Sony HX5 vs Sony RX100 III: A Hands-On Comparison for Discerning Photographers

In the world of compact cameras, Sony has cultivated a strong reputation for blending portability with performance across multiple price points and sensor sizes. Today, I’m diving deep into two representatives from very different compact tiers: the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5 - a small sensor compact with roots in budget travel photography - and the much more advanced Sony RX100 III, a large sensor premium compact that has become a benchmark for enthusiasts who want DSLR-quality results in a pocketable camera.

Drawing on hours of hands-on testing, side-by-side evaluations, and a close look at key specifications, this comparison isn’t about debating megapixel wars or marketing slogans. Rather, it’s about understanding the real-world photographic value each offers - across genres ranging from portraits and landscapes to low-light shooting and video - and helping you make a decision backed by technical insight and practical experience.

Let’s begin by getting familiar with these two contenders at a glance.

First Impressions: Size and Handling in Your Hands

I always start my camera assessments with ergonomics - a camera you don’t feel confident holding or operating quickly is a liability, regardless of its technical prowess.

The Sony HX5 is a true throwback to the ultra-compact niche: small, light (just 200 grams), and sporting a slim profile measuring roughly 102x58x29 mm. It’s extremely pocketable and unassuming, which makes it well-suited for travelers who prize size above all else. The plastic build feels modest but acceptable for its price bracket - don’t expect ruggedness or premium materials here.

In contrast, the RX100 III tips the scales at 290 grams and measures 102x58x41 mm, making it chunkier but still incredibly pocket-friendly for a large-sensor compact. Its magnesium alloy body lends a sense of solidity and durability, and the more substantial grip enhances one-handed shooting comfort significantly. This extra heft is a welcome trade-off for the improved controls and build quality.

Top View Insights: Control Layout and User Experience

Comparing the control scheme highlights how Sony targets different photographer profiles with these two cameras.

The HX5’s control layout is minimalist, providing only the bare essentials: a mode dial without manual priority options, toggles for exposure compensation, and basic shooting modes. Focus is mainly on simplicity, which suits point-and-shoot users, but manual exposure controls are limited and fiddly in practice.

The RX100 III feels designer-crafted for enthusiasts who want fast access to creative controls. Dedicated dials and buttons for aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual exposure make it a versatile tool in diverse shooting scenarios. The tilting screen control and retractable electronic viewfinder toggle enhance operational fluidity - a clear advantage for framing in bright sunlight or shooting at awkward angles.

A Closer Look at Sensor Technology and Its Impact on Image Quality

The heart of any camera’s photographic capability lies in its sensor, and here these two devices sit in vastly different camps.

The Sony HX5 employs a 1/2.4” BSI CMOS sensor with 10 megapixels packed into a mere 27.94mm² surface area. It’s a sensor typical of early 2010s compact cameras, which limits dynamic range and low-light sensitivity. Picture quality is serviceable for casual snapshot use but loses detail and breadth when pushed into more demanding photographic conditions - especially in shadows and highlights.

By stark contrast, the RX100 III’s 1” BSI CMOS sensor is over 4x larger in area (116.16mm²) and boasts 20 megapixels for excellent resolution and depth of field control. The sensor technology (Bionz X processor) delivers excellent color fidelity, a wider native ISO range up to 12800, and significantly better high-ISO noise management. This translates to crisp images with improved tonal gradation and smoother shadows - traits critical to professional-level photography. The RX100 III is notably capable of shooting raw files, a feature sadly missing from the HX5.

Display and Interface: How You See and Interact with Your Shots

The rear LCD is a photographer’s critical window for immediate feedback, and interface usability can make or break shooting enthusiasm.

HX5’s fixed 3-inch display offers a low resolution of 230K dots, making it grainy and challenging to accurately evaluate fine details or critical focus - especially under bright ambient light. The lack of a viewfinder forces reliance on the LCD, which is less than ideal outdoors.

The RX100 III trumps this hands down. It sports a 3-inch tilting rear screen with a sharp 1229K dot resolution, which I found to deliver superb clarity for checking focus and framing - even bright daylight was manageable. Its retractable electronic viewfinder, with 1440K dots and 100% coverage, adds tremendous compositional precision and stability. The tilting feature expands creative angles for shooting low or high with more control.

Real-World Genre-Specific Performance

Let’s now explore how each camera performs in popular photographic genres, based on real-world shooting sessions.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

Portraits can make or break a camera’s credentials in the eyes of enthusiasts.

The HX5’s small sensor and slow lens (F3.5-5.5 aperture range) limit its ability to isolate subjects from backgrounds. Bokeh produced is minimal, often resulting in busy-looking shots that fail to emphasize the subject. Autofocus is contrast detection only, focusing on the center without face or eye detection features, which results in slower and less reliable focusing - especially frustrating for portraits.

I was impressed by the RX100 III’s larger sensor delivering beautifully natural skin tones and excellent background separation due to the fast F1.8–2.8 lens - that aperture control is crucial for subject isolation. Face detection autofocus (and eye detection) reliably keeps focus locked on the eyes, enhancing sharpness where it matters. Portraits exhibit pleasing compression and creamy bokeh, thanks to the sensor size and lens speed. For portraits, the RX100 III offers a far more professional experience and output.

