Sony 12.2 Megapixels Cyber-shot DSC-WX5 Review by CNET With Rating 8/10

Both the WX5 and TX9 cameras feature a new Superior Auto mode for low-light photography, that combines a burst of six images while automatically adjusting the camera settings to deliver images with reduced noise. Other features include a Background Defocus mode, 3D Sweep Panorama mode and 1080i Full AVCHD video recording. For the first time ever, the 3D Sweep Panorama function lets you shoot incredible 3D images without needing a bulky, complex double-lens camera system. Just press the shutter button: the advanced Exmor R CMOS Sensor will captures a high-speed burst of frames as you sweep the camera from side to side. Information from up to 100 images is automatically combined to create a stereoscopic pair of frames. You can view the results by connecting the camera by HDMI to your 3D-compatible TV. The DSC-WX5 camera from Sony is currently selling at around $268 (drop from $279 about 2 weeks ago). Here is the summary of review by CNET UK, giving the camera a rating of 8 out of 10:

"The WX5 shoots 1080i movies, rather than the 720p films more regularly captured by cameras in this price bracket. It offers stereo sound and its own one-touch video-record button. HDMI connectivity is provided via a port hidden under a plastic flap on the camera's side. We were pleased to discover that the 5x optical zoom can also be adjusted during recording, with any mechanical noise proving almost unnoticeable. As well as featuring an Exmor R CMOS sensor, first introduced in Sony's digital SLR range, other goodies under the WX5's bonnet include a 'superior auto' mode that combines exposure information from a sequence of up to six images to produce one low-noise, high-dynamic-range shot. The differences between the results we achieved when shooting in the standard intelligent-auto mode and the superior-auto mode were quite negligible, however, even when shooting the same subject and comparing the two images side by side. If anything, because detail is maintained in the highlights, as well as the shadows, in superior-auto mode, the overall image can look washed-out and lacking in contrast. Sony's claim that the WX5 offers dSLR-like picture quality is, therefore, rather rich.

If you really want images that approach dSLR quality, you'll have to actually get a dSLR or opt for a high-performance compact model, such as the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5. If you treat the WX5 as the snapshot camera it really is, you'll probably be happy with its colourful snaps, however.

Shooting hi-def video and 3D stills, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX5 offers good value for anyone who wants the latest must-have features in a compact package. If it's the WX5's 3D capability you're interested in, though, we'd recommend also checking out the Fujifilm FinePix Real 3D W3, which lets you view 3D images directly on its built-in screen. Having said that, though, the WX5 is about £100 cheaper than the W3. In terms of ambition, build quality and the creative opportunities it affords, the WX5 knocks the spots off most snapshot rivals around the £200 mark. While occasionally gimmicky, we think the WX5 delivers decent value for money."

has returned 2 times with problem "turn the power off and on again", GK - Jan 21 2012
Bought this during 11/2010. picture quality, ease of use are OK. But has this problem of "turn the power off and on again". I have to mail it back to Sony and sony did repair it and mailed back to me. Again after 2 months (this is too bad, in the midst of a vacation) gave exactly same problem. Mailed this again, not sure if they will repair again for free this time as it is...

has returned 2 times with "turn the power off and on again", GK - Jan 21 2012
Bought this during Dec/2010. picture quality, easy to use are OK. but has this problem of "turn the power off and on again" problem after 10 months. I have to mail it back to Sony and sony did reapir it and mailed back to me. Again after 2 months (during a vacation too bad) gave exactly same problem....

Some shortfalls, Average consumer - Dec 21 2011
Negatives: -image stabilizer is a little weak for video, when you start to zoom in or out it causes the lens to jerk or twitch because of the slight play in the mechanism -despite the good lcd resolution it's a little difficult to tell if you are focusing properly -battery life is kind of short, and if you turn the dial to video mode the stabilizer runs full time...

camera, Thunder Thighs "adventure seeker" - Dec 16 2011
This is my second purchase of this camera. I have two daughters who love the quality of pictures that this camera takes. It is expensive but well worth the money. I also give high praise to the customer service that I received from Sony!!!! That means a great deal to me....