This is a very helpful review. I solved quite a few issues by buying both the RX10 and FZ1000. They compliment each other in that one has what the other doesn't, the RX10 being a perfect interview camera (ND filter, headphone connection, constant aperture, XAVC) and the FZ1000 a pretty much perfect B roll camera, (intervalometer, longer zoom, 4K, flexible screen, excellent stabilizer). It sounds expensive but the two together is still cheaper than a decent camcorder, like the Sony x70 or similar Canon with quite extraordinary flexibility, including two camera shoots..
Very good, thanks! I wish every single camera, which has been ooh-aahed, would get a "a couple of small things" review like this. Nothing is perfect, but it is always much nicer to buy something when you know what you will get.
I noticed early on that if there is a small white item in the shot, the RX would often overexpose it. That's when I also noticed how easily my thumb could adjust for it with the handy exposure override knob. Your other complaints about the camera are worth noting, but as you suggest, certainly not deal breakers. This is, without a doubt, my best walkin' around camera ever. Good critical review. Thanks.
charging the battery in camera via USB is useless... way too slow! luckily my battery charger from my previous Sony cam fits the same battery as the RX10... and I also have a 3rd party Vivitar charger as a back up which has an adapter to charge from an accessory outlet in a car. I purchased the dedicated AC adapter as I shoot 3-4 hours of video per night on a tripod and I can't be worried about batteries dying in the middle of recording... so yes there are uses out there for the AC adapter. I was actually surprised when you pointed out that in video mode the auto focus defaults to wide mode... the camera certainly doesnt seem to perform like it is in that mode in my experience. my camera always seems to focus on whatever is in the center of the frame. one issue I think you missed with this camera is the exceedingly slow zoom speeds available in video mode... this is my pet peeve as I shoot high speed car racing and the zoom is really nowhere near fast enough for me to get the kinds of shots I would like. apparently this has been remedied on the RX10ii which allows you to set the zoom speed to standard or fast.
Here is you address two of your biggest gripes about this camera: Remote Control --> Don't use the one installed out of the box, with the word "embedded" in its name. Install the free camera remote playmemories app, this one is much more powerful and works for video. Time Lapse --> Install the time lapse app from the playmemories store, there is a small fee involved, but will solve your problem. I hope this helps.
DanishSpaceman Unfortunately, the PlayMemories apps aren't available for the RX10. The only remote control the camera offers is through the PlayMemories Mobile smartphone app, which is incredibly limited in functionality with the camera. I have yet to find an explanation why the apps aren't available on the RX10; it's a real missed opportunity.
So true on many things that you have said. I would like to add to the following which many reviewers don't want to say since many are buying today for shooting stills as well as videos. And I agreed with ATG when they told me about the drawbacks of Sony cameras, RX10 up to top-of-the line ATG Sony A7r IIr (modified to shoot wirelessly from camera to pc). - Sony Remote Camera Control (SRCC) is not made for advanced to pros - No live-view when doing tethered shooting (SRCC) on computer - Only has a Red Button, if you want blind shooting videos - Can not save on card when shooting stills - Can not save on pc when shooting video - Micro HDMI socket is a nightmare of loose connections/very easy to become defective - Micro USB socket is just has bad as Micro HDMI - No camera's flash & video LED light adjustment menus - A computer is much better over a monitor because one can make save/cal the screen - Sony knew about these problems & will not correct
Great video (thumbs up) I just got the RX10 II. I did not like the idea of the micro USB as the only way to charge the batteries. I know from experience those delicate plugs get worn out and are very vulnerable to damage if you bump the cord, etc. BUT, I found battery/110v charger combos on ebay that are very cheap. I like the fact that Sony was smart and uses the same battery for many different cameras and even Vivitar uses the same battery.. so the price is very affordable. Instead of plugging the USB into your computer, try plugging it into one of those USB wall charger adaptors. The camera won't try to connect to that. What is UP with that weird placement of the Focus Mode dial?
Great Honest assessment of the RX10. Thanks. I'm going to buy one next week purely for Family stills and Family Video. I'm sure it'll produce great results. Cheers
3:21 I've just got my RX10ii (firmware 1.30) and IT DOES HAVE CENTER FOCUS ON VIDEO (once you turn off dual rec)! You can also do Lock-On Autofocus (object tracking) by pressing the button in the middle of the rear dial like on my old Sony HX300.
Thank you for the video. I am in the process of deciding for the RX10 or the FZ1000. First I thought I would go for the Lumix, but then I found out about the noise it makes while recording video. Until now I thought the RX10 only has AVCHD, and I am now really happy to know about the XAVC S update! I dont care about 4k, so I think I'll go for the Sony. :)
The external power was a big selling point for me. Thank you for the review. I was going to buy the camera to See if the camera has that feature then return if not. That was going to take a lot of my time thanks. Reviews on the bad point of a camera is going viral.keep on the good work
It'll be interesting to see your evaluation of the RX10 IV, as it loses the ND filter. No big deal to me, as I've always got ND's with me. HOWEVER, I'll give more credence to your reviews when you learn to expose correctly (you're about a stop too light), focus (your head shot is a little out of focus), and frame correctly (too much headroom).
I'm not a fan of what Sony's done with the RX10 III and IV -- the biggest complaint being the loss of constant aperture with the lens, but losing the built-in ND is a bummer too. And yes, I did a horrible job setting up the talking head shot in this episode.
Great review! I am considering getting. Mkii version, but need to know if your concerns were addressed first from the first version. Please do a mkii review asap! Great review, thanks!
Yeah. Weird framing. Overexposed and recording himself reading. Not good first impression for someone claiming that he knows something others don't and he will teachus.
@@KrunoslavStifter Understood. But really, there are no gurus who know it all, and even few fools who are wrong on everything. I listen to anyone who thoughtfully shares their experiences. If I were judge-y about them, I'd miss out. You too.
Great video! Thanks. Helps me with choosing a (video)camera. 2 questions: - How long can you shoot video on one battery charge (in several shots because of the 29 minutes limitation)? - Running on USB power, did you or someone else try to cut the data wires from an USB cable and see if the camera uses the power wires to charge and forgets to switch to storage mode? It would be so nice if you could shoot with USB powerbank as power source, power for ever!
The RX10 is at it best when used in manual mode for video. It performed consistently better than a Canon 60D in terms of color, noise, and dynamic range.
