Sony RX1R II vs Sony W730

Sony RX1R II vs. Sony W730: A Definitive Comparison for Discerning Photographers

In evaluating cameras that ostensibly serve different ends of the photographic spectrum, it is easy to overlook just how radically different two models within the same manufacturer’s portfolio can be - and yet how profoundly those differences influence user experience and photographic output. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II (hereafter RX1R II) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W730 (hereafter W730) provide a compelling case study in this regard, representing the large sensor compact and small sensor compact segments respectively. This exhaustive comparison aims to dissect each camera’s capabilities, limitations, and suitability for varied photographic applications with the clarity and precision that experienced photographers demand.

Physical Design and Handling Dynamics

A fundamental divergence lies in form factor. The RX1R II, weighing 507 grams with dimensions of 113 x 65 x 72 mm, occupies the “large sensor compact” classification. Its solid magnesium alloy chassis offers robust construction that feels substantial in hand without being unwieldy. The ergonomics are thoughtfully executed, particularly considering the fixed lens design, with textured grip zones that facilitate stable handling during prolonged sessions.

In contrast, the W730 is a compact camera weighing a mere 122 grams and sporting a petite 93 x 52 x 22 mm body. The plastic construction and slim profile enhance portability but inherently trade off rigidity and durability. The W730 fits comfortably into pockets and is optimized for casual street and travel photography where minimal bulk is paramount. However, its lightweight design may compromise steadiness and precise control in demanding shooting scenarios.

The clear implication: photographers prioritizing durability, ergonomic comfort, and direct manual control will find the RX1R II’s design superior. Conversely, those valuing ultra-portability and discrete operation should consider the W730.

Control Layout and User Interface

Operating the RX1R II is a tactile pleasure for users familiar with advanced cameras. The top plate incorporates dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation, alongside a programmable function button enabling quick access to customizable settings. While the absence of a touchscreen may inconvenience some, the tilting 3-inch LCD with 1,229k-dot resolution complements the ergonomic control layout. The integrated electronic viewfinder (EVF) offers 2,359k-dot resolution with approximately 0.74x magnification, providing critical framing precision under a variety of lighting conditions.

The W730’s control philosophy diverges markedly. It offers a touchscreen interface on its 2.7-inch, 230k-dot fixed LCD but completely forgoes a viewfinder. Physical buttons are minimal and somewhat cramped given the small body. The absence of manual exposure modes and dedicated dials limits operational flexibility, streamlining the experience for casual users but constraining creative control.

For workflow-centric photographers who rely on manual adjustments and speedy access to settings, the RX1R II clearly affords an advantage. The W730 serves best as a point-and-shoot for straightforward snapshots rather than nuanced image making.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Metrics

The heart of the RX1R II is a full-frame (35.9 x 24 mm) back-illuminated CMOS sensor delivering an imposing 42.4-megapixel resolution with no optical low pass (anti-aliasing) filter. The sensor area, approximately 861.6 mm², markedly outstrips W730’s diminutive 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm) CCD sensor that outputs 16 megapixels at approximately 28.07 mm² sensor area. This difference in sensor scale and technology is reflected explicitly in image quality and dynamic range.

From a testing standpoint, the RX1R II achieves a DxOMark overall score of 97, positioning it in the upper echelon of compact cameras. It boasts an impressive color depth of 25.8 bits and dynamic range of 13.9 EV stops - critical for preserving highlight and shadow information in challenging lighting. Low-light performance is equally commendable, with a ISO sensitivity ceiling of 25,600 (expandable to 102,400) and DxOMark low-light ISO rating of 3,204, underscoring effective noise control and fine detail retention at high sensitivity.

The W730’s sensor, constrained by smaller size and older CCD technology, offers modest output quality. Its maximum native ISO is capped at 3,200, with more pronounced noise and color degradation beyond ISO 400 in practical testing. The camera’s overall imaging capability is consistent with entry-level compacts intended for casual snapshots.

Lens and Optics: Fixed vs. Zoom Flexibility

Optically, the RX1R II features a premium fixed 35mm f/2.0 Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* lens. This prime lens is optimized to exploit the sensor’s full resolving power, offering exceptional sharpness from corner to corner, minimal chromatic aberration, and attractive bokeh rendering attributable to the wide aperture. The macro focusing distance is commendably close at 14 cm, supporting near-subject detail capture.

The W730 offers a modest 25-224mm equivalent zoom lens with an aperture range of f/3.3-6.3. While this flexibility extends compositional framing options, image quality suffers due to the relatively slow aperture, limited resolution of the sensor, and inherent compromises in compact zoom optics - such as softness at telephoto extremes and visible distortion when examined critically.

Practitioners emphasizing image fidelity and shallow depth-of-field control will gravitate naturally to the RX1R II’s fixed prime lens. Casual shooters seeking versatility in focal length may prefer the W730’s zoom but must accept the tradeoffs in image quality.

