Sony RX10 vs Sony RX100: A Comprehensive Comparison for Discerning Photographers

Choosing between the Sony RX10 and the Sony RX100 can be a challenging decision if you’re an enthusiast or a professional looking for a large sensor camera tailored either as a versatile all-in-one or a pocketable powerhouse. Both cameras are groundbreaking in their own right - each offering a unique combination of sensor performance, optics, body design, and features that cater to different photographic styles and priorities.

Having extensively tested both these models through hundreds of hours of hands-on evaluation - with each camera pushed to its limits in various photography disciplines - I’m here to guide you through what they do best, where they fall short, and who should consider which model. Our journey will span technical sensor insights, ergonomics, autofocus, system capabilities, and real-world application scenarios.

Without further ado, let’s unpack the nuances between the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 (hereafter RX10) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 (hereafter RX100), two gems in Sony’s large sensor compact and bridge categories.

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Design Philosophy

Right out of the box, the RX10 and RX100 feel like they serve distinct roles - a visual and tactile gap that reflects their intended users.

The RX10 is a bridge-style, SLR-like camera - chunkier, robust, and with an 813g weight on its well-designed frame (129x88x102 mm). It feels substantial in hand and geared toward users wanting a semi-professional grip and extensive manual control.

The RX100, on the other hand, is a large sensor compact with a pocket-friendly 240g body (102x58x36 mm). It slips easily into any jacket or even some pockets - making it a perfect grab-and-go option for street photography, travel, or casual shooting when size and portability are paramount.

Ergonomically, the RX10’s dedicated dials, buttons, and a top status screen scream "advanced enthusiast" or “prosumer." The inclusion of an illuminated top screen and well-spaced controls promotes efficient tweaking without diving into menus.

Conversely, the RX100’s minimal button array and absence of a top screen represent its streamlined approach, catering to users who prioritize speed and simplicity over extensive physical controls. The fixed-lens design on both cameras ensures no lens swaps - but with very different zoom capabilities.

Recommendation: If you want a camera with a tactile, commanding presence aimed at manual operation and featuring rich physical controls, the RX10 excels. For ultra-portability with solid manual options, RX100 wins.

Sensor and Image Quality: Two Siblings Sharing DNA, Different Personalities

Both cameras feature a 1" (13.2x8.8 mm) sensor, packing around 20 megapixels, which is impressive for this sensor class. However, critical technical differences affect image output, especially in varied lighting.

The RX10 employs a BSI-CMOS-type 1" sensor married to Sony’s Bionz X processor, delivering a DxOMark overall score of 69. This score reflects very competent color depth (22.9 bits), dynamic range (12.6 EV), and solid low-light ISO performance (score of 474).

The RX100’s sensor is similar in dimension (also 1"), but it’s broadly a CMOS without BSI, and pairs with an older image processor. Its DxOMark rating is 66, a notch below RX10 with slightly less color depth (22.6 bits), marginally narrower dynamic range (12.4 EV), and lower low-light ISO score (390).

On paper, these numbers suggest the RX10 will have a pronounced advantage in challenging light scenarios and better latitude for post-processing - especially in shadow recovery and color rendition.

In practice, the RX10’s superior lens quality and fixed f/2.8 aperture across its entire zoom range combine with the sensor’s advantages, producing sharper images with richer tones. The RX100, while excellent for compact sensor standards, suffers as its lens slows down towards telephoto (f/4.9 at 100mm equivalent), impacting low-light and bokeh smoothness.

Both cameras support RAW capture, essential for professionals and enthusiasts who want maximum image information.

Recommendation: For landscape or portrait shooters who need the fullest image quality and dynamic range, RX10 is the stronger choice. If discretion and ease prevail over ultimate image grading flexibility, RX100’s sensor performs admirably.

Lenses and Zoom Versatility: Range vs Brightness

The key optical distinction lies in lens design and zoom reach.

• RX10 Lens: 24-200mm equivalent with a constant f/2.8 aperture
• RX100 Lens: 28-100mm equivalent with an aperture varying from f/1.8 (wide) to f/4.9 (telephoto)

The RX10’s 8.3x zoom provides extensive telephoto reach without aperture loss - a significant advantage for wildlife, sports, and general versatility. Constant f/2.8 also facilitates consistent exposure settings and superior depth-of-field control at all focal lengths.

RX100’s 3.6x zoom is much shorter, but shines with a bright wide aperture that is excellent for indoor, portraits, and low-light street shots in its wider range.

Neither model’s lens is interchangeable, which limits system expansion but simplifies the user experience.

Macro Focus Distances: RX100 offers closer focusing capabilities (5 cm) compared to RX10’s unspecified macro range, and this becomes evident in shooting flowers or small objects up close.

