Sony RX0 Review

January 26, 2018 | Tim Coleman | Rating star Rating star Rating star Rating star

Introduction

The action camera world was shaken up a bit when the Sony RX0 was announced. Could Sony, one of the leading brands in developing new camera technology, really stick it to the industry leader GoPro with its new premium action camera?

What really grabbed the headlines was the Sony RX0’s massive 1-inch sensor, packed into a body that looks and feels like a regular action camera. The sensor is around 4x the size of those in other action cameras, so the RX0 image quality should outshine its rivals, particularly in low light. 

Actually, the RX0 is not that simple. Read beyond the product images and you can soon see that it is an altogether different proposition to other action cameras like the GoPro Hero 6. It has its pros and its cons.

Sony itself points out that the RX0 is not an action camera (as we know it). So what exactly is the Sony RX0 and just how good is it? Read on to find out.

The Sony RX0 is available now and has an RRP of £800 via the Sony website, where you can find more information about the camera. There are plenty of accessories available too, including the Cage (VCT-CGR1), Housing (MPK-HSR1), Filter Adaptor Kit (VFA-305R1) Cable Protector (CPT-R1) and additional battery (NP-BJ1).

Ease of Use

Sony RX0
Front of the Sony RX0

Sony RX0: At a Glance

•       1in sensor 
•       24mm f/4 Zeiss Tessar lens
•       59x40.5x29.8mm
•       15.3MP (effective) still images, up to 16fps
•       4k 4:2:2 videos via HDMI output to external recorder only
•       S-Log2 Picture Profile
•       Up to 960fps HFR (High Frame Rate) videos
•       1.5in screen, not touch sensitive
•       Waterproof down to 10m without housing, 2m shockproof, 400lb crushproof
•       No image stabilisation
•       Built-in mic port
•       Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth with control of up to five RX0’s
•       Sync up to 100 RX0’s
•       Loads of optional extras

Sony is keen to point out that the RX0 is not a GoPro competitor. Why? On the outside this is an action camera. It’s the same sort of size and weight, measuring 59x41x30mm approximately and weighing a mere 110g. It’s an extremely rugged camera too.

Other similarities include the fixed wide-angle lens. Then the camera is waterproof (down to 10m, IPX8 equivalent), shockproof (up to 2m) and crushproof (up to 200kg). So really it’s the same as other action cameras, right?

Well, dig a little deeper and the RX0 is quite a different camera to one like the GoPro Hero 6. The more you look at the RX0, the more it feels like a different concept. In fact, it feels like a different category, possibly a new category.

Sony RX0
Front of the Sony RX0

You’ve got that 20MP 1in sensor like in Sony’s RX100 series of compact cameras. A larger sensor provides greater control over depth of field and, as we said, image quality should be better, especially in low light (more on this later).

The fixed f/4 lens has a focal length of 24mm (full-frame equivalent), which is not as wide as most action cameras that feature a fisheye lens. Usually action cameras are designed to work close in hand, while keeping as much of the environment and subject in the shot. 

So while you don’t fit in as much into your shot with the RX0, the 24mm wide-angle lens is not affected by barrel distortion in the same way that a fisheye lens is. 

Then you have a universal microphone port to connect an external microphone for high-quality audio recording. You won’t find this feature on too many other action cameras (though you can on the YI 4K via a cable). Therefore, the RX0 seems like an interesting prospect for other applications, including v-logging. 

Sony RX0
Rear of the Sony RX0

However, unfortunately the RX0 does not have image stabilisation. For those that would like to use the RX0 as an action camera or for run-and-gun v-logging, image stabilisation will be sorely missed. Stabilising the camera will have to happen using other means, like with a gimbal. No IS certainly isn’t a deal breaker, but given the RX0 costs £800, you’d hope it would be included.

Other ports include a micro USB for charging and mini HDMI out to an external recorder for clean 4:2:2 4K videos. Without an external recorder, videos are limited to full HD at 50/ 60fps up to 100Mbps. There is Sony’s HFR (High Frame Rate) modes too, that will capture short sequences up to 960fps. That’s quite a feature set in such a diminutive camera. 

As with other Sony cameras with HFR modes, you’ll need to time the start of the sequence just right - which takes practice. Once the sequence is captured, there is a wait post capture when the camera is out of action while the video is processed.

Another neat feature is the wireless connectivity to a smart device via Sony’s Play Memories app. Asides from image transfer, one function of the app is the ability to control up to five RX0’s simultaneously. In fact, it is possible to run up to 100 RX0’s for the same shoot.

Sony RX0
Top of the Sony RX0

So, rather than an action cam, Sony is pushing the RX0 to be used in professional filmmaking productions, like in multi-camera rigs and in-car shots. We can quickly see why. Just how much the 24mm focal length and modest minimum focus distance of 50cm restricts the camera’s usefulness in tight spaces is another matter. 

That minimum focus distance of 50cm is approximately an arm’s length. So when v-logging, we had to continually remember to keep the camera at arms length to ensure the face is sharp - it’s harder than you think. 