Very informative video, thanks. About the camera's battery charging issue, there's only one system (that I know of) that does the right thing and that's the Samsung NX range. You can charge it with a portable battery pack and shoot while charging. If video and stills are a 50-50 consideration then there's nothing out there like the Samsung NX1. Yes, Samsung is out of the camera business but the camera is still real and alive and couple with very fine lens selection (as of 2017) you can't beat it. Having said all that the Sony RX10 is a very great camera indeed.
Great review, I own one myself since 2014 and it does exactly what I bought it for. The only part that broke was the flash that stopped functioning I am still waiting for the repair to be done by the local Sony service store :-(
1:20 You CAN start/stop video recording via your smartphone (and the playmemories smartphone app). You can verify this on the Sony site - it confirms that the RX10-II and RX10-III have this functionality.
Functions that Can Be Used Remotely Live View Display Shutter release Press the shutter halfway down Start/stop movie recording Touch AF Zoom Play back images recorded by the camera on your smartphone (*A) Transfer images recorded by the camera to your smartphone (*A) Delete images recorded by the camera (*A) Settings (*1) Zoom Self-timer Flash Mode Exposure Compensation ISO Sensitivity Shooting Mode Program shift Aperture Shutter Speed White Balance Focus Mode
What brand was the external charger mentioned? Is there other options to the Sony Multi Battery Adaptor Kit NPA-MQZ1K which seems really expensive at over £300
It has been a few years. Has Sony fixed these issues with their Sony RX10 mark III or IV models? I'm referring to video mode which is what I'll be using to produce content?
Great video and good extra information for me to consider. Coming from the FZ300 to a refurbished NX30 (for a decent low light).. I think landing on a pre-owned RX 10 will be a great compromise after my jumping around. Useable 1080p, 1" sensor, less than the APS-C, but definitely more than the lame 1/2.3". Also, many other pros that the NX30 lacked. If only the FZ300 had usable 1080p (not smudging do to low bitrates and small sensor) That'd be the perfect mid-priced camera.. but it's not. I will miss having splashproof, thankfully this is weather resistant at least, and I will miss a super zoom, but this cheaply grabs that 200mm that I would've maxed out on with the Samsung NX30 by purchasing an extra lens for over $300 :o This is a great middle compromise for the features I wished for, and for what I can currently afford. Yay for this year's model bumping down prices and causing owners to trade their oldies :)
Did you update the remote app in the camera and in your smartphone? I bet thats whats limiting your smartphone connection! Intervallometer if you really need it, purchase the corresponding app once and use it on 11 (or so) of your Sony cameras.
This was a really excellent and helpful video. I was trying to decide between the RX10 (now available very cheaply) and the Panasonic FZ1000, and this has helped me finally make my mind up in favour of the RX10. Although I can see the advantage of the 4k footage from the FZ1000, I'm not really set up for that with my system. And for HD, the RX10 after the firmware upgrade is clearly better than the FZ1000. (I know you can downscale the 4k from FZ1000 to HD, and this works great, but it still means handling all that extra data, which I'm not ready to do yet). The lens on the RX10 is much better for my purposes - I can live without the 400mm on the FZ1000, much rather have the constant f2.8 aperture (on the FZ1000 it is only f2.8 at the wide end, drops off pretty rapidly as soon as you start zooming in). Quality of the lens probably better for the RX too. I also like the headphones on the RX10 to allow audio monitoring, and the image stabilization looks very good (I believe that although the FZ1000 has excellent 5-axis image stabilization, this does NOT work when shooting in 4k, and you pretty much do have to shoot in 4k for video on the FZ). So thanks again for a great video! I can now make my purchase (second hand RX10 for £399 - about $595)
+Martin Treacy Thanks for the kind words! Indeed, with where prices have ended up with the original RX10 it's an even better value than before. While editing video I'm constantly surprised at the level of detail I get out of the footage.
wow. nice video. started thinking you ware laming to much, ended loving the positive criticism and how you always presented a solution for each problem. would be a lot easier to do as the most, critic the gear forgetting that all brands and models have issues and limitations. there is no perfect camera. I came to this video researching and trying to gather as much as possible information to buy a RX10. It will be a M3 version or probably a M4 (if comes out before June 17). Tried to understand how worked previous models and the level of positive opinions from owners. You helped me a lot. Thank you.
Nice video, thanks for sharing. A few points. What about the incredibly slow zoom whilst in record mode or the amount of turns on the lens required to pull focus? Yep, I too both love and kinda hate certain features of the RX10. Bottom line, in the UK you can pick one up for £649, so whichever way you look at it its a great value camera. I'm reviewing the Mk2 in a weeks time so it'll be fun to see what Sony have improved upon.
Adam Loretz I think the zoom speed while recording is fine -- for the reason that this isn't a parfocal lens. If you need to do a quick zoom, most likely you're already focused on the subject you plan to zoom in on. For a fast punch-in zoom, you're going to want that subject in focus the whole time, which is tough for any AF system. As for manual focus, I haven't found the number of turns to be much of a problem. You might want to check out my Afton State Park video (ruclips.net/video/v30zmMqa73I/видео.html), I have a rack focus shot in there that I was able to pull off pretty easily. I'm curious how many (if any) of my criticisms of the original RX10 were addressed in the Mk2 model. I'm not cool enough for Sony to send me a review unit though ;-)
thank you for your insight about this camera. very helpful because I have been looking for reasons to buy or not to buy this camera. Your video did bring up some details I wasn't aware of. I'm in the market for a higher quality camera but not to over my head(breaking away from point and shoot) and into more controlling the quality content of my video's and picture taking. THANKS I'll keep an eye out for your video's P.S. I think im going to buy one
There's also the studio flash sync problem that makes life miserably for photographers: The camera won't sync with the triggering flash unit attached to the camera's hot shoe. It's a "Sony Thing" with all high end Sony cameras. I had to wait two years for Cactus to invent a unit that will sync the camera for studio work. I like the quality of Sony, but I loathe their stupid, selfish way to keep their products not ready to use with mains stream attachments. Thanks for sharing.
My only problem with the rx10, the bright parts on stills and video just blown out like your face in this video. The raw format doesn't help too much because the dynaic range not too big and I can't recover it in lightroom. Sorry for my bad English.
