Value & Verdict

Sony Cyber-shot HX100V review – Value

As a brand new release, the HX100V costs around £429 (May 2011). Given the inclusion of GPS there was always going to be an extra £30 or so additional cost compared to similar competitor models. While the Fuji HS20 EXR can be found for around £389, Canon’s older SX30 IS is a touch less at the £379 mark. Over time the Sony should naturally come down to a similar level, and with its feature-packed specification there’s plenty on offer for the money.

However, that price point is similar to an entry-level DSLR. It’s worth keeping this in mind should you want a larger-sensored system that you can expand with new lenses at a later date – but always take note that long-reaching DSLR zoom lenses cost a packet of cash, and this is what makes superzooms such attractive purchase options.

Sony Cyber-shot HX100V review – Verdict

In terms of performance the Sony HX100V is king of the superzooms: its close-up focusing and nippy autofocus will do you proud in all manner of scenarios. The dual zoom-meets-focus ring is a great control mechanism that’s well-placed for comfortable use. Other areas such as HD movie and GPS will make it an all the more attractive purchase.

It’s not perfect though: that 16.2MP sensor crams too many pixels in and, in part, this hinders final quality. Exposure and colour are both good, ensuring images will be pleasing for a variety of uses.

Half the battle is getting the shot though, especially when zoomed in to the massive top-end 810mm (equiv) that the HX100V offers. And, with that in mind, the combination of the electronic viewfinder, optical image stabilisation and decent autofocus make this one of the best superzooms out there today.