Sony RX1R III Features with 61MP Sensor and AI Autofocus
After a long wait, Sony has officially revived its iconic pocket-sized full-frame camera. The Sony RX1R III arrives nearly a decade after the last model and brings modern imaging power in a compact form.
61MP Full-Frame Sensor and AI Brains
The RX1R III houses a 35mm Exmor R full-frame sensor with a resolution jump from 42.4MP to 61MP. Sony pairs this with its latest Bionz XR and AI processors to improve real-time subject tracking. The autofocus can now follow body movement, heads, and eyes with high accuracy.
It shares the same 693 phase-detection points as seen in the A7R V, bringing pro-grade focus capabilities to a pocketable design.
Price and Availability
Sony has confirmed that the RX1R III will go on sale in July for around $5,099.99 (approx. ₹4.25 lakh). That’s a steep increase over the RX1R II’s launch price of $3,300 in 2015.
Its price now positions it alongside cameras like the Fujifilm GFX100RF and Leica Q3, both of which are also fixed-lens shooters.
Classic Lens, Smarter Crops
The RX1R III continues to use the Zeiss Sonnar T 35mm F2 lens. But this time, Sony adds Step Crop Shooting, allowing users to shoot at 35mm, 50mm, or 70mm by cropping the sensor output.
For close-ups, a macro mode lets you focus on subjects as close as 20cm, enabled via a ring on the lens.
Sleek Build, But No Tilting Screen
To keep the body light and compact, Sony has used a magnesium alloy frame. However, in a move to slim it down, the rear screen is now fixed and no longer tilts. This might make low-angle photography more challenging.
You still get a 2.36-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder, offering a crisp display for framing and review.
Improved Video and Creative Features
The RX1R III now supports 4K video at 30 fps and Full HD at 120 fps. It also includes Sony’s S-Cinetone profile for more cinematic output.
Users can apply one of 12 customizable Creative Looks for both stills and video, enhancing image output without external editing.
Small Size, Big Performance
Sony is clearly aiming to offer DSLR-grade performance in a body you can carry in a coat pocket. Though it’s not the fastest — shooting speeds max at 5 fps — it’s built for those who value image quality and portability over speed.
Final Takeaway
The Sony RX1R III blends old-school charm with modern tech. It may be costly, but for serious photographers, the image quality and compact build could be worth the price.
