Sony RX1R vs Sony W690: A Deep Dive Into Two Compact Cameras at Opposite Ends of the Spectrum

When comparing cameras that share a brand but diverge dramatically in design philosophy and target users, the Sony Cyber-shot RX1R and Sony Cyber-shot W690 present a fascinating study. On the surface, both belong to the “compact” category - they fit comfortably in a large jacket pocket or small bag. But beyond that superficial similarity, they represent different eras, sensor technologies, and photographic ambitions.

As someone who has tested thousands of cameras under rigorous studio conditions and real-world use cases, I’m excited to share an honest, thorough comparison that will help you understand what you get (and what you sacrifice) with these two models. This article is more than a spec sheet revisit - it’s a practical guide rooted in hands-on experience and technical depth.

Let’s embark on this journey by first pausing to consider their physical presence and handling.

Size and Handling: Pocket Friendly or Grip Friendly?

Physically, these cameras couldn’t be more different. The Sony RX1R is a large sensor compact that feels robust in the hand yet surprisingly pocketable for what it contains. Its dimensions sit at approximately 113 x 65 x 70 mm, weighing in at 482 grams, compared to the featherweight W690 which measures just 94 x 56 x 22 mm and tips the scales at a mere 142 grams.

The RX1R’s heft translates to a solid grip and a sense of confidence, especially when paired with its fixed 35mm f/2 lens, which balances perfectly with the body. Meanwhile, the W690 lives up to its "point-and-shoot" lineage with a compact, lightweight frame designed for convenience on the go. It fits effortlessly in the smallest pocket or purse with barely any notice.

Handling the RX1R is a tactile pleasure with well-placed buttons and a purposeful build that encourages deliberate shooting. The W690’s compactness means control surfaces are minimal, targeting casual users or those who require simplicity over complexity.

In practice, this means:

• RX1R users can enjoy a more precise tactile experience and better manual control.
• W690 owners will appreciate the ease of slipping the camera in and out for spontaneous snapshots.

Ergonomics and control layout differences become even clearer when we see what’s on top.

Top Controls and Interface: Manual Mastery vs. Simplicity

Opening the known arsenal, the RX1R boasts a clean but functionally dense control layout. Neither camera has an articulated or touchscreen, but the RX1R's physical controls invite exploration.

The RX1R sports dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation along with a customizable function button. These controls not only speed up the workflow for experienced photographers but also provide direct access without menu diving - a must when shooting in dynamic environments.

On the other hand, the W690’s top panel is decidedly minimalist, with little more than a zoom lever and a shutter button, reflecting its intent as a grab-and-go travel camera rather than a precision instrument.

For photographers who thrive in manual modes, controlling aperture and shutter manually, the RX1R offers an experience that feels rooted in DSLR-like reliability. The W690 is more about point-and-shoot convenience without exposing users to the full manual gamut.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

This is where these two fundamentally part ways - sensor size, resolution, and raw image quality. The RX1R employs a full-frame 35.8 x 23.9 mm CMOS sensor, capturing a generous 24MP resolution with a sensor area of roughly 855.62 mm². Conversely, the W690 relies on a considerably smaller 1/2.3” (6.17 x 4.55 mm) CCD sensor with 16MP effective pixels and a sensor area just 28.07 mm².

Full-frame sensors like the RX1R's, especially without an anti-aliasing filter, deliver superior dynamic range, color depth, and low-light performance. This translates to more detail retention in the highlights and shadows, better color accuracy, and significantly improved noise control at higher ISOs. The W690, typical of compact cameras of its class and period, struggles beyond bright daylight conditions due to the inherent limitations of its sensor technology and optics.

When observing DxOMark-style lab results:

• The RX1R boasts an overall score of 91, color depth of 25 bits, dynamic range of 13.6 EV, and usable ISO well beyond 2500.
• The W690 hasn’t been officially tested on these specialized platforms, but its sensor type and size clearly indicate simpler, more limited image quality.

In practical terms:

• Shoot portraits, landscapes, or any low-light scenario with the RX1R and expect crisp images with rich tonality.
• The W690 suffices for casual snapshots under bright conditions but produces softer images with limited tonal reproduction and noise becoming evident rapidly.

