Introducing the Sony RX100 VI
Sony has been making the RX compact line of cameras for six years, constantly improving and updating their capabilities. In 2018, the sixth modification of the legendary RX100 saw the light, and this model has something to surprise buyers. Step by step, the engineers came to a situation where we are faced with not just a camera, but some kind of multimedia device for creating modern digital content: from such fashionable super-slow-motion videos to stunning selfies and simply beautiful photos in absolutely any genre. Get price Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100M6 Other devices were able to do all this before, but it was in the RX100 VI that the combination of functions and capabilities was brought to a certain optimum. We will tell about all this in our extended test!This is the magic word "zoom"
What was missing from previous versions of the RX100 to “take over the world”? In my opinion, zoom. You need to be a professional photographer in order to comfortably fit all your subjects into the range of focal lengths from 24 to 70 mm (equiv.). A simple amateur photographer would rather give priority to the smartphone, sacrificing such a small zoom and saving on the purchase of another device. The "pumping" of the lens was an obvious improvement in the Sony RX100 VI, but even avid optimists did not expect 8.3x zoom in the same size housing.DSC-RX100M6 Installations: ISO 125, F4.5, 1/320 s, 159.0 mm equiv.Download RAW
The equivalent focal length range of the Sony RX100 VI lens is 24–200 mm equiv. Aperture decreased slightly, but to quite acceptable f / 2.8–4.5. And here, optical image stabilization is still used, which can partially compensate for the lack of aperture ratio on static scenes.
Shooting in wide angle zoom.
DSC-RX100M6 Installations: ISO 125, F5.6, 1/800 s, 24.0 mm equiv.Download RAW
Telephoto zoom.
DSC-RX100M6 Installations: ISO 125, F5.6, 1/800 s, 200.0 mm equiv.Download RAW
DSC-RX100M6 Installations: ISO 320, F4.5, 1/200 s, 200.0 mm equiv.Download RAW
All matrix secrets
The Sony RX100 VI uses a sensor with a resolution of 20.1 megapixels format 1 ? (13.2 × 8.8 mm). It is significantly larger than in more budget cameras, which gives advantages when shooting in low light. Another bonus from a relatively large sensor is the ability to blur the background for more artistic shots.DSC-RX100M6 Installations: ISO 160, F4.5, 1/200 s, 200.0 mm equiv.Download RAW
This is one of the most technologically advanced sensors in the photo market. It has a multilayer structure to increase the reading speed: DRAM memory is located on a separate matrix layer, which allowed to accelerate serial shooting up to 24 frames / s. In short, the camera is very fast.
The sensor is made with backlight technology. Note that it was used in the second model of the series, and you can’t call it a novelty. However, we celebrate it, since not all modern cameras have reached BSI sensors. This technology allows you to achieve higher image quality at higher ISOs compared to "conventional" sensors.
DSC-RX100M6 Installations: ISO 1250, F2.8, 1/20 s, 24.0 mm equiv.Download RAW
The matrix implements phase autofocus sensors. 315 phase detection autofocus zones cover most of the frame and significantly increase focus speed. The specifications stated a minimum focusing time of 0.03 s. Well, let's check in practice further. And here we note that we already saw a similar matrix in the RX100 V, and there it showed its best. And in the previous model, the focusing time was longer - 0.05 s.
DSC-RX100M6 Installations: ISO 125, F3.2, 1/2000 s, 26.0 mm equiv.
Not just a photo
In 2000 we all experienced a photorevolution, when everyone suddenly became a photographer. Her echoes are still felt, and that's great. But you need to be aware that we are now experiencing a video revolution. Now everyone shoots the video: from a six-year-old child to his grandmother. Yes, most often a smartphone is used for this. But if you want to be a little better than millions, you should think about a more advanced tool. Sony is well aware of this and initially adapts most products for high-quality video recording. The RX line is no exception. Sony RX100 VI can record not only Full HD, but also 4K. There is a function of slow-motion video recording with a frequency of up to 1000 frames / s. It also supports a number of professional options: from S-Log gamma curve profiles to the first HDR (HLG) video in Sony compacts. Due to the large zoom, fast and accurate autofocus (including on faces), this camera is a good option for recording vlogs. If you want to appear in the frame yourself, just rotate the screen 180 degrees. The viewing angle of the lens, the ergonomics of the camera itself - everything is ideally thought out for shooting yourself. And for the Sony RX100 VI, a special tripod handle VCT-SGR1 was released. With it, you can not only conveniently hold the camera with one hand, but also control the zoom, take photos and videos using two separate buttons. If you spread out the “legs” forming the handle of this accessory, then you will have a small tripod in your hands. An indispensable tool for a travel blogger!A thousand pleasant things
We will describe each function in detail later in our test, but for starters, let me list at least some of the "chips" of this camera that fall in love with themselves once and for all. There is a built-in electronic viewfinder of very high quality. He helps out a lot when shooting in the sun. The screen of the Sony RX100 VI is not only rotary, but also touch. With it, it is convenient to select the autofocus area and release the shutter. The camera can be charged and powered from a micro USB port, including powerbank! And there is Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth: they help pair the camera with a smartphone or computer to exchange information. It's not just about sending files. For example, you can transfer the coordinates of the shooting point from a smartphone to the camera, and they will be saved in an EXIF ??file. A tempting feature for travelers! However, let's move on to a more detailed acquaintance with the RX100 VI ...