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Sony DSC-HX90V and DSC-WX500
  • Sony introduced a pair of the world's smallest 30x optical zoom cameras, the new HX90V and WX500 models.1

    The new compact cameras boast a variety of impressive imaging credentials including high-resolution 18.2 MP2 Exmor R CMOS Sensors, 30x optical zoom ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lenses, powerful BIONZ X processors and Optical SteadyShot® stabilization, making them the ultimate companion for any travel photographer or casual weekend shooter.

    The new HX90V model features the same type of high-quality retractable OLED Tru-Finder found on the acclaimed RX100 III model, making it the first truly 'pocketable' compact high-zoom camera with a built-in electronic viewfinder. It also includes a variety of adjustable dials and functions including a customizable control ring, and has GPS functionality for automatically tagging photos and videos3.

    Each of the new cameras also features high-resolution, 921k dot LCD screen that tilts a full 180 degrees for comfortable arms-length portraits or "selfies" and is Wi-Fi / NFC compatible.

    "These two new models serve as great examples of how Sony is driving innovation throughout all aspects of the imaging business," said Neal Manowitz, director of the still imaging business at Sony. "With these new cameras, we've taken some of the most unique, advanced imaging technologies from our RX and α cameras and leveraged our unique 'miniaturization' ability to deliver a high-zoom shooting experience unlike anything else in the compact camera market today."

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    Compact Hi-Zoom HX90V Camera w/ Built-in Retractable EVF

    • Available in June for about $430 at http://www.amazon.com/Sony-DSCHX90V-Digital-Camera-3-Inch/dp/B00VWJOK7M/
    • Premium 30x ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* optical zoom lens with 60x "Clear Image" digital zoom capability
    • Built-in pop-up OLED Tru-Finder EVF w/ high contrast and vivid colors
    • 18.2 MP Exmor R CMOS sensor and BIONZ X processor ensure the finest capture details for still images and Full HD videos in all lighting conditions
    • Optical SteadyShot with 5-axis image stabilization minimizes effects of camera shake
    • 921k dot, 3.0 type LCD screen that tilts a full 180 degrees
    • Full HD movie shooting capabilities including high-speed XAVC S format at 50 mbps
    • Built-in 'pop up' flash for low-light shooting support
    • Compatible with Wi-Fi / NFC for seamless wireless transfer of content and with select Sony PlayMemories™ Camera apps

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    Ultra-Compact WX500 Camera w/ 30x Optical Zoom

    • Available in June for about $330 at http://www.amazon.com/Sony-DSCWX500-Digital-Camera-3-Inch/dp/B00VWJOLI0/
    • Premium 30x ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* optical zoom lens with 60x "Clear Image" digital zoom capability
    • 18.2 MP Exmor R CMOS sensor and BIONZ X processor ensure the finest capture details for still images and Full HD videos in all lighting conditions
    • Optical SteadyShot with 5-axis image stabilization minimizes effects of camera shake
    • 921k dot, 3.0 type LCD screen that tilts a full 180 degrees
    • Full HD movie shooting capabilities including high-speed XAVC S format at 50 mbps
    • Built-in 'pop up' flash for low-light shooting support
    • Compatible with Wi-Fi / NFC for seamless wireless transfer of content and with select Sony PlayMemories™ Camera apps
  • 13 Replies sorted by
  • Really thinking of buying the WX500. My old HX20V is still in my opinion the best camera for taking video memories at concerts. But the new lense and the image stabilisation are strong arguments to buy a new model. Now the big question is: Will the US model have no video time limitations? If it has the 29 minute limitation I would buy the PAL model but onyl if the PAL model can be set to 60p. I guess I have to wait for the first reviews or does anyone know about those things already?

  • I have LOVED my HX series cameras. I had the HX9V and loved it. I had the HX20V and loved it. I look forward to owning this cam. The images above look like a pretty nice improvement (to my eye) for a compact (small sensor) cam. I think a person DOES have to have a proper expectation when buying one of these cams though. Is it DSLR quality (for images)...of course not. Is it as good as the M43 sensor cams...again...of course not. The 1 inch sensor family of cams....nope... So why own one? For me it's this: The video quality is some of the best from any compact cam that can fit in your pocket (IMHO). It's super zoom reach is something that I end up using very frequently and I find it to be a major time saver. It's MUCH cheaper than the 1 inch sensor RX line..... Bottom-line for me is that its a GREAT camera to have in your pocket everyone I go. Cheers Everyone! :)

  • first (almost) images and video from the hx90v -

    http://pixelpartner.co.uk/HX90/

    ....the above image V posted of the bottles looks pretty nice up to iso400.

  • this guy has posted alot more samples -

    http://pixelpartner.co.uk/HX90/index.php/page4-2/

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    HX90V is equipped with Wifi, NFC and GPS, has the ability to download and install or update apps. and Sony has updated the remote shooting features. Though there's currently only a handful of apps available for the HX90V, this is one area where it has the potential to outrun the competition.

    http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Sony_Cyber-shot_HX90V/

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  • The move to an 18.2MP Exmor R sensor has given the HX90V a much-needed image quality boost, and although the results are no better than the class-leading Panasonic TZ70, they're certainly on a par, whether shooting in daylight or indoors. Detail capture, noise levels, color reproduction and exposure metering are all top notch.

    http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/sony_cybershot_dsc_hx90v_review/

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    The Sony Cyber-shot HX90V is one of the most compact 30x optical zoom lens cameras available and even packs in an electronic viewfinder making it great for use on bright sunny days.

    https://www.ephotozine.com/article/sony-cyber-shot-hx90v-review-27777

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    Compact cameras with 30x optical zoom are becoming fairly commonplace, but the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 stands out from the crowd by being noticeably smaller than the competition.

    http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/sony_cybershot_dsc_wx500_review/

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