When attaching the camera to a helmet, boom and mast while windsurfing, the field of view was not quite wide enough for an immersive feel of the action. 

With the RX0 waterproof down to 10m, you won’t need dedicated housing to protect it from water intake. In use, water glides right off the protective removable frontage, meaning you won’t get obtrusive water droplets ruining your shot so often. The same cannot be said for many other housing units.

Sony RX0
Connectivity

Elsewhere, the rear LCD screen is a rather modest 1.5in display with 230k dot resolution. In bright light it is very difficult to see the display clearly. Also, the screen is not touch sensitive. Most other premium action cameras feature 2in touchscreens. 

Instead, the menus need to be navigated using the keys to the side of the screen. It can take a little while to change camera settings, even once you are used to finding your way around the camera. Frankly, it’s a bit of a pain. 

A quicker alternative is to control the camera remotely through the Play Memories App, where the basic exposure controls are to hand. It’s not a comprehensive solution as understandably there are many controls not available in the app, but it does speed up the basic control of the camera (plus of course you get remove live view on a larger and clearer display). 

On an aside, it is possible to ‘flip’ the display 180° for clear viewing when the camera is positioned upside down. That’s a neat feature. 

Sony RX0
The Sony RX0 In-hand

The RXO uses a NP-BJ1 battery unit which provides a battery life quoted at 240 single shots or up to 35 minutes movie recording time. In reality, the battery life really is quite modest and we could have done with one or two spare batteries for our test. That large sensor sure is power hungry.

However, the camera can be charged via USB. While out and about we made use of our own power bank when the battery drained. It is also possible to power the camera externally with a more powerful additional battery unit.

Playback menus are separated between videos and photos. It would be great to have these images together for viewing. Sony's is the system that you are most likely to accidentally delete videos (or photos) if you are not careful. Also, the orientation of portrait format images is not automatically flipped, so you’ll have to do that manually when editing the images. 

Optional accessories can bear a major impact on how well cameras like the RX0 hold out in use. There are already quite a few accessories for the RX0. For example, if 10m is not deep enough for you, there is an optional waterproof housing available with 100m depth ability.

Image Quality

All of the sample images in this review were taken using the 15 megapixel Fine JPEG setting, which gives an average image size of around 7Mb.

Some of the best features of the Sony RX0 are in the image recording department. The 1in, 20MP sensor is the same as the one found in the RX100 series of compact cameras - one of our favourite compact cameras bar none. Packing a sensor that large in such a small camera is quite something. 

Full resolution images are 15.3MP, which is plenty enough detail for a camera of this type. The 24mm f/4 lens impresses too. It’s sharp in the centre with only a minimal drop off in clarity in the corners of the frame. 

When shooting in good contrast light, you get a wide range of tones and crisp detail. Shoot alongside another action camera and the difference in dynamic range is clear to the eye - in the RXO there's much more detail in highlight and shadow areas.

For the best possible detail in highlight and shadow areas, it is well worth keeping the DRO (Dynamic Range Optimiser) option activated. Of course the HDR mode goes one step further, combining multiple images to get the widest range of tones possible. Even in a 1in sensor you’ll need HDR from time to time. 

The full HD 1080p video spec is excellent, with up to 50/ 60fps at 100Mbps. Slow motion videos can be made at 250fps, 500fps and 1,000fps, though the resolution drops at those higher rates. It’s quite the feature set. 

It is possible to shoot 4K 4:2:2 videos with the RX0, though you will need to be connected to an external recorder through the clean HDMI output. You get a range of Picture Profiles to choose from which is particular handy for videos, particularly PP7 which is the flat SLog2 profile. 

Noise

The RX0 has an ISO 125-12,800 sensitivity range for videos and still images. It can be expanded down to ISO 80 and up to ISO 25,600 for photos in the multi-frame NR mode. 

When shooting in good contrast light, the 24mm f/4 lens acquires crisp detail. If you compare the same image in JPEG and unedited RAW versions, you’ll see some relatively strong sharpening applied to JPEGs. However, if you are to look at a JPEG in its own right, the detail looks lovely and sharp without appearing over-sharpened. 

That larger 1in sensor provides superior image quality compared to other action cameras, especially when shooting in low light. If you’re familiar with an RX100, you’ll know what quality to expect.

Firstly, luminance noise isn’t so bad, especially in low light. Luminance noise has a negative impact in several areas of image quality; image sharpness, colour depth and dynamic range to name some. 

In the RXO, you get crisper images with greater detail in highlight and shadow areas plus punchier colours at the higher ISO settings. We do recommend shooting in RAW format in order to get the most detail out of images especially in low light. 

Pixel peeping our test images (viewing at 100%), we can see that luminance noise is really well controlled up to ISO 800 - image are completely clean. There is a minor increase at ISO 1600 and then steadily more with each ISO setting as you increase up to the maximum ISO 12,800. 

Those test images show very little sign of chroma noise at any ISO setting. Impressive. 

