Sony RX1R vs Zeiss ZX1: A Deep Dive into Two Full-Frame Compact Titans

In the realm of large sensor compact cameras, two distinctive beasts warrant our attention - the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R and the Zeiss ZX1. Both pack the formidable punch of full-frame sensors into relatively pocketable bodies, but approach photography with very different philosophies. Being someone who’s spent over 15 years dissecting cameras and pushing their limits across varied photography genres, this duel is as fascinating as it is nuanced.

If you ever thought “Compact full-frame? Must be compromises everywhere,” think again. Both cameras flaunt serious credentials but target photographers with slightly contrasting priorities. Over the next 2500 words, we’ll cruise through their core strengths and weaknesses, armed with experience, test results, and a healthy dose of candid commentary where it matters most.

The Body and Ergonomics: Handling a Compact Giant

The moment you lift the RX1R and ZX1 side by side, the first glaring difference is their physical presence - and that shapes how you’ll use each.

The Sony RX1R weighs in at a svelte 482g with modest dimensions (113x65x70mm), making it surprisingly pocketable for a full-frame rig. In contrast, the ZX1 tips the scales at 800g and measures a chunkier 142x93x46mm, primarily due to its integrated 512GB storage and a whopping 4.34” fully articulating touchscreen.

From prolonged hands-on sessions, the RX1R’s compact, boxy grip feels more like a classic rangefinder - minimalist yet reassuring. The ZX1, while heavier, benefits from an integrated touchscreen that’s delightfully responsive, giving you access to on-the-fly edits without glancing at a laptop.

Controls wise, the RX1R leans on traditional dials and buttons, offering minimal but tactile feedback - good for photographers who prefer manual overrides without fumbling through menus. The ZX1’s touchscreen-centric UI is intuitive but may feel odd for those accustomed to dedicated dials. Its lack of illuminated buttons could prove tricky in low light without a bit of muscle memory.

If you need classic physical controls with minimal distractions, the RX1R shines. For those who like a bit of tech-infused modernity, the ZX1’s touch controls are a treat but with a learning curve.

Sensors and Image Quality: Pixels that Pack a Punch

When it comes to the heart of the camera - the sensor - both models use full-frame CMOS sensors but with some interesting contrasts:

• Sony RX1R: Features a 24MP sensor with no anti-aliasing filter, trading slight risk of moiré for a boost in sharpness and micro-detail. Its DxOMark score is a formidable 91 overall with excellent color depth (25 bits) and dynamic range (13.6 EV stops), plus robust low-light sensitivity rated around ISO 2537.

• Zeiss ZX1: Moves the needle further with a whopping 37MP sensor sporting a subtle anti-aliasing filter. Despite DxOMark not having tested it officially, practical tests show its 37MP resolution (7488x4992 pixels) delivers incredibly detailed images with superb noise control, especially at mid to high ISOs up to 51200 native ISO capacity. The price for extra pixels is increased file sizes and greater storage demands - more on that later.

The RX1R’s sensor excels for portrait, landscape, and street photography with punchy detail and color depth. The ZX1’s larger resolution gives it an edge for large prints, cropping flexibility, and capturing landscapes or studio work where detail is king. However, the trade-off might be slightly slower processing times, especially if you’re shooting in burst mode.

Screen and Viewfinder: Finding Your Frame

A photographer's interaction with the world through a camera hinges on quality screens and viewfinders.

The RX1R sports a fixed 3-inch Xtra Fine TFT LCD with 1229k-dot resolution and no touchscreen capability. It’s clear, bright, and adequate for composing and reviewing but feels basic compared to modern designs. The lack of articulating features limits shooting at awkward angles but keeps things simple and sturdy.

The ZX1 really amps up here with a large, 4.34-inch fully articulating touchscreen boasting an extremely high 2765k-dot count. This screen makes it a visual playground for digital photographers who want live image edits and post-capture tweaks right on the camera. It’s easily readable outdoors and responsive, though the larger size can add bulk.

As for the viewfinder, the RX1R relies on optional electronic/optical viewfinders (unlike the ZX1 which has an integrated electronic finder at a blistering 6221-dot resolution with 100% coverage). The ZX1’s EVF offers a crisp, immersive view but might be overkill for purists who prefer optical realism.

In low-light or fast action, the ZX1’s EVF with eye sensor wins for accuracy and immediacy, whereas the RX1R’s reliance on LCD or external VF could feel less integrated.

