Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX10V Pro Reviews

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX10V is a cheaper but still very capable alternative to the bells and whistles HX20V model that we liked so much. Out of the "missing" features, we regretted not having the longer 20x zoom, 1cm macro mode and the useful Custom button, but if you can live with those ommissions then the HX10V is a great camera that's crucially cheaper than its big brother. The move to a headline-grabbing 18 megapixel sensor may elicit groans amongst more experienced photographers, but in reality Sony have been able to maintain the excellent image quality that the previous 16 megapixel HX9V offered. The 18 megapixel backlit sensor provides excellent results from ISO 100-800, with only the faster settings of 1600 and 3200 suffering from too much noise and smearing of fine detail. You should ignore 6400 and 12800 though unless there's really no alternative. Chromatic aberrations are well controlled and colours accurate, and the 16x 24-384mm lens commendably doesn't suffer from too much distortion at either end of the mammoth zoom range.

It has almost the same specification as the Sony HX20V, save for the extra zoom range, so if you're looking to save a little money, the Sony HX10V is a fantastic option for those in the market for a new holiday camera, or perhaps as an "everyday camera" for always having on you.

Photo quality is competent rather than outstanding, but with lots of useful features and a competitive price, it adds up to an attractive deal

The Sony Cyber-shot HX10V is a compact 18 megapixel camera with full HD video, stereo sound, and built in GPS. If you don't mind that the camera has a 16x optical zoom lens, rather than the more common 18x or 20x zoom in this category, then this is a great camera, with an abundance of features. Image quality is good, with good colour and exposure. Handling is good with a solid metal body and rubber grip. The camera offers reasonable value for money with high speed shooting and quick focus speeds, with good video performance as well.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX10V has a lot to offer. There are plenty of reasons to get out of auto mode here and overall the results are very, very good. It has a couple design issues and its best photos require some understanding of how the camera works. But, in general, it's one to put on your short list.