Great vid! Planning on getting this camera tomorrow. A store in Belgium has a tax free promotion so i can get the RX10 for +- 670$ instead of 850$. Initially I wanted the mark II but it doesn't seem like its offering a lot more compared to the mark I. Not for that pricepoint anyway, the mark II costs twice as much. :/
+Florian Willemot Hi Florian! I bought the camera in the Mediamarkt. If you subscribe to their newsletter you will get notified when the next tax free promotion starts. Usually they notify you just a few days before, thats a bit annoying though because you dont know when the next promotion will be so it requires some patience but its well worthed in the end. The promotion lasts for 4 to 6 days and i think its twice per year. You can subscribe to Mediamarkt Netherlands too since its not that far. They have the promotion twice per year as well but on other occasions. Hope this helps.
Hi Collin, A+ to you for presentation and content! I've been diggin Pentax since forever, recently picked up an old Hero2 which left me wanting to truly up my video game so I landed on the RX10 since at least a week but remain undecided on biting or not. Actually, from various articles and reviews I'm sort of concerned that it might lead me decide to sell all my Pentax stuff :S oh nooooo! Anywho, maybe you have a tip. My problem is I need something that's pretty weather resistant as I'm into shooting from the both the saddle while mountain biking (in all weather conditions) and also from the ground shooting peeps as they ride by, along with other sports, Here in grey old Germany something with low-light capability and that leads me to Sony. I'm also strongly considering simply getting the HDR-AS100V. Also, I don't need 4k. That's too rich for me I think, heheh. Keep up the fine work and I'm subscribed \o/ Rock ON! :)
+John Graboski Thanks for the kind words! The RX10 is "weather sealed" which really just means you can get a couple of drops of rain on it -- I'm not aware of any similar cameras that would fare better against water. I have an AS100V myself and really like it, especially the fact that it's splash-resistant outside of its underwater housing.
Hi is there a external charger for the batteries ? Or any third party external battery charger? , i dont want to charge my battery w/ the camera since im going to use it for the whole event. thankyou
+Gibie Bien Yes, Sony sells a separate charger, and there are generic/3rd-party chargers as well. I picked up a pair of generic spare batteries for my RX10 and they came with a charger.
This is great hands on stuff - thank you! The recording limitations of the USB power supply of the original RX10 was a bummer in my opinion. However, on the new Sony RX10 MkII, it appears that you now can record and playback while powered by the USB input. At least that's what the Sony spec sheet seems to suggest. Do you know if this is correct for sure? I'm seriously considering getting the new model.
kipling1957 I'm curious about the MkII as well; I haven't been able to get hands-on with one yet. It remains to be seen how many of the original model's limitations carry over. For me, if they add an intervalometer, WiFi control and AF-S in video mode, then I might consider upgrading.
This Does Not Compute Look at the Sony Ax100. I have one. I also have stills cameras I shoot video with, like the Sony A7R for my full frame shots. But a lot of the things you mentioned here are solved in the AX100, but it is built for video, the price has dropped to 1500 dollars. It's 4k at 24 or 30 p. The sensor is also backlit, the low light performance is amazing. Built in ND filters, the screen turns all the way around where you can see yourself. Zebras, focus peaking, 4k records at 100mbs a second, thats a lot of information. If you read that it records at 60mbs a second, that was the old firmware. It's 100mbs. For video you'll find it's built for video more than the rx10. The ax100 has the same size sensor as the rx10 but the backlight in the sensor makes it a bit better. It has full manual controls that are easy to get to, your shutter speed, your iso/gain, and your iris/fstop. It comes with a long ac adapter cable that you can record while charging with, or you can even record while charging with USB. I'd go for the ax100 over the RX10ii. The only advantage the Rx10ii has, is it has picture profiles that allow you to turn things down more. However, I am pretty good at speed grade and coloring. So I'm able to take the default picture profile of the ax100 and make it look however I want. For example if it's too sharp, I can soften it without the image looking soft. It will also shoot stills, however I shoot raw with stills so I wouldn't use it for that. I'd get the AX100 for video and do your stills with your RX10, since the AX100 is a camcorder, it's not limited to 30 minutes per recording. It'll record for like 3 hours on one battery and a 128gb card. The 1080p shoots at XAVC however, just shoot in 4k and down convert it to 1080p and it looks better than regular 1080p because you get 3 times the amount of pixels, it also takes away noise. Your computer will handle it, it's not raw 4k, it's 100mbs 4k. So, you drag it in a timeline on premiere or logic and make the timeline 1080p. You can also do punch in's, like do a close up of your face and then back to your whole body and not lose any quality, since the 4k image is 4 times the size of 1080p. So in a 1080p timeline, a 4k camera makes it look like you have 2 or 3 cameras.
I think RX10 ii's way of charging batteries is not suitable when you're travelling. Imagine you ran out of battery and you need to charge. You can go to a restaurant and ask for a favor to charge your camera. Downside, you'll entrust the whole camera to them for charging. They can charge it in the counter far away from you. For me, I don't like that. Restaurant staff could be busy doing a lot of things and something might unintentionally happen to the camera. I have an FZ1000. The said event happened to me. I just gave the battery with the charger to the restaurant staff, and I did not get worried as compared to giving the whole camera itself.
I agree with about the app. I know MANY a person that would LOVE to initiate video mode through the app and its just not there. I have the A6000 and when I shoot video of myself, I have to hope the AF-C works well, or focus on something else, like a light stand, and then replace it....with me.
The Post Color Blog Also, it's nice to see that you have that on an S2 benro head. I have one on my monopod and I would like to get the Mark 2. and although I KNOW it's within weight limits, it's still nice to see someone who actually uses that setup :)
The Post Color Blog Yeah, I think the S2 is a decent value. It's not perfect, but does produce good results. (I did a review on it a while back.) And your trick of focusing on a stand-in is exactly what I do now...I don't trust AF-C, even with face recognition turned on.
I have an unusual question. I want to get this camera because of the lens quality, focus ability and photo quality. I presently own a Panasonic fz2500 yet with the exception of the lens quality, better image quality and extra reach of the Sony, I prefer the ergonomics of the Panasonic. (ie better user interface, articulated view finder and especially the superior cell phone app). Now to my question. If I were to purchase the Sony camera, after taking still images couldn't I remove the SD card from the Sony, install the card in my Panasonic and play back and transfer the images to my cell phone using the Panasonic cell phone app? I've noticed that this compatibility function does work taking the SD card from my old Canon sx-110 power shot, placing it into my fz2500 and transferring the images to my cell phone from there. I know this might seem rather convoluted to some people but I don't use a computer program to process my photos. I just do it on my cell phone using Snapseed and that suits my purpose. Thanks in advance for answering my question.
