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Sony RX1R III specifications and in-depth review

Sony RX1R III

Manufacturer: Sony

The Sony RX1R III is a compact camera designed for photographers seeking a blend of portability and high-end features. It boasts a 61 MP full-frame sensor and includes a 2359k-dot electronic viewfinder for precise framing. Weighing just 498 g, it is a solid choice for those needing a versatile, lightweight camera for both stills and video.

Key technical features include a maximum ISO of 32000, a continuous shooting speed of 5 fps, and a 3-inch touchscreen. The RX1R III also supports 4K video recording at 30 fps, has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and includes an HDMI output. For added control, it features manual exposure settings, touch autofocus, and a two-stage shutter for precision shots.

Pros
  • Compact design with a 3-inch touchscreen for easy portability and usability.
  • Full-frame 61 MP sensor delivers high-resolution images for detailed photography.
  • Phase-detection autofocus and continuous autofocus ensure fast, accurate focus tracking for both photos and videos.
  • Supports 4K video recording at 30 fps, making it suitable for high-quality videography.
  • Includes a removable and rechargeable 1020 mAh battery with a battery level indicator for better power management.
Cons
  • Lacks dual card slots for additional storage flexibility.
  • No built-in optical image stabilization or sensor shift stabilization, which may affect stability during handheld shooting.
  • Does not feature a flip-out screen, limiting flexibility for certain shooting angles.
  • No built-in GPS or NFC for enhanced location tagging or easy wireless pairing.
  • No first-party live streaming support, limiting its usability for real-time broadcasts.
Who is this for?

The Sony RX1R III is ideal for photographers and videographers seeking a compact, high-performance camera for everyday use or travel. With its 61 MP full-frame sensor and 4K video recording, it excels in producing high-quality stills and videos in a variety of lighting conditions. The compact design, combined with features like phase-detection autofocus and a 3-inch touchscreen, makes it a versatile tool for capturing both photos and videos on the go.

Who is this NOT for?

This camera may not be the best choice for professionals or users who need high-capacity storage or advanced video features like live streaming. It lacks dual card slots for backup storage and does not support first-party live streaming. Additionally, its absence of built-in stabilization systems might be limiting for users who rely on handheld shooting in dynamic environments or need to shoot in low-light conditions without a tripod.

Design:

Type Compact
viewfinder Electronic viewfinder (EVF)
is weather-sealed (splashproof) ✓
screen resolution 2359k dots
EVF resolution 2359k dots
Has a flip-out screen ✕
viewfinder coverage 100%
screen size 3"
weight 498 g
has a touch screen ✓
Has a hot shoe ✓
volume 673.143625 cm³
is a system camera ✕
has a flash ✕
lowest potential operating temperature 0 °C
maximum operating temperature 40 °C
Has a tilting viewfinder ✕
Includes lens hood ✕
width 113.3 mm
height 67.9 mm
thickness 87.5 mm

The Sony RX1R III features a compact design with a 3-inch touchscreen and a 2359k-dot electronic viewfinder for precise framing. The camera is weather-sealed, making it splashproof, and it offers 100% viewfinder coverage. Weighing just 498 g, it has a small form factor, with dimensions of 113.3 mm in width, 67.9 mm in height, and 87.5 mm in thickness. The camera lacks a flip-out screen and flash but includes a hot shoe for external flashes. The design also supports a temperature range from 0°C to 40°C for operation.

Optics:

sensor size Full frame
focus points 693
megapixels (main camera) 61 MP
maximum ISO 32000 ISO
maximum expanded ISO 102400 ISO
has sensor shift stabilization ✕
continuous shooting (mechanical) 5 fps
has AF tracking ✓
Has phase-detection autofocus for photos ✓
fastest shutter speed 0.00025 s
has built-in optical image stabilization ✕
has manual focus ✓
has touch autofocus ✓
has manual shutter speed ✓
has a built-in HDR mode ✓
has a BSI sensor ✓
has manual exposure ✓
has a two-stage shutter ✓
has a serial shot mode ✓
has a CMOS sensor ✓
has manual ISO ✓
flash sync speed 0.00025 s
wide aperture (main camera) 2f
has manual white balance ✓
exposure time 30 s
Maximum electronic shutter speed 0.000125 s
maximum focal length 35 mm
has a stacked CMOS sensor ✕
minimum focal length 35 mm
widest aperture at maximum focal length 2f
minimum focus distance 0.14 m
Can focus to infinity ✓
Has rounded aperture blades ✓

The Sony RX1R III is equipped with a full-frame 61 MP sensor and offers 693 autofocus points, ensuring detailed and precise focus. The camera supports a maximum ISO of 32000, expandable to 102400, and features a wide aperture of f/2 for optimal low-light performance. While it lacks sensor shift stabilization and built-in optical image stabilization, it includes manual focus, manual exposure, and a two-stage shutter for greater control. The camera also offers a minimum focus distance of 0.14 m and can focus to infinity.

Videography:

video recording (main camera) 2160 x 30 fps
Has phase-detection autofocus for videos ✓
has continuous autofocus when recording movies ✓
has a microphone input ✓
has a socket for a 3.5 mm audio jack ✓
has a stereo microphone ✓
movie bitrate 300 Mbps
number of microphones 2
has a 24p cinema mode ✓
supports slow-motion video recording ✓

The Sony RX1R III supports 4K video recording at 2160 x 30 fps and includes phase-detection autofocus for videos and continuous autofocus during movie recording. It features a stereo microphone with two microphones for enhanced audio capture, and offers a microphone input and a 3.5mm headset jack for external audio devices. The camera also supports a high movie bitrate of 300 Mbps, a 24p cinema mode for a more cinematic look, and slow-motion video recording for creative flexibility.

Battery:

Battery life (CIPA) 300 shots
has a removable battery ✓
has a rechargeable battery ✓
has a battery level indicator ✓
battery power 1020 mAh

The Sony RX1R III is powered by a removable and rechargeable 1020 mAh battery, offering a battery life of approximately 300 shots (CIPA). It includes a battery level indicator to help monitor remaining power, ensuring you stay informed during shooting sessions.

Features:

release date July 2025
processor Bionz XR
supports Wi-Fi ✓
Has Bluetooth ✓
Has dual card slots ✕
shoots raw ✓
Wi-Fi version Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
supports a remote smartphone ✓
has an HDMI output ✓
has GPS ✕
has first-party support for live streaming ✕
has an advanced hot shoe ✓
has NFC ✕
has an external memory slot ✓
Has USB Type-C ✓
Bluetooth version 4.2

The Sony RX1R III is powered by the Bionz XR processor and supports a range of connectivity features, including Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 4.2, and USB Type-C. It also offers a remote smartphone function, HDMI output, and an advanced hot shoe. While it lacks dual card slots, NFC, and GPS, it does provide an external memory slot for additional storage.

Final Verdict

The Sony RX1R III is a highly capable compact camera designed for photographers and videographers who prioritize portability without sacrificing image quality. Featuring a 61 MP full-frame sensor and robust autofocus capabilities, it excels in producing detailed stills and 4K video. While it lacks some advanced features like dual card slots and built-in stabilization, it remains a strong choice for those seeking a versatile, travel-friendly camera with excellent imaging performance. Overall, the RX1R III is an excellent option for enthusiasts and professionals who need a compact, high-quality solution for both photo and video capture.

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