The Cyber-shot range of cameras from Sony has produced some fantastic models. One such noteworthy device is the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V. This compact, portable camera is an ideal device for travel photography and street photography. It is infinitely small and lightweight so you can keep it stored in your pocket and whip it out quickly to capture those spur-of-the-moment images.
It is one of the most interesting affordable compact cameras that I have seen. This is due to its fantastic compact design, combined with its abundance of useful features. For example, it has a control ring that can be programmed with different functions. It is small touches like this that make the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V a great choice.
Main Features
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V is a cool camera that has a great array of features. It utilizes the BIONZ X processor, which is one of the latest Sony image processors. Furthermore, it has an Exmor R CMOS sensor which is again modern technology. Some people may scoff at the 18.2MP resolution photos, but as you will see below, the image quality is still excellent. Here are the basic specs:
- Size: 102 x 58x 35mm
- Weight: 218g
- Sensor: 18.2MP Exmor R CMOS
- Image Processor: BIONZ X
- RAW Images: Yes
- ISO Range: 80-12800
- Connectivity: WiFi, USB
- Touchscreen: No
The WiFi connectivity is a brilliant addition and you can download a smartphone app that allows you to use your phone as a remote shutter. I found the lack of touchscreen slightly frustrating, however.
Design
I find it hard to believe how Sony has managed to pack in so many features into a small camera. There are also the options of a camera strap and protective case, but I don’t think these are necessary – you can keep this camera in your pocket when not using it!
The sleek black finish makes the camera look sharp. Furthermore, the right-hand-side has a textured grip that provides extra comfort and stability. Despite the small size, the button layout is still easy to use, and the controls are ergonomic. There is a top dial to change program modes, and the shutter has a control for the zoom.
If I were to make one criticism, it would be that people with larger hands and fingers may find this device difficult to hold. It’s only 10.2cm wide which doesn’t leave much room for a person with large hands to grasp the camera properly. This is somewhat compensated for with the relative ease of use and button location. A mirrorless camera like the Canon EOS M5 or similar device could be better suited for those with larger hands.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V has a lot to offer. This small device has an amazing array of features for composition and general usage. I have listed some of the interesting features I found below:
- Optical zoom giving an effective focal range of 24/720mm
- Control ring with assignable functions
- Pop-up viewfinder
- Excellent support for video codecs
- Built-in GPS tagging for photos
The control ring can be programmed for various functions including zoom and manual focus. Moreover, most of the buttons can be programmed – I feel this makes the camera flexible and allows you to format it relating to how you can comfortably use the device.
Image quality is enhanced by the BIONZ X processor and the Exmor CMOS sensor. Photos look fantastic and are sharp and clean. Distortion is minimal, although, at the far end of the zoom range, the quality is obviously reduced. You can also create high-quality video easily and the Sony CyberShot DSC-HX90V has built-in image stabilization too.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V vs. Panasonic Lumix DC-TZ90
Finally, let’s compare the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V to a similar model. I looked at the different comparable options and chose the Panasonic Lumix DC-TZ90. This is a similar device with comparable specifications.
| Sony Cyber-shot DSC- HX90V | Panasonic Lumix DC-TZ90 | |
| Megapixel Count | 18.2MP | 20.3MP |
| Processor | BIONZ X | VENUS |
| Lens Mount | Zeiss 30x Optical Zoom | 30x Optical Zoom |
| Weight | 218g | 322g |
| Dimensions | 102 x 58 x 35mm | 112 x 67 x 41mm |
| Max ISO | 12800 | 6400 |
The first thing to notice is the superior ISO range of the DSC-HX90V – you can shoot at up to 12,800 which provides greater flexibility for low-light situations. In addition to this, the HX90V is considerably smaller and lighter. The Lumix DC-TZ90 is considered a portable camera too, but you can’t compare it with the compact size of the HX90V.
The Lumix does offer better image resolution at 20.3MP but the HX90V does have a newer comparable image processor in the BIONZ X – this is the latest image processor used by Sony. In terms of the best point-and-shoot cameras, the HX90V has the edge in performance and portability.
Choosing the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V
When choosing a camera, you must consider carefully the purpose and your main expected usage. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V is a fabulous compact camera. It is meant to be portable, and to be used “on the go.” It is certainly not a camera that you would use for studio work or professional photo shoots. It is, however, a device that I would consider using for city breaks and travel photography.
The combination of high-quality image processing and the compact design makes this camera a perfect travel companion. The BIONZ X image processor and Exmor R CMOS sensor mean that the basic image quality is fantastic. Furthermore, the 30x optical zoom lens allows you greater creative freedom with your compositions. Small touches like the retractable viewfinder and high max ISO also add to the functionality of this excellent device.
