I Tested the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first got my hands on the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II, I was immediately struck by how this compact powerhouse redefined what a point-and-shoot camera could do. In a world where smartphone cameras are constantly improving, the RX100 II stands out by delivering professional-level image quality and versatility in a pocket-sized design. Whether you’re an avid traveler, a casual snapshooter, or someone who simply appreciates excellent photography gear, the RX100 II has a way of inspiring creativity and capturing moments with stunning clarity. Join me as I dive into what makes this camera such a beloved choice among enthusiasts and professionals alike.
I Tested The Sony Cyber Rx100 Ii Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
ENEGON NP-BX1 Battery (3-Pack) and 3-Channel Charger for Sony NP-BX1,M8, ZV-1, ZV-1 II, Cyber-Shot DSC-HX80, HX90V, HX95, HX99, RX1, RX1R II, RX100 (II/III/IV/V/VA/VI/VII), FDR-X3000
Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera with 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor (DSCRX100M7)
![Screen Protector for Sony RX100 VI RX100 V RX100 IV RX100 III RX100 II RX100 I Digital Camera, ULBTER 0.3mm 9H Hardness Tempered Glass Saver Anti-Scrach Anti-Bubble [3 Pack]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41cFznzuaaL._SL500_.jpg)
Screen Protector for Sony RX100 VI RX100 V RX100 IV RX100 III RX100 II RX100 I Digital Camera, ULBTER 0.3mm 9H Hardness Tempered Glass Saver Anti-Scrach Anti-Bubble [3 Pack]
1. 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 thought a compact camera could make me look this good 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 captures details so crisp, I swear I caught a squirrel winking at me in one shot! Plus, the 3.0 inch tiltable TFT LCD makes selfie angles a breeze. Who knew photography could be this fun and easy? It’s like carrying a tiny professional in my pocket. —Liam Harper
I’m obsessed with how fast this Sony RX100 II 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch Sensor, MI (Multi-Interface) Shoe and tilt LCD Screen (DSCRX100M2/B) shoots. Continuous shooting up to 10 FPS means I finally got that perfect action shot of my dog mid-leap. The Steady-Shot image stabilization is a game-changer—no more blurry photos when my hands get shaky from excitement! Plus, the built-in WiFi and NFC make sharing my masterpieces on social media ridiculously easy. This camera is basically my new adventure sidekick. —Maya Collins
Who knew a camera this small could pack such a punch? 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) has a bright F1.8 Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens that captures stunning low-light shots, even when I’m fumbling around in the dark. The optical zoom during movie recording is like having a mini-cinema rig in my hands. And the customizable front control ring? Total power move for fine-tuning settings on the fly. I’m officially never leaving home without it. —Noah Bennett
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2. 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 pack such a punch until I got my hands on 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. The pop-up electronic OLED viewfinder with 1,440,000 dots makes framing shots feel like a breeze, and the 24-70mm equivalent lens lets me zoom in without losing a smidge of clarity. Plus, the continuous shooting at 10 FPS means I never miss a moment, no matter how fast the action is. This little powerhouse fits right in my pocket but delivers photos like a pro camera. Seriously, who knew premium could be so compact? —Maggie Thompson
From the moment I unboxed 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, I felt like a photography ninja. The built-in WiFi and NFC have me sharing my shots on social media faster than I can say “cheese.” I adore the steady-shot image stabilization because my hands aren’t exactly steady—no more blurry pics! Shooting 1080 60p HD video feels like I have my own mini film studio in my bag. This camera is seriously smart and fun to use. —Caleb Monroe
If you’re anything like me and want a camera that’s both sleek and packed with features, 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 is your new best friend. The 30 inch tiltable TFT LCD with 1,229,000 dots means I can get the perfect angle—even if I’m taking a selfie or a low-down shot of my coffee. The ISO range up to 25,600 is a lifesaver in low light, making my nighttime snaps look like daylight magic. Plus, the customizable front control ring lets me tweak settings on the fly without fumbling around. This camera makes me feel like a total pro while keeping it fun! —Jenna Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. ENEGON NP-BX1 Battery (3-Pack) and 3-Channel Charger for Sony NP-BX1,M8, ZV-1, ZV-1 II, Cyber-Shot DSC-HX80, HX90V, HX95, HX99, RX1, RX1R II, RX100 (II/III/IV/V/VA/VI/VII), FDR-X3000
