Sony revives RX1R series with 61-megapixel compact camera, and it only took 10 years

[Shawn Knight]

In a nutshell: Sony has introduced a new compact fixed-lens digital camera that's filled to the brim with cutting-ege imaging technology. The RX1R III is Sony's latest flagship full-frame standalone digital camera, and represents the third generation of the RX1R series (the last one came nearly 10 years ago). It's powered by an impressive 61-megapixel 35mm Exmor R CMOS image sensor that uses the company's latest BIONZ XR processing engine, and is paired with a Zeiss Sonnar T* 35mm f/2.0 lens.

Sony says the combination of sensor and image processing engine delivers high resolution and sensitivity, with low noise and a wide dynamic range. An anti-reflection coating on the sensor is used in place of an optical low-pass filter to further boost image quality, we're told.

The RX1R III also includes the latest in AI processing technology, which Sony describes as a "valued" feature. With it, users can expect the camera to accurately recognize the shape and movement of subjects as well as human bodies, heads, and the position of eyes, allowing the 693-point phase-detection auto-focus system to do its job more effectively.

Sony's latest is constructed of magnesium alloy, measures approximately 4.5 inches x 2.75 inches x 3.5 inches (113.3 mm x 67.9 mm x 87.5 mm), and weighs just over one pound with a battery and memory card. Speaking of the battery, it uses Sony's NP-FW50 battery pack, which is good for up to 300 still photos per charge. Serious shooters will likely want to pick up a couple of extra packs to have on hand to facilitate longer outings.

The Sony RX1R III is available to pre-order now priced at an eye-watering $5,098 and is scheduled to ship on July 31. Sony is also launching a few optional accessories to go along with the camera including a dedicated thumb grip, a compact body case, and a lens hood.

If you're in the market for a premium compact shooter to rival competitors like Leica's Q3 or Fujifilm's GFX100RF, Sony's new fixed-lens camera is certainly worth a look.

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Sony revives RX1R series with 61-megapixel compact camera, and it only took 10 years

 

[dangh]

For this price I'll get a7c2 with couple of g master lenses...

 

[CrisisDog]

Fixed lens at that price? No thanks…

 

[ScottSoapbox]

This camera's revision was the White Whale for Sony shooters for years.

But $5K!!!

I'll keep my a7R III + 45mm lens at 1.8 lbs vs 1.1 lbs for a fixed lens that is only marginally smaller.

 

[SRB]

I never got the attraction of a full frame fixed lens either. Besides, I have too much Minolta glass to change my shooting now. My A99 II still hangs in there for good pictures. $5k is way out of my league as well.

 

[VariableSpike]

Who in the right mind would buy this??? I could get an a7rv and a good lens for less, is this just meant for hipsters or something at this price with a fixed lens and the "retro" style body? If you're going to spend this kind of money on a camera, why on something that isn't exactly a great leap from a phone?

 

[Win7user]

$5k???? This is the reason why "most" Millennial's and Gen Z don't have any money!

 

[dangh]

$5k???? This is the reason why "most" Millennial's and Gen Z don't have any money!

Its stupid idea, but remember people still buy Leica... Gen z doesnt have money because they spend 2k every year on a new iphone, not 5k on a camera every 10 years...

Seriously, fuji x100 is already expensive for a fix lens and sure as hell people wont make better pictures at this sony (or 10k leica)

 

[Norsiiii]

Who in the right mind would buy this??? I could get an a7rv and a good lens for less, is this just meant for hipsters or something at this price with a fixed lens and the "retro" style body? If you're going to spend this kind of money on a camera, why on something that isn't exactly a great leap from a phone?

This is aimed squarely at the people who buy Leicas, not the mainstream photography market. They're a bit of a special breed. A fool and their money, the saying goes....