One downside is that the aperture of the fixed lens is f/4, which is not as fast as some other action cameras that are often f/2.8. It’s inevitable given the larger sensor and does counteract the superior low light performance to a degree. Only to a small degree though. 

JPEG RAW

ISO 80 (100% Crop)

ISO 80 (100% Crop)

iso80.jpg iso80raw.jpg
   

ISO 100 (100% Crop)

ISO 100 (100% Crop)

iso100.jpg iso100raw.jpg
   

ISO 125 (100% Crop)

ISO 125 (100% Crop)

iso125.jpg iso125raw.jpg
   

ISO 200 (100% Crop)

ISO 200 (100% Crop)

iso200.jpg iso200raw.jpg
   

ISO 400 (100% Crop)

ISO 400 (100% Crop)

iso400.jpg iso400raw.jpg
   

ISO 800 (100% Crop)

ISO 800 (100% Crop)

iso800.jpg iso800raw.jpg
   

ISO 1600 (100% Crop)

ISO 1600 (100% Crop)

iso1600.jpg iso1600raw.jpg
   

ISO 3200 (100% Crop)

ISO 3200 (100% Crop)

iso3200.jpg iso3200raw.jpg
   

ISO 6400 (100% Crop)

ISO 6400 (100% Crop)

iso6400.jpg iso6400raw.jpg
   

ISO 12800 (100% Crop)

ISO 12800 (100% Crop)

iso12800.jpg iso12800raw.jpg

Focal Range

The Sony RX0 features a fixed ZEISS Tessar T* 24mm lens. That’s not as wide as most action cameras, but is still wide enough to capture most of the scene around you. 

We suspect that even if the RX0 can be stabilised, for many its narrower field of view is just not suitable for the sort of action we’ve come to know from the GoPro ambassadors. Really, with the RX0 you’re mostly looking at different applications. 

focal_range.jpg

Lens Distortions

The ZEISS Tessar T* lens features 6 aspheric elements in 6 groups. 

We could not find any major barrel distortion in our brick wall test image. If distortion is there, it’s negligible. Impressive. Also, vignetting in the f/4 lens is very well controlled indeed. Again, impressive. 

In the corners of images with high contrast detail, there is a some sign of chromatic aberration - usually magenta/ purple fringing. It’s to be expected of a fixed 24mm lens of this size and nothing major that can’t be fixed easily post capture. Again, it’s worth shooting in RAW format to make these corrections.  

As for the quality of detail across the image, the sharpness in the centre of the frame is maintained to an impressive degree all the way to the corners, with only minimal drop off in clarity. 

Ultimately, the quality of the lens is one area where the RX0 shines over other action cameras. 

distortion.jpg

Macro

The RX0 does not have macro focusing, as you can see from our sample image of a CF card. The closest focusing distance is 50cm, which is very modest for a 24mm wide-angle lens. Could the restricted minimum focus distance of the RX0 be a deal breaker when considering it for a camera rig, where the cameras needs to be positioned closely to a subject? 

macro.jpg

Night

When compared to other action cameras, the RX0 shines when used in low light thanks to its larger imaging sensor. You get better dynamic range, colour depth and control of noise. In short, the image quality of the RX0 in low light is superior to any other action camera. 

When taking manual control over exposure, the longest possible shutter speed is 1/4sec. Therefore, it is not possible to make long exposure images. Evidently, the target market for this camera is not interested in long exposures. 

night.jpg

Shooting Modes

In addition to PASM shooting modes, the RX0 has a HDR mode, HFR (High Frame Rate) modes for up to 960fps slow motion recording, multi-frame NR mode and a plethora of Picture Effects, including High-Key and Rich Tone Monochrome. 

However, we do still recommend shooting in RAW format when using the RX0, in order to get the most amount of tonal detail from the scene. (Picture effects are not applied to RAW format images.) 

Sample Images

This is a selection of sample images from the Sony RX0 camera, which were all taken using the 15 megapixel JPEG setting. The thumbnails below link to the full-sized versions, which have not been altered in any way.

Sample RAW Images

The Sony RX0 enables users to capture RAW and JPEG format files. We've provided some Sony RAW (ARW) samples for you to download (thumbnail images shown below are not 100% representative).

Sample Movies & Video

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 1920x1080 pixels at 50 frames per second. Please note that this 75 second movie is 464Mb in size.

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 1920x1080 pixels at 50 frames per second. Please note that this 11 second movie is 72Mb in size.

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 1920x1080 pixels at 50 frames per second. Please note that this 43 second movie is 272Mb in size.

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 1920x1080 pixels at 50 frames per second. Please note that this 20 second movie is 128Mb in size.

This is a sample movie at the slow motion quality setting of 1920x1080 pixels at 1000 frames per second. Please note that this 19 second movie is 124Mb in size.

Product Images

Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0

 

Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0
 
Sony RX0

Conclusion

In one sense, the Sony RX0 is in its own category which makes it very difficult to judge. It’s part action camera, part compact camera, part multi-camera rig/ B-Roll/ C-Roll/ behind the scenes camera.

