By contrast, the Sony HX20V is capable of reaching ISO 100-3200 in Auto mode, or 12800 in extended mode. This should be more than enough to cover most situations, though.
Sony RX100 vs Sony HX20V: screen
Both these cameras feature a 3-inch Tru Black LCD screen, however only the Sony RX100 features White Magic technology, which is designed to make for better viewing in bright conditions.
Unfortunately, neither of the cameras feature a touchscreen device, although the Sony RX100 beats the Sony HX20V with its resolution, featuring 1.228 million dots, compared with 921k dots.
Sony RX100 vs Sony HX20V: macro mode
Like some other large sensor cameras, the Sony RX100 struggles with macro focusing, especially when compared with the Sony HX20V.
The Sony RX100 can only focus to a minimum distance of 5cm/0.16 inch, which is quite a distance compared to the 1cm/0.03 inch that the Sony HX20V is capable of. If you're a fan of taking extreme close-ups, the Sony RX100 may not be the camera for you.
Sony RX100 vs Sony HS20V: dimensions and battery life
There's hardly anything in it, size-wise, between these two compact cameras, since both have very similar dimensions. You'll be able to slip either into a jeans pocket or a bag with ease. This is particularly impressive when considering that the Sony RX100 contains a large sensor, while the Sony HX20V features a very large zoom.
Both are also very similarly weighted, coming in at less than 220g a piece.
In terms of battery life, both cameras are again very similar, with 320 shots for the Sony HX20V, and 330 for the Sony RX100. These are both fairly impressive numbers, considering that the rear screen will be constantly in use, and the extra processing power that the Sony RX100 uses.
Sony RX100 vs Sony HX20V: price
Ah, the crucial sticking point for many will be the price. The Sony RX100 certainly isn't a cheap proposition, currently retailing for over £500 in the UK or $650 in the US.
Meanwhile, the Sony HX20V can be picked up for around £270/$350. However, it's worth pointing out that the RRP of the Sony HX20V is £349/$399.99. While the Sony RX100 is new, and getting rave reviews, it's likely the price will continue to be high, but give it a few months and it may also drop significantly.
Sony RX100 vs Sony HX20V: verdict
Choosing between these two cameras will ultimately depend on what you want from a compact device.
If you're looking for a good quality travel compact, with a high zoom and reasonable price, then the Sony HX20V is the more obvious choice. It's also suitable for enthusiasts who want to be more creative, but aren't bothered about shooting in raw format or additional art filters.
On the other hand, if you're after a very high quality compact camera to act as a second camera to your DSLR, to accompany you in everyday situations, then you may find more to enjoy on the Sony RX100.
