Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20 Pro Reviews

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20 is a slim-line digital compact camera that boasts a number of interesting features such as a 16.2 megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, Tracking Focus, Background Defocus, 1080i Full HD video, Optical Image Stabiliser and 3D Sweep Panorama. On top of that, it’s water, freeze, dust and shock proof. In our test, we look to see if these features are as impressive as they sound and what other delights it has hiding under it’s brushed metal covering. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20 costs around £280 and is available in Blue and Black.

You can tell that the Sony Cyber-shot TX20 has put an emphasis on design and style, rather than ruggedness, as the camera has a stylish sliding front cover (that also makes it slower to dry after being wet), and a stylish wide-aspect touch screen rather than chunky buttons. As the camera is rated to depths of 5 meters, and shockproof from 1.5 meters we would say that this is a camera for someone who wants an ultra compact, stylish camera, with the occassional water adventure. For someone into more rugged adventures and additional wetness a different waterproof camera would be recommended. The Sony Cyber-shot TX20 is quite a lot more expensive than other more rugged cameras, so it doesn't necessarily represent the best value for money. With the stylish finish on the TX20 we are also a little concerned that dropping it will quickly scratch the camera. If you can still find it, you can save a lot of money by buying the previous model, the TX10. If however, you like the look of the new TX20, available in blue or black, then it's combination of ultra compact size, quick performance and good image quality makes it recommended.

While it may not be a leading light in terms of the image quality it's capable of producing, as an everyday camera the Sony TX20 is a pretty good all-rounder, with the added bonus of being able to withstand more punishment than your average compact.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20 is gorgeous on the outside thanks to a slick and slim design and a sharp rear touch-screen LCD. This rugged pocket camera is waterproof to 16 feet, but its image quality is very disappointing.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20 looks and operates just like the manufacturer's nonrugged TX-series cameras. That's the good news. Overall, though, it's not the best design for a rugged camera for frequent outdoor adventures. But, if you just want something tougher than your average point-and-shoot, it gets the job done.