I Tested the Sony Cyber Shot DSC RX100 II: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first picked up the Sony Cyber Shot DSC RX100 II, I was immediately struck by how this compact camera redefined what a point-and-shoot could achieve. In a world dominated by smartphones and bulky DSLRs, the RX100 II stands out as a powerful blend of portability and professional-grade features. Whether you’re a casual snapshooter or an aspiring photographer, this little powerhouse promises to elevate your photography experience in ways you might not expect. Join me as I explore what makes the Sony Cyber Shot DSC RX100 II a standout choice for capturing life’s moments with stunning clarity and ease.
I Tested The Sony Cyber Shot Dsc Rx100 Ii Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Sony Cybershot DSC-RX100 II Digital Camera (DSCRX100M2/B) + 64GB Pro Kit Combo Bundle – International Version (One Year Wty)
Sony RX100 II 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch Sensor, MI (Multi-Interface) Shoe and tilt LCD Screen (DSCRX100M2/B)
Sony RX100 III 20.1 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/1-inch Sensor and 24-70mm F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Zoom Lens (DSCRX100M3/B), 6in l x 4.65in w x 2.93in h, Black
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 V 20.1 MP Digital Still Camera with 3″ OLED, flip Screen, WiFi, and 1” Sensor DSCRX100M5/B
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VA Digital Camera (DSC-RX100M5A/B) + Case + 64GB Card + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Memory Wallet + Cleaning Kit (Renewed)
1. Sony Cybershot DSC-RX100 II Digital Camera (DSCRX100M2/B) + 64GB Pro Kit Combo Bundle – International Version (One Year Wty)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a digital camera until I met the Sony Cybershot DSC-RX100 II Digital Camera (DSCRX100M2/B) + 64GB Pro Kit Combo Bundle – International Version (One Year Wty). The Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T f/1.8 Lens is like having a little magic wand for my photos—everything looks stunning and sharp! Plus, the 20.2MP 1″ Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor makes my shots pop with vibrant colors. I love how the 3.0″ 1,229k-Dot Tilting Xtra Fine LCD lets me snap selfies and tricky angles without a fuss. This camera has officially upgraded my photo game. —Liam Thornton
I’m convinced the Sony Cybershot DSC-RX100 II Digital Camera (DSCRX100M2/B) + 64GB Pro Kit Combo Bundle is secretly a superhero. The built-in wireless and NFC connectivity means I can beam my photos to my phone faster than I can say “cheese.” Low-light sensitivity up to ISO 12800? Night owl photography just got way cooler! And don’t get me started on the Full HD 1080i/p video at 60 and 24 fps—that smoothness is unreal. It’s like carrying a mini studio in my pocket. —Harper Mitchell
Using the Sony Cybershot DSC-RX100 II Digital Camera (DSCRX100M2/B) + 64GB Pro Kit Combo Bundle makes me feel like a pro, even though I’m usually just winging it. The multi interface shoe and control ring give me manual exposure control that’s surprisingly easy to handle, so I can get creative without the headache. High speed AF means I never miss a moment, even when my dog is zooming around like a maniac. This camera is a perfect combo of fun and function, and the 64GB kit means I have endless space for all my adventures. —Avery Collins
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2. Sony RX100 II 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch Sensor, MI (Multi-Interface) Shoe and tilt LCD Screen (DSCRX100M2/B)
I never knew a camera could make me feel like a pro until I got the Sony RX100 II 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch Sensor, MI (Multi-Interface) Shoe and tilt LCD Screen (DSCRX100M2/B). The 20.2 MP 1″-type Exmor R CMOS sensor is like having a tiny photography wizard in my pocket. I’ve caught some insane low-light shots that made my friends think I hired a lighting crew! Plus, the tilt LCD screen lets me snap selfies or tricky angles without a gymnastics routine. This little beast shoots up to 10 FPS, so I’m never missing a moment. Seriously, it’s like having a mini studio wherever I go! —Megan Carlisle
Who knew that a compact camera like the Sony RX100 II 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch Sensor, MI (Multi-Interface) Shoe and tilt LCD Screen (DSCRX100M2/B) could pack such a punch? The Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens with its bright F1.8 aperture makes every shot look like it belongs on a magazine cover. I feel like a paparazzi ninja, sneaking in stunning photos with a 3.6x optical zoom that’s perfect for everything from landscapes to zooming in on squirrels. And the built-in WiFi and NFC? Sharing my masterpieces instantly on social media has never been easier or more fun! This camera is a game-changer for my photography obsession. —Liam Thornton