After deliberation, our ratings and conclusions have to be based on the RX0 being more like an action camera than any other type of camera. Think of it like a Sony Cyber-Shot RX100, in the shell of an action camera with mic port.

The reality though is that the RX0 is a truly niche product and an expensive one at that, at £800. The GoPro Hero 6 is half the price. If you are not sure that’s it’s right for you, we recommend renting one first to get a feel for what it can (and cannot) do.

Against other action cameras there are pros and cons to the Sony RX0.

The larger sensor and sharp 24mm f/4 lens give superior image quality for still images. No other action camera comes close. This quality is complimented by some neat shooting modes, like the 16fps burst mode. Then there is the tough build quality with no need for housing, plus connectivity options including to an external mic.

Yet there are downsides. The 24mm focal length and minimum focus distance of 0.5m is very restricting for shooting in tight spaces - which could be a big reason to consider the RX0 in the first place.

The omission of image stabilisation may off-putting. You won’t be able to walk around with the RX0 in hand and expect stable images, unless the camera is attached to a rig/ gimbal. Which is doubly a shame, given the RX0 works with an external microphone.

The LCD screen of the RX0 is found wanting too, being a small 1.5in display that is not touch sensitive and very hard to see in bright light.

So what do we think of the Sony RX0? It’s a product that delights and confounds in equal measures. If it suits you’re purpose, then we expect you’d struggle to find a better pocket camera. It’s image quality is unmatched in a camera this shape, yet the overall package would benefit from some refining.

4 stars

Ratings (out of 5)
Design 3.5
Features 4
Ease-of-use 3.5
Image quality 5
Value for money 3.5

Main Rivals

Listed below are some of the rivals of the Sony RX0.

Fujifilm FinePix XP70

The Fujifilm FinePix XP70 is a tough water, freeze, shock and dust proof 16 megapixel compact camera. The XP70 also offers built-in wi-fi, 10fps burst shooting, 1080i HD movies, a 5x zoom lens and a 2.7 inch LCD screen. Read our expert Fujifilm FinePix XP70 review now...

GoPro HERO5 Session

The GoPro HERO5 Session action camera features a 10-megapixel sensor, a single control button and voice control. It can shoot movies at 4K/30fps, is waterproof to 33ft/10m, and can upload photos and videos to the cloud while charging. Read our GoPro HERO5 Session review now...

GoPro HERO6 Black

The GoPro HERO6 Black action camera features 4K video recording at 60fps, Full HD video at 240fps, a 12 megapixel sensor, the most advanced video stabilisation ever, and a new “QuikStories” app. Read our in-depth GoPro HERO6 Black review now...

Kodak Pixpro SP360 4K

The Kodak Pixpro SP360 4K is a new 360-degree virtual reality action camera, featuring 4K video recording, Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, and a 12 megapixel sensor. Read our in-depth Kodak Pixpro SP360 4K review now...

Kodak PixPro SP360

The new Kodak PixPro SP360 is an actioncam with a difference - it can capture a complete 360-degree view of the world. Is the Kodak PixPro SP360 worth considering alongside, or even instead of, the mighty GoPro? Read our in-depth Kodak PixPro SP360 review to find out...

Nikon KeyMission 170

The KeyMission 170 is Nikon's first attempt at an action camera, featuring 4K video recording and a 170-degree lens. Can it compete with the similarly priced GoPro Hero 5? Find out by reading our Nikon KeyMission 170 review.

Nikon KeyMission 360

The KeyMission 360 is Nikon's first attempt at a 360-degree virtual reality action camera, featuring 4K video recording, weather-proofing and a 23.9 megapixel sensor. Read our in-depth Nikon KeyMission 360 review now...

Nikon KeyMission 80

The KeyMission 80 is Nikon's cheapest action camera, featuring 1080p video recording, front- and rear-facing cameras, and an 80-degree lens. Read our Nikon KeyMission 80 review now...

Olympus TG-Tracker

The Olympus TG-Tracker is a water, freeze, shock and dust proof action camera with built-in wi-fi connectivity and GPS tracking. The TG-Tracker also offers a tilting LCD screen, 4K movie recording, and a 14mm ultra-wide-angle lens with 5-axis image stabilisation. Read our Olympus TG-Tracker review to find out what this tough camera is capable of...

Ricoh WG-M1

The Ricoh WG-M1 is a water, freeze and shock proof action camera with built-in wi-fi connectivity. The Ricoh WG-30 Wi-fi offers 14 megapixels, Full HD movie recording and a colour LCD monitor. Read our in-depth Ricoh WG-30 Wi-fi review now...

Sony HDR-AS50

The Sony HDR-AS50 is an action camera that won't break the bank, featuring 1080p video recording, a Zeiss lens and image stabilisation. Can it compete in a crowded market? Find out by reading our Sony HDR-AS50 review...

