Sony RX100 vs Sony RX1R

In this article, we are contrasting the Sony RX100 and Sony RX1R, both Large Sensor Compact cameras and they are both created by Sony. The sensor resolution of the RX100 (20MP) and the RX1R (24MP) is fairly close but the RX100 (1") and RX1R (Full frame) feature totally different sensor size.

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The RX100 was announced 10 months before the RX1R which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Large Sensor Compact).

Before getting through a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the RX100 grades against the RX1R in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R. The whole galleries are provided at Sony RX100 Gallery and Sony RX1R Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and size. The Sony RX100 enjoys physical dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs) and the Sony RX1R has specifications of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") and a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Compare the Sony RX100 and Sony RX1R in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have during that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the RX100 and the RX1R.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the RX100 and RX1R is 91 and 79 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing merely by researching specifications. The visual here should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the RX100 and RX1R.

To sum up, each of these cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The RX100 using its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field more difficult and the Sony RX1R will provide you with greater detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop images a little more aggressively. The older RX100 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.