| Image: Sony |
Sony has just announced the RX1R III enthusiast compact, now with a 61MP BSI CMOS sensor behind the same 35mm F2 lens as previous models.
In addition to the updated sensor, the camera’s body has been redesigned, mounting the viewfinder into the top shoulder of the camera, rather than the pop-up unit used by the previous version. It uses the same 2.36M dot (1024 x 768px) panel but the internal finder is smaller, with magnification dropping to 0.7x (from 0.74x).
And, despite the visual similarities, the body has been completely redesigned, with the control dials and hotshoe now recessed into the top plate, so they sit flush with the top of the camera. The rear screen is now fixed, rather than tilting.
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The viefinder is now integrated into the top corner of the camera and the rear screen is now fixed, rather than tilting. Image: Sony |
The Mark III includes the company’s latest subject recognition AF modes, though the performance is still likely to be hindered by the lens design that has to move relatively large glass elements to focus. These are powered by the company’s latest processor and dedicated “AI processing unit.” The camera loses the dedicated AF mode switch from its front plate.
It has the same leaf shutter as previous RX1 modes, which tops out at 1/4000 at F5.6, is limited to 1/3200 at F4 and 1/2000 at F2, and it can flash up to these speeds. There’s an e-shutter mode that extends to 1/8000 available at any aperture.
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| Image: Sony |
The camera also gains two additional “film looks” from the FX2, in its Creative Looks menu for both stills and video. These are quite significant color and contrast shifts to mimic old filmstocks. FL2 and FL3 join the existing FL and IN (Instant) film looks.
In terms of video, there’s no longer a dedicated [REC] button, so you don’t have to think about video at all, if you don’t want to. If you do choose to, the RX1R III can shoot up to 4K/30 with options such as S-Cinetone, Log capture and the ability to upload LUTs. There’s no internal ND, so you’ll need to buy a screw-in one if you plan to shoot video outdoors.
It uses the NP-FW50 battery, which is larger than the ones in the previous model. Sony says gives the camera a CIPA rating of 300 shots per charge (270 via the viewfinder), up from a rating of 220 on the previous model. It can also power and charge over the camera’s USB-C socket.
The RX1R III will be available this month at a recommended price of $5099.99, a 54% increase over the RX1R II, when it launched in 2015. In Europe it’ll retail for €4900 including tax or £4200 inc VAT in the UK.
Various accessories, including a grip, a case and a lens hood will be available separately.
Sony Electronics Introduces The RX1R III: The Flagship Full-Frame Premium Compact Camera With A Fixed Lens
SAN DIEGO, July 15, 2025 – Sony Electronics Inc. announces the RX1R III, the eagerly anticipated third generation of its RX1R series, featuring a 61-megapixel1 35 mm full-frame Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor, the latest BIONZ XR™ image processing engine, and a ZEISS® Sonnar T* 35 mm F2 lens.
“The RX1R III combines Sony’s design savvy with the latest innovations in imaging technology to produce a new flagship in our RX1R camera series that offers uncompromising full-frame quality in a premium compact camera body,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “The RX1R series has resonated greatly among discerning photographers, and we’re proud to now deliver the next generation of this popular camera model.”
A Focus On High-Quality Photography
The combination of the 61-megapixel1 full-frame Exmor R™ back-illuminated CMOS image sensor and the BIONZ XR™ image processing engine delivers high resolution and sensitivity, with low noise and a wide dynamic range. The sensor surface features AR (Anti-Reflection) coating and omits the optical low-pass filter to achieve superior image quality.
The integrated lens offers excellent image quality. By optimizing the position of the lens and the imaging surface one by one at the micron level, RX1R III achieves high optical performance in a compact form factor.
Dedicated To Creative Freedom
To ensure you always get your shot accurately and without effort, RX1R III is equipped with the latest AI-processing unit, a valued feature of top-of-the-line professional Sony AlphaTM cameras. The AI-processing unit can accurately recognize the shape and movement of subjects, human bodies, heads, and the position of eyes, tracking subjects even when their faces are not visible, and is available for both still images and videos2. Up to 693 densely arranged3 phase-detection AF (Auto-Focus) points cover approximately 78% (for still image shooting) of the image capture’s area.
While the camera has a fixed lens, users can tap into the versatility of three prime lenses thanks to the Step Crop Shooting4 function, which allows users to switch between focal lengths equivalent to 35 mm, 50 mm, and 70 mm5 via assigned buttons or dials. When shooting in RAW format, users can reselect the focal length during post-production. The lens’s macro ring enables instant switching to macro mode, allowing users to get as close as 20 cm (maximum magnification: 0.26x).
For creators who enjoy unique and personalized visuals, RX1R III offers twelve built-in Creative Looks. Adjustments to hue, saturation, brightness, contrast, and sharpness can be applied not only to still images but also to videos. Most notable among the Creative Looks6, FL2 allows the capturing of a nostalgic expression with subdued colors, and FL3 allows for a more vibrant image.
Streamlined Design & Reliable Hardware
Made of lightweight yet highly rigid magnesium alloy, the RX1R III design balances aesthetics and functionality. While maintaining excellent operability, the dials and Multi-Interface (MI) Shoe are embedded into the camera body and the top surface of the body features a flat design. The grip design and surface texture provide a secure and comfortable hold.
RX1R III is equipped with an electronic viewfinder featuring an approximately 2.36 million-dot XGA OLED with high resolution and high contrast, offering a magnification of approximately 0.70x.
RX1R III uses the rechargeable battery pack NP-FW50, allowing the capture of up to 300 still images7. It features a USB Type-C® port that allows rapid charging when connected to USB Power Delivery8 -compatible devices, or the addition of external power sources, such as mobile batteries, for extended shooting sessions.