YI 4K Action Camera

The YI 4K Action Camera is an affordable action camera, featuring 4K video recording at 30fps and a 12 megapixel Sony sensor. Can it compete with the likes of the more expensive GoPro Hero camera? Find out by reading our YI 4K Action Camera review...

YI 4K+ Action Camera

The YI 4K+ Action Camera is the only action camera on the market that can shoot 4K video at 60fps. Is this enough to consider it instead of a GoPro? Find out by reading our YI 4K+ Action Camera review...

Review Roundup

Reviews of the Sony RX0 from around the web.

expertreviews.co.uk »

We were excited by the Sony RX0 when we first saw it at IFA in October 2017. Here was a tiny, 4K-capable action camera with a sensor around four times the size of the one in GoPro’s Hero 6, along with a host of professional-level features. It looked as if Sony was onto a winner.
Read the full review »

camerajabber.com »

Sony has been a dominant force in the broadcast industry for decades, and when it joined the digital imaging market the company carried on its tradition of innovation. The Sony Alpha 7S was the first camera from Sony to really blend the worlds of stills and video together in one of the most versatile cameras out there. Now the ultra compact RX0 has arrived, offering yet more innovation and features that take both stills and video to another level.
Read the full review »

Specifications

Sensor

Sensor Type
1.0-type (13.2mm x 8.8mm) Exmor RS™ CMOS sensor, aspect ratio 3:2
Number of Pixels (Effective)
15.3MP
Number of Pixels (total)
Approx. 21.0 Megapixels

Lens

Lens type
ZEISS Tessar T* Lens, 6 elements in 6 groups (6 aspheric elements)
F-number (Maximum Aperture)
F4.0 (Fixed)
Focal length (f=)
f=7.7mm;Still Image3:2 f=24mm;Still Image4:3 f=26mm;Still Image16:9 f=25.2mm;Still Image1:1 f=30.7mm
Focus Range (From the Front of the Lens)
Approx. 50cm (1.7 ft.) to Infinity
Optical Zoom
-
Clear Image Zoom (Still Image)
-
Clear Image Zoom (Movie)
-

Screen

Screen Type
3.8cm(1.5type)(4:3) / 230,400 dots / Clear Photo / TFT LCD
Brightness Control
Manual(5 steps) / Sunny Weather
MF Assist Magnification
8.6x

Viewfinder

Screen Type/Number of Dots
-

Camera

Image Processing Engine
Yes (BIONZ X™)
Focus Mode
Single-shot AF;Preset Focus;Manual Focus
Focus Area
Wide (25 points(contrast-detection AF));Center;Flexible Spot (S/M/L);Expanded Flexible Spot
Light Metering Mode
Multi Pattern;Center Weighted;Spot
Exposure Compensation
+/- 3.0EV, 1/3EV step
ISO Sensitivity (Still Image)(Recommended Exposure Index)
Auto(ISO125-12800, selectable with upper / lower limit),125/160/200/250/320/400/500/640/800/1000/1250/1600/2000/2500/3200/4000/5000/6400/8000/10000/12800 (Extendable to ISO80/100),Multi-Frame NR:Auto(ISO125-12800), 200/400/800/1600/3200/6400/12800/256002
ISO Sensitivity (Movie)
Auto:(ISO125Level-ISO12800Level, selectable with upper / lower limit), 125/160/200/250/320/400/500/640/800/1000/1250/1600/2000/2500/3200/4000/5000/6400/8000/10000/12800
Minimum Illumination (Movie)
Auto:6lux(Shutter Speed 1/30")
White Balance Modes
Auto;Daylight;Shade;Cloudy;Incandescent;Fluor.: Warm White;Fluor.: Cool White;Fluor.: Day White;Fluor.: Daylight;Underwater Auto;C.Temp./Filter;Custom
WB Micro Adjustment
Yes G7 to M7,57-step A7 to B7,29-step
Electronic Shutter
iAuto(1/4" - 1/32000) / Program Auto(1/4" - 1/32000) / Manual(1/4" - 1/32000)
Aperture
F4.0
Image Control
Contrast;Saturation;Sharpness;Creative Style;Color Space(sRGB / Adobe RGB);Quality(RAW / RAW&JPEG / Extra fine / Fine / Standard)
Noise Reduction
high ISO NR:Normal/Low/Off;Multi Frame NR: Auto, ISO200-25600
Dynamic Range Functions
Off, Dynamic Range Optimizer (Auto/Level 1-5), Auto High Dynamic Range (Auto Exposure Difference, Exposure difference Level (1.0-6.0EV, 1.0EV step))
Shooting Mode
Program Auto;Manual Exposure;MR(Memory Recall) [body 3 sets / memory card 4 sets];Movie Mode(Intelligent Auto);Movie Mode(Program Auto);Movie Mode(Manual Exposure);HFR Mode(Program Auto, Manual Exposure);Intelligent Auto;Superior Auto
Continuous Shooting Speed (maximum) (with max. recording pixels)
Speed Priority Continuous Shooting: approx. 16 fps, Continuous Shooting: approx. 5.5 fps34
Self-Timer
10sec. / 5sec. / 2sec. / 3 or 5 consecutive shots with 10sec. 5sec. or 2sec. delay selectable / Bracketing shots with 10sec. 5sec. or 2sec. delay selectable
Drive Modes
Single;Continuous shooting;Speed priority continuous shooting;Self-timer;Self-timer(cont.);Cont.-bracketing5;Single-bracketing5;White balance bracketing5;DRO bracketing5
Picture Effect
Still Image:Pop Color;Posterization;Retro Photo;Soft High-key;Partial Color;High Contrast Mono.;Soft Focus;HDR Painting;Richtone Monochrome;Miniature;Watercolor;Illustration;Movie:Pop Color;Posterization;Retro Photo;Soft High-key;Partial Color;High Contrast Mono.
Creative Style
Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Clear, Deep, Light, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, Night Scene, Autumn Leaves, Black & White, Sepia, Style Box
Picture Profile
Off/PP1-PP7(Black Level, Gamma(Movie, Still, Cine1-2, ITU709, ITU709 [800%], S-Log2), Black Gamma, Knee, Color Mode, Saturation, Color Phase, Color Depth, Detail, Copy, Reset)
Focus Type
Contrast-detection AF
Number of Recognised Scenes
Still Image:Superior Auto: 10 / iAuto: 10;10

