Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III review: Our verdict

The RX10 III rounds off an impressive trilogy of cameras from Sony, and it is difficult to come away from using it and feel underwhelmed. Although it covers much the same territory as the RX10 II, the increase in focal range over previous models changes its proposition, and makes it far more viable as an alternative to a DSLR or mirrorless camera than its two predecessors.

Is it fit as a replacement for such a model? In many respects, yes. Its sensor is clearly capable of capturing very good detail and manages to maintain this at higher sensitivities, while the expansive optic is sharp and blessed with effective image stabilisation, with aberrations either minimised by its optical formula or sufficiently corrected by way of processing. Those scrutinising images closely will appreciate that it can’t always match the clarity offered by the combination of a camera with a larger sensor and a high-quality lens, but it does a mighty good job attempting to do so and maintains this well at higher sensitivities. With the further advantage of sound metering and accurate colour, it is easy to get quality results without recourse to post-processing, although some may wish for in-camera Raw processing.

The list of additional advantages that sweeten its appeal is exhaustive, from its high-quality viewfinder, detailed video footage (and comprehensive control over it) and the various benefits associated with its electronic shutter. The lack of a touchscreen isn’t too significant an issue on such a camera, but a handful of ergonomic revisions would result in a more pleasing user experience, as would a menu system that isn’t quite as tedious to navigate.

Perhaps its main issue is the same one that has troubled previous RX-series models: price. While you’d be hard pushed to find an equivalent DSLR or CSC and lens for the same money, the camera’s main rivals have already enjoyed some time on the market, and this has significantly lowered their asking prices from where they originally began. This leaves the RX10 III undeniably better specified in most areas but significantly dearer.

Price aside, the RX10 III is a stellar camera that’s flexible in both stills and video recording.