Sony announces its best point-and-shooter to date

The RX100 III features a wider and brighter aperture lens and a retractable OLED EVF. You can pre-order now.

Sony has a nice treat for all photography enthusiasts out there today. The company has just announced its third iteration to its well-reputed RX100 camera.

For the record, Sony released the first version in 2012, then the RX100 II followed last year. Both cameras amassed impressive reviews, thanks to their compact design and DSLR-like capabilities.

With the Cyber-shot RX100 III, Sony is basically expanding its line-up.

In an interview earlier today, Sony said that it will continue selling all three models in the market. It’s a good strategy, considering the varying needs (and budget) of its consumers. Nevertheless, the RX100 III is not a tiny update to its predecessors. In fact, it’s a giant step.

First is the Bionz X chip, which is also used on Sony’s high-end α7, α7S and α7r cameras. The camera retains the familiar design of the second-generation, but under the hood are a slew of major improvements including a ZEISS Vario-Sonnar f/1.8-2.8 24-70mm lens.

Less is better in the world of photography. Having that aperture means having the ability to capture brighter shots and better bokeh.

Another selling point is the 1.4-million-dot EVF (electronic viewfinder), which neatly retracts from its body. There’s a slight trade off, though. Because of the EVF, Sony had to remove the hot shoe. The Sony RX100 III also retains its older brother’s Exmor 20.1-megapixel camera. But it’s all good with the wider and brighter lens.

The Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III will be available for $800 in June. If you have the money now, you can even pre-order the camera via Sony for $ 799.99.

To learn more about this camera, head over to Sony’s official blog post.