Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera with 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor (DSCRX100M7)

I bought this as a replacement compact camera (I also have full DSLR gear) for the Canon G7X Mk II. The Canon is an excellent camera but the Sony has additional capabilities that I wanted:• Longer reach on the Sony – 200mm vs 100mm• Sony has 4K video vs HD on the Canon• Sony has a pop-up electronic viewfinder vs. none on the Canon• The Sony supports the use of a wireless remote shutter controller; Canon does notThe Sony is also slightly smaller and lighter than the Canon. One advantage area for the Canon is better low-light (high ISO) performance but the Sony is still quite good. Battery performance may also be better with the Canon but I always have spare batteries on hand. Images on both of these cameras are good enough that I can feel comfortable taking these on a trip in lieu of the heavy DSLR gear.

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.

First off to clear some things up. No, your phone is not better. Sure in good light and still subjects a phone can take images that look just as good for the most part. In very dark shots you could argue the Pixel 3 night mode will do a much better job (again if subject is completely still) However, if you need quick autofocus, tracking anything that moves, ability to zoom from 24 to 200 (not digital zoom although Sony clear zoom is a nice feature), full controls, etc...you are out of look with a typical phone. Second thing to clear up...is it worth $1200? I see this all over on the RX100 series. Absolutely no way for another person to answer that. Worth is a relative term. If you are in the market for a phenomenal compact camera that in decent light will perform with its bigger brothers than this camera is worth it. Can it replace your larger camera and lenses? Again...it possibly could. The question is can you live with the limitations? This is one I am facing now. I also have the full frame Sony A7III along with some nice lenses. I have compared and compared these two cameras in all settings. For the most part the RX100 VII does very well and even better in some cases. With the now added external mic it is even closer (no place to mount the mic, but you can see my other reviews for a nice light bracket that works great). Now, as the sun goes down the A7III jumps way ahead. Realize the A7III is a low light beast and has a much larger sensor. The A7III is also much heavier especially with a lens attached. I am more likely to take the RX100 VII along with me. Autofocus on both is Sony high end good which is among the best if not the best. There are many articles and videos complaining about Sony's menu system which this camera also has. I say meh. I get it is not the best, but you have so many customization options that once you are setup you do not need to get deep into the menu any more. I really never got this complaint. Most buttons are customizable, you have the fn button which brings you into another area that you setup and you have "My Menu" which you customize.I realize I am not really reviewing, but I am sure some may run into this type of debate so this is just my thoughts.For me...this camera is worth the price. Whether I keep my A7III is up in the air right now. This camera really can do everything the A7III can in a much smaller body. Do I really need great low light ability?My nit picking items....Sony....include the stick on hand grip with this camera. To charge extra with this camera being slick is very petty. Also, for $1200 you should include a second battery and a small charger. Again, petty IMHO. You know the battery is not great so add another. Also...there are many that wish you made this same but camera with the 24-70 option with wider aperture. I am one of those people. The 200 zoom is nice for many but lower light option would be nice

This is a great Pro Quality Professional Camera, with all the features of a full-size 35mm Camera with video and sound recording, but in a compact pocket size. I use mine for magazine and website coverage for my motorcycle and car trips across Europe and around the USA where it can slip in and out of a front pocket easily for roadside pictures. Also perfect for shooting inside concerts where full size removable lens cameras are not allowed. The videos I shoot at concerts are top quality and I post them on my YouTube Chanal.The only problem is it is breakable if you drop it, and I seem to wear them out every 2 years with weekly use. The camera will seize up and stop working. I am now on my 5th RX100 in 10 years. And Sony does not offer any repair service. It is an expensive camera, but no other compact camera offers a built-in flash, a zoom wide-angle to telephoto lens, video, an eye view finder which turns off the power-robbing rear LED screen, and full Automatic and Manual modes.