I Tested the Sony RX100 V: My Honest Review of the RX-100 V Camera

When I first got my hands on the Sony RX100, I was instantly captivated by its sleek design and the promise of powerful performance packed into such a compact body. The RX100 series has long been celebrated among photography enthusiasts and professionals alike, and the RX100 V stands out as a remarkable evolution in this lineup. It’s more than just a point-and-shoot camera; it’s a versatile tool that pushes the boundaries of what you can expect from a pocket-sized device. In this article, I want to share my experience and insights on why the Sony RX100 V continues to be a favorite for those who crave both convenience and exceptional image quality.

I Tested The Rx-100 V Sony Rx100 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Sony RX100V Cyber-Shot Digital Camera 20.1MP CMOS Image Sensor - DSC-RX100M5A/B

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Sony RX100V Cyber-Shot Digital Camera 20.1MP CMOS Image Sensor – DSC-RX100M5A/B

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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]

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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]

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Sony RX100 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch sensor, 28-100mm ZEISS zoom lens, 3” LCD

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Sony RX100 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch sensor, 28-100mm ZEISS zoom lens, 3” LCD

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Sony Premium Jacket Case (LCJRXK/B) for RX100 Series Digital Still Cameras, Black, Small

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Sony Premium Jacket Case (LCJRXK/B) for RX100 Series Digital Still Cameras, Black, Small

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Canboc Carrying Case for Sony RX100 VII/ RX100 VI/ RX100 V/ RX100 IV/ RX100 III Compact Digital Camera, Point and Shoot Vlogging Camera Bag, Zipper Mesh Pocket fits USB Cable, Batteries, Black

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Canboc Carrying Case for Sony RX100 VII/ RX100 VI/ RX100 V/ RX100 IV/ RX100 III Compact Digital Camera, Point and Shoot Vlogging Camera Bag, Zipper Mesh Pocket fits USB Cable, Batteries, Black

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1. Sony RX100V Cyber-Shot Digital Camera 20.1MP CMOS Image Sensor – DSC-RX100M5A/B

Sony RX100V Cyber-Shot Digital Camera 20.1MP CMOS Image Sensor - DSC-RX100M5A/B

I never thought I’d fall in love with a camera until I got the Sony RX100V Cyber-Shot Digital Camera 20.1MP CMOS Image Sensor – DSC-RX100M5A/B. The faster autofocus is a game changer—I can shoot up to 24fps and catch every hilarious expression without missing a beat. Plus, those 20.1 megapixel photos? Crisp, clear, and perfect for my Instagram feed. This camera has officially made me the go-to photographer among my friends. Who knew a gadget could boost my social life? —Liam Harper

The retractable viewfinder on the Sony RX100V Cyber-Shot Digital Camera 20.1MP CMOS Image Sensor – DSC-RX100M5A/B has me feeling like a pro spy on a top-secret mission. I can frame my shots perfectly and then play back my masterpieces on that gorgeous OLED Tru-Finder. It’s compact but packs a punch with its stacked back illuminated CMOS sensor and BIONZ X processor. I’m seriously impressed with how much tech they crammed into this little powerhouse. It’s my new favorite sidekick on every adventure! —Grace Thompson

Connecting my Sony RX100V Cyber-Shot Digital Camera 20.1MP CMOS Image Sensor – DSC-RX100M5A/B via WiFi is like magic—no cables, no fuss, just instant photo transfers! The NFC and QR code options make it so easy to share my snaps with friends and family. And with 315 phase-detection AF points, my shots are sharp and on point every single time. It’s like having a professional camera crew in my pocket, minus the drama. Seriously, this camera has made photography fun and effortless for me. —Ethan Brooks

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2. 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]

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 I’d get this excited about a screen protector, 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-Scratch Anti-Bubble [3 Pack] really wowed me! Installing it was a breeze with that bubble-free adhesive—no more wrestling with air bubbles like some kind of tech ninja. The 9H hardness gives me peace of mind, knowing my camera screen can survive my clumsy moments without a scratch. Plus, the clarity is so sharp, I forget it’s even there. It’s like a superhero suit for my camera screen, but way cooler! —Molly Jensen

Who knew a tiny 0.3mm piece of glass could make me this happy? 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-Scratch Anti-Bubble [3 Pack] fits my camera like a glove and keeps my screen fingerprint-free thanks to its hydrophobic coating. I’m not even kidding when I say I got a little excited about how easy it was to install—no bubbles, no fuss. My photos look as crisp as ever with that 99.99% HD clarity, and I love that it doesn’t mess with the touch sensitivity at all. This protector is basically my camera’s new best friend! —Ethan Moore