Autofocus and Performance: Speed and Precision Under Pressure

Autofocus is often make or break in real world usage, especially in wilderness, sports, or candid street shooting.

The RX1R’s contrast-detection AF, though limited in points, performed reliably with decent face detection, ideal for portraiture and street photography where pinpoint precision can allow subtle focus on eyes. However, it struggles with rapid action or wildlife tracking.

The ZX1 expands the game with 255 focus points and touch-enabled AF, supporting continuous and tracking modes. However, I found it a bit sluggish compared to mainstream mirrorless systems in fast-moving subjects, but makes up for it with smooth transitions and impressive accuracy. The touchscreen AF control adds tactile flair especially when hand-holding for video or macro work.

Neither camera has phase-detection AF or animal eye AF, a notable shortfall for wildlife photographers demanding speedy target acquisition.

Lens and Optical Quality: Fixed Focal Length Decisions

Both cameras share a fixed 35mm prime lens, beloved for its versatility. But details vary:

• Sony RX1R: 35mm f/2.0 Zeiss Sonnar lens with no zoom, no image stabilization, designed to maximize optical sharpness. The wide aperture offers beautiful subject isolation and creamy bokeh, invaluable for portraits.

• Zeiss ZX1: 35mm f/2.0 to f/22 aperture range providing more creative control over depth of field, also non-stabilized. The lens craftsmanship is excellent, with Zeiss’ hallmark color rendition and contrast.

I must confess, the RX1R’s lens charms with sharper micro-contrast and less vignetting. For portrait photographers obsessing over skin textures or subtle bokeh roll-off, the RX1R’s lens is a dream. The ZX1's extended aperture dial offers flexibility for environmental and landscape shooters craving more depth control.

Neither camera supports interchangeable lenses - so you’re committing to 35mm territory, which is a blessing or curse depending on your style.

Low Light and ISO Performance: How Far Can You Push?

Light sensitivity often defines a camera’s adaptability.

• Sony RX1R: Native ISO range 100-25600, excelling especially in mid-range ISO with surprisingly clean output for a 24MP sensor from 2013 era tech. DxOMark rates its low-light score around ISO 2537 at acceptable noise.

• Zeiss ZX1: Native ISO 80-51200 with newer sensor design and better noise handling. In real-world low-light tests - especially at ISO 6400 - images remain surprisingly usable, albeit with some softness creeping in at very high ISOs.

If night photography or astro is your jam, the ZX1 provides more headroom, though neither camera boasts in-body image stabilization (IBIS), necessitating solid tripod use or very steady hands.

Video Capabilities: More Than Just Stills?

Video isn’t the primary pitch here but the ZX1 edges ahead.

• Sony RX1R: Full HD (1920x1080) at up to 60fps, offering MPEG-4 and AVCHD formats. External mic supported but no headphone jack. No 4K or advanced video features.

• Zeiss ZX1: Shoots 4K UHD (3840x2160) at 30fps with H.264 codec and linear PCM audio recording. Unfortunately, no external microphone or headphone ports, limiting pro audio workflows.

If you’re after robust 4K video in a compact body, ZX1 is your go-to despite lacking advanced stabilization or audio controls. The RX1R remains firmly stills-focused.

Storage and Connectivity: How Do They Handle Data?

Here the ZX1 definitely pushes boundaries by integrating a whopping 512GB internal SSD, allowing you to store thousands of raw 37MP files without swapping cards. Connectivity is built-in with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, supporting tethering and file sharing directly from the camera. USB 3.1 Type-C adds speedy file transfers when connected to a PC.

The RX1R, being older, relies on traditional single slots compatible with SD and Memory Stick cards and has USB 2.0 for transfers - reflecting its 2013 architecture. Wireless connectivity is minimal, limited to Eye-Fi card compatibility via Wi-Fi SD cards, which feels quaint nowadays.

For a traveler or a photographer who despises the hassle of lugging multiple memory cards, the ZX1’s consolidated storage is a major plus - but beware, losing that camera means losing all your images if you haven’t backed up.

Battery Life and Workflow Realities: Powering Your Passion

Surprisingly, the RX1R offers decent battery life - rated for ~270 shots per charge - typical for compact cameras with smaller sensors. It uses the Sony NP-BX1 battery, a familiar and easily sourced model.

The ZX1’s battery life specifics weren’t officially stated (a common complaint amongst owners), but real-world use suggests it falls short of full day shooting, especially with its big, bright screen and on-board processing. The lack of removable or spare batteries - at least officially - adds a caveat.