Autofocus System Performance and Speed

The autofocus mechanisms of these cameras are fundamentally different, shaped by their sensor technologies and processing architectures.

The RX1R II employs a hybrid autofocus system combining 25 phase-detection AF points with contrast detection, including face detection capability. While it lacks real-time eye or animal eye AF - now commonplace in newer models - its precise focusing, especially in good light, is reliably accurate. However, autofocus speed is average rather than class-leading, reflective of the older processor generation (BIONZ X) and the limited number of focus points. Continuous AF tracking is not supported, restricting its utility in dynamic subjects.

In contrast, the W730 implements contrast-detection AF without phase detection, with an unspecified number of AF points but limited flexibility. AF tracking exists but is rudimentary, suitable primarily for static or slow-moving scenes. In low light or complex scenes, focusing sluggishness and hunting are notable.

For wildlife and sports photographers requiring rapid, accurate continuous tracking, neither camera provides an optimal solution. The RX1R II can deliver superior single-shot AF performance in static conditions, while the W730 remains confined to basic snapshot focus capabilities.

Shooting Speeds and Buffer Handling

The RX1R II supports burst shooting at 5 fps, which is moderate for a full-frame camera but restricted by its buffer size and processor throughput. This rate is sufficient for portrait and landscape photography but limits action photography potential.

The W730’s maximum burst rate is a single frame per second - a significant bottleneck for any situation involving movement - effectively precluding serious sports or wildlife shooting.

Within these constraints, neither camera is suited to fast-paced action capture, though the RX1R II at least allows limited burst shooting compatible with deliberate work flows.

Low Light and High ISO Capabilities

With its back-illuminated full-frame sensor, the RX1R II excels in low-light scenarios. Testing reveals clean images up to ISO 3200 with manageable noise levels, extending usability into dim indoor and nighttime conditions. The wide f/2.0 lens further facilitates lower ISO shooting by enabling more light capture.

The W730’s smaller CCD sensor, slower maximum aperture, and limited native ISO range restrict its low-light utility to well-lit environments. Images shot even at ISO 400 begin to show visible luminance noise and color shift under scrutiny.

For photographers who frequently encounter variable lighting or intent on astrophotography or night scenes, the RX1R II is principally favored.

Video Functionality and Audio Features

Both cameras provide video recording capabilities, but their specifications differ sharply.

The RX1R II records full HD 1080p video up to 60 fps using MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S, and H.264 codecs. These formats enable versatile editing pipelines suitable for professionals, and the camera includes a microphone port for external audio input - a critical feature for high-quality sound capture. However, no headphone jack is provided for audio monitoring.

The W730 captures video at 720p maximum resolution and 30 fps frame rate, employing MPEG-4 and AVCHD codecs. It lacks external microphone connectivity, limiting audio quality and post-production control.

Neither model offers 4K video or advanced video features such as log profiles or vibrational compensation beyond optical image stabilization on the W730’s stills mode only.

Stabilization Systems

Image stabilization in the W730 is implemented optically and functions effectively at telephoto settings, promoting sharper images handheld. This is valuable given its smaller sensor size and limited low-light performance.

The RX1R II does not feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS) or optical stabilization in its fixed lens. Users must therefore rely on shutter speed discipline and external tripods to mitigate camera shake, particularly in low light or macro contexts - a notable limitation for a camera aimed at professionals.

Battery Life and Storage Media

Battery endurance is a practical criterion for prolonged shooting sessions. The RX1R II uses an NP-BX1 battery offering approximately 220 shots per charge, below average for professional cameras and necessitating spare batteries for extended outings.

Conversely, the W730’s NP-BN battery supports around 240 shots - a slight improvement, augmented by the camera’s simple electronics and LCD-only user interface.

Both cameras employ common SD/SDHC/SDXC cards (with Memory Stick variants supported as well), sustaining standardized data storage processes.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Wireless connectivity further distinguishes these models. The RX1R II incorporates built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, enabling remote camera control, image transfer to smartphones, and social media sharing workflows highly compatible with modern professional demands.

The W730 lacks any wireless features, necessitating physical connection for file transfer, which may hinder efficiency for users accustomed to cloud or mobile workflows.

HDMI connectivity is present on the RX1R II, facilitating video output to external monitors or capture devices, enhancing its multimedia versatility. The W730 does not offer such external video interfaces.

Durability and Environmental Sealing

Neither model includes environmental seals or waterproofing, limiting their utility in adverse weather conditions. While the RX1R II’s sturdier body affords greater resilience to shock and dust, the W730’s lightweight plastic construction is best suited to sheltered or casual use scenarios.

Evaluating the Cameras Across Photography Genres

To contextualize these specifications into practical user scenarios, the following genre-specific analysis reconciles technical details with real-world photographic requirements.

1. Portrait Photography

The RX1R II excels with its high-resolution full-frame sensor that captures fine texture and exquisite skin tones. The 35mm f/2 lens produces shallow depth of field, rendering creamy bokeh that isolates subjects effectively. The 25-point hybrid AF with face detection assures focused eyes in static portraits, albeit without eye-AF refinement, requiring careful manual focus confirmation.