Very informative video. I also tend to favor the RX10 over the FZ1000 because of the choice of higher bit rate 1080P as well as the 60P frame rate not available in 4K. Also, the 24mm max wide is more valuable for indoor shooting in tight spaces over the 25mm max in the FZ1000. I still have no idea why Panasonic chooses to ignore the option for higher bit rate 1080, as you said, considering that 4K is limited to 30P frame rates, not to mention the crop factor. This seems to be consistent with every consumer video camera in Panasonic's current line except for the GH4 (which has a poor stabilizer compared to Sony). How is the sound quality of the RX10 when using a better external mic at XAVC S mode? I'm just afraid that it cannot accurately record the low end at loud venues (i.e. concerts).
+TIMagicProd I can tell you that the recording quality when using external mics on this camera is fantastic. it uses Dolby Digital AC-3 recording technology. The only thing I would advise is that you choose to manually control the audio in levels rather than leave them on auto.
+RedroomStudios - I have looked all over the internet to find a sample that really tests the audio quality of this camera in the most demanding situations. However, I have not seen anything that demonstrates that this camera can record deep bass. From the few sample that I did find, it sounds as if the recorded bass is very thin and not as deep and rich as the Panasonic GH3 (when using an external mic like the Sony ECM-CS3) or when compared to the Sony HDR-CX900 video camera. I prefer recording audio in uncompressed LPCM rather than compressed Dolby Digital.
+TIMagicProd the RX10 is essentially the exact same camera as the CX900 with only a few minor differences (the major one being the form factor - one being a "stills" camera and one being a "video" camera) the CX900 has a 50% longer zoom range which is one of the main reasons I am thinking of upgrading from my RX10 to the CX900. I'm not an expert on audio but I have had several videographers who have been doing the same car racing videos I do for decades longer, compliment me on the the great audio quality of my videos. I am running a mix of "line in" from a mixing board with announcers voices and an ambient microphone to pick up the car engine noise and I just manually set the record level very low to around 3 or 4 on the scale which goes up to 31. from what I have read, it is this ability to manually control your recording levels that sets the RX10 apart from any other dslr type camera when it comes to audio quality. the camera has good audio recording software built in... the only thing you would need to do is make sure you are using a good quality external mic that doesnt distort the low bass before it even gets to the camera. OR... if you have confidence about the CX900 then why dont you just buy it?
IMO xavcs does not blow avchd out the water. Side by side avchd is 98%+ as good as xavcs. Xavcs is slightly better for movement and does a little better in grading but the difference is so small that I don't think larger file sizes justifies xavcs.
This Does Not Compute Really a useful video. Congratulations! And like the previous comment, I am looking forward to see this video applied to the RX10 II. Thank you for the objective and impartial analysis that you performed in this video. Regards, Nuno Onofre
+Nandish A It's a bit apples-to-oranges comparing the RX10/RX10-II to the A6000 since the latter has an APS-C sized sensor. If you're mostly/only interested in stills, the A6000 appears to be a good value and there's a decent selection of lenses these days. (That said, supposedly the replacement for the A6000 is due to be announced in early 2016.) The RX10 is really a video powerhouse but I haven't been disappointed with its still quality either.
Bazza On the original RX10, no. I've heard of a 3rd-party Android app that can do it, but the camera has to stay in Wi-Fi tether mode the whole time (so your battery life will be drastically reduced). I haven't gotten my hands on an RX10 II yet, but some things I've read suggest that it supports PlayMemories apps, which are installed directly on the camera. Presumably there is/will be an intervalometer app available.
Sidelight from the window is a bit harsh. Do you use a scrim?
This is a very helpful review. I solved quite a few issues by buying both the RX10 and FZ1000. They compliment each other in that one has what the other doesn't, the RX10 being a perfect interview camera (ND filter, headphone connection, constant aperture, XAVC) and the FZ1000 a pretty much perfect B roll camera, (intervalometer, longer zoom, 4K, flexible screen, excellent stabilizer). It sounds expensive but the two together is still cheaper than a decent camcorder, like the Sony x70 or similar Canon with quite extraordinary flexibility, including two camera shoots..
This is valuable information for anyone considering this product - or vacillating between it and the Lumix 1000
This is one of the most valuable and intelligent review I've ever seen or read.
Very good, thanks! I wish every single camera, which has been ooh-aahed, would get a "a couple of small things" review like this.
Nothing is perfect, but it is always much nicer to buy something when you know what you will get.
It's marvelous to see Tyrion Lannister is reviewing my camera!
"Sheldon's blooog" :-) but awesome review/clarification
I noticed early on that if there is a small white item in the shot, the RX would often overexpose it. That's when I also noticed how easily my thumb could adjust for it with the handy exposure override knob. Your other complaints about the camera are worth noting, but as you suggest, certainly not deal breakers. This is, without a doubt, my best walkin' around camera ever. Good critical review. Thanks.
charging the battery in camera via USB is useless... way too slow! luckily my battery charger from my previous Sony cam fits the same battery as the RX10... and I also have a 3rd party Vivitar charger as a back up which has an adapter to charge from an accessory outlet in a car. I purchased the dedicated AC adapter as I shoot 3-4 hours of video per night on a tripod and I can't be worried about batteries dying in the middle of recording... so yes there are uses out there for the AC adapter.
I was actually surprised when you pointed out that in video mode the auto focus defaults to wide mode... the camera certainly doesnt seem to perform like it is in that mode in my experience. my camera always seems to focus on whatever is in the center of the frame.
one issue I think you missed with this camera is the exceedingly slow zoom speeds available in video mode... this is my pet peeve as I shoot high speed car racing and the zoom is really nowhere near fast enough for me to get the kinds of shots I would like. apparently this has been remedied on the RX10ii which allows you to set the zoom speed to standard or fast.
Very useful information! My format was on AVCHD and now I set it to XAVC S.
Thumbs up indeed! You might become my favorite RUclips reviewer
Here is you address two of your biggest gripes about this camera:
Remote Control --> Don't use the one installed out of the box, with the word "embedded" in its name. Install the free camera remote playmemories app, this one is much more powerful and works for video.
