Update or not to upgrade? What is different about the RX-100M2 and the Canon 70D?

By Scott Gietler

Sony RX-100M2 - new BSI sensor

The Sony RX-100M2 has been announced. This is not a replacement for the RX-100, but an addition to the line. The RX-100 has not been discontinued. Read full details and new features on the Sony RX-100M2 camera.

We look forward to testing out the new camera. The new BSI sensor (backside illuminated) lets in more light, which means less noise at high ISO's. Basically, some of the circuits that blocked light from hitting the sensor have been moved, making the sensor more sensitive to light.

Who should upgrade? For the majority of underwater shots, you will probably not see a difference from the RX-100. If you own a different compact camera, you will notice a good improvement in image quality and focus speed. You'll most likely see these improvements with the RX-100 or the RX-100M2. RX-100M2 housings should be available in 2-3 months.

Canon 70D - new dual-pixel CMOS sensor

The 20 megapxiel Canon 70D has been announced. Read full details and new features on the Canon 70D camera.

Canon's innovative new sensor is supposed to greatly improve auto-focus in live-view mode. It is the first camera to allow for faster "phase-detection" autofocusing to work in live view mode. This is supposed to make the camera perform more like a camcorder in video mode. We expect this new sensor to also be rolled out in the T5i and 7D lines eventually.

Each pixel on the sensor is actually split into 2 photosites, so that phase-detection autofocus can be used in both live-view and through the viewfinder shooting. Read how it works here.

Who should upgrade?  If you like to do video underwater, or use live view - you will want one of these new cameras. However, the Canon 60d was not very popular for underwater photography, as most shooters went with the entry level T3i/T4i, or the Canon 7D. We will try to find out who will be making a 70D housing, and who will wait for the more popular Canon 7D replacement (timeframe TBD).  I should say that this technology is less compelling for "viewfinder" shooters, they may want to look at the 5D Mark III, or the 7D replacement.