Sony RX100 IV Buying Guide for Enthusiasts (2026)

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 IV (M4) remains a surprisingly relevant "tactical" choice in the 2026 camera market, occupying a unique value position between modern high-end smartphones and professional mirrorless rigs. Dpreview

Product Insights & Performance

* Optics vs. Computation: While smartphones have advanced significantly, the RX100 IV’s 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 Zeiss lens and 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor continue to provide optical "focal compression" and RAW file flexibility that AI-driven mobile photography cannot fully replicate. Dpreview

* Video Capabilities: It remains a viable secondary tool for content creators due to its 4K oversampled video and high-speed shooting (up to 960fps HFR), though it lacks the advanced Real-time Tracking AF found in 2026 flagship models. Dpreview Dpreview

* Design: Its "stealth" form factor is a major draw for street and event photographers who need professional output without the intrusive presence of a full-frame camera. Sony

2026 Market Trends

* The "Sweet Spot" Value: The RX100 IV is currently seen as the "best value" entry point for the RX100 series. While newer models like the Mark VII can cost upwards of $1,100, the Mark IV is often found in the $330 - $700 range used, offering 90% of the daily utility for half the price. Mpb Dpreview

* Shift Toward Niche Use: The market has bifurcated; casual users have moved to smartphones, while the RX100 IV has become a specialized tool for low-light indoor shooting (due to its f/1.8 aperture) and discreet professional work. Sony Dpreview

* Legacy Longevity: Despite lacking modern features like a touchscreen or AI-AF tracking, the high-resolution 2.36M-dot EVF and robust build quality ensure it remains a frequent recommendation for budget-conscious enthusiasts in 2026. Pcmag Dpreview

Competitive Landscape

Feature	Sony RX100 IV	Modern Smartphones (2026)	Newer RX100 (VI/VII)
Aperture	f/1.8 - 2.8 (Fast)	Computational (Simulated)	f/2.8 - 4.5 (Slower)
Autofocus	Contrast-based (Slower)	AI-Optimized (Very Fast)	Real-time Tracking (Elite)
Zoom Range	24-70mm (Short)	Fixed/Digital Crop	24-200mm (Long)
Target User	Budget Enthusiast	General Consumer	Professional / Vlogger

The RX100 IV is best described in 2026 as a pocketable workhorse for those who prioritize optical physics and manual control over the software-heavy approach of modern mobile devices. Dpreview

Rx100 M4

Overview

Product Insights & Performance

2026 Market Trends

Competitive Landscape

1 Inch Sensor Compact Camera 4k Video

Related Searches

Sources & References