Time Lapse --> Install the time lapse app from the playmemories store, there is a small fee involved, but will solve your problem.
I hope this helps.
DanishSpaceman Unfortunately, the PlayMemories apps aren't available for the RX10. The only remote control the camera offers is through the PlayMemories Mobile smartphone app, which is incredibly limited in functionality with the camera. I have yet to find an explanation why the apps aren't available on the RX10; it's a real missed opportunity.
This Does Not Compute i wonder is it because u are using an iphone. the app i have on my sony phone has more features than the one u shown.
thanks for sharing your thoughts.
great sets of K-ON figures in the back
this was a very helpful and good video! would love to see your opinion on the mark II
So true on many things that you have said.
I would like to add to the following which many reviewers don't want to say since many are buying today for shooting stills as well as videos.
And I agreed with ATG when they told me about the drawbacks of Sony cameras, RX10 up to top-of-the line ATG Sony A7r IIr (modified to shoot wirelessly from camera to pc).
- Sony Remote Camera Control (SRCC) is not made for advanced to pros
- No live-view when doing tethered shooting (SRCC) on computer
- Only has a Red Button, if you want blind shooting videos
- Can not save on card when shooting stills
- Can not save on pc when shooting video
- Micro HDMI socket is a nightmare of loose connections/very easy to become defective
- Micro USB socket is just has bad as Micro HDMI
- No camera's flash & video LED light adjustment menus
- A computer is much better over a monitor because one can make save/cal the screen
- Sony knew about these problems & will not correct
Great video (thumbs up) I just got the RX10 II. I did not like the idea of the micro USB as the only way to charge the batteries. I know from experience those delicate plugs get worn out and are very vulnerable to damage if you bump the cord, etc. BUT, I found battery/110v charger combos on ebay that are very cheap. I like the fact that Sony was smart and uses the same battery for many different cameras and even Vivitar uses the same battery.. so the price is very affordable. Instead of plugging the USB into your computer, try plugging it into one of those USB wall charger adaptors. The camera won't try to connect to that. What is UP with that weird placement of the Focus Mode dial?
I'm sorry why can't you use the charger like a regular battery charger why not
Great Honest assessment of the RX10. Thanks. I'm going to buy one next week purely for Family stills and Family Video.
I'm sure it'll produce great results. Cheers
3:21 I've just got my RX10ii (firmware 1.30) and IT DOES HAVE CENTER FOCUS ON VIDEO (once you turn off dual rec)! You can also do Lock-On Autofocus (object tracking) by pressing the button in the middle of the rear dial like on my old Sony HX300.
Thanks for that work. Helps a lot! Greetz from Germany
After watching this, glad I went with the Panasonic FZ1000!!! I was originally torn between the two...
Thank you for the video. I am in the process of deciding for the RX10 or the FZ1000. First I thought I would go for the Lumix, but then I found out about the noise it makes while recording video. Until now I thought the RX10 only has AVCHD, and I am now really happy to know about the XAVC S update! I dont care about 4k, so I think I'll go for the Sony. :)
The external power was a big selling point for me. Thank you for the review. I was going to buy the camera to See if the camera has that feature then return if not. That was going to take a lot of my time thanks. Reviews on the bad point of a camera is going viral.keep on the good work
It'll be interesting to see your evaluation of the RX10 IV, as it loses the ND filter. No big deal to me, as I've always got ND's with me. HOWEVER, I'll give more credence to your reviews when you learn to expose correctly (you're about a stop too light), focus (your head shot is a little out of focus), and frame correctly (too much headroom).
I'm not a fan of what Sony's done with the RX10 III and IV -- the biggest complaint being the loss of constant aperture with the lens, but losing the built-in ND is a bummer too. And yes, I did a horrible job setting up the talking head shot in this episode.
Great review! I am considering getting. Mkii version, but need to know if your concerns were addressed first from the first version. Please do a mkii review asap! Great review, thanks!
The only deal-breaker is its lack of weather sealing for me
That's a great video, i was lucky i was able to get my hands on one for almost €800 less and I'm so happy i don't have to bother on little details
Says his exposure is great with it, has horrible exposure on his face during video...
Yeah. Weird framing. Overexposed and recording himself reading. Not good first impression for someone claiming that he knows something others don't and he will teachus.
Came here to say just this! Great video, but the exposure on this video is bad lol
@@KrunoslavStifter Understood. But really, there are no gurus who know it all, and even few fools who are wrong on everything. I listen to anyone who thoughtfully shares their experiences. If I were judge-y about them, I'd miss out. You too.
Key light is too bright.
Um it’s not the camera, it’s the gaffer or grip work. If his lighting is trash his video will be trash
Useful information that we should know before buy the camera,Thanks.
Great video! Thanks. Helps me with choosing a (video)camera.
2 questions:
- How long can you shoot video on one battery charge (in several shots because of the 29 minutes limitation)?
- Running on USB power, did you or someone else try to cut the data wires from an USB cable and see if the camera uses the power wires to charge and forgets to switch to storage mode? It would be so nice if you could shoot with USB powerbank as power source, power for ever!
The RX10 is at it best when used in manual mode for video. It performed consistently better than a Canon 60D in terms of color, noise, and dynamic range.
Please do a Mk II version review soon!
Thanks very much!
Very informative video, thanks. About the camera's battery charging issue, there's only one system (that I know of) that does the right thing and that's the Samsung NX range. You can charge it with a portable battery pack and shoot while charging. If video and stills are a 50-50 consideration then there's nothing out there like the Samsung NX1. Yes, Samsung is out of the camera business but the camera is still real and alive and couple with very fine lens selection (as of 2017) you can't beat it. Having said all that the Sony RX10 is a very great camera indeed.
Great Video! I have this camera and Love it! You've explained a lot I didn't know! Thank You!
What a super informative video. Thank you for uploading it, now gives me more food for thought..
Great review, I own one myself since 2014 and it does exactly what I bought it for. The only part that broke was the flash that stopped functioning I am still waiting for the repair to be done by the local Sony service store :-(
1:20 You CAN start/stop video recording via your smartphone (and the playmemories smartphone app). You can verify this on the Sony site - it confirms that the RX10-II and RX10-III have this functionality.
