Sony CyberShot P5

The ruggedly elegant design and silver case of the Cyber-shot DSC-P5 model resembles that of its popular predecessor, the DSC-P1, but reveals a slimmer profile - thanks to a two-step barrel lens that retracts into the body of the camera; along with the development of a tiny new C-series InfoLithium® battery, with more than an hour of continuous shooting capacity, depending on use.

At a more attractive price than its predecessor, the DSC-P5 model at about $600 will still feature a 3x optical, 6x digital zoom lens and a 3.34 megapixel CCD (3.2 MP effective) when it becomes available in October. It also features a more precise 14-bit A/D converter and MPEG EX movie mode.

Though small in size, the P5 brings new features to the P series, such as an AF Illuminator for focusing in the dark, in addition to two-shot burst mode, for capturing fast action and simplified user menus.

Versatile File Formats -- Files can be saved in several ways: JPEG, TIFF (Tagged Image Fill Format) for higher quality images, GIF for text mode and two different MPEG options for motion video and sound - MPEG HQ (High Quality) and MPEG EX (Extended). MPEG EX captures 160x112 or 320x240 video continuously, up to the capacity of the Memory Stick® media in use.

Sony CyberShot P5 Features:

• 1/1.8" 3.34 Megapixel Super HAD CCD image sensor
• 2048x1536, 1600x1200, 1280x960, 640x480 resolution images in JPEG Normal or Fine and uncompressed TIFF formats
• 14-bit DXP A/D converter for improved image detail
• Sony 3x optical (39-117mm) zoom with 6x digital zoom
• High-speed scan AF with AF illuminator light and manual focus modes
• 1½" color TFT LCD monitor
• ISO 100, 200, 400 and Auto (100-400)
• Center-weighted averaging and Spot metering
• Adjustable white balance with four modes, including one-push manual.
• 3-mode auto flash w/selectable red-eye reduction
• 2-shot burst, MPEG/MPEG HQ, Voice memo, text modes
• JPEG, GIF, uncompressed TIFF or MPEG file formats
• UXGA/XGA/VGA, 3:2 UXGA image resolution
• Durable alloy body with built in lens protector
• Super-compact "pocket size" camera
• USB storage class transfer
• InfoLithium® rechargeable battery, AC adapter/charger supplied

To protect the DSC-P5 or DSC-P3 cameras from water and other elements, such as sand, snow, ice and rain, users may purchase on optional a Marine Pack (MPK-P5) accessory. This underwater housing makes the cameras waterproof up to nearly 133 feet (40 meters). When it comes out in October for about $250, it will be supplied with a neck strap and an anti-fogging lens solution.

Physical Views

Here's the Sony P5 and the pocket-size Nikon Coolpix 775

Compare the CyberShot P1 and P5