Rear LCD and Viewfinder Experience: Composing Your Shot

Both cameras feature fixed 3” LCD screens without touch capabilities, but their resolutions and display technologies differ markedly, affecting framing and image preview clarity.

The RX1R incorporates a 1229k-dot Xtra FineTFT LCD display that renders images with sharp detail and vibrant colors. Combined with an optional Electronic or even Optical Viewfinder (not built-in), it caters to photographers who transition seamlessly between eye-level shooting and live view.

The W690’s screen is a basic 230k-dot ClearPhoto TFT LCD. This lower resolution translates to less precise image review and less accurate color reproduction on the LCD, factors that hamper precise manual focus assessment and critical framing.

For photographers who rely heavily on their screens for focusing and composition:

• RX1R offers a high-resolution experience that complements its excellent image quality.
• W690 delivers basic framing capabilities that suffice for quick snaps but may frustrate users seeking critical control.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Getting The Shot Right

Autofocus capabilities differentiate cameras in real-world speed and accuracy, particularly in dynamic genres like sports, wildlife, or street photography.

The RX1R uses a contrast-detection AF system with 25 focus points, face detection capabilities, and single-shot AF tracking. Notably, it lacks phase-detection or advanced AF tracking like animal-eye or continuous AF. Its continuous shooting speed is 5 fps.

The W690 sports basic contrast-detect AF as well, with unspecified focus points and a single fps burst rate, suitable for still-life or casual snapshots but not action.

Here’s what the field tests tell us:

• RX1R, despite lacking phase-detect pixels, focuses reliably in good light but may struggle with rapid subject tracking.
• W690’s AF is comparatively slow, often hunting in low light or complex scenes.
• Neither camera is ideal for fast-moving subjects.

Therefore:

• For portraits, architecture, and landscapes, the RX1R’s AF accuracy and single-point control are superior.
• For casual family or travel snaps, W690’s simplicity remains acceptable.

Lens and Focal Length Capability: Fixed vs. Zoom

Lens versatility largely determines a camera’s flexibility for various photo styles.

The RX1R has a fixed 35 mm f/2 lens, renowned for its sharp optics, minimal distortion, and pleasing bokeh for portraits. This moderately wide perspective favors street, documentary, environmental portraits, and general everyday photography.

The W690’s zoom lens ranges from 25 to 250 mm (10x optical zoom) with max apertures varying from f/3.3 to f/5.9. This extended zoom offers flexibility for landscape wide-angles as well as reach into distant subjects but at the expense of lower brightness and optical quality compared to the RX1R’s prime.

Practically:

• The RX1R’s prime lens delivers superior image quality, sharpness, and low-light performance.
• The W690’s lens makes it a versatile snapshot device but with compromised image quality especially at telephoto and widest apertures.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Should You Take It Outside?

Neither model boasts professional-grade weather sealing or ruggedized construction. Both are lightweight, primarily plastic-bodied cameras designed for portability rather than extreme conditions.

However, the RX1R’s sturdy metal chassis gives it a more durable feel and a broader tolerance to the everyday bumps of travel and shooting, whereas the W690 feels distinctly plasticky and less reassuring in hand.

Neither camera is weatherproof or shockproof, so rain or dust-heavy environments demand caution.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Can You Shoot?

Battery life is an important practical consideration.

• The RX1R uses a NP-BX1 battery, rated for about 270 shots per charge.
• The W690 uses NP-BN batteries, rated for roughly 220 shots.

Both support SD/SDHC/SDXC and proprietary Memory Stick cards, providing flexible storage options.

In real-world use, these batteries last a day for casual shooting but require carrying spares for longer outings or professional work. The RX1R’s additional power demands due to full-frame sensor and varied processing might drain faster under heavy use, especially with the optional EVF enabled.

Video Capabilities: Modest Yet Serviceable

In video, the RX1R offers 1080p full HD recording at up to 60 fps in formats like MPEG-4 and AVCHD, with a microphone input but no headphone jack. The W690 shoots only 720p HD video, maxing out at 30 fps, and lacks external mic support.

Neither camera targets video professionals, but the RX1R suits casual creators wanting quality full HD footage, while the W690 serves only basic video needs.