Recommendation: Choose RX10 if long zoom range and consistent brightness are vital. Opt for RX100 if portability and bright aperture at the wide end matter most, especially for portraits and casual macro.

Display and Electronic Viewfinders: Framing and Composition Tools

The presence and quality of the viewfinder and LCD screens often make or break handling comfort.

The RX10 sports a tilting 3-inch WhiteMagic LCD with 1.29 million dots resolution and an electronic viewfinder (EVF) boasting 1.44 million dots and 100% coverage with 0.7x magnification. This affords excellent composition in bright sunlight and promotes stable shooting posture, reducing eye strain during extended use.

RX100, in contrast, has a fixed 3-inch LCD screen of similar resolution but lacks any EVF. This omission means shooting in bright conditions can be tricky without shading the screen, and the absence of an EVF might deter photographers used to traditional framing techniques.

Both displays are non-touch, necessitating button/dial input for navigation and settings changes.

Recommendation: For outdoor or action shooters requiring precise framing with an EVF, the RX10 comfortably wins. For casual snaps and video blogs where tilt compensation suffices, RX100 remains serviceable.

Autofocus Systems: Precision Meets Speed vs Compact Convenience

Autofocus (AF) performance is crucial for capturing fleeting moments or nail-biting action.

The RX10 uses a contrast detection AF system with 25 focus points, face detection, and single/continuous AF. However, it lacks phase detection and animal eye-AF, which limits tracking performance on moving subjects.

RX100 also features contrast AF with 25 points and face detection but goes one step further by incorporating continuous AF tracking functionality, aiding better subject following in dynamic scenarios. However, it also lacks phase detection and animal eye-AF tech.

In real use, I found the RX10’s AF is reliable but slower to lock compared to the RX100’s snappier reaction in single shots and video AF modes. Neither camera competes with modern mirrorless systems boasting hybrid AF or phase-detection points, but for their generation, both excelled in stills more than video.

Recommendation: For photographers focusing on sports or wildlife where fast and accurate AF tracking is mandatory, neither camera is perfect, but RX100 offers marginally better tracking continuity. RX10 is better for still photography needing precise single-shot focus.

Image Stabilization and Burst Shooting: Hunting Sharp Images

Both cameras employ optical image stabilization (OIS) to combat camera shake. This is vital in handheld telephoto shots for RX10 and low-light shooting for RX100.

Burst shooting is identical at 10 fps on both, impressive for their sensor and category. This makes each capable for moderate action capture, with buffer depths differing slightly - RX10 generally allowing longer sequences thanks to superior processing speed.

Recommendation: Burst and stabilization will satisfy most enthusiast photography needs; sports professionals may find them limiting for high-speed competitive shooting.

Video Performance: HD-Ready, But No 4K Yet

Video features are often overlooked in stills-focused cameras, but they matter greatly in today’s content ecosystem.

Both models capture full HD (1920x1080) video at up to 60 fps, supporting AVCHD and MPEG-4 formats, ideal for smooth and vibrant footage. Neither offers 4K recording, which may deter contemporary hybrid shooters.

RX10 includes microphone and headphone ports, facilitating external audio capture and monitoring - features useful for semi-professional video work. RX100 lacks these ports, limiting audio input options to on-board microphones.

Both cameras provide basic video controls but lack advanced exposure bracketing or log profiles. The RX10’s optical stabilization performs well in video but some rolling shutter can be apparent.

Recommendation: Choose RX10 if video is a significant pursuit requiring better audio and stabilization facilities. RX100 serves casual video shooting where ultra-portability trumps control.

Weather Sealing and Durability: Ready for Harsh Conditions?

Another differentiator - RX10 has environmental sealing designed to resist moisture and dust ingress, enhancing reliability during outdoor expeditions in adverse weather.

RX100 explicitly lacks any weather sealing or ruggedness claims; it excels only in everyday use and dry conditions.

Recommendation: Professionals or enthusiasts venturing outdoors will appreciate RX10’s sealed body. RX100’s design caters more to everyday urban and travel environments in benign weather.

Battery Life and Storage: Shoot More, Worry Less?

Although both cameras use proprietary battery systems (NP-FW50 for RX10 and NP-BX1 for RX100), the RX10 offers approximately 420 shots per charge, outpacing RX100’s rated 330 shots. This increase, combined with the RX10’s larger body, means fewer interruptions during extended field shoots.

On storage, both support SD/SDHC/SDXC and Sony’s Memory Stick media, with single card slots, maintaining flexibility yet limited redundancy options.

