Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III vs Cyber-shot RX10 IV Comparison
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III
Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III | Cyber-shot RX10 IV | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2017 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | March 29, 2016 | December 09, 2017 | |
Camera Type |  Bridge | Bridge | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV takes the lead with a score of 70/100, while the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III follows with 63/100. Both cameras share the same bridge camera type, similar dimensions (133 x 94mm), and were released within a year of each other (2016 and 2017). They also have a close weight, with the RX10 IV weighing 1095g and the RX10 III at 1051g.
The RX10 IV has a higher score due to its improved features and performance. It justifies its higher launch price of $1699 compared to the RX10 III’s $1499. On the other hand, the RX10 III still offers great value with its lower price and slightly lighter weight.
Considering the specifications and scores, the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is a better camera choice for those seeking advanced features and performance. However, the RX10 III remains a solid option for those on a tighter budget or who prioritize a lighter camera.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III vs Cyber-shot RX10 IV Overview and Optics
The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV outperforms the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III in optics, with scores of 68/100 and 63/100, respectively. Both cameras share several common specifications, including 20-megapixel resolution, CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, 1″ sensor size, fixed lens mount, and image stabilization.
The RX10 IV’s higher score is due to its faster shooting speed of 24 frames per second compared to the RX10 III’s 14 frames per second. This enables the RX10 IV to capture fast-moving subjects with greater ease and precision. Additionally, the RX10 IV’s sensor has a higher DXOMARK score of 82, compared to the RX10 III’s score of 70. This indicates that the RX10 IV’s sensor provides better image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance.
The RX10 III, despite its lower score, still offers good optical performance. Its 20-megapixel resolution, CMOS sensor, and Bionz X processor are the same as the RX10 IV, ensuring high-quality images. The RX10 III also has image stabilization, making it suitable for handheld shooting and reducing the chances of blurry images.
Given these comparisons, the RX10 IV is the superior camera in terms of optics due to its faster shooting speed and higher sensor performance. However, the RX10 III remains a competent choice for photographers seeking a camera with good optical performance and image stabilization. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras will depend on the individual’s preferences and priorities, such as shooting speed and sensor quality.
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Optics
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III
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Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP | 20 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5472 x 3648 px | 5472 x 3648 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
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. | 13.2 x 8.8 mm | 13.2 x 8.8 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  1" | 1" | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 14 fps | 24 fps | |
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. | Fixed | Fixed | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Bionz X | Bionz 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. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) 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. | 12,800 | 12,800 | |
Minimum 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. | 64 | 64 | |
Maximum 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. | 25600 | 25600 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum 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. | 1/ 2000 s | 1/ 2000 s | |
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. | 25 | 315 | |
In-body Stabilization 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. | Electronic | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 2,359,296 dots | 2 dots |
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III vs Cyber-shot RX10 IV Video Performance
The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV outperforms the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III in video capabilities with a score of 77/100 compared to the latter’s 64/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as a maximum video frame rate of 120fps and lack of built-in time-lapse functionality.
The RX10 IV excels in its video quality due to its 4K maximum video resolution, which is significantly higher than the RX10 III’s Full HD resolution. This results in sharper and more detailed videos captured by the RX10 IV. Additionally, the RX10 IV’s maximum video dimensions are 3840 x 2160, which is double the RX10 III’s dimensions of 1920 x 1080. This larger video size allows for better editing and cropping options in post-production.
The RX10 III does not have any clear advantages over the RX10 IV in terms of video capabilities. Its lower video resolution and dimensions make it less suitable for professional video production or for users who demand high-quality footage.
Considering these factors, the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is the better choice for those looking for superior video capabilities in their camera. The higher resolution and larger video dimensions offer a significant improvement over the RX10 III, making it a more suitable option for professionals or enthusiasts seeking top-notch video quality. While the RX10 III may still be a viable option for casual users or those on a tighter budget, the RX10 IV’s superior video performance justifies its higher score and makes it the clear winner in this comparison.
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Video
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III
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Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD |  4K | |
Max Video Dimensions 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. | 1920 x 1080 px | 3840 x 2160 px | |
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. | 120 p | 120 p | |
Time-Lapse 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. | MP4, MTS | AVCHD, XAVC S |
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III vs Cyber-shot RX10 IV Features and Benefits
The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV outperforms the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III with a feature score of 83/100 compared to 70/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screen, WIFI connectivity, and the absence of GPS.
The RX10 IV has a higher screen resolution of 1,440,000 dots, compared to the RX10 III’s 1,228,800 dots. This higher resolution provides a clearer and more detailed display for capturing and reviewing images. Additionally, the RX10 IV features Bluetooth connectivity, which the RX10 III lacks. This enables users to easily transfer images to other devices and use additional accessories without the need for cables or adapters.
Despite its lower feature score, the RX10 III still offers some advantages. With both cameras having a touchscreen, flip screen, and WIFI capabilities, users can enjoy similar levels of convenience and flexibility in their photography experience. Moreover, the absence of GPS in both cameras means that neither model has an advantage in terms of location tracking and geotagging.
In comparing the two cameras, the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV proves to be the superior option due to its higher screen resolution and Bluetooth connectivity. These features enhance the user experience by offering a clearer display and more seamless connectivity options. On the other hand, the RX10 III remains a viable choice for those who prioritize touchscreen functionality, flip screen, and WIFI capabilities without the need for additional features such as Bluetooth or GPS. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the user’s specific requirements and preferences.
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Features
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III
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Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 | TFT LCD | TFT LCD | |
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 Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,228,800 dots | 1,440,000 dots | |
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 |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III vs Cyber-shot RX10 IV Storage and Battery
The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV outperforms the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III in storage and battery with a score of 37/100 compared to 24/100. Both cameras share the same specifications in terms of memory card slots and the types of memory cards accepted. They each have one memory card slot and support SD, SDHC, SDXC, as well as Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards.
The RX10 IV is superior due to its USB charging capability, which the RX10 III lacks. This feature allows for more convenient charging options. However, the RX10 III has a slightly better battery life, providing 420 shots per charge compared to the RX10 IV’s 400 shots. Despite a minor advantage in battery life, the RX10 III’s absence of USB charging ultimately places it behind the RX10 IV.
Considering these factors, the RX10 IV’s higher score in storage and battery is justified, making it the better choice for users who prioritize convenience and charging options.
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Storage and Battery
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC , Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | NP-FW50 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 420 shots | 400 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III
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Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | N/A | ||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 23.1 bits | N/A | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 12.6 EVs | N/A | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 472 | N/A |
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Scores
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III
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Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III vs Cyber-shot RX10 IV – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III or the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV:
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User Scores
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III
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Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV
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B&H photo video |
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