Functions that Can Be Used Remotely
Live View Display
Shutter release
Press the shutter halfway down
Start/stop movie recording
Touch AF
Zoom
Play back images recorded by the camera on your smartphone (*A)
Transfer images recorded by the camera to your smartphone (*A)
Delete images recorded by the camera (*A)
Settings (*1)
Zoom
Self-timer
Flash Mode
Exposure Compensation
ISO Sensitivity
Shooting Mode
Program shift
Aperture
Shutter Speed
White Balance
Focus Mode
Yes, Sony added a number of features to the RX10-II and III models. This video is about the original version of the camera, which lacks them.
What brand was the external charger mentioned? Is there other options to the Sony Multi Battery Adaptor Kit
NPA-MQZ1K which seems really expensive at over £300
I just bought this camera online. Great video, very informative.
It has been a few years. Has Sony fixed these issues with their Sony RX10 mark III or IV models? I'm referring to video mode which is what I'll be using to produce content?
What about RX10 II ? The same issues ??
What camera was used to shoot this video?
Good, honest video. Thanks from across the pond
Great video and good extra information for me to consider.
Coming from the FZ300 to a refurbished NX30 (for a decent low light).. I think landing on a pre-owned RX 10 will be a great compromise after my jumping around. Useable 1080p, 1" sensor, less than the APS-C, but definitely more than the lame 1/2.3". Also, many other pros that the NX30 lacked.
If only the FZ300 had usable 1080p (not smudging do to low bitrates and small sensor) That'd be the perfect mid-priced camera.. but it's not.
I will miss having splashproof, thankfully this is weather resistant at least, and I will miss a super zoom, but this cheaply grabs that 200mm that I would've maxed out on with the Samsung NX30 by purchasing an extra lens for over $300 :o
This is a great middle compromise for the features I wished for, and for what I can currently afford.
Yay for this year's model bumping down prices and causing owners to trade their oldies :)
Thank you so much for sharing this. It was extremely helpful.
Wait for the Sony RX10 mk II with 4K, I WILL buy that one :)
Hope it got software updates to M III.
I´m an happy amateur and it is a fantastic camera.
Did you update the remote app in the camera and in your smartphone? I bet thats whats limiting your smartphone connection! Intervallometer if you really need it, purchase the corresponding app once and use it on 11 (or so) of your Sony cameras.
hey, thank you for the review, can one use this camera as a webcam? does it lag or overheat? whould you recommend it for long livestreams?
Almost x-d the video at start seeing an overexposed face, then the content made me stay all the way thru. Thanks for sharing!
This was a really excellent and helpful video. I was trying to decide between the RX10 (now available very cheaply) and the Panasonic FZ1000, and this has helped me finally make my mind up in favour of the RX10. Although I can see the advantage of the 4k footage from the FZ1000, I'm not really set up for that with my system. And for HD, the RX10 after the firmware upgrade is clearly better than the FZ1000. (I know you can downscale the 4k from FZ1000 to HD, and this works great, but it still means handling all that extra data, which I'm not ready to do yet). The lens on the RX10 is much better for my purposes - I can live without the 400mm on the FZ1000, much rather have the constant f2.8 aperture (on the FZ1000 it is only f2.8 at the wide end, drops off pretty rapidly as soon as you start zooming in). Quality of the lens probably better for the RX too. I also like the headphones on the RX10 to allow audio monitoring, and the image stabilization looks very good (I believe that although the FZ1000 has excellent 5-axis image stabilization, this does NOT work when shooting in 4k, and you pretty much do have to shoot in 4k for video on the FZ). So thanks again for a great video! I can now make my purchase (second hand RX10 for £399 - about $595)
+Martin Treacy Thanks for the kind words! Indeed, with where prices have ended up with the original RX10 it's an even better value than before. While editing video I'm constantly surprised at the level of detail I get out of the footage.
wow. nice video. started thinking you ware laming to much, ended loving the positive criticism and how you always presented a solution for each problem. would be a lot easier to do as the most, critic the gear forgetting that all brands and models have issues and limitations. there is no perfect camera. I came to this video researching and trying to gather as much as possible information to buy a RX10. It will be a M3 version or probably a M4 (if comes out before June 17). Tried to understand how worked previous models and the level of positive opinions from owners. You helped me a lot. Thank you.
Nice video, thanks for sharing. A few points. What about the incredibly slow zoom whilst in record mode or the amount of turns on the lens required to pull focus?
Yep, I too both love and kinda hate certain features of the RX10. Bottom line, in the UK you can pick one up for £649, so whichever way you look at it its a great value camera. I'm reviewing the Mk2 in a weeks time so it'll be fun to see what Sony have improved upon.
Adam Loretz I think the zoom speed while recording is fine -- for the reason that this isn't a parfocal lens. If you need to do a quick zoom, most likely you're already focused on the subject you plan to zoom in on. For a fast punch-in zoom, you're going to want that subject in focus the whole time, which is tough for any AF system.
As for manual focus, I haven't found the number of turns to be much of a problem. You might want to check out my Afton State Park video (ruclips.net/video/v30zmMqa73I/видео.html), I have a rack focus shot in there that I was able to pull off pretty easily.
I'm curious how many (if any) of my criticisms of the original RX10 were addressed in the Mk2 model. I'm not cool enough for Sony to send me a review unit though ;-)
does the lens interchangeable ???
Awesome REAL REVIEW! Thank you.
I have this camera, I love Sony.... Thank you for the review.... Where do I get the update?
thank you for your insight about this camera. very helpful because I have been looking for reasons to buy or not to buy this camera. Your video did bring up some details I wasn't aware of. I'm in the market for a higher quality camera but not to over my head(breaking away from point and shoot) and into more controlling the quality content of my video's and picture taking. THANKS I'll keep an eye out for your video's P.S. I think im going to buy one
Thank you for this info
Xavcs codec can be recognized by smart phones or not?
PS My question refers to the RX10 II which I'm presuming hasn't got an intervalometer either.
Great review !
There's also the studio flash sync problem that makes life miserably for photographers: The camera won't sync with the triggering flash unit attached to the camera's hot shoe. It's a "Sony Thing" with all high end Sony cameras.
I had to wait two years for Cactus to invent a unit that will sync the camera for studio work.
I like the quality of Sony, but I loathe their stupid, selfish way to keep their products not ready to use with mains stream attachments.
Thanks for sharing.
Is there a way to print directly from the camera to the printer ?
Hello!
What is the best all around camera that can also do good slow motion like the RX10 ?
Thank you so much for this video. Very well made
GH4 would be pretty sweet for video too.
