Sony HX9V vs Sony RX100

Here is a in depth review of the Sony HX9V versus Sony RX100, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Large Sensor Compact and both are sold by Sony. The resolution of the HX9V (16MP) and the RX100 (20MP) is very well matched but the HX9V (1/2.3") and RX100 (1") offer totally different sensor sizing.

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The HX9V was released 13 months prior to the RX100 making them a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Sony HX9V being a Compact camera and the Sony RX100 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before diving into a detailed comparison, here is a concise overview of how the HX9V scores against the RX100 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX9V & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100. The complete galleries are viewable at Sony HX9V Gallery & Sony RX100 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera often, you should consider its weight and volume. The Sony HX9V features exterior measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 34mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs) whilst the Sony RX100 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") having a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

See the Sony HX9V versus Sony RX100 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Below is a front view size comparison of the HX9V versus the RX100.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the HX9V and RX100 is 91 and 91 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizing just by looking at specs. The photograph here might give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the HX9V and RX100.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The HX9V because of its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field more difficult and the Sony RX100 will give more detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The older HX9V is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.