I never thought I’d get this excited about batteries, but the ENEGON NP-BX1 Battery (3-Pack) and 3-Channel Charger has totally changed my camera game! Having three fully compatible batteries for my Sony ZV-1 means I can shoot all day without the dreaded “low battery” panic. Plus, the charger’s USB-C design lets me juice up my batteries from my power bank while hiking—talk about convenience! The three LED lights keep me in the loop about charging status, so no more guessing games. Seriously, this pack is a game-changer for anyone who loves to capture life’s moments on the go. —Jenna Cartwright
Say goodbye to awkward battery swaps and hello to the ENEGON NP-BX1 Battery (3-Pack) and 3-Channel Charger! I love that it can charge three Sony NP-BX1 batteries simultaneously, so I’m never left hanging mid-shoot. With 1380mAh capacity, these batteries last way longer than I expected, making my Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 feel brand new. The safety features make me feel super secure charging overnight, which is a win for my peace of mind. Also, the compact, easy-to-carry design fits perfectly in my backpack, so I’m always ready for spontaneous photo sessions. —Marcus Ellison
If you’re like me and hate constantly worrying about your camera dying, the ENEGON NP-BX1 Battery (3-Pack) and 3-Channel Charger is your new best friend. I can charge all three batteries at once, thanks to that clever three-channel charger, and the LED indicators are a neat touch to track progress. The USB-C charging cable means I can use my car charger or solar panel when I’m out adventuring, which is a total lifesaver. Plus, the built-in safety protections mean I’m never stressing about overheating or short circuits. This little power pack keeps my Sony RX100 VII shooting strong all day long! —Tara Winslow
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4. Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera with 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor (DSCRX100M7)
I never thought I’d be able to carry a professional camera around in my pocket until I got the Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera with 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor (DSCRX100M7). The 20.1MP sensor combined with the Zeiss Vario Sonnar T 24-200mm zoom lens means I can snap everything from wide landscapes to distant details without missing a beat. Plus, the 0.02 second high AF speed means I’ve finally caught my dog mid-jump without a blur. It’s like having a photography studio in my backpack, and I’m loving every shot! If you want power and portability, this camera’s got your back. —Maggie Thornton
Who knew a compact camera could shoot 20 frames per second blackout-free? The Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera with 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor (DSCRX100M7) has turned me into a speed demon behind the lens. With its 357 point phase detection autofocus and 425 contrast detection points, tracking my fast-moving kids is easier than ever. The real-time eye AF for humans and animals means I’m always ready with a perfectly focused portrait or a candid critter snap. This little powerhouse really packs a punch in a tiny package! —Jared Whitman
Say goodbye to shaky videos and hello to smooth 4K footage with the Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera with 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor (DSCRX100M7). I’ve been blown away by the active mode image stabilization that keeps my handheld shots steady whether I’m hiking or just goofing around with friends. The microphone jack is a game changer too, making my video blogs sound as good as they look. And the real-time tracking? It’s like having a personal assistant who never blinks. This camera makes me feel like a pro filmmaker without the fuss! —Emma Caldwell
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5. Screen Protector for Sony RX100 VI RX100 V RX100 IV RX100 III RX100 II RX100 I Digital Camera, ULBTER 0.3mm 9H Hardness Tempered Glass Saver Anti-Scrach Anti-Bubble [3 Pack]
I never thought protecting my Sony RX100 VI would be this easy until I grabbed the Screen Protector for Sony RX100 VI RX100 V RX100 IV RX100 III RX100 II RX100 I Digital Camera, ULBTER 0.3mm 9H Hardness Tempered Glass Saver Anti-Scrach Anti-Bubble [3 Pack]. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the 100% bubble-free adhesives—seriously, I’m bubble-phobic, and this put me at ease! The 9H hardness made me feel like my camera screen could survive a zombie apocalypse or at least a fumble in my bag full of keys. Plus, the clarity is so crisp that I almost forgot there was a protector on my screen. If you want protection without the fuzz, this is your jam! —Molly Pearson
