Sony's Two New Compact Cameras

June 27, 2013

By Laura Brauer

Sony introducted two new compact cameras, the RX1/R and the RX100 II (shown)

On the tails of Fuji’s new X-series announcement, Sony has some compact news of its own—in the form of two additions to it’s premium line: the RX1/R and the RX100 II. This expands its Cyber-shot RX-line to four cameras. On our sister publication, PDN, Theano Nikitas writes:

The RX1/R is identical to the current 24 megapixel, full-frame RX1 but is designed for optimal resolution (hence, the “R” designation). In order to achieve high resolving power, Sony has removed the optical low pass filter (OLPF), a practice that has become more common with cameras like the Nikon D800E and Fuji’s X-series premium fixed lens models. Sony suggests that the RX1/R will appeal to landscape photographers and other pros who want and need the highest resolution (and sharpness) possible.

Sony's RX1/R

While the RX1/R is positioned to emphasize resolution, the RX100 II’s strengths are based around low light capabilities. Like the RX1/R, this smaller camera is, in many ways, a clone of its current 20 megapixel sibling.

Sony's RX100 II

Other notable new features include built-in Wi-Fi, Smart Remote Control functionality and NFC (Near Field Communication). NFC allows connectivity and transfer of data by touching one NFC-enabled device to another and the technology is now making its way into digital cameras (announced in May, the Samsung NX2000 is also NFC-enabled). At this point, it’s easier to find an NFC smartphone than an NFC digital camera but as manufacturers try to regain marketshare lost to mobile photography, we may see NFC implemented on additional camera models in the near future.

Read more…

Both models now offer Triluminous color support for compatible Bravia TVs and will be available in July.

Price:
RX1/R: $2800
RX100 II: $750
www.sony.com