Sony RX1rIII review by Cam Mackey: Lacks of emotion!
Sony RX1rIII preorders at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, Fotokoch, Fotoerhardt, Calumet, WexUK.
Cam Mackey had the chance to play with the Sony RX1r III and I tend ot agree with his critics and conclusion. So let’s sum it up:
Strengths of Sony RX1R III:
• Smallest full-frame camera, unique in its niche.
• Excellent 61MP sensor and sharp Zeiss 35mm f/2 lens with character.
• Autofocus is industry-leading, especially for tracking and subject detection (better than Leica and Nikon).
• Some charm in its older Zeiss lens and improved JPEG film-look presets.
• Unique option for Sony shooters who want a compact, high-quality camera.
Weaknesses & Critiques:
• Feels overpriced ($5,100), better suited at ~$3,500.
• Build quality and feel not premium enough for its price — feels plasticky and uninspiring compared to Leica.
• Viewfinder and LCD are small, dated, and less satisfying than competitors.
• Fixed screen, no IBIS, and ergonomics make it less pleasant to use for long sessions.
• Accessories (grip, hood) are pricey, mimicking Leica’s niche but without Leica’s craftsmanship or ecosystem.
• JPEG film looks are improved but still feel sterile compared to Fujifilm.
Compared with the Leica Q3 the Leica feels:
• premium, inspiring, and beautifully crafted.
• Incredible lens character with sharpness and bokeh that still feels natural.
• Viewfinder and controls feel luxurious, and the shooting experience is unmatched.
• Justifies its even higher price (~$7–8K) by delivering emotional connection and artistry.
Overall Verdict:
• RX1R III is technically impressive but lacks emotional appeal, premium feel, and inspiration for the price.
• Best suited for Sony loyalists or those wanting a compact, high-res, AF powerhouse — but most would find better value and experience in a used Leica Q3 or cheaper alternatives.
• The reviewer emphasizes that cameras at this level are luxuries meant to inspire and create joy, not just deliver specs.
Closing Thought:
Future camera buyers will prioritize inspiration, feel, and unique rendering over clinical perfection. Cameras should motivate and feel authentic — a quality the Leica delivers far better than Sony in this segment.
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I fully agree that people now want cameras that are not only technically capable but also give you the feeling you own something special. I think the RX1rIII is technically a marvel but Sony needs ot understand we need more than this. We need a beautiful design, easy usability and proper Kodak film simulations built into our Sony cameras.