The Sony RX10 IV is one of the best all-in-one bridge cameras with a plethora of features packed into a handy form factor. While the camera is quite easy to use even for beginners, it still has a lot to offer to professional photographers who will love the level of control this compact offers.
The Sony RX10 IV is a medium sized camera, constructed from a blend of magnesium alloy and polycarbonate, designed to give you a good grip even when the lens is extended. The controls are laid out in a logical manner, while the menu system is quite detailed. Sony has made the camera dust and moisture resistant, making it ideal for summer outdoor shooting sessions.
The 3-inch tilt-angle touch screen display has Touch Focus supported. Sadly it cannot be flipped up or to the side, so you cannot view the screen in selfie mode. Another drawback of the touch screen is that it has only partial functionality. What this means is that you can only use the touch screen to fix the focus and zoom when previewing images but not to access the menu or change any settings. While this is hardly a deal breaker, we would love if Sony would add this functionality in future, especially considering that the screen is already very responsive.
The camera has built-in Wi-Fi functionality with NFC that allows for hassle-free transfer of images to your smart device via the PlayMemories Mobile app. In addition to a 3.5 mm microphone, the camera also sports a headphone jack so that you can listen to the audio while recording.
Now coming to what resides inside the RX10 IV. Sony has packed the camera with 20.1 megapixel Exmor RS CMOS sensor, a Bionz X image processor and ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens. The RX10 IV takes advantage of the new image processor that accounts for the camera’s improved speed, performance and high image quality. This camera is capable of continuous shooting at 24 frames per second with auto focus and auto exposure. It can shoot 4k videos at 30 fps and full HD or 1080p at 120 fps. The camera’s high frame rate also allows for some brilliant slow-motion videos.
The built-in Zeiss lens may be viewed as a limiting factor by some, however, this does not stand true for the RX10 IV. The ability to zoom from 24mm all the way to 600 mm not just covers but exceeds what most people would need. This feature especially stands out for wild life photography, as you can easily capture images from a far-away distance. The RX10 IV also features Sony’s built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization system to avoid the risk of camera shake that such an extreme focal length introduces.
Another special mention feature is the continuous auto focus mode that tracks subjects very efficiently even as they move. This feature works perfectly with both still images and videos. You can also fix the focus by tapping on the touch screen. In a shot with multiple layers, the RX10 IV allows you to focus different objects while recording.
Sony RX10 IV is an excellent camera with 20.1 MP sensor offering excellent image quality and good low light performance. The camera shoots beautiful slow-motion videos, has a very responsive touch screen and a lot of functionality crammed into a light-weight device. Considering that Sony has managed to squeeze a 24-600mm optic into the body, the camera seems quite compact with the added benefit of not having to carry extra lenses.
The RX10 IV is a good camera, especially for casual sports and wildlife photography, and there certainly is a lot to play around with in this camera. If you are looking for high quality all-in-one camera option, and are ready to shell out some big bucks, this is one camera that will keep you well occupied for a long time.
Price: AED 6,999
The Sony RX10 IV is available in Sony store at Dubai Mall and other electronics retail outlets.
