Sony Revives Its Full-Frame Premium Compact Line with the RX1R III After a Decade
Sony has made a surprise return to the premium compact camera market with the RX1R III, marking the first update to its full-frame fixed-lens lineup in 10 years. Priced at $5,098 (pre-orders available at B&H Photo, with UK and Australia pricing pending), the new model retains the classic Zeiss 35mm f/2 lens from its predecessor but packs Sony’s latest imaging technology—including a 61MP full-frame sensor, the Bionz XR processor, and advanced AI-powered autofocus.
A Modern Take on a Legacy Camera
The RX1R III shares its high-resolution sensor and processing capabilities with Sony’s A7R V and A7C R, offering wide-ranging subject detection and improved performance. Despite the decade-long gap, this isn’t a mere refresh—Sony has equipped the RX1R III with cutting-edge features, positioning it as a powerhouse for street, travel, and reportage photography.
The *Zeiss Sonnar T 35mm f/2 lens** remains unchanged, delivering the same optical excellence as before. However, it now includes a macro mode, reducing the minimum focus distance from 0.35m to 0.2m for a 0.26x magnification, enhancing its versatility for close-up shots.
Positioning and Competition in 2025
Sony’s premium compact enters a much more competitive market than its predecessor. At $5,098, the RX1R III sits:
Below the Leica Q3 (~$5,995)
Above the Fujifilm GFX100RF (~$4,499)
More than double the price of the Fujifilm X100VI (~$1,599)
Like its rivals, the RX1R III offers a digital crop mode, simulating 50mm (29MP) and 70mm (15MP) focal lengths—a useful feature for photographers seeking framing flexibility without lens changes.
Potential Advantages and Drawbacks
The RX1R III is expected to excel in autofocus performance and image quality, thanks to Sony’s latest processing tech. However, some compromises remain:
Modest battery life (only 300 shots per charge, though USB-C charging is now supported)
Outdated EVF and screen (same 2.36m-dot EVF and 3-inch tilt touchscreen as older models)
No lens interchangeability, unlike the Sony A7C R, which offers similar specs in a more versatile E-mount body
Final Thoughts
The RX1R III is a bold re-entry into the premium compact segment, blending classic design with modern tech. While its high price and some dated components may raise eyebrows, its image quality and performance could make it a top contender.
Hands-on testing will reveal whether it lives up to expectations—stay tuned for our full review.