Recording

Compatible Recording Media
Memory Stick Micro6;Memory Stick Micro (Mark2)6;microSD Memory Card6;microSDHC Memory Card6;microSDXC Memory Card6
Recording Format
Still Image:JPEG(DCF Ver.2.0,Exif Ver.2.31,MPF Baseline compliant), RAW (Sony ARW 2.3 format);XAVC S;AVCHD format Ver.2.0 compatible;MP4
Recording Format (Movie Audio)
XAVC S:LPCM 2ch;AVCHD:Dolby Digital(AC-3) 2ch(Dolby Digital Stereo Creator);MP4:MPEG-4 AAC-LC 2ch
Colour Space (Still)
sRGB, Adobe RGB
DCF/DPOF
DCF/DPOF/EXIF/MPF
Still Image Number of recorded pixels (Image Size)
Still Image:3:2mode:15M(4,800×3,200) / 7.7M(3,408×2,272) / 3.8M(2,400×1,600)、4:3mode:14M(4,272×3,200) / 6.9M(3,024×2,272) / 3.4M(2,128×1,600) / VGA,16:9mode:13M(4,800×2,704) / 6.5M(3,408×1,920) / 3.2M(2,400×1,352),1:1mode:10M(3,200×3,200) / 5.2M(2,272×2,272) / 2.6M(1,600×1,600)
HFR
Recording NTSC/PAL Selector: [PAL] mode XAVC S HD:50p 50M(1,920x1,080/250fps), 50p 50M(1,920x1,080/500fps), 50p 50M(1,920x1,080/1000fps) / 25p 50M(1,920x1,080/250fps), 25p 50M(1,920x1,080/500fps), 25p 50M(1,920x1,080/1000fps), NTSC/PAL Selector: [NTSC] mode XAVC S HD:60p 50M(1,920x1,080/240fps)、60p 50M(1,920x1,080/480fps)、60p 50M(1,920x1,080/960fps) / 30p 50M(1,920x1,080/240fps)、30p 50M(1,920x1,080/480fps)、30p 50M(1,920x1,080/960fps) / 24p 50M(1,920x1,080/240fps)、24p 50M(1,920x1,080/480fps)、24p 50M(1,920x1,080/960fps) Sensor Readout Number of effective pixels Quality Priority:240fps/250fps(1,676x942),480fps/500fps(1,676x566),960fps/1000fps(1,136x384)/Shoot Time Priority:240fps/250fps(1,676x566),480fps/500fps(1,136x384),960fps/1000fps(800x270)
Still Image Number of recorded pixels (Image Size) during Movie
-

Interface

Input and Output Terminals
Multi/Micro USB Terminal7, Hi-Speed USB (USB2.0), Micro HDMI, Microphone jack(3.5mm Stereo mini jack)
NFC
-
WI-FI
Yes(IEEE802.11b/g/n(2.4GHz band))
Interfaces
-
Bluetooth
Yes (Bluetooth Standard Ver. 4.1 (2.4GHz band))

Power

Power Source
DC3.7V(supplied battery) / DC5.0V(supplied AC Adaptor)
Battery System
Rechargeable battery pack NP-BJ1
Power Consumption (Camera Mode)
Approx. 1.3W
USB Charge/USB Power Supply
Yes (Shooting, Playback,)
Battery Life(Still Images)
Approx. 240shots / Approx. 120min8
Battery Life(Movies actual shooting)
Approx. 35min.910
Battery Life(Movies continuous shooting)
Approx. 60min. 119