The ZX1 doubles as a mini computer with built-in Lightroom editing capabilities, which may drain the battery faster. To my mind, this could appeal best to photographers who want to edit on the go but always have access to charging.

Breaking down Genre Performance: Which Camera Shines Where?

Let’s put all the above into the context of common photography genres.

Portrait Photography: Sony RX1R leads with exquisite color reproduction, superb skin tone rendering, and that razor-sharp, no-AA-filter lens. Face detection autofocus is reliable, but lack of eye/direction assistance means some manual finesse is needed. ZX1 is capable but less specialized here.

Landscape Photography: The ZX1’s higher resolution sensor with greater dynamic range potential (thanks to f/22 aperture for depth and heavy megapixels) makes it a potent landscape camera, especially if you want large prints or cropping flexibility. Sony is respectable but fewer pixels limit post-crop nitpicking.

Wildlife/Sports: Neither camera is optimized for fast action. RX1R’s faster burst rate (5fps vs 3fps) and modest AF suit casual wildlife, but both lack phase detect AF and animal eye AF, so hunt-and-peck focussing is par for the course.

Street Photography: RX1R’s smaller size, quiet shutter, and traditional controls make it more street-friendly - ready for stealthy shoots. ZX1’s screen and heft make it less discreet but the articulating display complements creative angles.

Macro Photography: Neither camera offers dedicated macro focusing or stabilisation. ZX1’s touchscreen autofocus aids precision, but Sony’s fixed lens limits close focusing. Neither is primary macro workhorses.

Night/Astro: ZX1’s higher ISO ceiling gives advantage in starry sky or low-light urban scenes, coupled with its large sensor and raw support. Absence of in-body stabilization demands tripods unless you’re willing to push ISO.

Video: ZX1 wins with 4K video and higher bitrates; RX1R lags at 1080p. However, neither replaces serious video rigs due to rudimentary audio and stabilization features.

Travel Photography: RX1R is more compact and lighter, better for long treks and street explorations; ZX1's file handling, editing features, 512GB internal storage, and Wi-Fi appeal to the digital nomad who likes to process images on the fly.

Professional Work: RX1R offers tried-and-true Sony RAW files and broad software ecosystem compatibility, making it easier to integrate into established workflows. ZX1 is disruptive, with on-camera editing and cloud syncing that could streamline some workflows but isn’t yet industry standard.

Putting Scores and Price into Perspective

Here’s a digestible performance summary based on testing metrics and practical use:

While the Sony RX1R came out in 2013 with a premium $2798 launch price, it remains a well-regarded icon of full-frame compacts, offering solid all-around performance that holds its own against newer gear.

The Zeiss ZX1, a more recent 2018 release, combines high megapixels with a modern UI and integrated editing, but commands a higher entry price (often surpassing $6000 secondhand), which puts it in a niche category. This price premium reflects its hardware gamble and innovative approach rather than pure pixel or autofocus dominance.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

After deep dives, hundreds of shots, and many evenings reviewing image stacks, here’s how I’d advise potential buyers:

• Choose the Sony RX1R if:

  • You crave the classic 35mm full-frame look with exceptional lens quality and straightforward controls.
  • You shoot portraits, street, or casual landscapes mostly.
  • Portability and simplicity matter.
  • You have a budget around $3000 and want proven reliability.

• Choose the Zeiss ZX1 if:

  • You want the sharpest possible 35mm images with 37MP detail.
  • You value touchscreen editing, integrated storage, and wireless workflow.
  • You crave 4K video and slightly better high-ISO performance.
  • You’re prepared for a heavier, pricier camera and more experimental workflows.

In the end, both are niche cameras serving photographers who value image quality above all, yet the RX1R leans classic and purist while the ZX1 ventures boldly into convertible camera-computer territory. Neither replaces a full-fledged interchangeable lens system but both enrich the large sensor compact segment beautifully.

Sony RX1R front Sony RX1R screen back Zeiss ZX1 front Zeiss ZX1 screen back

If you want my personal scoop - my RX1R still sits proudly on my shelf and sees heavy use when I want discreet, high-quality JPEG/RAW without fuss. The ZX1, while innovative, feels like an early prototype for the “camera of the future.” It’s brilliant, but I crave more speed and versatile AF for my everyday shooting needs.

Hopefully, this detailed comparison arms you with honest insights and practical considerations so you can pick your next photographic companion with confidence. Happy shooting!