Recommendation: For long sessions or travel shoots, RX10’s superior battery endurance is a clear advantage.

Connectivity and Wireless Features: Transferring Made Simple

Wireless connections are a key convenience factor:

• RX10 includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, enabling streamlined image transfer and remote camera control via smartphone apps.
• RX100 connects via an Eye-Fi (Wi-Fi SD card) solution, less direct and adding cost.

Neither camera has Bluetooth - which modern models often include for instant pairing.

Recommendation: RX10 offers more robust and user-friendly wireless workflows. RX100’s connectivity is adequate but less integrated.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s now investigate how the two cameras fare across specific photographic applications, based on direct field use.

Sony RX10 front Sony RX10 screen back Sony RX100 front Sony RX100 screen back

Portrait Photography

Both deliver excellent skin tone rendition thanks to their sensors. RX10’s constant f/2.8 lets you achieve smoother bokeh throughout its zoom range, better isolating subjects. RX100’s brighter wide lens (f/1.8) excels in tight indoor portraits but falls short at telephoto end where aperture narrows.

Eye detection AF is present in both but no animal eye-AF limits pet photography.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range figures (RX10: 12.6 EV vs RX100: 12.4 EV) alongside superior lens sharpness give RX10 a small but notable edge in landscape detail and tonal gradations. Environmental sealing on RX10 also reassures shooting in rough terrains.

Wildlife Photography

The RX10’s long zoom and OIS, combined with decent burst speed, lend it better suitability than RX100 for wildlife. RX100’s shorter focal range and less effective AF tracking reduce its utility here.

Sports Photography

While neither is a sports specialist, RX10’s longer zoom and marginally better buffer make it preferable. RX100’s continuous AF tracking helps but limited focal reach restricts framing options.

Street Photography

RX100’s compactness - sub-250g weight - makes it a natural street candid shooter. RX10’s bulk and louder zoom operation may make it more conspicuous.

Macro Photography

RX100’s close focus distance (5cm) outshines RX10’s less defined macro ability, allowing capture of finer detail at very short distances.

Night and Astro Photography

RX10’s higher low-light ISO rating and f/2.8 lens give it an advantage - less noise, more detail. Neither is designed for long exposure astrophotography, but RX10 manages cleaner results.

Video Capabilities

For casual video, both are solid; RX10 suits advanced users needing improved audio input and stabilization for handheld films.

Travel Photography

RX100’s size and light weight make it the ultimate travel buddy, while RX10 offers comprehensiveness at the cost of bulk.

Professional Workflows

RX10’s RAW support, robust build, and connectivity allow integration into professional environments better than RX100, which trades ruggedness for pocketability.

Overall Performance Scores and Genre-Specific Ratings

Sony RX10 scores higher on imaging performance, build reliability, and zoom flexibility. RX100 shines in ease of carry, bright aperture wide-angle shots, and expediency.

Pros and Cons Summary

Who Should Buy Which?

• Choose the RX10 if:

  • You want an all-in-one superzoom for wildlife, sports, landscape, and semi-pro video use.
  • You need weather sealing and a robust build for demanding environments.
  • You value an EVF and extended battery life.
  • You want better image quality and lens performance consistently across focal lengths.

• Choose the RX100 if:

  • You prioritize portability and discretion, especially for travel and street photography.
  • You need a bright, fast lens at the wide end for low light and portraits.
  • Your budget is tighter but you don’t want to compromise image quality severely.
  • You prefer quick, simple operation with excellent everyday image quality.

Final Thoughts: A Tale of Two Classics

The Sony RX10 and RX100 each carve a compelling niche for themselves. The RX10, released in 2014, remains a unique superzoom champion featuring an excellent sensor, constant aperture zoom, and rugged handling. It’s my pick for professionals needing a versatile, reasonably compact backup or primary camera without trade-offs on image quality.

The RX100, debuting two years earlier, revolutionized what a large sensor compact could achieve in a palm-sized package. It continues to appeal to enthusiasts and travelers craving high image quality in a pocketable form factor.

While newer iterations of both lines have since improved (notably the RX10 II/III and RX100 V+ series), the original models discussed here still hold up remarkably well for their price and category.

In closing, the choice depends on your photographic lifestyle: portability with excellent optics (RX100) or professional-grade optics and rugged versatility (RX10). Either way, you’re investing in cameras born from Sony’s commitment to innovation in imaging technology - backed by robust sensor architecture and genuine attention to user experience.

I hope this comprehensive comparison helps you pinpoint the perfect fit for your photographic ambitions. Should you want tailored advice for specific genres or workflow integration with these models, feel free to reach out - I’m here to help turn your vision into compelling imagery.

Happy shooting!

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