Final Verdict
Ultimately, Sony further improved their RX100 line with the Mark IV bringing even more advanced features and capabilities into the same small form-factor that many have grown to love. While it has its quirks (especially for 4K video/slow motion) and certainly isn't the ideal candidate to be used in a professional environment, it suits its purposes offering as close to DSLR performance without all the bulkiness that is typically associated with these capabilities. If you're in the market for a pocketable 4K-ready camera that has all the bells and whistles you could ask for, the RX100 IV cannot be beat.
Who Should Buy The RX100 IV?
- Someone looking for the closest thing to DSLR-like stills in a camera that can easily fit in their pocket or purse.
- Someone looking to shoot candid family photos or capture memories while on a trip.
- Someone knowledgeable photography and wants a small, powerful camera to use while on the go without lugging around hefty camera gear.
- Someone looking to use this camera for vlogging (as if on YouTube) as it is one of the best on the market at this time.
- Someone who wants a relatively decent B or C camera for 4K video production though remember the overheating limitations.
Alternate Recommendations
- Panasonic LX100 – Panasonic's compact competitor though not nearly as pocketable as the RX100 series. Harnesses a larger M4/3 sensor and 4K video up to 15-minute clips.
- Sony RX100 I/II/III – Earlier generations of the RX100 have come down in price and offer the same form-factor and basic performance of the RX100 IV without all the bells and whistles. If you are simply looking to take family photos or videos in good lighting and don't need all the latest technology then an earlier generation version might be a better choice for you.
- Sony RX10 I/II – similar capabilities of the RX100 series although offers a larger, more ergonomic form-factor. With this larger body you get longer 4K record times and a Zeiss lens with a greater zoom range.
- Canon G7X – Similar form-factor at a cheaper price though slightly outdated specifications. Only capable of 1080P at 60fps maximum for video and only 6.5fps for photo.
