Sony RX1R III First Impressions: Is It Worth It?

After about a month with the Sony RX1R III, including travel and everyday family photographs, I was impressed by how much camera fits into such a compact body. These are first impressions and a look at my accessory setup, rather than a finished long-term review.

Originally published on YouTube Sep 2, 2026.

The price I actually paid

I bought mine from Japan through eBay for roughly $3,300 including the import charge I paid. That is the price behind my value judgment. The roughly $5,100 figure discussed in the video is a much bigger commitment, and prices and import costs can change.

Small body, excellent everyday results

I loved the autofocus for following children and the image quality at f/2. The 35mm perspective and small size made it easy to bring along. I also enjoyed using a dedicated camera more than relying on my phone for every photograph.

Accessories that improved handling

My setup included a SmallRig base, grip tape on the aperture ring, a Peak Design strap, and a PolarPro MagLock filter. The grip tape made the aperture easier for my larger hands to adjust. I carried it in a small Clever Supply bag, with spare batteries and a compact flash.

The compromises I noticed

Battery life was not a strong point, so I wanted spare batteries for a full day. There is no in-body stabilization, and some slower-shutter photographs showed camera movement. I also found the aperture-ring grip placement awkward and the card slot fiddly to access. Those details did not spoil the experience, but they are worth considering alongside the size and image quality.

My early verdict

At the price I paid, I had no regrets. The compact size, autofocus, and files made it a camera I wanted to use. The video explains the setup in more detail, including the limitations of my early testing.

Watch on YouTube and view the original product links. Some shopping links in the original description may be affiliate links.

Browse all reviews