Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX200V 30x SuperZoom Review by Pocket-lint With Rating 4.5/5

On January 29 2012, Sony announced five new H-Series Cyber-shot SuperZoom cameras - the DSC-HX200V, DSC-HX30V, DSC-HX20V, DSC-HX10V and DSC-H90. The HX200V (30x zoom), HX30V (20x zoom), HX20V (20x zoom) and HX10V (16x zoom) all have a new Sony 18.2 Megapixels Exmor R CMOS sensor featuring fast AutoFocus speeds of approximately 0.13 seconds in daylight and 0.21 seconds in low-light shooting situations. It features Clear Image Zoom digital zoom technology, which boosts optical zoom to 2x virtual capabilities while maintaining full resolution. These new models has Optical Steady Shot to reduce any blurring caused by camera shake during shooting.

"When we reviewed the HX100V in May 2011, we remarked that although image quality was good, the 16.2-megapixel sensor wasn't able to pull off the "critical detail" that we'd hoped for. So for Sony to squeeze in yet another two million pixels and up the resolution to 18.2-megapixels in the HX200V set alarm bells ringing. More megapixels spread across the same 1/2.3in sensor surface means light is spread more thinly, which can produce a poorer signal and, therefore, poorer image quality. However the HX200V's images are similar, if not better-processed, than the previous model, in spite of the resolution increase. At the preview launch of the HX200V we were told that this latest sensor is twice as sensitive at the sensor level compared to the HX100V, thanks to a new design. It seems this little nugget of information seems to go some way to explain our findings. The HX200V's images appear sharper compared to the HX100V's shots, and any purple fringing - those "bleeding" purple edges around some subjects - are cleared up with greater attention. ISO sensitivity begins at ISO 100 and ranges up to ISO 12,800. High ISO settings can be useful in low-light conditions, where the signal is amplified and processed to produce a bright, accurate exposure. However, such amplification produces image noise which shows as white and/or coloured flecks throughout an image. In-camera processing attempts to remove such nasties, but in so doing softens and blurs detail and mutes true colour presence. The Sony's ISO 100-200 settings are of good enough quality, while ISO 400-1600 progressively diminish in quality but still remain of use. ISO 3200 is significantly softer, ISO 6400 of little use and ISO 12,800 close to useless. We'd not recommend shooting above ISO 1600 in order to hold on to some of that all-important detail in your shots. Though, ideally it's ISO 100 that's the real winner.

The HX200V takes Sony's already decent superzoom formula and further improves the recipe. Although we had anticipated that image quality would be a step down compared to its predecessor, the HX200V's new 18.2-megapixel sensor delivers the goods. Sure the shots aren't going to see off those from larger sensor cameras such as DSLRs, but they are sharp and well processed, even if no more standout compared to other compact cameras. Its the 30x zoom lens with its manual zoom/focus ring and zoom toggle combination that makes the HX200V what it is. Autofocus is fast and image stabilisation is also a winner. There are few moans to be had, though at £429 it is a pricey bit of kit - more expensive than its nearest competitors. The HX200V may be up against some other tip-top 30x zoom cameras but it more than holds its weight. This is one feature-packed superzoom that delivers across the board."

Awesome!, cjones2989 - May 10 2013
Still tinkering with it and figuring it all out but so far, it is everything I needed and more. The zoom on this is incredible and can take high quality pictures considering that distance. Not an issue thus far and still discovering new features I didn't even know I would love until after I bought it. If you are a semi-professional photographer or even a point and shoot...

Still in the learning process, beccanurse - May 09 2013
I did not have much time to practice before needing to use it for my daughter's preschool program. However, the in camera guide helped and I got better shots than I did with my and/or my husbands cell phone. I am sure that once I learn and practice with the camera I will be able to get better pictures and then I am sure I will love it. I spent a lot of time looking a cam...

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V Is the best Digital Camera I have owned., Jim W. - May 09 2013
This is an excellent camera that will give great results for the point and shoot user, and even better results for those willing to spend the time to lear how to use some of its advanced features. The image quality and low-light abilities are stunning, and the 30x zoom is awsome. I have put my Nikon Coolpix P90 away in the camera closet. It can't touch the low-light c...

This camera kicks butt!, DBlackdog "DBlackdog" - May 09 2013
It's simple, fast and takes great pictures. It may seem expensive but, it's worth it. Don't have the hassle of changing lenses due to the great lens for wide angle and zoom. My fiancé has an older model and I received the latest model and the video button is great. Thanks to Sony for keeping things simple, intuitive, creative and high quality. I would recommend...