Others

Playmemories Camera Apps
-
Photo Creativity
-
Shooting Functions
Eye AF;Face Detection;Face Registration;Grid Line;WB Bracket;DRO Bracketing;MF Assist;Peaking;Zebra;Marker Display;Audio Level Display;TC/UB;Photographer Name & Copyright;ISO Auto Minimum Shutter Speed;PC Remote Controll;Gamma Disp. Assist;Flip
Playback Functions
BRAVIA Sync(Control for HDMI);9/25-frame index view;Slide Show;Forward/Rewind (Movie);Delete;Protect
TRILUMINOS Color
Yes12
4K image output
Yes
Operating Temprature
0 degrees C. - +40 degrees C. / 32 degrees F. - 104 degrees F.
Waterproof
Yes (IPX8 equivalent)
Shockproof
Yes (2.0m/6.5ft MIL-STD810G C1 Method516.7-Shock)13
Crushproof
Yes(200kgf/2000N/440lbf)14

Print

Print
Exif Print;PRINT Image Matching (PIM3)

Size & Weight

Dimensions (W x H x D)
59.0x40.5x29.8 mm(2 3/8 in. × 1 5/8 in. × 1 3/16 in.)
WEIGHT (CIPA COMPLIANT)
Approx. 110g (3.9oz.)(Battery and microSD Memory Card are included) / Approx. 95g (3.4oz.)(Body Only)

What's In The Box

  • Rechargeable Battery Pack NP-BJ1
  • AC AdaptorAC-UUD12
  • Micro USB cable
  • Wrist Strap
  • Memory card protector
  • Instruction Manual

News

Sony today announced a new type of camera called the RX0. The ultra-compact, water-, crush- and shockproof Sony RX0 houses a 1"-type stacked 15.3-megapixel Exmore RS CMOS sensor and features a Zeiss Tessar T* 24mm (eq.) f/4 lens to deliver high-resolution raw and JPEG images and 4K videos. For still photography, you can use shutter speeds of up to 1/32,000th of a second and shoot at up to 16fps. For videographers who want to incorporate super slow-motion footage, the RX0 offers the opportunity to shoot at up to 1000 frames per second. For production flexibility, you can use 4K clean HDMI output to record uncompressed video to an external recorder. Sony’s wireless radio commander, the FA-WRC1M can be used to trigger up to fifteen RX0s. A wireless multi-camera shooting solution capable of connecting further RX0 units when an access point is used is currently being developed and will be released in January 2018 via a firmware update. To maximise the potential of RX0, a host of new accessories to support new ways of shooting have also been launched. These include the VCT-CGR1 Cage for increased system flexibility, the MPK-HSR1 Housing, enabling the RX0 to be taken down to depths of up to 100 metres underwater, the CPT-R1 Cable Protector, VF-SPR1 Spare Lens Protector, VFA-305R1 Filter Adapter Kit which includes a filter adapter, lens hood and MC protector,NP-BJ1 Rechargeable Battery Pack and ACC-TRDCJ Accessory Kit. The RX0 will start to ship in Europe in October 2017, priced at approximately €850.

Sony Press Release

Sony launches ultra-compact, robust and waterproof RX0. Taking hallmark RX image quality into places where no other camera dares to go

  • High-quality imaging technology in an ultra-compact & tough body: Waterproof[i],[ii], Shockproof[iii],i and Crushproof[iv],
  • 1.0-type stacked 15.3MP[v] Exmor RS™CMOS image sensor
  • Featuring ZEISS® TessarT* 24mm[vi] F4 Fixed wide-angle lens with maximum shutter speed of up to 1/32000 second and ability to shoot at up to 16fps[vii]
  • Range of creative video functionality including 40x Super Slow motion[viii] recording, Picture Profile (S-Log2), and 4K[ix] Clean HDMI Output
  • Multi-camera control for multi-view shooting either wirelessly or with wired connection

Sony today announced a new type of camera which enables entirely new imaging possibilities, and inspires an unprecedented scope of expression from all who take it in hand. The RX0 (model name: DSC-RX0) marries the hallmark leading image quality of the Sony RX series with advanced photo and video capabilities, all compressed into a robust and ultra-compact body.

Designed to facilitate creative photographic and videographic expression beyond current limitations, RX0 is equally adept at shooting still images, filming video or can be used as part of a multi-camera set-up to create an inspiring series of images, videos and super slow-motion footage from a multitude of different perspectives. Its miniature dimensions and all-around versatility maximise freedom to tackle photographic and videographic challenges in new ways, always with the assurance of high quality results.

Weighing just 110g[x] and measuring 59mm x 40.5mm x 29.8mm (WxHxD)[xi], RX0 redefines how small and light a premium compact camera can be. It can be used as a standalone camera for capturing photos or videos in any shooting conditions including the rain, underwater, or in sandy or dusty environments and is equally adept as a part of a multi-camera setup to shoot subjects from a variety of different viewpoints.