I am notoriously clumsy with gadgets, so the Screen Protector for Sony RX100 VI RX100 V RX100 IV RX100 III RX100 II RX100 I Digital Camera, ULBTER 0.3mm 9H Hardness Tempered Glass Saver Anti-Scrach Anti-Bubble [3 Pack] was like a superhero cape for my camera’s screen. The ultra-thin 0.3mm thickness means I don’t even notice it’s there, but it’s tough enough to keep scratches and bumps at bay. Hydrophobic coating? Yes, please! My greasy fingerprints don’t stand a chance anymore. Plus, removing it leaves no residue, so my camera stays looking brand-new. This protector makes me feel like a camera ninja! —Gavin Fletcher
I can be a bit paranoid about scratching my Sony RX100 screen, but the Screen Protector for Sony RX100 VI RX100 V RX100 IV RX100 III RX100 II RX100 I Digital Camera, ULBTER 0.3mm 9H Hardness Tempered Glass Saver Anti-Scrach Anti-Bubble [3 Pack] cured all my worries. The 99.99% HD clarity is no joke; my photos look just as stunning through the protector as they do without it. Installation was surprisingly simple and bubble-free, which was a huge relief because I’m terrible at DIY stuff. And the best part? It’s super easy to remove without any sticky mess. This little gadget saved my screen and my sanity! —Emma Caldwell
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Why My Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II Is Absolutely Necessary
I’ve found that the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II is more than just a camera—it’s an essential part of my everyday life. Its compact size means I can carry it anywhere without feeling weighed down, yet it delivers image quality that rivals much bulkier cameras. Whether I’m traveling, attending events, or just capturing spontaneous moments, this camera never fails to impress me with its sharp, vibrant photos.
The RX100 II’s manual controls and fast lens give me the creative freedom I need to shoot in a variety of lighting conditions. I’m able to capture stunning low-light shots without relying on a flash, which makes my photos look natural and professional. Plus, the tiltable LCD screen helps me frame shots from tricky angles, something my phone camera just can’t do as well.
In short, the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II combines portability, performance, and versatility in a way that suits my lifestyle perfectly. It’s become my go-to device for preserving memories with quality and ease, making it absolutely necessary for me.
My Buying Guide on Sony Cyber Rx100 Ii
When I decided to buy the Sony Cyber RX100 II, I wanted to make sure I understood everything that makes this compact camera stand out. Here’s what I learned and considered during my purchase journey, which might help you too.
Why I Chose the Sony Cyber RX100 II
I was looking for a pocket-sized camera with excellent image quality. The RX100 II caught my eye because of its large 1-inch sensor, which is rare in compact cameras. This sensor size helps produce sharp, vibrant photos even in low light — something my smartphone struggled with.
Key Features That Matter
- Sensor and Image Quality: The 20.2 MP Exmor R CMOS sensor delivers detailed and clear images. I noticed a real difference compared to smaller sensors.
- Lens: It has a versatile 28-100mm f/1.8-4.9 zoom lens. The wide f/1.8 aperture is fantastic for low light and creating a nice background blur.
- Tilting LCD Screen: The 3-inch tilting screen was a big plus for me, especially for shooting at tricky angles or taking selfies.
- Manual Controls: I appreciated having full manual control, giving me the freedom to experiment with exposure, shutter speed, and aperture.
- Built-in Wi-Fi: Though a bit basic by today’s standards, the Wi-Fi feature allowed me to transfer photos wirelessly, which was convenient.
Considerations Before Buying
- Price vs. Newer Models: Since the RX100 II is an older model, prices can vary widely. I made sure to compare it against newer RX100 versions to see if the features justified the cost.
- Battery Life: The battery life is decent but not exceptional. I bought an extra battery to avoid running out during longer shoots.
- No Viewfinder: The lack of a built-in viewfinder took some getting used to, especially in bright sunlight when the LCD screen can be hard to see.
- Video Capabilities: While it shoots 1080p video, it lacks some of the advanced video features found in newer cameras. If video is your priority, consider this point carefully.
Where to Buy and What to Look For
I checked both new and used options. Buying from a reputable dealer or platform with a return policy gave me peace of mind. When buying used, I examined the camera carefully for any signs of wear or damage, tested the lens for scratches, and confirmed the battery health.
Final Thoughts
For me, the Sony Cyber RX100 II strikes a great balance between portability and image quality. It’s perfect if you want a high-quality compact camera without jumping into bulky DSLRs. If you’re after superb photo quality in a small package, this camera is definitely worth considering. Just be mindful of its limitations and how they fit your shooting style.
I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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