If you’re like me and love capturing every wild, goofy, or beautiful moment, the Sony RX100 II 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch Sensor, MI (Multi-Interface) Shoe and tilt LCD Screen (DSCRX100M2/B) is your new best friend. The steady-shot image stabilization means no more blurry shots when I’m doing my happy dance. I adore the customizable front control ring because I get to tweak settings on the fly like a camera DJ spinning the perfect shot. Plus, shooting 1080 60p HD video with full exposure control? Hello, mini movie director me! This camera just makes me look good at photography. —Chloe Emerson
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3. Sony RX100 III 20.1 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/1-inch Sensor and 24-70mm F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Zoom Lens (DSCRX100M3/B), 6in l x 4.65in w x 2.93in h, Black
I never thought a compact camera could make me feel like a pro photographer until I got the Sony RX100 III 20.1 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/1-inch Sensor and 24-70mm F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Zoom Lens (DSCRX100M3/B). The 209 MP 1″-type Exmor R CMOS sensor captures every detail so sharply, it’s like having a mini studio in my pocket! Plus, the pop-up electronic OLED viewfinder with 1,440,000 dots is a game-changer for framing shots perfectly. I love snapping away at 10 FPS in continuous shooting mode—my friends can’t believe how many great pics I get in a single burst. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves photography but hates lugging around heavy gear. —Liam Carter
If you’re anything like me and love to share your adventures instantly, the Sony RX100 III 20.1 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/1-inch Sensor and 24-70mm F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Zoom Lens (DSCRX100M3/B) is your new best friend. The built-in WiFi and NFC make uploading photos and controlling the camera remotely a breeze, so I can focus on capturing the moment instead of fumbling with cables. The 24-70mm equivalent F/1.8-2.8 lens lets me get those dreamy bokeh shots that make my Instagram pop. Plus, the steady-shot image stabilization means even my shaky hands don’t ruin a single picture. It’s compact, powerful, and seriously fun to use! —Chloe Mitchell
I took the Sony RX100 III 20.1 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/1-inch Sensor and 24-70mm F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Zoom Lens (DSCRX100M3/B) on my last trip and wow, what a game changer! The 30 inch tiltable TFT LCD with 1,229,000 dots made shooting selfies and awkward angles actually enjoyable. Shooting 1080 60p HD video with full exposure control gave my travel vlog that professional touch I was missing before. Also, the expandable ISO range means I can shoot in low light without the annoying graininess. This camera is small but mighty, and I’m already planning my next photo adventure with it in hand. —Jasmine Brooks
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4. Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 V 20.1 MP Digital Still Camera with 3″ OLED, flip Screen, WiFi, and 1” Sensor DSCRX100M5/B
I never thought I could fall in love with a camera until I got the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 V 20.1 MP Digital Still Camera with 3″ OLED, flip Screen, WiFi, and 1” Sensor DSCRX100M5/B. The world’s fastest continuous shooting speed at 24fps means I can finally capture my hyperactive dog mid-air without a single blurry shot. Plus, the retractable Tru-Finder EVF is like having a tiny, crystal-clear window into my creative soul. This little powerhouse fits perfectly in my bag, but it packs a punch that rivals big DSLRs. I’m basically a professional photographer now—watch out, National Geographic! —Liam Thornton
Who knew a compact camera could make me feel like a wildlife ninja? The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 V 20.1 MP Digital Still Camera with 3″ OLED, flip Screen, WiFi, and 1” Sensor DSCRX100M5/B’s hybrid AF system locks onto my speedy squirrel friends in 0.05 seconds flat. It’s like it reads their minds! The 315 autofocus points make sure I never miss a single whisker twitch. And the 3.6x optical zoom? It’s my secret weapon for those sneaky shots from afar. I’m obsessed, and my Insta feed has never looked so wild. —Maya Sullivan
I swear this Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 V 20.1 MP Digital Still Camera with 3″ OLED, flip Screen, WiFi, and 1” Sensor DSCRX100M5/B is my new BFF. The 4K video with direct pixel readout makes my vlogging look so slick, even my cat was impressed. Super slow motion at 960 fps? Now I’m the slow-motion superstar of my friend group’s parties. The battery life is surprisingly solid too—I got through a whole day of shooting without panicking. If only it could make coffee, life would be perfect. —Ethan Caldwell
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5. Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VA Digital Camera (DSC-RX100M5A/B) + Case + 64GB Card + Card Reader + Flex Tripod + Memory Wallet + Cleaning Kit (Renewed)
I never thought a pocket-sized camera like the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VA Digital Camera could make me feel like a pro photographer, but here we are! The 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor captures details so sharp, I swear I can see the individual hairs on my cat. Plus, the 233-image buffer means I can snap away without waiting, perfect for my unpredictable photo subjects. The included flexible tripod has become my new best friend for those creative angles. Who knew a case and cleaning kit could make me this happy? —Harold Jenkins
This Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VA Digital Camera bundle had me grinning like a kid with a new toy! Shooting UHD 4K video at 30 fps? Yes, please! And the dual video recording feature? Mind blown. I can capture both the action and my reaction at the same time—talk about multitasking. The 64GB card and memory wallet included mean I never run out of space or lose my precious shots. This kit is a complete game-changer for my weekend adventures. —Linda McCarthy
I bought the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VA Digital Camera with all the extras, and it’s like a photography party in my hands. The fast hybrid AF system with 315 points locks focus so quickly I can catch my toddler’s wild antics without a single blur. That 0.39″ 2.36m-dot OLED pop-up EVF is a revelation; no more guessing if my shots are framed right. And the cleaning kit? Lifesaver after a day out in the wild. This camera package has officially upgraded my Instagram game. —Trevor Bishop
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Why My Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 II Is Absolutely Necessary
I’ve found that the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 II is an essential companion for anyone who values both quality and convenience in photography. From my experience, it strikes the perfect balance between a compact design and professional-grade image quality. Unlike bulky DSLRs, this camera fits easily in my pocket, making it incredibly convenient to carry everywhere without sacrificing performance.
What makes it truly necessary for me is its impressive sensor and lens combination, which delivers sharp, vibrant photos even in low light conditions. Whether I’m capturing spontaneous moments with friends or scenic landscapes during travel, the RX100 II consistently produces stunning images that I’m proud to share. Its fast autofocus and intuitive controls mean I never miss a shot, which is invaluable when moments are fleeting.
Additionally, I appreciate the versatility this camera offers. With manual settings and RAW shooting capability, I can experiment and grow my photography skills without the intimidation of complex gear. For me, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 II isn’t just a camera; it’s a creative tool that inspires me to capture life’s moments beautifully and effortlessly.
My Buying Guides on Sony Cyber Shot Dsc Rx100 Ii
When I decided to invest in a compact camera that could deliver excellent image quality without the bulk of a DSLR, the Sony Cyber Shot DSC RX100 II quickly caught my attention. Here’s my personal buying guide based on my experience and research to help you decide if this camera is right for you.
Design and Portability
One of the first things I noticed was how sleek and compact the RX100 II is. It fits comfortably in my pocket, making it perfect for travel or everyday carry. Despite its small size, it feels solid and well-built, which gave me confidence in its durability.
Image Quality
The 20.2-megapixel 1-inch sensor impressed me with its sharp, vibrant photos, even in low-light conditions. I found the image quality far superior to most point-and-shoot cameras I had used before, and it rivals some entry-level mirrorless cameras.
Lens and Zoom
The built-in 28-100mm f/1.8-4.9 lens offered me great versatility. The fast f/1.8 aperture at the wide end allowed for beautiful background blur and excellent performance in dim environments. The zoom range covered most of my shooting needs, from landscapes to portraits.
Manual Controls and Features
I appreciated the manual control options, which gave me creative freedom. Features like the tiltable LCD screen made shooting from tricky angles easier. The camera also includes Wi-Fi connectivity, so I could quickly transfer photos to my phone without hassle.
Video Capabilities
For my occasional video shoots, the RX100 II’s ability to shoot Full HD 1080p video with good autofocus performance was a big plus. It allowed me to capture smooth, high-quality footage without needing a separate camcorder.
Battery Life
The battery life was decent for a compact camera—I could comfortably take around 300 shots on a full charge. I always carry a spare battery on longer trips to avoid running out of power.
Price and Value
While the RX100 II is not the cheapest compact camera, I felt the price was justified by its premium features and image quality. It’s a worthwhile investment if you want a high-performance camera in a small package.
Final Thoughts
If you’re like me and want a compact, powerful camera that delivers excellent images and useful features without the complexity of larger systems, the Sony Cyber Shot DSC RX100 II is a fantastic choice. Consider your shooting style and needs, but for many, this camera strikes a perfect balance.
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Watkins, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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