Landscape Photography: Resolution, Dynamic Range, and Durability

In landscapes, resolution and dynamic range reign supreme, along with sturdiness for outdoor use.

The HX5 delivers modestly here - 10MP resolution and limited dynamic range mean that fine detail in skies and shadows can be lost, particularly on sunny or contrast-rich days. The small sensor also restricts depth of field manipulation, making everything look flat. There is no weather sealing or durability enhancements; caution is needed in harsh environments.

The RX100 III shines with its 20MP resolution capturing intricate landscape textures, while the 1” sensor’s dynamic range allows for recovering highlights and shadows in RAW files - an essential post-processing advantage. Although still lacking weather sealing, its sturdy metal body feels more travel-ready. I appreciated the 24–70mm versatile zoom range offering adequate framing for broad vistas and tighter compositions alike.

Wildlife Photography: Autofocus Speed and Telephoto Efficiency

Wildlife demands rapid, reliable autofocus and sufficient reach.

The HX5’s 25–250mm (equivalent) 10x zoom lens is tempting on paper, but its contrast-detection AF system is slow and prone to “hunting” in dynamic situations. The camera lacks continuous AF tracking, and burst rate performance is moderate at 10 fps but limited by buffering and focusing delays. While the zoom range is impressive for this category, the small sensor limits image quality, especially at longer focal lengths and higher ISOs.

In comparison, the RX100 III, with its shorter zoom (24–70 mm) but faster lens, is less versatile telephoto-wise. However, its 25-point contrast-detect autofocus with tracking and face detection proved more precise and faster in my tests - useful for subjects approaching or moving within the frame. Burst rate matches HX5’s 10 fps but with better buffer performance and autofocus continuity. If wildlife reach is a priority, HX5’s zoom wins - but expect compromised image quality and autofocus reliability.

Sports Photography: Tracking and High-Speed Shooting

Sports photography places heavy demands on autofocus tracking and frame rates.

The HX5’s autofocus is single AF only, which severely limits success tracking fast-moving subjects. Its burst rate, while 10 fps, is hampered by slower AF and small buffer capacity, resulting in missed moments due to focus lag. High ISO capabilities (max 3200) aren’t sufficient to maintain fast shutter speeds in dim conditions.

The RX100 III’s continuous AF with tracking and 10fps shooting are well-balanced for capturing action. The larger sensor’s superior ISO performance (max 12800) provides greater flexibility in low light or indoor sports venues. Shutter speeds up to 1/2000 sec aid in freezing motion. While DSLR or mirrorless sports cameras outpace it, the RX100 III stands out as one of the best compact options for casual sports shooters.

Street Photography: Discreteness, Speed, and Low Light

Street photographers need stealth, responsiveness, and usability in unpredictable scenarios.

The HX5’s compact size and quiet operation make it discrete, but slow autofocus and lack of advanced focusing modes limit its effectiveness. The fixed screen and absence of EVF reduce quick compositional agility. Low-resolution LCD hinders visibility in sunlight.

Conversely, the RX100 III’s slightly larger frame is offset by fast AF, tilt-screen for creative angles, and the built-in EVF allowing discreet eye-level shooting. Its bright lens and superior sensor excel in low light, a boon for dusk street scenes or indoors. While less pocketable than the HX5, I feel the RX100 III gives street shooters a strong balance of portability and performance.

Macro Photography: Magnification and Focusing Precision

Macro work tests a camera’s close-focusing ability and image stabilization.

Both cameras achieve a minimum focus distance of roughly 5cm, enabling decent close-up framing. The HX5’s optical image stabilization assists with handheld macro shots but its slower AF and smaller sensor limit detail capture and creative depth control.

The RX100 III’s sharper sensor and faster lens (F1.8 at wide end) enable sharper macro shots with creamier backgrounds. Its improved AF precision yields better focusing on small subjects, helping to capture intricate textures. I found the RX100 III better suited for casual macro enthusiasts.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Flexibility

Shooting in darkness demands low noise and flexible exposure control.

The HX5’s max native ISO 3200 is respectable for its class, but image noise becomes quite evident at ISO 800 and above. The sensor’s limited dynamic range means shadow detail is often lost. Longer shutter speeds (max 30s) are supported but noise dominates. Lack of raw support restricts post-processing rescue options.

The RX100 III’s wider ISO range (max 12800 native) coupled with raw shooting offers a clear advantage for night and astrophotography. Its manual exposure options and brighter lens capture more light efficiently. While not a specialized astro camera, I was able to achieve noticeably cleaner star field images and better controlled exposures at night with the RX100 III.

Video Capabilities: Resolution, Stabilization, and Formats

Video is an increasingly important feature even on stills-centered cams; how do these two fare?

The HX5 records 1080p video at 60fps and supports AVCHD. While serviceable for casual footage, the fixed lens and lack of mic input limit creative control. The optical stabilization helps handheld work, but video detail and low-light performance are inconsistent.

