SonyRX100 VII Premium Compact Camera with 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor (DSCRX100M7)

I’ve bought each of the previous RX100 series cameras up to the V and thought I’d stop there, with V being my favorite, especially with the ND filter and fast lens, F1.8 (both of which this new VII does not have:(. And I’ve sold each and everyone except the V. The great thing about the V as well as the previous models, in my opinion, is that they still maintain their relevance today. So why did I buy this model while still keeping my V?I like the new advanced Real-time Tracking and Real-time Eye AF. I like the almost blackout free shooting. And I like the 200mm zoom capabilities in a much more powerful camera body that I can still carry in my pocket. All of which I’ve tried during the limited time I’ve now had this camera. As well as the ‘steady shot’ which I used while filming myself walking. I think it works great as I didn’t appear to be bobbing up and down in the video. I tried the video in F2.8 as a blogger might up close and personal and I saw a slightly pleasing bokeh behind me. I did notice that on a tripod and the further I moved away from the camera, the bokeh became noticeable sharper.The Sony AG-R2 grip still fits this model as it has in previous models. I plugged in the Saramonic SR-xm1 mic and that delivers great sound for me and a more compact package for video of my grandkids.This camera, for me, is all about a more powerful camera that can fit in my pocket for extreme portability when I travel, frequently, for 3, 4 and 5 day weekends and I just don’t feel like bringing my heavier cameras. I believe the step up from the V to the VII is worth it to me. If you’re a vlogger or someone that just wants to travel light and wants the best that money can buy in a point and shoot then I don’t think you can go wrong with this camera.

Ok, so to keep it simple. As I stated, its worth the price of $1200. Why? Because it is a 20MP pocket camera, that has 4k recording with audio input. As well as an awesome focal range. Starting at a wide 24mm to a 200mm telephoto range. Whats not to like? Its awesome. Don't expect bird photography though.Now the lengthy part...I'm coming from owning a fair share of cameras as a professional photographer. As of this review, I have a Sony A7m2 with the kit lens, but also the 70200g f4 lens, plus other various lenses. The Sony a6000 + nex 5n, RX100m3, Fuji X100F. Further down in the review III will be the RX100m3 and VII is the one the review is for.Why does this become part of the review? Its because I can put this camera against some stiff competition before writing this review. As far as usefulness, I think this camera is 10/10. I used to carry the RX100m3 along everywhere with me because of its size. I kept it, for the fact that it has f1.8 at its widest vs 2.8 of the RX100m7. Now I carry the III and the VII everywhere. However, the one I have used primarily these past few weeks have been the VII because of its reach. I know 90% of my photos never exceed the range of 70mm. Found this out a 3rd time because of a 2 month trip to Viet Nam and Japan where I took only the III and X100F. During that trip I only encountered maybe 5 times max where I wish I had 200mm reach. Well, now I have that, and more. I'll upload photos later after this review.Build quality: 10/10Is basically the same as you can expect from Sony and its previous RX models. Same high quality.Image quality: 8/10I love it. Obviously it won't compete with the bigger cameras I have, but in good lighting (always a key) the image quality is amazing. The range this camera provides helps in making better bokeh portraits compared to the 24-70mm range of previous models (not including the VI). *my opinion you may not agreeVideo: N/AHonestly, not much a video person. Having an option to add a mic really pushed me to buying this camera. That was the selling point to me. Otherwise I wouldn't have bought this since I didn't buy the VI either.Where does this camera fit in?As expected, I can see this camera fit perfectly in my travel kit. Where 90% of the time I would use it while traveling, only pulling out the III when I go walking around at night or poorly lit conditions.If you know the limitations of this camera it will not let you down. Just, as explained earlier, it isn't going to be good for wildlife, but as a portraits and everyday camera. I think it nails it.What I wish:Weather Sealing! C'mon Sony, you pulled through with the mic input. I want to use these cameras in raining conditions. I'm a firm believer of what these tiny guys can do.

I can't begin to describe how nice this little camera is. I've been serious about photography for more than 50 years and have owned many, many cameras starting with sheet film B&W, through 35mm and on to digital. My camera bag increased in size for years until I rediscovered how much enjoyment I get from having my camera with me most of the time. The zoom only goes to 200mm equivalent but the focus is so sharp I put it about equal to a 400mm with tiny sensor. This may be the best camera I have ever owned.