Sony RX100 unboxed, 20.2MP Carl Zeiss optics in the flesh

If you’re not familiar with Sony’s RX100 camera, then take this — small camera, big sensor. As in, 20-megapixel Carl Zeiss optics with sensor size of 1″. That’s at least twice the size of any other sensors in its class.

For perspective, the sensor size of the Canon S100 is 1/1.7″ (~0.6″). That being said, expect the lens barrel of the RX100 to be really huge. We featured this camera a couple of weeks ago during our GeekyNights show where we tested its low-light capabilities.

The RX100 boasts of some pretty impressive specs, including features that you’d rarely see in any other camera like the 1080p video recording at 60fps.

Sony DSC-RX100 specs:
1″ Exmor CMOS sensor
20.9 million effective pixels
28-100mm (equiv), f/1.8-4.9 Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens with ‘Advanced Aspherical’ element
Steady-Shot image stabilization
Contrast-detection AF with 25 points, including tracking and flexible spot options
ISO 125-6400 (ISO 80 and 100 expansion, up to 25,600 using multi-frame noise-reduction)
Face Recognition and Face Registration (up to 8 faces)
Rear control dial and customizable front ‘Control Ring’
10fps continuous shooting in ‘Speed Priority’ mode
3-inch, 1228.8K-dot ‘WhiteMagic’ LCD screen
13 Picture Effects with 27 variations
Memory Recall feature can store up to three groups of custom settings
1080 60p video (AVCHD) with MP4 option
Built-in stereo microphone

The removable battery is rated at 330-shot battery life (CIPA) on a single full charge.

As for sample photos and video, you’ll have to wait for our final review of the Sony RX100 to really see the difference. Sony Philippines has not really told us when they will release the RX100 in the Philippines.

As for the suggested retail price, expect the price tag to be in the vicinity of Php35k (it’s $650PHP 38,146INR 55,087EUR 619CNY 4,731 in the US) which is a bummer.We’ll let you know once we get the details.

Disclosure: Sony Philippines is a season sponsors of GeekyNights podcast, which this blogger is also a co-host. Sony Philippines is also display advertiser on this site.