My only problem with the rx10, the bright parts on stills and video just blown out like your face in this video. The raw format doesn't help too much because the dynaic range not too big and I can't recover it in lightroom. Sorry for my bad English.
Great vid! Planning on getting this camera tomorrow. A store in Belgium has a tax free promotion so i can get the RX10 for +- 670$ instead of 850$. Initially I wanted the mark II but it doesn't seem like its offering a lot more compared to the mark I. Not for that pricepoint anyway, the mark II costs twice as much. :/
+Florian Willemot Hi Florian! I bought the camera in the Mediamarkt. If you subscribe to their newsletter you will get notified when the next tax free promotion starts. Usually they notify you just a few days before, thats a bit annoying though because you dont know when the next promotion will be so it requires some patience but its well worthed in the end. The promotion lasts for 4 to 6 days and i think its twice per year. You can subscribe to Mediamarkt Netherlands too since its not that far. They have the promotion twice per year as well but on other occasions. Hope this helps.
Great video. Subscribed!
Hi Collin, A+ to you for presentation and content! I've been diggin Pentax since forever, recently picked up an old Hero2 which left me wanting to truly up my video game so I landed on the RX10 since at least a week but remain undecided on biting or not. Actually, from various articles and reviews I'm sort of concerned that it might lead me decide to sell all my Pentax stuff :S oh nooooo! Anywho, maybe you have a tip. My problem is I need something that's pretty weather resistant as I'm into shooting from the both the saddle while mountain biking (in all weather conditions) and also from the ground shooting peeps as they ride by, along with other sports, Here in grey old Germany something with low-light capability and that leads me to Sony. I'm also strongly considering simply getting the HDR-AS100V. Also, I don't need 4k. That's too rich for me I think, heheh. Keep up the fine work and I'm subscribed \o/ Rock ON! :)
+John Graboski Thanks for the kind words! The RX10 is "weather sealed" which really just means you can get a couple of drops of rain on it -- I'm not aware of any similar cameras that would fare better against water. I have an AS100V myself and really like it, especially the fact that it's splash-resistant outside of its underwater housing.
Do you normally under exposure by about a stop for video?
Awesome thanks much! Please review the parrot bepop drone
Sony could have made such great device, with fully articulated touchscreen and good wifi app.
I was able to get power with the USB! Maybe because I was using the newer model
Hi is there a external charger for the batteries ? Or any third party external battery charger? , i dont want to charge my battery w/ the camera since im going to use it for the whole event. thankyou
+Gibie Bien Yes, Sony sells a separate charger, and there are generic/3rd-party chargers as well. I picked up a pair of generic spare batteries for my RX10 and they came with a charger.
very helpful video!!
great video....reminds me of the old Sony R1 with video...gonna pick one up. Cant beat that lens!
Can't you solve a lot of these problems with post-production software?
Mine has a error when I try to cut it on the lens moves in and out and the screen flashes. I am so frustrated we all know how much we paid for this.
This is great hands on stuff - thank you! The recording limitations of the USB power supply of the original RX10 was a bummer in my opinion. However, on the new Sony RX10 MkII, it appears that you now can record and playback while powered by the USB input. At least that's what the Sony spec sheet seems to suggest. Do you know if this is correct for sure? I'm seriously considering getting the new model.
kipling1957 I'm curious about the MkII as well; I haven't been able to get hands-on with one yet. It remains to be seen how many of the original model's limitations carry over. For me, if they add an intervalometer, WiFi control and AF-S in video mode, then I might consider upgrading.
This Does Not Compute Look at the Sony Ax100. I have one. I also have stills cameras I shoot video with, like the Sony A7R for my full frame shots. But a lot of the things you mentioned here are solved in the AX100, but it is built for video, the price has dropped to 1500 dollars. It's 4k at 24 or 30 p. The sensor is also backlit, the low light performance is amazing. Built in ND filters, the screen turns all the way around where you can see yourself. Zebras, focus peaking, 4k records at 100mbs a second, thats a lot of information. If you read that it records at 60mbs a second, that was the old firmware. It's 100mbs. For video you'll find it's built for video more than the rx10. The ax100 has the same size sensor as the rx10 but the backlight in the sensor makes it a bit better. It has full manual controls that are easy to get to, your shutter speed, your iso/gain, and your iris/fstop. It comes with a long ac adapter cable that you can record while charging with, or you can even record while charging with USB. I'd go for the ax100 over the RX10ii. The only advantage the Rx10ii has, is it has picture profiles that allow you to turn things down more. However, I am pretty good at speed grade and coloring. So I'm able to take the default picture profile of the ax100 and make it look however I want. For example if it's too sharp, I can soften it without the image looking soft. It will also shoot stills, however I shoot raw with stills so I wouldn't use it for that. I'd get the AX100 for video and do your stills with your RX10, since the AX100 is a camcorder, it's not limited to 30 minutes per recording. It'll record for like 3 hours on one battery and a 128gb card. The 1080p shoots at XAVC however, just shoot in 4k and down convert it to 1080p and it looks better than regular 1080p because you get 3 times the amount of pixels, it also takes away noise. Your computer will handle it, it's not raw 4k, it's 100mbs 4k. So, you drag it in a timeline on premiere or logic and make the timeline 1080p. You can also do punch in's, like do a close up of your face and then back to your whole body and not lose any quality, since the 4k image is 4 times the size of 1080p. So in a 1080p timeline, a 4k camera makes it look like you have 2 or 3 cameras.
nagol5178
Is there a better option please
do a "what the reviews don't tell you" for the rx10ii
I think RX10 ii's way of charging batteries is not suitable when you're travelling. Imagine you ran out of battery and you need to charge. You can go to a restaurant and ask for a favor to charge your camera. Downside, you'll entrust the whole camera to them for charging. They can charge it in the counter far away from you. For me, I don't like that. Restaurant staff could be busy doing a lot of things and something might unintentionally happen to the camera. I have an FZ1000. The said event happened to me. I just gave the battery with the charger to the restaurant staff, and I did not get worried as compared to giving the whole camera itself.
I agree with about the app. I know MANY a person that would LOVE to initiate video mode through the app and its just not there. I have the A6000 and when I shoot video of myself, I have to hope the AF-C works well, or focus on something else, like a light stand, and then replace it....with me.
