As technology marches forward, I constantly seek to optimize my photography gear for image quality and size. Pictured above are three different camera/lens combinations that will shoot in the telephoto range. From top to bottom (Canon 5DM4 / 100-400mm; Sony a6300 / 105-450mm; Sony RX10M3 / 24-600mm). Each represents the state of the art for their sensor size (full frame / APS-C / 1″). Comparing weight and cost we have (89.3oz, 46.7oz, 40.0oz) / ($5.5K/$2.0K/$1.5K).  I spent some time today doing side-by-side testing. As you might expect, the biggest and most expensive combination produced the highest image quality and the smallest and least expensive the lowest image quality.  The differences, however, are no where near as dramatic as the price range.  For the near term, I am going to keep all three sets as my testing made a case for each camera. My favorite/go-to combination is the Canon provided I do not have to carry it very far. When I will be traveling or hiking, the medium size Sony goes into my bag. If I am birding or kayaking, the small Sony is my first choice.