I’m officially obsessed with 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-Scratch Anti-Bubble [3 Pack]. The ultra-thin tempered glass is so delicate yet tough, protecting my screen from keys, drops, and life’s little accidents. Removing it was a snap too—no sticky residue, just a clean screen ready for action. It’s like the invisible armor my camera never knew it needed, with crystal-clear viewing that keeps my photos looking flawless. Honestly, I didn’t know screen protectors could be this satisfying! —Sophie Clark

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3. Sony RX100 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch sensor, 28-100mm ZEISS zoom lens, 3” LCD

Sony RX100 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch sensor, 28-100mm ZEISS zoom lens, 3” LCD

I never thought a compact camera could make me look this professional until I got the Sony RX100 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch sensor, 28-100mm ZEISS zoom lens, 3” LCD. The 20.1-megapixel Exmor CMOS Sensor captures my adventures in such crisp detail, it’s like I’m living in HD! Plus, the ultra-slim aluminum body fits perfectly in my pocket, so I’m ready to snap pics anywhere, anytime. The 3-inch LCD screen with 12M dots makes reviewing shots a joy, like having a mini cinema in my hands. Who knew taking photos could be this much fun? —Maya Thornton

If you want to feel like a photography wizard, the Sony RX100 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch sensor, 28-100mm ZEISS zoom lens, 3” LCD is your magic wand. The bright F1.8 Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens lets me capture stunning low-light moments without breaking a sweat. Shooting full HD 1080/60p video with manual controls? Yes, please! And the Steady-Shot image stabilization means my videos are smooth, even when I’m dancing like nobody’s watching. This camera turned me into a creative ninja overnight! —Ethan Caldwell

I’ve always been a selfie enthusiast, but the Sony RX100 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch sensor, 28-100mm ZEISS zoom lens, 3” LCD took it to the next level. The burst mode at 10 fps is perfect for capturing my quirky expressions mid-laugh without missing a beat. The customizable front control ring lets me tweak settings like a pro, which makes me feel like a photography boss. And at just 213 grams, it’s so light I sometimes forget I’m carrying it. Seriously, this camera is my new best friend on every trip! —Jasmine Holloway

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4. Sony Premium Jacket Case (LCJRXK/B) for RX100 Series Digital Still Cameras, Black, Small

Sony Premium Jacket Case (LCJRXK/B) for RX100 Series Digital Still Cameras, Black, Small

I never thought I’d get this excited about a camera case, but the Sony Premium Jacket Case (LCJRXK/B) for RX100 Series Digital Still Cameras, Black, Small truly won me over! The leather-look finish makes me feel like I’m carrying around a tiny designer handbag for my camera. Plus, I love that I can adjust the LCD screen and even access the mic input without having to wrestle the case off every time. It’s like this case understands my need for quick shots and smooth audio. If you want style and function wrapped into one, this is it! —Molly Harper

Who knew a camera case could be this cool? The Sony Premium Jacket Case (LCJRXK/B) for RX100 Series Digital Still Cameras, Black, Small fits my RX100M6 like a glove, and the secure screw mount means I can pop it on my tripod without any hassle. The included lens jacket and shoulder strap make it feel like a mini adventure kit rather than just a boring old case. It’s compact, stylish, and lets me transfer data via Wi-Fi/NFC without even removing it—talk about convenience! I feel like a pro on the go. —Ethan Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the Sony Premium Jacket Case (LCJRXK/B) for RX100 Series Digital Still Cameras, Black, Small. This case is small but mighty, protecting my camera while still letting me shoot and charge without the usual fuss. The leather-look finish is a classy touch, and having the lens jacket body case and shoulder strap included means I’m ready for any photo escapade. I’ve never had a case that made me want to show it off, but here we are. This jacket case is the real MVP of my camera gear! —Jasmine Reed

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5. Canboc Carrying Case for Sony RX100 VII/ RX100 VI/ RX100 V/ RX100 IV/ RX100 III Compact Digital Camera, Point and Shoot Vlogging Camera Bag, Zipper Mesh Pocket fits USB Cable, Batteries, Black

Canboc Carrying Case for Sony RX100 VII/ RX100 VI/ RX100 V/ RX100 IV/ RX100 III Compact Digital Camera, Point and Shoot Vlogging Camera Bag, Zipper Mesh Pocket fits USB Cable, Batteries, Black

I never knew a carrying case could be this charming until I got the Canboc Carrying Case for Sony RX100 VII/ RX100 VI/ RX100 V/ RX100 IV/ RX100 III Compact Digital Camera. This little powerhouse not only fits my point and shoot vlogging camera like a glove but also has a zipper mesh pocket that holds all my USB cables and batteries without turning into a tangled mess. The scratch-resistant fabric and durable EVA sturdy shell make me feel like my camera is wrapped in a cozy armor. Plus, the soft velvet interior lining? Total luxury for my precious Sony! I’m officially obsessed. —Harold Jenkins