The Post Color Blog Also, it's nice to see that you have that on an S2 benro head. I have one on my monopod and I would like to get the Mark 2. and although I KNOW it's within weight limits, it's still nice to see someone who actually uses that setup :)
The Post Color Blog Yeah, I think the S2 is a decent value. It's not perfect, but does produce good results. (I did a review on it a while back.)
And your trick of focusing on a stand-in is exactly what I do now...I don't trust AF-C, even with face recognition turned on.
I have an unusual question. I want to get this camera because of the lens quality, focus ability and photo quality. I presently own a Panasonic fz2500 yet with the exception of the lens quality, better image quality and extra reach of the Sony, I prefer the ergonomics of the Panasonic. (ie better user interface, articulated view finder and especially the superior cell phone app). Now to my question.
If I were to purchase the Sony camera, after taking still images couldn't I remove the SD card from the Sony, install the card in my Panasonic and play back and transfer the images to my cell phone using the Panasonic cell phone app? I've noticed that this compatibility function does work taking the SD card from my old Canon sx-110 power shot, placing it into my fz2500 and transferring the images to my cell phone from there. I know this might seem rather convoluted to some people but I don't use a computer program to process my photos. I just do it on my cell phone using Snapseed and that suits my purpose. Thanks in advance for answering my question.
Check out the Panasonic FZ-2500 bridge camera. You might really like it.
I'm too spoiled by the RX10's constant f/2.8. If I were to switch to Panasonic I'd just buy a GH5.
another item is the sd card is hard to get out past the cover .
Who knows how to turn on the flash light mine is not working?
Just bought it for 475 on ebay to work as a B-Camera to my A7s :)
Where is it made, Japan or China? You could find it in the label at the bottom of the camera.
+muthanna1973 The RX10 is made in China. That said, its build quality is excellent.
Very informative video. I also tend to favor the RX10 over the FZ1000 because of the choice of higher bit rate 1080P as well as the 60P frame rate not available in 4K. Also, the 24mm max wide is more valuable for indoor shooting in tight spaces over the 25mm max in the FZ1000. I still have no idea why Panasonic chooses to ignore the option for higher bit rate 1080, as you said, considering that 4K is limited to 30P frame rates, not to mention the crop factor. This seems to be consistent with every consumer video camera in Panasonic's current line except for the GH4 (which has a poor stabilizer compared to Sony). How is the sound quality of the RX10 when using a better external mic at XAVC S mode? I'm just afraid that it cannot accurately record the low end at loud venues (i.e. concerts).
+TIMagicProd I can tell you that the recording quality when using external mics on this camera is fantastic. it uses Dolby Digital AC-3 recording technology. The only thing I would advise is that you choose to manually control the audio in levels rather than leave them on auto.
+RedroomStudios - I have looked all over the internet to find a sample that really tests the audio quality of this camera in the most demanding situations. However, I have not seen anything that demonstrates that this camera can record deep bass. From the few sample that I did find, it sounds as if the recorded bass is very thin and not as deep and rich as the Panasonic GH3 (when using an external mic like the Sony ECM-CS3) or when compared to the Sony HDR-CX900 video camera. I prefer recording audio in uncompressed LPCM rather than compressed Dolby Digital.
+TIMagicProd the RX10 is essentially the exact same camera as the CX900 with only a few minor differences (the major one being the form factor - one being a "stills" camera and one being a "video" camera) the CX900 has a 50% longer zoom range which is one of the main reasons I am thinking of upgrading from my RX10 to the CX900. I'm not an expert on audio but I have had several videographers who have been doing the same car racing videos I do for decades longer, compliment me on the the great audio quality of my videos. I am running a mix of "line in" from a mixing board with announcers voices and an ambient microphone to pick up the car engine noise and I just manually set the record level very low to around 3 or 4 on the scale which goes up to 31. from what I have read, it is this ability to manually control your recording levels that sets the RX10 apart from any other dslr type camera when it comes to audio quality. the camera has good audio recording software built in... the only thing you would need to do is make sure you are using a good quality external mic that doesnt distort the low bass before it even gets to the camera.
OR... if you have confidence about the CX900 then why dont you just buy it?
IMO xavcs does not blow avchd out the water. Side by side avchd is 98%+ as good as xavcs. Xavcs is slightly better for movement and does a little better in grading but the difference is so small that I don't think larger file sizes justifies xavcs.
I see.
Do you have any thoughts on the latest version of the RX10 II? By the way really great video :D
xfani92 Thanks for the kind words! I haven't gotten my hands on the Mk2 version yet, but hope to soon.
This Does Not Compute Really a useful video. Congratulations!
And like the previous comment, I am looking forward to see this video applied to the RX10 II.
Thank you for the objective and impartial analysis that you performed in this video.
Regards,
Nuno Onofre
awesome video. thank you so much.
another review shows how to use the iphone for video too. Set the RX10 on video.
It is indeed an awesome camera. but i was wondering something :
Why a RX10 so late instead of waiting a bit for the RX10 II ?
+Ivan Phan The RX10 II cost more than twice as much.
+Simon Garfancule And there is no point in buying m2, maybe m3 will bring 60fps 4K, then it will be worth upgrade
+Simon Garfancule not sure where you are shopping but where I have bought all my cameras it's $1599 vs $999 in Canadian dollars.
Sheldon cooper !!!!
What do you think of its still capabilities? Do you think it can rival its mirrorsless sibling A6000?
+Nandish A It's a bit apples-to-oranges comparing the RX10/RX10-II to the A6000 since the latter has an APS-C sized sensor. If you're mostly/only interested in stills, the A6000 appears to be a good value and there's a decent selection of lenses these days. (That said, supposedly the replacement for the A6000 is due to be announced in early 2016.) The RX10 is really a video powerhouse but I haven't been disappointed with its still quality either.
Thanks for that clarification
Sony takes great lens and image quality and makes this camera too frustrating in too many other ways. I wish Sony would get it together.
Is it possible to add an intervalometer via a firmware upgrade? Seems incredible that this camera does not have one.
Bazza On the original RX10, no. I've heard of a 3rd-party Android app that can do it, but the camera has to stay in Wi-Fi tether mode the whole time (so your battery life will be drastically reduced). I haven't gotten my hands on an RX10 II yet, but some things I've read suggest that it supports PlayMemories apps, which are installed directly on the camera. Presumably there is/will be an intervalometer app available.
+This Does Not Compute Many thanks for your reply and video.
thanks for the review