Characterized by sleek point-and-shoot form factors, yet also featuring expansive 30x optical zoom ranges, Sony's two newest Cyber-shots both offer slim styling, enhanced usability, and versatile imaging capabilities. The Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V follows the HX50V, and incorporates a pop-up OLED Tru-Finder for eye-level viewing along with a tilting LCD monitor, improved video recording, and a new Zeiss-designed lens. Alternatively, the Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 features the same improved design elements, including XAVC S video recording, but without the viewfinder.
Within both cameras, a new 18.2MP 1/2.3" Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor pairs with a BIONZ X image processor to offer notable image clarity with low noise levels, along with an expandable sensitivity range to ISO 12800 and continuous shooting up to 10 fps. Full HD 1920 x 1080 video recording is supported in 60p, 60i, as well as 24p frame rates, and the high-quality 50Mb/s XAVC S format can be used in addition to the standard AVCHD format.
An updated lens sees the use of a Zeiss design, rather than the Sony G designation of the HX50V, and maintains the same versatile 24-720mm equivalent focal-length range with a corresponding f/3.5-6.4 maximum aperture. Optical SteadyShot Hybrid image stabilization with Active Mode benefits the long 30x zoom by compensating for camera movement across five axes, helping to achieve sharper handheld photos and movies when working under difficult lighting conditions.
Among other handling enhancements, both of these cameras also feature a 3.0" 921k-dot LCD monitor with a 180° tilting design for front-facing selfies or when working from low shooting angles. Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity with NFC allows for a wireless connection to your mobile device for convenient image sharing or remote camera control, and both cameras support the use of Play Memories Camera Apps for adding even more shooting and creativity features to your camera. The two cameras also feature improved battery life for approximately 390 shots per charge and both measure approximately 4.0 x 2.3 x 1.4".
In addition to this set of features shared by both cameras, the HX90V differentiates itself through the inclusion of a Tru-Finder OLED EVF, which has 638k-dot resolution and a unique pop-up design to maintain its pocketable shape. Besides this electronic viewfinder, the HX90V also incorporates a GPS module for in-camera geo-tagging, which complements its Wi-Fi capabilities.
