Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX80 Review

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Review posted 05/28/2013

Quick Take
Pros
  • Extremely small camera
  • Camera is fast performer versus others in its price range
  • Some surprising advanced features
  • Image quality is good for camera in this price range
  • Flash photo quality is good
  • WX80 is very easy to use
  • Built-in help mode and FAQs are helpful for beginners
  • Built-in Wi-Fi capabilities
  • HDMI port is included
  • Battery life is good for a small camera
  • Very fast burst mode at full resolution
Cons
  • Slight softness in images when attempting to make large prints
  • 8x optical zoom lens could be larger
  • Not enough of a "hitch" between optical zoom and digital zoom settings
  • Menu options are a bit odd and take some practice to use properly
  • Control buttons are too small to use comfortably for some people
  • Power switch is too small and is recessed, making it tough to press if you're in a hurry
  • More options for aspect ratios and resolutions would be nice to have
  • LCD screen is small and could use more resolution
Bottom Line
At first glance you probably won't expect much in the way of photographic capabilities out of the Sony Cyber-shot WX80. Because this camera is so small, it's difficult to imagine that it will give you great results. However, the WX80 will surprise you with how quickly it's able to record images, offering almost no shutter lag and limited shot to shot delays. This camera also works well in burst mode, providing quick responses at full image resolution. Image quality is good with this tiny camera, although you will notice some image softness at large sizes. A small LCD screen and an 8x optical zoom lens limit the appeal of this model, but the WX80 is a good performer versus other thin cameras in the sub-$200 price point. Read more in our Full Conclusion.
Sony continues to update their popular WX-series of compact, yet powerful point-n-shoot cameras. For 2013, they've added the new WX80. This petite camera measures only 3 3/4" x 2 1/8" x 29/32", yet boast some impressive specs. First is the 16.2-megapixel, 1/2.3" CMOS image sensor, which wears Sony's Exmor R label. When combined with an improved BIONZ processor, this combination allows you to capture higher quality photos in a variety of shooting situations.

The 8x Carl Zeiss lens covers a versatile zoom range, allowing you to get closer to the action, while still offering a nice wide angle for group and landscape shots. With an improved Optical SteadyShot image stabilization system, and an enhanced Superior Auto mode, Sony claims you'll be able to capture better photos with less blur; even in lower lighting conditions.

Other appealing features include Sony's popular Intelligent Sweep Panorama, Full HD video recording in both AVCHD or MP4 formats, built-in Wi-Fi, new creative still and video effects, faster AF speeds, and an all new Virtual Cosmetic Surgery mode.


Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX80 Features:
  • 16.2-megapixel, 1/2.3" EXMOR R CMOS image sensor
  • Improved BIONZ processing engine
  • Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 8x optical zoom lens
  • Improved Superior Auto
  • New and improved Optical SteadyShot image stabilization system
  • Enhanced AF response times
  • Full HD video recording using either AVCHD or MP4 format
  • Li-ion battery pack
  • Intelligent Sweep Panorama and 360 Panorama modes
  • Intelligent flash
  • 2.7-inch ClearPhoto LCD
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • Card slot accepts either MS Duo or SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards

Available in black, red, or white, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX80 sports a MSRP of $199.99 USD. See our lowest price button at the top right of this page to see the most current online pricing.

What's in the box?
  • Lithium-ion battery (NP-BN)
  • Micro USB cable
  • AC Adapter
  • Wrist strap
  • Owner's manual





Additional Product Views
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