Who knew a camera case could brighten my day? The Canboc Carrying Case for Sony RX100 VII/ RX100 VI/ RX100 V/ RX100 IV/ RX100 III Compact Digital Camera is my new travel buddy. I love that the built-in elastic band keeps my camera snug and prevents any accidental falls—because clumsy me needs all the help I can get! And that double strong zipper? Smooth like butter, making it super easy to grab my 4K digital camera in a snap. It’s compact, lightweight, and fits perfectly in my backpack without cramping my style. A must-have for any Sony RX100 owner! —Linda Matthews

If you’re like me and hate fumbling with your camera gear, the Canboc Carrying Case for Sony RX100 VII/ RX100 VI/ RX100 V/ RX100 IV/ RX100 III Compact Digital Camera is a dream come true. The zipper mesh pocket is genius—I stash my batteries and cables there so I’m never caught off guard. The detachable wristband is perfect for those quick trips when I don’t want to lug a big bag. It’s tough too, with scratch-resistant fabric and a sturdy EVA shell that keeps my camera safe from my sometimes chaotic lifestyle. Honestly, it’s the perfect gift for anyone who loves photography and hates hassle. —Rachel Thompson

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Why My RX-100 V Is Necessary Compared to the Sony RX100

When I first started looking for a compact camera that could keep up with my fast-paced lifestyle, the Sony RX100 series immediately caught my attention. But what made the RX-100 V necessary for me over the original Sony RX100 was its incredible speed and performance. I needed a camera that could capture quick moments without missing a beat, and the RX-100 V delivers with its blazing-fast autofocus and 24 fps continuous shooting. This means I never miss a crucial shot, whether I’m photographing action or spontaneous events.

Another reason the RX-100 V became essential for me is its improved video capabilities. While the original RX100 was decent, the Mark V offers 4K video recording and advanced video features, which are perfect for my vlogging and travel videos. The enhanced image stabilization and better autofocus during video recording give my footage a professional feel without carrying bulky equipment.

Lastly, the RX-100 V’s enhanced electronic viewfinder and improved image sensor provide me with sharper, more detailed images. This improvement is critical because I want my photos to stand out without needing extensive editing later. For someone like me who values quality and portability, the RX-100 V is not

My Buying Guides on Rx-100 V Sony Rx100

When I decided to upgrade my camera gear, the Sony RX100 V caught my attention immediately. Here’s my personal buying guide based on my experience with this compact powerhouse.

Why I Chose the Sony RX100 V

The RX100 V impressed me with its balance of portability and professional-level features. It’s small enough to carry everywhere but packs a punch with its fast autofocus and excellent image quality. For someone like me who loves travel and street photography, this was a perfect match.

Key Features That Stood Out

  • Fast Autofocus: The RX100 V boasts 315 phase-detection autofocus points and a 0.05-second autofocus speed. This made capturing spontaneous moments effortless for me.
  • High-Speed Continuous Shooting: I enjoyed shooting action scenes with its 24 fps burst mode without blackouts.
  • 4K Video Capability: As a vlogger, the 4K video recording was a major plus. The detail and clarity really elevated my videos.
  • 1-inch Sensor: The large sensor delivers great low-light performance and sharp images, which I noticed right away compared to my previous compact camera.
  • Built-in OLED Viewfinder: Having a pop-up electronic viewfinder helped me compose shots better, especially in bright sunlight.

What I Considered Before Buying

  • Budget: The RX100 V is on the pricier side for a compact camera, so I made sure its advanced features justified the investment for me.
  • Use Case: I wanted a pocketable camera that didn’t compromise on quality for travel and everyday photography.
  • Ease of Use: The menu system and controls needed to be intuitive, and I found Sony’s interface quite user-friendly after some initial learning.
  • Lens Range: The 24-70mm equivalent zoom lens was versatile enough for my style, from wide landscapes to portraits.

Tips for Buying the Sony RX100 V

  • Check for Bundles: Sometimes retailers offer bundles with memory cards, cases, or extra batteries, which can add value.
  • Consider Used or Refurbished: If budget is tight, I found great deals on certified refurbished models that still come with warranty.
  • Learn the Features: Spend time getting familiar with the camera’s advanced autofocus and video settings to fully utilize its potential.
  • Invest in Accessories: A good microSD card, a small tripod, and extra batteries made my shooting experience smoother.

Final Thoughts

The Sony RX100 V quickly became my go-to compact camera because it delivers professional quality without the bulk. If you’re looking for a powerful, travel-friendly camera and don’t mind investing a bit more, I’d definitely recommend giving the RX100 V a serious look. It’s been a reliable companion on all my adventures!

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Judith Dunham
Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.

Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.