CameraReview

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 vs Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II — Which Is Better?

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

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10
Sony
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10
Bridge · 20 MP · 1" · Full HD video
55
SCORE
$499.99
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✓ WINNER
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II
Sony
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II
Bridge · 20 MP · 1" · 4K video
59
SCORE
$499.99
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Best Price →
General
Brand SonySony
Model Cyber-shot DSC-RX10Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20132015
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
16/10/201310/06/2015
Camera type BridgeBridge
Camera size 129 x 88 x 102 mm129 x 88 x 102 mm
Camera weight 813 g813 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20 MP05020 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5472 x 36485472 x 3648
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.
13.2 x 8.813.2 x 8.8
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
1"1"
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
10 fps04514 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.
FixedFixed
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.
1253020010030200
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.
128003003280000128003003280000
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.
125302006430200
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.
128003003280000256003003280000
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.
320080032000320080032000
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.
250300250300
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 144000009900000235929609900000
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.
Full HD4K
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.
1920 x 10803840 x 2160
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.
60 fps120 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.
MPEG-4, MOV, AVCHD, XAVC SMPEG-4, MOV, AVCHD, XAVC S
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 WhiteMagic LCDWhiteMagic 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 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 Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-FW50NP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
420 shots1505000400 shots1505000
USB charging

Among the two bridge cameras, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II emerges as the winner with a score of 59/100, while the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 scores 55/100. Both cameras share common specifications such as identical size (129 x 88 x 102mm) and weight (813g / 1.79lbs), as well as the same launch price of around $1299.

The DSC-RX10 II, released in 2015, outperforms its predecessor, the DSC-RX10, which was released in 2013. This improvement is evident in its higher score, making it the better choice among the two. However, the older DSC-RX10 still holds its ground as a viable option for those seeking a more budget-friendly camera.

Taking into account these specifications, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II proves to be the superior choice, but the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 remains a decent alternative for those not requiring the latest features.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II Overview and Optics

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II emerges as the winner in the optics comparison, scoring 64/100, just a single point ahead of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10, which scores 63/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including 20 megapixels, a CMOS sensor type, a Bionz X processor, a 1″ sensor size, a fixed lens mount, and image stabilization.

The DSC-RX10 II outperforms its counterpart in shooting speed and DXOMARK sensor score. It boasts a shooting speed of 14, compared to the DSC-RX10’s 10, making it more efficient in capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the DSC-RX10 II’s sensor receives a DXOMARK score of 70, slightly higher than the DSC-RX10’s score of 69, which contributes to better image quality.

Although the DSC-RX10 falls short in shooting speed and DXOMARK sensor score, it still offers high-quality optics, sharing many specifications with the winning camera. The difference in performance is minimal, and users can still expect excellent results from the DSC-RX10.

Considering the optics comparison, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II stands out as the superior choice due to its faster shooting speed and marginally higher DXOMARK sensor score. However, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 remains a strong contender, offering nearly identical specifications and performance. Ultimately, users should weigh their priorities and preferences when choosing between these two cameras, as both provide impressive optics capabilities.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II Video Performance

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II outperforms the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 in video capabilities, with a video score of 77/100 compared to the DSC-RX10’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as lacking built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the DSC-RX10 II surpasses its predecessor in several aspects.

The most significant improvement in the DSC-RX10 II is its maximum video resolution, which is 4K (3840 x 2160), while the DSC-RX10 only offers Full HD (1920 x 1080). This means that the DSC-RX10 II can capture videos with much higher detail and clarity than the DSC-RX10. Additionally, the DSC-RX10 II has a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, doubling the DSC-RX10’s 60fps. This allows for smoother video playback and better slow-motion effects in the DSC-RX10 II.

On the other hand, the DSC-RX10 does not have any notable advantages over the DSC-RX10 II in terms of video capabilities. Its lower video score reflects its inferior performance in this area.

Taking these points into account, it is evident that the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II is a superior choice for those who prioritize video quality and functionality. The higher video score, 4K resolution, and increased frame rate make it a clear winner in comparison to the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II Features and Benefits

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II emerges as the winner in the features comparison, scoring 57 out of 100, while the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 scores 44 out of 100. Both cameras share several common specifications, making them closely related in terms of features.

Both the RX10 and RX10 II have a 3-inch screen size and a screen resolution of 1,228,800 dots. Neither camera offers a touchscreen or flip screen feature. Additionally, both models do not have GPS but come equipped with WIFI capabilities.

The RX10 II outperforms its predecessor in one key area: it has Bluetooth connectivity. This additional feature enables users to easily connect the camera to other devices, such as smartphones and tablets, for seamless sharing of images and videos. This added convenience makes the RX10 II a more appealing choice for those who value easy connectivity and sharing options.

On the other hand, the RX10 does not offer any notable advantages over the RX10 II. Its lower feature score reflects a lack of improvements compared to the newer model. The RX10 II’s higher score signifies that it is a better camera in terms of features.

Considering the differences between the two models, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II stands out as the better choice due to its Bluetooth connectivity. The RX10, although still a capable camera, falls short in comparison to its successor. Therefore, potential buyers should opt for the RX10 II for a more feature-rich and convenient photography experience.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II Storage and Battery

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II both have a storage and battery score of 24/100. They share several specifications, such as having only one memory card slot and accepting SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo memory cards. Both cameras also use the same battery type, NP-FW50, and do not have USB charging capabilities.

The DSC-RX10 has a slight advantage in battery life, providing 420 shots compared to the DSC-RX10 II’s 400 shots. However, the DSC-RX10 II does not have any advantages over the DSC-RX10 in terms of storage and battery.

Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 offers a marginally better battery life, while the two cameras are otherwise equal in this category.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II – Our Verdict

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 vs Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 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 Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 or the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II: