Sony Finally Revives the RX1R After 10 Years and It Was Worth the Wait

These days, you don’t really have to wait longer than a few years for the next generation of your favorite camera model. However, when it comes to Sony’s RX1R full-frame, the tech giant held us in anticipation for nearly a decade before finally unveiling the third generation of the pocket-sized shooter this week.

A Decade of Evolution Packed Into One Body

Launching in 2013, the first RX1R was Sony’s attempt to make a compact camera that didn’t compromise on sensor size. Back then, the idea of cramming a full-frame sensor into such a small package was pretty innovative. The RX1R II then came a couple years later in 2015, introducing 42.4MP and a pop-up EVF to the fray. But then, crickets. Until now.

During the ten-year hiatus, the photography landscape transformed quite a lot. Mirrorless cameras went mainstream, smartphones became legit photography instruments, and compact cameras nearly faded into the background. But the RX1R III aims to leverage this new tech to its benefit.

The new 61-megapixel Exmor R sensor is a significant bump from the previous generation’s 42.4MP. Paired with Sony’s latest BIONZ XR processor and AI-powered autofocus, this is a complete reimagining of what a premium compact can and should be.

Enter Magnesium

Sony clearly spent those ten years thinking about weight distribution and ergonomics. The RX1R III’s magnesium alloy construction drops the weight to just 1.1lbs while maintaining the premium feel you’d expect at a $5k+ price point. The decision to ditch the predecessor’s articulating screen in favor of a fixed panel might frustrate some, but it serves the broader goal of giving you a model you can practically carry everywhere.

Creating an overall cleaner look, the controls are now embedded and the top surface has been flattened. Nevertheless, each dial and button feels precisely positioned for one-handed operation, which is perfect for urban photography when you might not have as much time to set up.

Creative Flexibility Within Fixed Constraints

The Zeiss Sonnar T* 35mm f/2 lens from before is still there from the previous generation, which might seem like a missed opportunity. However, rather than redesigning proven optics, Sony has enhanced the lens’ versatility through its updated software. The Step Crop Shooting function transforms this single lens into three focal lengths — 35mm, 50mm, and 70mm — through sensor cropping.

You might lose resolution as you crop tighter (down to 15MP at 70mm equivalent), but you’re still working with more detail than most cameras provided just a few years ago. The macro ring adds another dimension, bringing minimum focus distance down to 20cm for pretty capable close-up work.

Moreover, Sony’s 12 Creative Looks provide real-time aesthetic options for both images and video, allowing you to have more spontaneity with the filters rather than doing all the meticulous work in post. Other new features include 693 phase-detection points and AI subject recognition which is borrowed from the brand’s flagship Alpha cameras, tracking eyes and bodies even when faces aren’t visible.

The Competition Landscape

The RX1R III is already being compared to Fujifilm’s GFX100RF and Leica’s Q3. But while the Fujifilm offers medium format appeal, it does sacrifice some portability. Likewise, the Leica carries its red dot prestige but still costs significantly more at nearly $7k.

Spec Sheet

Pricing & Availability

The RX1R III launches this month for $5,099 — a substantial increase from the RX1R II’s original $3,300 price tag. Sony’s also offering a collection of premium accessories like a $300 thumb grip, $250 body case, and $200 lens hood.

Recap

Sony RX1R III Camera

Sony waited 10 years to upgrade its RX1R full-frame compact camera but now brings upgrades like AI face recognition, a cleaner design, and big megapixel bump.

Learn More: Sony