid still/video choice.
• RX1R II limited to Full HD and lacks stabilization; not ideal for serious videography.

Travel Photography

• LX100 II excels with size, zoom range, image stabilization, and battery life.
• RX1R II offers exceptional image quality but demands lens discipline and frequent battery changes.

Professional Workflows

• RX1R II’s 14-bit RAW output and full-frame detail appeal to advertising, fine art, and studio work.
• LX100 II’s compressed 12-bit RAW files suffice for design, blogging, and casual pro use.
• Both integrate well with standard SD card workflows, USB tethering.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Final Recommendations: Who Should Buy Which?

Choose Panasonic Lumix LX100 II if you:

• Want a powerful, travel-friendly all-rounder with zoom flexibility
• Need 4K video and stabilization for hybrid shooting
• Prefer faster burst shooting and touch interface
• Shoot events, street photography, and casual wildlife
• Desire better battery life for day-long outings
• Have a mid-range budget around $1,000

Choose Sony RX1R II if you:

• Demand ultimate image resolution for portraits, landscapes, and fine art
• Are comfortable working with a fixed 35mm prime lens
• Prioritize dynamic range and color depth
• Shoot static subjects where burst speed is less critical
• Seek a compact full-frame experience despite higher cost (~$3,300)
• Value the legendary Zeiss optics and RAW file flexibility

Performance Scores and Genre Rankings

These scorecards reflect lab tests alongside field experience, demonstrating that while the RX1R II dominates in resolution and detail, the LX100 II’s versatility and speed create a well-rounded tool.

Sample Images Comparison

Panasonic LX100 II front Panasonic LX100 II screen back Sony RX1R II front Sony RX1R II screen back

Close examination of RAW-converted JPEGs reveals differences in detail, noise, and color fidelity, supporting the technical data with tangible image outcomes.

Conclusion

Both the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II and Sony RX1R II bring remarkable technology to the large sensor compact market, yet they serve contrasting photographic philosophies. The LX100 II emerges as the practical, nimble, and video-capable camera ideal for on-the-go shooting across diverse situations. The RX1R II occupies the premium niche for photographers seeking the pinnacle of image fidelity, especially in portrait and landscape stills.

Your choice hinges on whether you prioritize ultimate image quality over flexibility and speed, or vice versa. Reflect on your shooting style, subject matter, and workflow needs carefully. I hope this detailed analysis empowers you to select the camera that truly elevates your photographic journey.

Why You Can Trust This Review:
I’ve personally tested both cameras extensively - shooting thousands of frames in controlled and spontaneous conditions, benchmarking autofocus accuracy, evaluating RAW files, and assessing handling nuances over many months. My insights are founded on real-world use cases beyond spec sheets, ensuring advice tailored to your artistic and practical needs.

Feel free to reach out with questions or requests for more specific usage scenarios - I’m here to help you make the best choice with confidence.