Practical Photography Discipline Comparisons

Let’s explore how these cameras fare across common photography genres, drawing from both specs and hands-on impressions.

Portrait Photography

The RX1R shines here: Full-frame sensor, wide aperture f/2 lens, and face detection AF help render pleasing skin tones, beautiful bokeh separation, and sharp eye focus in good light.

The W690 struggles with depth-of-field control and softer output, making it a less compelling option for portraits beyond casual use.

Landscape Photography

For landscapes, the RX1R’s dynamic range and resolution provide detailed images with rich tonality. The W690’s sensor limitations and smaller lens aperture reduce sharpness and tonal depth.

Neither is weather sealed, so outdoor shooting requires care.

Wildlife & Sports Photography

Both cameras are suboptimal for these fast-paced genres.

• RX1R lacks phase-detect continuous AF and sports burst rates are moderate.
• W690 is slower still, limiting usability.

Telephoto reach favors W690’s zoom for casual wildlife, but image quality suffers.

Street and Travel Photography

RX1R’s compactness and 35mm lens make it a stealthy street camera. The W690’s ultra-compact size and zoom lend versatility for travel snapshots but at image quality cost.

Battery life and weight favor W690 for long walks, but image quality makes RX1R preferable if size is manageable.

Macro Photography

W690 allows close focus down to 5cm, supporting casual macro shooting. RX1R’s lens doesn’t offer dedicated macro but can focus reasonably close.

Neither has focus stacking.

Night and Astro Photography

RX1R’s full-frame sensor excels in high-ISO low light conditions, enabling star trails and nightscape shots with less noise. W690 is limited to brightly lit night scenes.

Sample Shots: Real World Image Comparison

Sony RX1R front Sony RX1R screen back Sony W690 front Sony W690 screen back

Examining these sample images from both cameras under varied lighting conditions, the RX1R’s superior clarity, color fidelity, and noise handling are immediately obvious. The W690 produces softer, less detailed images and fades in low light.

Overall Performance Scores

Consulting standardized performance metrics helps encapsulate technical prowess.

RX1R’s scores place it firmly in the high-end compact realm, making it suitable for enthusiasts seeking DSLR quality in a pocketable body. W690 aligns with entry-level compact offerings - good for snapshots but nothing more demanding.

Genre-Specific Scores for Photography Types

Breaking down scores per photography type clarifies best use cases.

RX1R leads in portrait, landscape, night, and general image quality categories. W690 pulls near usable for travel convenience and casual macro.

Price-to-Performance and Who Should Buy Which

At launch, the RX1R commanded a premium near $2800, reflecting its cutting-edge sensor and optics. The W690’s sub-$300 price positioned it as an affordable everyday option.

Considering today’s market, these cameras occupy very different niches:

• Choose Sony RX1R if:

  • You prioritize image quality over lens versatility.
  • You enjoy manual controls and learning advanced photography.
  • Portraits, landscapes, and night photography are primary.
  • You want a premium compact with full-frame performance.

• Choose Sony W690 if:

  • Budget constraints exist.
  • You want a light, easy-to-use zoom compact.
  • Casual snapshots and travel convenience matter more than image perfection.
  • You do not require extensive manual control or raw file support.

Final Thoughts: Two Cameras, Two Worlds

The Sony RX1R and W690 represent two vastly different philosophies. The RX1R is a precision instrument, a landmark for large sensor compacts, boasting full-frame image quality in a surprisingly small shell. Its shortcomings - weight, no image stabilization, limited autofocus sophistication - are forgiven in the face of stunning image output and robust controls.

The W690 is a classic budget-friendly compact, sacrificing resolution, control, and image quality to deliver compactness and zoom versatility.

Ultimately, these cameras do not really compete; instead, they serve distinct audiences on opposite ends of the enthusiast spectrum. Matching your photographic aspirations and budget to their strengths will yield the most satisfaction.

This hands-on, layered analysis reflects over a decade of comparing such devices in labs and in the field - equipping you to choose wisely and shoot confidently.

If you're prioritizing professional-grade image quality, manual control, and creative potential, the RX1R remains a compelling choice despite its age. For casual photography, convenience, and a light footprint, the W690 fulfills its role admirably.

Happy shooting!