RX100, for the millionth time, sorry

[opieoilman]

I've wanted an RX100 for a while, but can't justify the price as I don't use my SLR a huge amount (Canon 750D). I think I would use a decent compact camera more, but when I'm taking photos of surfing, I need the bigger lenses (usually a 75-300), so don't want to get rid of the Canon. Today, I've noticed that there are a few RX100s on eBay and Facebook for around £100, but they are the mk1. Simple question, is the mk1 worth it? I just want something that I can leave in the glovebox of my car or put in my pocket, rather than taking a backpack with the DSLR and lenses around. Also, I've taken my DSLR out on my mountain bike once and that was the time I went over the handlebars (camera and lenses were fine) and I don't want to do that again. I wouldn't be too upset if it was a £100 camera. Is there anything better for £100 and I do mean £100, not the Pistonheads way of £100 being inflated to £500.

[GravelBen]

I picked up a cheap second hand RX100 1 a couple of months ago for the same use (mostly for mountainbiking), and it fills that role quite well. Image quality is very good for the size and weight, but the ergonomics are more suited to casual use and auto settings than manual control for serious photography. A few examples to give you an idea of image quality, it certainly beats every phone I've had especially in low light.

Croydon Bush - Water Race Trail by Ben, on Flickr

Richmond MTB Trail, Tekapo by Ben, on Flickr

Richmond MTB Trail, Tekapo by Ben, on Flickr

[sgrimshaw]

Mk1 is still a cracking camera, at £100 a good one it would be a great buy, if you can find one.

I think you might need to spend a bit more to get a really nice one though.

[Wonderman]

Yes I went same route via London Exchange although prices seem to have gone up! I've a 5D and 40D so it's a nice light alternative when out an about with kids etc. They are a funny size for cases so worth asking recommendations from users here is throwing it in rucksack/ rattling around in car etc, mine only in a sunglasses pouch to avoid scratches etc.

[sgrimshaw]

Wonderman said:

They are a funny size for cases so worth asking recommendations from users here is throwing it in rucksack/ rattling around in car etc, mine only in a sunglasses pouch to avoid scratches etc.

I've got a M3, along with the "official" Sony case. It's a very nice case, but not cheap:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sony-LCJ-RXK-Protective-J...

There's a copy on Amazon if the "ever-ready" style appeals:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Leather-RX100II-RX100III-...

There is quite a choice on Amazon for RX100 cases, all different styles.

[opieoilman]

Thanks for the advice, I think I will keep an eye out for one (just remembered it's my wife's birthday next month, so had better not buy myself a new toy, or is it a perfect excuse to get a new camera to capture the moment?).

[TheRainMaker]

I was in my local CEX at the weekend looking for a DVD for the little one, they had a Mk 1 and Mk2 on the shelf, both around the £100.00 mark.

Could be worth a look.

[Whoozit]

I have a Mk1, which tends to travel with me everywhere. As long as you're not bothered about high ISO performance, it's a brilliant little camera with full manual controls. The controls are quirky, mind you.

[sgrimshaw]

If you're still interested ...

https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/333515893779

[JonChalk]

As an alternative, perhaps, what about the WX350?

Granted the sensor isn't in the same league, but cheaper, lighter, big zoom. Excellent pocket travel camera IMHO. Only downside is no ability to directly control shutter speed.

Still more than adequate.

These two straight out of the camera;

[opieoilman]

Thanks, might keep an eye out for a well priced one of those as well.

[Whoozit]

My mk1 in action this weekend in Chamonix. It lives in a small pouch in my ski jacket pocket and happily sat there through temps as low as -19 C, switching on immediately when needed. In the full size version of the Aiguille du Midi pic, the camera resolved the individual skiers climbing down the arete.

Edited by Whoozit on Monday 9th March 15:48