Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 IV Digital Camera, Black {20MP}

Sony RX100 IV: the pocket camera that shoots 4K and 960fps

The RX100 IV packs a 20MP, 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor behind a 24-70mm f/1.8 equivalent lens into a body that fits a jacket pocket. That stacked architecture is what separates this generation from its predecessors, it enables 16 fps continuous shooting, an electronic shutter that reaches 1/32000 sec to kill flash sync constraints in bright light, and 4K UHD video recorded at 100 Mbps with a full sensor readout. The Bionz X processor handles the data throughput without dropping to a cropped field of view.

On the video side, the RX100 IV earns its reputation among run-and-gun shooters through a combination of specs that would have required a much larger kit in 2015. High frame rate recording tops out at 960 fps, downsampled to 1080p output, and the inclusion of S-Log2 via Picture Profiles gives colorists real latitude in post. For stills, the built-in 2,359,296-dot electronic viewfinder pops up from the top deck and provides 100% coverage, while the 3-inch tilting WhiteMagic LCD handles low-angle work. RAW output, Auto ISO in manual exposure mode, and full manual controls round out a feature set that still holds up against much newer compact competition.

Who It's For

Travel photographers who refuse to carry a second bag will find the 298g body fits any pocket and the 24-70mm f/1.8 lens covers wide interiors and compressed street shots without swapping glass. Video journalists needing a discreet B-camera get 4K/30p with S-Log2 and uncompressed HDMI output in something smaller than a water bottle. Sports and action shooters gain from the 16 fps burst rate and 1/32000 sec electronic shutter for freezing fast subjects in daylight. Slow-motion enthusiasts shooting product demos or nature content can squeeze 960 fps out of this camera without touching a dedicated high-speed rig.

Key Features

• 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor with 20MP resolution and Bionz X processor
• 24-70mm f/1.8 equivalent lens with optical image stabilization
• 4K UHD video at 100 Mbps with full sensor readout; 960 fps at 1080p
• 16 fps continuous shooting with electronic shutter reaching 1/32000 sec
• Built-in 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder with 3-inch tilting WhiteMagic LCD
• S-Log2 gamma via Picture Profiles; RAW and JPEG output; Auto ISO in manual mode

FAQ

Does the RX100 IV really shoot 4K without cropping the sensor?

Yes. It records 4K UHD at 100 Mbps with a full sensor readout - no crop. The Bionz X processor handles the data throughput, which is why earlier compact models couldn't do this.

What's the difference between the stacked sensor and previous RX100 models?

The stacked CMOS architecture lets the RX100 IV hit 16 fps continuous, an electronic shutter that reaches 1/32000 sec, and higher sustained video bitrates. It's not just faster burst - it eliminates practical flash sync limits in daylight.

Can you shoot 960 fps video?

Only at 1080p. The camera downsamples from the 1-inch sensor to deliver 960 fps high frame rate, which is useful for slow-motion work but output is inherently lower resolution.

Does the electronic viewfinder help in bright sunlight?

The 2.36M-dot EVF provides 100% coverage and displays a real-time preview, but the 3-inch tilting WhiteMagic LCD is often more practical for daylight shooting because its brightness adjusts automatically and you avoid squinting into the viewfinder.

Is there S-Log available for video grading?

S-Log2 is included via Picture Profiles, giving you flat gamma for post-production color work. It's not built into the standard video modes - you need to access it through the camera's color/gamma settings.

Can you use Auto ISO while shooting in manual mode?

Yes, with five focal-length-aware presets (Slower to Faster) that control shutter speed thresholds. This works in both stills and video manual mode, letting you lock aperture and shutter while the camera handles sensitivity and maintains exposure.

What's the practical limitation with the rear dial?

It's stepped (not smooth), positioned low on the body where your thumb lands awkwardly, and not customizable. The front dial around the lens is better for continuous adjustments like manual focus, but it has input lag that makes shot-to-shot setting changes slower than dedicated controls.