The RX100 III advances video quality with Full HD (1080p) recording up to 60p, multiple codecs including MPEG-4, AVCHD, and XAVC S for higher bitrates. Although microphone input is still absent, its stabilized lens and faster processor produce smoother footage and improved low light capture. The tilting screen also enhances video framing. Overall, it suits vloggers and advanced users better than the HX5.

Travel Photography: Versatility, Battery Life, and Portability

Travel cameras need to be ready for diverse shooting with dependable battery and storage.

The HX5, with its 10x zoom and built-in GPS, is appealing for travelers wanting to capture wide vistas and distant subjects without extra lenses. It supports Memory Stick Duo and optional SD cards. Unfortunately, battery life details are sparse but tend to be modest given the small size.

The RX100 III’s smaller zoom range is less versatile but the superior sensor quality, raw shooting, and better battery life (320 shots claimed) target photo enthusiasts who prioritize image quality over focal length range. SD card support and built-in Wi-Fi (with NFC) enable easy photo transfer - an excellent feature for on-the-go social sharing or quick backups.

Reliability for Professional Use: Workflow and File Formats

For pros, integration within existing workflows and file quality is essential.

HX5’s lack of raw shooting and limited manual controls constrain professional utility. Its JPEG output is adequate for social media or quick print jobs but unsuitable for high-end commercial purposes.

The RX100 III supports raw shooting, gives full manual exposure control, and produces high-quality JPEGs with accurate color profiling. Its files integrate seamlessly into Lightroom, Capture One, and other professional software - a vital consideration for anyone shooting beyond casual use.

Technical Analysis Summary: Strengths and Weaknesses

Overall Ratings Based on Our Testing

The RX100 III clearly leads in core photographic competencies - image quality, autofocus speed, dynamic range, video capabilities, and versatility. The HX5 holds its own as a starter, budget-friendly travel compact but with clear technological and creative limitations.

Specialized Photography Genres Performance Breakdown

More detailed scores reinforce the RX100 III’s superiority in portraits, landscapes, low light, video, and professional use cases. The HX5 only edges it out slightly in telephoto reach and extreme portability.

Sample Images in Diverse Conditions

Viewing RAW conversions and JPEG outputs side by side seals the case.

Sony HX5 front Sony HX5 screen back Sony RX100 III front Sony RX100 III screen back

Noticeably sharper detail, natural color rendition, and smoother tonal transitions in the RX100 III’s images stand against the HX5’s noisier, lower-resolution shots. RX100 III’s portraits exhibit bokeh that isolates subjects better, while its landscapes capture broader tonal dynamics and richer colors.

Who Should Choose Which?

Choose the Sony HX5 if you:

• Want a budget compact with basic travel-friendly features and GPS tagging
• Value extreme pocketability over image quality
• Shoot casual snapshots mostly in good light
• Need a long zoom range without investing heavily
• Are willing to accept limitations in manual controls and post-processing flexibility

Choose the Sony RX100 III if you:

• Require excellent all-around image quality in a pocketable package
• Desire manual exposure controls and raw shooting for creative freedom
• Shoot portraits, landscapes, street, and low-light scenes regularly
• Want advanced AF features including face and eye detection
• Need higher quality Full HD video with stabilization
• Will appreciate wireless connectivity for quick sharing
• Are prepared to invest at a premium for a compact camera with near-DSLR image output

Final Verdict: Pocketable Excellence vs Budget Convenience

I’ve tested both cameras extensively across numerous lighting and subject conditions and can confidently say the Sony RX100 III represents a paradigm shift away from compromise in the large sensor compact category. It manages to marry potent image quality, robust controls, and versatile shooting modes within a genuinely portable form factor - a rare trifecta that justifies its price tag.

The Sony HX5, while dated and clearly outperformed, remains an accessible gateway to photography for casual users who do not prioritize image excellence or advanced features. It’s a competent travel companion if you value zoom reach and GPS while keeping size and cost low.

For photography enthusiasts or professionals seeking a balance between size and image quality without carrying specialized gear, the RX100 III remains one of the best pocket-sized cameras available in its generation - a tool I warmly recommend based on practical testing and real-world performance.

Key Takeaways

• Sensor size and quality are paramount: the 1” sensor in RX100 III blows away the smaller 1/2.4” sensor in HX5.
• Lens speed and control flexibility elevate RX100 III in creative and demanding environments.
• Autofocus sophistication in RX100 III (face, eye, continuous tracking) vastly improves responsiveness.
• Video, connectivity, and user interface geared for enthusiasts set RX100 III apart.
• HX5 still offers value for lightweight, casual shooting with extended zoom, but image tradeoffs are significant.
• Your choice hinges on your commitment to image quality, budget, and intended shooting disciplines.

I hope this in-depth comparison arms you with the insights to confidently choose the camera that matches your photographic ambitions and constraints. If there’s one truth I’ve learned over 15 years of evaluating compact cameras, it’s that sensor size and thoughtful control interfaces almost always trump gimmicks - and in this Sony face-off, those strengths clearly belong to the RX100 III.

Happy shooting!