Stimulating imaginations

In addition to conventional bullet-time and time-slice shooting, the RX0 multi-camera shooting solution opens the door to a new world of imaging opportunity and can be organised in a number of different ways. Sony’s wireless radio commander, the FA-WRC1M can be used to trigger up to fifteen[xii] RX0’s. The PlayMemories™ Mobile[xiii] app allows up to five RX0 models to be connected wirelessly and the perfectly balanced form factor means that units can easily be secured in tough shooting positions to capture incredible new perspectives. A wireless multi-camera shooting solution capable of connecting further RX0 units when an access point is used[xiv] is currently being developed and will be released in January 2018 via a firmware update. For users looking for a more reliable wired connection, a camera control box is also being developed and will be released in January 2018.

Power packed

RX0 is packed full of advanced Sony technology and features a 1.0-type stacked 15.3MPvi Exmor RSCMOS image sensor, BIONZ X® processor and a wide-angle ZEISS® Tessar T* 24mm F4 fixed lens to deliver high resolution and less distortion results for both RAW and JPEG stills and across all supported video formats. It has an Anti-Distortion Shutter of up to 1/32000 second and can shoot at up to 16fps, meaning that even fast-moving objects are beautifully and accurately rendered. For those looking to capture the decisive moments of daily life, the compact nature of RX0 means that usage is as unobtrusive as possible, thus maximising the possibility for natural, high quality shooting.

RX0 is waterproofi,ii at depths of up to 10 metres and when used with the new MPK-HSR1Housing, can be used down to a staggering 100 metres depth.[xv] It is shockproofiii,i when dropped from up to 2 metres and crushproofiv,i to 200kgf / 2000N, making it durable enough to withstand shooting in difficult situations where traditional cameras simply cannot go. Users can now produce content that simply has previously not been possible and the rain, sand and space-limited or dusty environments are no longer a barrier.

Video Excellence

The RX0 was conceived as a camera that is just as useful to the videographer as the photographer and this spirit manifests itself with a host of creative video features delivering stunning videoresults. For those who want to incorporate super slow motion footage,viii the RX0 offers the opportunity to shoot at up to 1000 frames per second, offering the opportunity to transform even the most mundane moment into something spectacular. For production flexibility, you can use 4K clean HDMI output to record uncompressed video to an external recorder. With both MF Assist and Peaking Functions, the focus can be precisely adjusted to your exact specifications and Picture Profile options and S-Log2 offer creative freedom to deliver the end result that you envisioned in your mind. Time Code / User Bit features provide an essential tool for multi-camera shoots in particular, making the editing process a much easier experience, and Preset Focus options add a true element of control to a shoot.

Full Range of Accessories

To maximise the potential of RX0, a host of new accessories to support new ways of shooting have also been launched. These include the VCT-CGR1Cage for increased system flexibility, the MPK-HSR1 Housing, enabling the RX0 to be taken down to depths of up to 100 metres underwater,[xvi] the CPT-R1Cable Protector,VF-SPR1Spare Lens Protector, VFA-305R1 Filter Adaptor Kit which includes filter adaptor, lens hood and MC protector,NP-BJ1 Rechargeable Battery Pack and ACC-TRDCJ Accessory Kit. Details of pricing and availability of the new accessories can be seen at www.sony.co.uk

Pricing and Availability

RX0 will start to ship in Europe in October 2017, priced at approximately €850. Full technical specifications can be viewed here. Pricing and availability of the new accessories can be viewed on your local Sony website.

For more information, please contact [email protected]

[i] Depending on usage conditions and circumstances, no guarantee is made regarding damage to, malfunction of, or waterproof performance of this camera

[ii]Compliant with JIS/IEC protection levels (based on Sony tests). Shooting in depths of up to 10 metres is possible for up to 60 minutes (JIS: Japan Industrial Standards; IEC: International Electrotechnical Commission)

[iii] Capable of withstanding a fall of 2.0 metres from MIL-STD-810G C1 Method 516.7-Shock compliant 5 cm plywood (based on Sony tests)

[iv]Capable of withstanding a load of 200kgf /2000N (based on Sony tests)

[v] Approximate effective megapixels

[vi] 35mm equivalent

[vii] In Speed Priority Continuous mode. Focus and exposure settings fixed at first shot

[viii] Up to 1000fps super slow motion can be recorded. Image quality approaches Full HD quality at 250fps in Quality Priority mode. Sound cannot be recorded when shooting slow motion and setting conditions of focus, exposure, focus area, frame rate and other settings are fixed when start shooting. Micro SDHC/ Micro SDXC memory card of Class 10 or higher is required

[ix] QFHD:3840×2160

[x] Approximate weight with battery and media included

[xi] Approximate dimensions

[xii] Wireless Radio Receiver FA-WRR1 and Multi Terminal Cable VMC-MM1 are required

[xiii] For smartphone or Tablet. Latest version is required

[xiv] Depending on the specifications of an access point, smartphone or tablet to be used as well as the radio wave environment of the installation location, the number of devices that can be connected will vary

[xv] Under water, the shortest focal distance is increased, causing the angle of field to be narrower

Your Comments

Loading comments…