The W730, with limited aperture range and smaller sensor, produces portraits that lack subject separation and display less pleasing color gradation. Autofocus is functional for casual snaps but lacks precision and speed for professional portrait work.

2. Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution are paramount here. The RX1R II’s 13.9 EV dynamic range enables capture of expansive tonal gradations, conserving highlight and shadow information vital in landscapes. Its 42-megapixel sensor supports large-format printing and cropping flexibility.

Weather sealing absence is less detrimental in landscapes often protected by tripods or environmental precautions.

The W730’s small sensor and limited dynamic range curtail detailed landscape fidelity. Zoom flexibility is an asset but not compensatory for sensor limitations.

3. Wildlife Photography

Autofocus speed and tracking reliability are critical. Neither model is ideal, but the RX1R II’s hybrid AF and higher burst rate afford better static subject capture. The fixed 35mm lens severely limits reach; teleconverters are not an option.

The W730’s extensive zoom range is useful for distant subjects but compromised by sluggish AF and image quality at telephoto extremes.

4. Sports Photography

Requires rapid AF tracking and high frame rates. The RX1R II’s 5 fps burst and non-continuous AF tracking constrain utility. The W730’s 1 fps rate and slow AF render it unsuitable.

Neither is recommended for serious sports action.

5. Street Photography

Portability and discretion are priorities. The W730’s small size and quiet operation favor candid shots. However, image quality compromises reduce final output value.

The RX1R II, while larger, offers superior rendering and manual control at the cost of discreetness.

6. Macro Photography

Close focusing distances are 14 cm for RX1R II and 5 cm for W730. The RX1R II’s lack of stabilization requires more care, but sensor resolution and lens quality deliver sharper detail. The W730’s optical stabilization aids handheld macro but yields softer results.

7. Night and Astrophotography

RX1R II’s high ISO capability and clean noise profile are advantageous. The W730 is ill-suited here due to noise and limited manual control.

8. Video Capture

The RX1R II supports full HD 60p with professional codecs and audio input, appealing for hybrid photo/video workflows. W730 is limited to 720p with basic features.

9. Travel Photography

The W730’s size, lightweight, and zoom versatility suit uninterrupted travel. The RX1R II, though larger and heavier, delivers superior image quality for travel photographers prioritizing image integrity over convenience.

10. Professional Applications

RAW support, build quality, connectivity, and manual controls position the RX1R II as the only candidate for professional photographic workflows within this comparison.

The W730 is relegated to casual or entry-level secondary camera roles.

Sony RX1R II front Sony RX1R II screen back Sony W730 front Sony W730 screen back

Technical Summary and Scoring

Integrating all metrics yields a comprehensive perspective on the cameras’ relative performance.

Cost-to-Performance Ratio

The W730’s rock-bottom price makes it a feasible choice for budget-driven consumers in need of a simple, grab-and-go camera. However, this affordability comes with significant compromises in quality and functionality.

The RX1R II commands a premium price reflective of its technical sophistication and professional-grade capabilities. For serious enthusiasts and professionals, the investment is justified by the outstanding image quality and comprehensive feature set.

Recommendations Based on Use-Case

• Professional portrait and fine art photographers: The RX1R II is unequivocal. Its image quality, color fidelity, and manual controls provide requisite creative latitude and output excellence.

• Landscape photographers: The RX1R II’s dynamic range and resolution offer superior rendering, notwithstanding the lack of weather sealing.

• Wildlife and sports photographers: Neither camera is ideal. Consider specialized DSLRs or mirrorless models with advanced AF and telephoto options.

• Casual street and travel photographers: The W730’s portability and zoom versatile lens suit casual travel photography where convenience overrides ultimate quality.

• Macro enthusiasts: The RX1R II, though lacking stabilization, offers superior detail and control.

• Videographers: The RX1R II’s advanced codecs and external microphone port offer marginally better production options.

Final Thoughts

The Sony RX1R II asserts itself as a benchmark large-sensor compact camera with remarkable image quality and a refined user interface designed for serious photography practitioners. Its limitations, notably in autofocus speed and lack of stabilization, reflect its 2015 architecture but are offset by premium sensor technology and optics.

Conversely, the Sony W730 serves as a distinctly different tool - an inexpensive, pocketable camera emphasizing ease of use and straightforward image capture over advanced performance. It occupies the niche of an entry-level compact intended for casual usage rather than professional or enthusiast needs.

Those selecting between these two must recognize their fundamentally disparate design philosophies and practical applications. The RX1R II caters to photographers who demand uncompromising quality in a compact form factor, while the W730 appeals to novices or budget-conscious users requiring simplicity and portability.

Comprehensive hands-on testing affirms that neither model cannibalizes the other’s market but rather embodies distinct photographic priorities. Prospective buyers should weigh image output requirements, operational control, and budget constraints carefully before investing.