Sony Somehow Squeezes a 24.3-Megapixel Full-Frame Sensor into a Compact Camera

Just when we thought that Pentax had the market covered with a nice little 12.4-Megapixel interchangeable lens camera, Sony walks up and shows this.

Cameras are considered high-end even if they “only” have a 16.4-megapixel image sensor, and 12.4 megapixel is more than fine, especially for small photo/video shooters.

Nevertheless, Sony wanted to blow its competition out of the water, even if it meant ending up with a product that sold for over $3,000 / 2322-3000 Euro.

Sure, the camera itself “only” costs $2,799.95 / 2,167.31 Euro, but getting an XGA-resolution OLED electronic viewfinder will add $599.95 on top of it (464 Euro). It looks like that leak was right after all, as depressing as it sounds.

The name of the camera is Cyber-shot RX1. Shipments will begin in November, so everyone can calm down in knowing that their cash is still safe for now.

For those wondering just what other things the camera (which isn't nearly as large as cameras featuring such sensors usually are) has to justify the high price, the Carl Zeiss Sonnar T 35mm F2 prime lens is one thing.

Another is the Sony Bionz processor, which can capture RAW and multiple images in high-speed at a rate of 5 frames per second.

Thirdly, Sony has mentioned an MF assist feature that can zoom into specific areas of the frame and, thus, focus more clearly on the subjects in a photo.

Furthermore, the company implemented a mode dial at the top, plus lens rings (for focus and aperture) and a second mode dial on the front.

Other perks include digital zoom, macro mode support, ISO 100-25,600 (as low as ISO 50 in expanded mode) a 3-inch, 1.2 million dot display and the Sony Quick Navi interface.

All in all, the Sony Cyber-shot RX1 weighs 482 grams (1.06 pounds, complete with battery and memory card) and measures 113.3 x 65.4 x 69.6 mm (4.46 x 2.57 x 2.74 inches).

Check out the aforementioned Pentax camera for a relatively cheap alternative, or the K-5 II and K-5 IIs DSLR Cameras if you're in the market for something bigger.