CameraReview

Sony a7R II vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Sony a7R II
Sony
Sony a7R II
Mirrorless · 42.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
70
SCORE
$1,013.44
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II
Sony
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II
Compact · 42.4 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
62
SCORE
$2,592.50
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General
Brand SonySony
Model a7R IICyber-shot DSC-RX1R II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20152015
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
10/06/201514/10/2015
Camera type MirrorlessCompact
Camera size 127 x 96 x 60 mm113 x 65 x 72 mm
Camera weight 625 g507 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
42.4 MP05042.4 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
7952 x 53047952 x 5304
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
24 x 35.924 x 35.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
5 fps0455 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Sony FEFixed
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Bionz XBionz X
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
256003003280000256003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
50302005030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
10240030032800001024003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000400080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
39903003990300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 235929609900000235929609900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4KFull HD
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
3840 x 21601920 x 1080
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
30 fps60 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
XAVCS, AVCHD, MP4AVCHD, MP4
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1228800115000150000012288001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG DuoSD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-FW50NP-BX1
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
290 shots1505000220 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7R II emerges as the winner with a score of 70/100, while the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II scores 62/100. Both cameras were announced in 2015, with the a7R II being a mirrorless camera and the RX1R II being a compact camera. They share similarities in launch prices, with the a7R II priced at $3198 and the RX1R II at $3300.

The a7R II has a larger size (127 x 96 x 60mm) and is heavier (625g) than the RX1R II (113 x 65 x 72mm and 507g), making it more suitable for professional use. On the other hand, the RX1R II’s compact size and lighter weight make it a more portable and convenient option for casual photographers.

Considering these factors, the Sony a7R II is the better choice for those seeking a more professional camera, while the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II is ideal for those prioritizing portability and convenience.

Sony a7R II vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R II comes out ahead in our comparison of optics, scoring 81/100, while the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II trails behind with a score of 75/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 42.4-megapixel resolution, 5fps shooting speed, CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, and full-frame sensor size.

The a7R II’s superiority in optics can be attributed to its higher DXOMARK sensor score of 98, compared to the RX1R II’s score of 97. Additionally, the a7R II features a Sony FE lens mount, allowing for interchangeable lenses and increased versatility in shooting situations. The a7R II also offers image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially in low-light conditions or when using longer focal lengths.

On the other hand, the RX1R II uses a fixed lens mount, meaning the lens cannot be changed. While this may be seen as a disadvantage, it can also be viewed as a benefit for those seeking a simpler, more compact camera setup without the need to carry or change lenses. However, the lack of image stabilization in the RX1R II may result in less sharp images under certain conditions.

Taking these factors into account, it is clear that the Sony a7R II offers superior optics, with a higher DXOMARK sensor score, interchangeable lens capability, and image stabilization. The RX1R II, while still offering quality optics, may be better suited to those seeking a more straightforward, compact camera experience without the need for additional lenses.

Sony a7R II vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II Video Performance

Comparing the video capabilities of the Sony a7R II and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II, both cameras receive a video score of 56 out of 100. This tie highlights similarities in their video performance. Both cameras lack time-lapse functionality built in, which is a common feature in many cameras.

The Sony a7R II outperforms the RX1R II in terms of video resolution, offering 4K video recording with a maximum video dimension of 3840 x 2160, whereas the RX1R II only provides Full HD video recording with a maximum video dimension of 1920 x 1080. The higher resolution of the a7R II results in more detailed and higher quality videos, making it a better choice for videographers who require top-notch video quality.

On the other hand, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the 30fps of the Sony a7R II. This higher frame rate allows for smoother video playback and provides better slow-motion capabilities. Therefore, the RX1R II may be a more suitable choice for those who prioritize smooth video capture over resolution.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7R II offers superior video quality due to its 4K resolution, while the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II provides smoother video playback with its higher frame rate. The choice between these two cameras ultimately depends on the specific video needs of the user, with the a7R II being the better option for high-resolution video and the RX1R II catering to those seeking smoother motion capture.

Sony a7R II vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II Features and Benefits

The Sony a7R II wins the feature comparison with a score of 57/100, while the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II scores 44/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 1228800-dot screen resolution, and the absence of a touchscreen. They also both have flip screens, no GPS, WIFI capabilities, and no Bluetooth.

The Sony a7R II outperforms the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II mainly due to its higher feature score. This camera offers more versatility and advanced options for photographers, making it a better choice for those looking for a camera with more capabilities. The higher score reflects the camera’s overall superiority in terms of features and functionality.

On the other hand, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II does not have any significant advantages over the Sony a7R II. Both cameras share the same basic features and specifications, and the lower score of the Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II does not indicate any areas where it outperforms the a7R II. Thus, there are no clear benefits to choosing the Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II over the a7R II based on features alone.

Comparing the features of these two cameras, the Sony a7R II is the clear winner due to its higher score and overall superior capabilities. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II does not offer any significant advantages over the a7R II, making the latter a better choice for photographers seeking a camera with more advanced features and better performance.

Sony a7R II vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II Storage and Battery

The Sony a7R II outperforms the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II in storage and battery with a score of 16/100 compared to 13/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo cards. However, the a7R II also supports Memory Stick Pro-HG Duo cards.

The a7R II’s advantage lies in its battery life, offering 290 shots with its NP-FW50 battery, while the RX1R II provides 220 shots using its NP-BX1 battery. Neither camera has USB charging capabilities.

Though the RX1R II falls short in this comparison, it still offers decent battery life and storage options for its class. Ultimately, the a7R II’s longer battery life and additional memory card compatibility make it the better choice for extended shooting sessions and increased storage flexibility.

Sony a7R II vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II – Our Verdict

Sony a7R II vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a7R II or the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II: