The Sony Cybershot WX1 boasts a range of technologies normally reserved for it's more advanced models. How do they fare in a compact camera?

Product Overview

Overall rating:

90%

Sony Cyber-shot WX1

Overall score:90%
Features:90%
Value:85%
Performance:90%
Image Quality:90%
Design:95%

Pros:

  • New technologies, build quality, design

Cons:

  • Poor LCD screen, slight Sony premium on the price

Product:

Sony Cyber-shot WX1 Review

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:

£270.00

Design-led compacts have long been a speciality of Sony, and the WX1 is the latest in that tradition. However, the compact also packs in a hefty specification. The model is equipped with a 10.2MP Exmor R CMOS sensor, the latest type from Sony and one that the company claims offers superior noise control when combined with its latest Bionz processor, up to its maximum ISO 3200. The model features Sony’s own ‘G’ build lens, boasting a maximum aperture of f/2.4 at a 24mm wideangle of its 5x optical zoom.

The WX1 also offers HD video recording, but sports only a standard 230k-dot LCD. The model also sports sweep panorama and handheld twilight shooting, two impressive new exposure blending technologies from Sony that were previously only available on more advanced models. The WX1 handles very well, and is a pleasure to use. The new technologies open up new shooting opportunities, while image quality is excellent, even at high-ISO settings. All in all, it’s an impressive compact from Sony.

Details

Connectivity:USB, HDMI mini connector, A/V output
Weight:120g
Other:Sweep Panorama, Handheld Twilight, Anti Motion Blur technologies present
Dimensions:90.5 x 51.8 x 19.8 mm
Power:Lithium G, NP-BG1
Memory Card:Memory Stick Pro, Pro Duo
Flash Modes:Auto, forced, slow sync
White Balance:Auto, 8 preset
ISO Range:160 – 3200
Metering System:Multi-pattern, centre-weighted, spot
Shutter Speeds:1/1600 – 2 sec
Exposure Modes:P, iAuto, Easy, Scene
File Formats:JPEG
LCD:2.7in, 230k dot LCD screen
Lens:24-120mm, 5x optical zoom, f/2.4 – 5.9
Sensor:10.2MP, 1/2.4in Exmor CMOS