Sony RX100 IV Review: Pocket 4K!

The Sony RX100 IV pushes the pocket camera envelope by combining a stacked 1-inch 20.1MP sensor with the familiar 24-70mm Zeiss lens in a compact metal body. The reviewer highlights the camera’s major upgrades over previous RX100 generations, including significantly faster autofocus for photos and the ability to shoot 4K video with optical image stabilization and vibrant color. He also covers the high frame rate options, including 960fps slow-mo, noting that while it looks impressive, it is limited by resolution and noise, and is best used sparingly. A key talking point is the 4K video quality itself, which Marques Brownlee describes as a substantial improvement over prior pocket camcorder video, suitable for crisp Vlogs and indoor shooting with a shallow depth of field when the subject is properly illuminated. The internal EVF is praised for sharpness and a more practical, VR-like viewing experience, and the screen remains a versatile tool for composing shots in various lighting conditions. Build quality is lauded as rugged and pocketable, with NFC/Wi‑Fi for quick transfers and a hot shoe history that returns in a refined form. However, the review is balanced with practical caveats: certain SD cards are required for 4K, 4K recording is capped at about five minutes per clip due to heat, autofocus during video can be slow with depth-of-field shots, and there is no external audio input. The overall verdict is that the RX100 IV remains the best-in-class pocket hybrid for those who want serious photo and video quality in a compact package, while acknowledging that it’s not perfect for long-form 4K recording or professional audio capture, and that alternatives may be preferable for users seeking unlimited 4K or better audio options.

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