Social Responsibility
Aligned with Sony’s ambitious ‘Road to Zero’ initiative, this product supports the company’s vision for achieving a zero environmental footprint by 2050. The Sony Group’s manufacturing facilities for imaging products, including the RX1R III, are operating at 100% renewable energy. The RX1R III packaging uses Sony’s proprietary environmentally friendly Original Blended Material9 instead of plastic10.
The camera system incorporates comprehensive accessibility options, including a Screen Reader function11 and Display Magnification, to support visually impaired users across an expanded range of menu items.
Optional Accessories
TG-2 is a dedicated thumb grip that attaches to the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe to provide stable holding and operability, including when operated with one hand. When attached to the body, the metal material and high-quality paint finish provide exceptional design unity.
LCS-RXL is a compact body case dedicated to this camera model intended to protect the camera from scratches and dirt and enhance its elegance with its refined texture material. The body case allows access to all ports—USB, HDMI, battery, memory card, and tripod attachment—without removal. The grip design improves the holding experience.
LHP-1 is a lens hood made specifically for this camera. It features a robust construction using lightweight and high-strength aluminum material, protecting the lens from impact and dirt. The bayonet mount allows for quick and secure attachment.
Pricing & Availability
The RX1R III will be available in July 2025 for approximately $5,099.99 USD and $6,299.99 CAD. The TG-2 for approximately $299.99 USD and $349.99 CAD, the LCS-RXL for approximately $249.99 USD and $224.99 CAD, and the LHP-1 for approximately $199.99 USD and $249.99 CAD, in August 2025. They will be sold directly through Sony and at a variety of Sony’s authorized dealers throughout North America.
1Approximate effective
2Available subject settings are: Auto, Human, Animal, Bird, Insect, Car/Train, and Airplane. Subject types other than the type specified may be erroneously recognized in some cases.
3It is number of AF measurement points during still image shooting. The number of points varies depending on the shooting mode.
4Not available for movies.
5When shooting JPEG images with a 3:2 aspect ratio, the resolution is as follows: At 35 mm: L size (60 megapixels), at 50 mm: M size (29 megapixels), at 70 mm: S size (15 megapixels)
6ST (Standard), PT (Portrait), NT (Neutral), VV (Vivid), VV2 (Vivid 2), FL (Film), FL2 (Film 2), FL3 (Film 3), IN (Instant), SH (Soft Highkey), BW (Black & White) and SE (Sepia).
7When using the viewfinder: 270 shots.
818W (9V/2A) USB PD power source is recommended.
9Paper material made from bamboo, sugarcane fibers, and post-consumer recycled paper.
10Excluding materials used in coatings and adhesives.
11Supported languages differ according to country and region.
Sony DSC-RX1R III specifications
| Price | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $5100, €4900, £4200 |
| Body type | |
| Body type | Large sensor compact |
| Body material | Magnesium alloy |
| Sensor | |
| Max resolution | 9504 x 6336 |
| Image ratio w:h | 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 |
| Effective pixels | 60 megapixels |
| Sensor photo detectors | 63 megapixels |
| Sensor size | Full frame (35.7 x 23.8 mm) |
| Sensor type | BSI-CMOS |
| Processor | Bionz XR |
| Color space | sRGB, Adobe RGB, BT.2020 |
| Color filter array | Primary color filter |
| Image | |
| ISO | Auto, ISO 100-32000 (expands to 50-102400) |
| Boosted ISO (minimum) | 50 |
| Boosted ISO (maximum) | 102800 |
| White balance presets | 9 |
| Custom white balance | Yes |
| Image stabilization | No |
| Uncompressed format | RAW |
| JPEG quality levels | Extra fine, fine, standard, light |
| File format |
|
| Optics & Focus | |
| Autofocus |
|
| Autofocus assist lamp | Yes |
| Digital zoom | Yes (2x – 4x) |
| Manual focus | Yes |
| Number of focus points | 693 |
| Lens mount | Sony E |
| Focal length multiplier | 1× |
| Screen / viewfinder | |
| Articulated LCD | No |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 2,359,296 |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| Screen type | TFT LCD |
| Live view | Yes |
| Viewfinder type | Electronic |
| Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
| Viewfinder magnification | 0.7× |
| Viewfinder resolution | 2,359,296 |
| Photography features | |
| Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/4000 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed (electronic) | 1/8000 sec |
| Exposure modes |
|
| Built-in flash | No |
| External flash | Yes (Multi-interface shoe / Sync socket) |
| Flash modes | Flash off, Autoflash, Fill-flash, Slow Sync., Rear Sync., Red-eye reduction, Wireless, Hi-speed sync. |
| Flash X sync speed | 1/4000 sec |
| Drive modes |
|
| Continuous drive | 5.0 fps |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Metering modes |
|
| Exposure compensation | ±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps) |
| AE Bracketing | ±5 (2, 3, 5, 7 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps) |
| WB Bracketing | Yes |
| Videography features | |
| Format | MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265 |
| Modes |
|
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | |
| Storage types | UHS-II SD |
| Connectivity | |
| USB | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec) |
| USB charging | Yes (USB PD supported) |
| HDMI | Yes (Full-size HDMI) |
| Microphone port | Yes |
| Headphone port | Yes |
| Wireless | Built-In |
| Wireless notes | 802.11ac 2×2 MIMO + Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Remote control | Yes (via smartphone) |
| Physical | |
| Environmentally sealed | Yes |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | NP-FW50 lithium-ion battery & charger |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 300 |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 498 g (1.10 lb / 17.57 oz) |
| Dimensions | 113 x 68 x 88 mm (4.45 x 2.68 x 3.46″) |
| Other features | |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| Timelapse recording | Yes |
| GPS | None |