Epson R-D1x: An Unmatched Camera for Professional Photography

The Epson R-D1x is a top-of-the-line camera that has earned a strong reputation among professional photographers. Its features and impressive image quality make it an ideal choice for capturing high-quality photos. This blog highlights the exceptional qualities of the Epson R-D1x, which explains why it is a favorite among many photography enthusiasts.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Epson R-D1x article cover photo

Key Features

Feb 27 2009

Announced

6 megapixels

Resolution

BrandEpson
Sensor TypeAPS-C
SensorCCD
Weight620g
MSRP$3299USD

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Overview of the R-D1x

For professional photographers seeking an exceptional camera, the Epson R-D1x is a marvelous choice with a variety of valuable features. This camera provides superb image quality and can be perfect for capturing photos in all conditions. It is a truly remarkable product that offers impressive functionality ideal for photographers in need of a camera that delivers the best. In this blog post, we will explore the excellent features and benefits of owning an Epson R-D1x.

Epson R-D1x Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Epson R-D1x camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

High-quality images
Accurate colors
Fast autofocus
Retro design
Interchangeable lenses
10.2-megapixel resolution

Cons

Pricey
No live view
Limited ISO range
Slow continuous shooting
Poor battery life
No video recording

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Epson R-D1x

Weather sealed
Dimensions142 x 89 x 40mm
Weight620g
Thickness40mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
This
Max

Weather Sealing

The Epson R-D1x is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderOptical (rangefinder)
Screen TypeFixed Type
Screen Resolution235k dots
Body typeRangefinder-style mirrorless

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 2.50" screen, with a display resolution of 235k dots. This makes the Epson R-D1x not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

R-D1x includes a optical (rangefinder) viewfinder with no electronic viewfinder of resolution with a coverage of n/a and a magnification of n/a. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Epson R-D1x has a 6MP sized CCD sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 6 pixels. Epson R-D1x has a native ISO range of 200 - 1600 which can be boosted to null - null. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.

Key Features

Feb 27 2009

Announced

200 - 1600

ISO Range

SensorAPS-C
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution3008 x 2000 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Epson R-D1x camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the R-D1x is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: APS-C

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/SDHC card
Battery Life
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Epson R-D1x supports SD/SDHC card with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Epson R-D1x uses the undefined model of undefined. This is rated for undefined shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Epson R-D1x does not have a built-in flash, but it does offer a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.

Shutter

The Epson R-D1x boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

Epson R-D1x does not have autofocus (AF)

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Epson R-D1x?

The Epson R-D1x features a CCD sensor

Is the Epson R-D1x weather sealed?

No the R-D1x does not have weather sealing.

When was the Epson R-D1x announced?

The Epson R-D1x was announced on Feb 27 2009

Does the Epson R-D1x have in-body image stabilization?

No the R-D1x does not have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Epson R-D1x?

The R-D1x has a native ISO range of 200-1600, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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The Epson R-D1 was the world's first digital rangefinder camera and was designed to combine the benefits of digital technology with the feel and ease of use of a classic analog camera. This professional-level digital camera set the standard for quality and made photography more accessible to a wider range of users.