Sony 16.2 Megapixels Cyber-Shot DSC-HX7V Review by CNET US With Rating 3.5/5

"Photo quality is very good to excellent, but pixel peepers or those expecting miracles from a point-and-shoot will likely be disappointed. There's little difference in quality from ISO 125 to ISO 400. The only real issue I have is that photos aren't very sharp even at its lowest ISO. Noise reduction kicks in more at ISO 800, which softens details more and dulls color. There's a noticeable increase in noise and noise reduction at ISO 1600 and ISO 3200, making colors more washed-out and making subjects appear painterly; you'll probably want to reserve these two highest sensitivities for emergencies when you need to shoot in low-light conditions or get a faster shutter speed regardless of the results. But, as with all of Sony's cameras with Exmor R sensors, there are shooting options for improving low-light/high ISO shots, so just leaving it in auto won't always get you the best results. The 16-megapixel resolution is completely unnecessary and doesn't get you much more room to crop or enlarge. If you're looking at buying this instead of a high-resolution digital SLR, you'll be disappointed--especially at higher ISO sensitivities. That said, prints at 8x10 at ISO 800 with the lens fully extended still looked good, just somewhat painterly. Overall, anyone looking for a snapshot camera for regularly making 8x10 prints or smaller or images to be viewed on a TV or computer screen should be more than satisfied with the HX7V. Color is excellent from the HX7V. While blues and reds may not be as accurate as other colors, they are bright and vivid. Plus, they're consistent up to ISO 800; above that, things get slightly washed-out and muddy-looking. Movies captured by the HX7V are excellent as well, on par with a very good pocket video camera. The 60i frame rate and image stabilization make for some smooth movement, too. You will see some ghosting with fast-moving subjects, though, and things look a little oversharpened on occasion. It won't replace a full-fledged HD camcorder, but if you'd like a single device for capturing good photos and videos, this is one of the better options available. The optical zoom does work while recording (though you will hear it moving in quiet scenes), and the stereo mic is a nice extra.

If you're in the market for a compact megazoom camera, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V is worth considering for its shooting performance, fun features, and low-light photo quality. Though overall photo quality could be sharper and colors more accurate, the results are generally excellent, especially if all you're after is a decent snapshot. Also, while its auto modes are very reliable, you'll want to experiment with the different settings and shooting options (and read the instruction manual thoroughly) to get the most from this excellent camera."

wow, Sedge - Apr 30 2013
Great camera. Fast shutter, gets amazing pictures... better than could have expected for a point a shoot! Would seriously recommend this one!...

Excellent and pretty, Mastercard "OMNICIENTE" - Mar 08 2013
This camera is ligth and take excellents photos. Smart and easy to use. Sony cameras are good for pro and amateurs photographers. I recommend it....

good picture quality, cute, but definitely a little slow, R. Mann "sdavenport" - Jan 08 2013
i like the camera (got it in blue), but i certainly don't love it. the quality of the pictures is great, and it takes excellent pictures without a flash (as others have mentioned). it's not so small that it's hard to handle, but also easily drops into a pocket. the rubber grip on the side is great - you can actually keep a hold on it, even if you're moving about - and...

A noticable difference from my last "point and shoot", VA hiker - Nov 12 2012
Excellent quality pictures! Although it looks like a normal "point and shoot," the pictures are very professional looking. I am and inexperienced photographer used to a Cannon, which I can whip in and out of action at any time. Although this camera takes an extra second to warm up, the pictures are worth it!...