Ultraportable pocket cameras have largely been usurped by smartphones, but there are a select number of scenarios where an actual camera shines.
This, at least, is Sony’s perception of the camera market.
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The Japanese camera maker has announced the availability of its Cyber-shot RX100 VI premium compact camera, which “combines portability, flexibility, fast responsiveness and professional image quality, making it an ideal choice for capturing daily life, cityscapes, portraiture, sports, and wildlife,” Sony notes.
From the outside, it might seem pointless to continue making these cameras — Sony currently offers five snappers of its RX compact range in South Africa — but the specs argue otherwise.
The RX100 VI sports a 20.1MP Exmor RS sensor and BIONZ X image processor, mated to a Fast Hybrid AF system with 315 phase detection autofocus points.
“The RX100 VI is the first from the series to include Sony’s advanced High-density Tracking AF technology, which concentrates AF points around a subject to improve tracking and focus accuracy,” the company continues.
Sony claims that the camera can focus on its subject within 0.03 seconds.
For video enthusiasts, the RX100 VI also records in 4K, and supports slow motion video at 960fps. And continuous snapping options at 24fps with a buffer limit of 233 photographs is a welcome addition for lovers of moving objects.
A flippy screen is also included, while the camera itself features WiFi, NFC and Bluetooth support.
The notable difference between the RX100 VI and the slightly cheaper and older V is the zoom lens.
While the RX100 V’s lens is limited to 70mm, the VI extends to 200mm. The 24-200mm Zeiss lens features a f/2.8-f/4.5 aperture too.
So, how much does the camera cost?
It’s not cheap. Sony’s debuting the Cyber-shot RX100 VI debuts at R23 999, and is around R4000 more expensive than the older model.
Nevertheless, judging by its size and spec sheet, it should be an interesting option for serious hobbyists or travel photographers.
Feature image: Sony
