Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 Review

Known as the world’s smallest super zoom compact camera, the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-WX500 measures 101.6 mm X 58.1 mm X 35.5 mm and weighs 0.52 pounds. Notable difference in size can be seen when it's placed against cameras from rival companies. It also comes with a magnificent and elegant structure. It, however, does not have much of a grip and runs a higher chance of slipping and falling to the ground because of its petite size.

The design and layout of controls resembles that found in the Sony RX100 series and its X series BIONZ image processor is also borrowed from the RX100 series. However, there are features that distinguish them from the RX100 series, the first one being its elegant structure. Below are several of its most impressive features.

The Sony WX500 3 inch LCD screen has an aspect ratio of 4.3 and is capable of tilting, allowing one to comfortably take photos at all angles as well as stunning 18.27 mega pixel self-portraits. The screen is able to flip up a full 180 degrees!

It also has in built Wi-Fi and NFC connection functions. In addition to these, the Sony WX500 also has USB and HDMI data ports for sharing data. Since iOS does not support NFC type 3, these data ports can be used with Apple devices to share pictures and videos. The USB port also functions as a charging terminal.

The 30 X high precision zoom lens has a focal length that ranges from 4.1mm to 123 mm and a shutter lag of 0.008 seconds. This is capable of taking a remarkable 10 frames in a second, allowing you to capture those fleeting moments. At lower speeds however, image stabilization is boasted by the Optical Steady Shot function and the 5 axis image stabilizer. This ZEISS optical zoom lens guarantees brilliant precision and sharpness images with rich contrast and the least image distortions.

Sony WX500 also has an 18.2 mega pixel CMOS image sensor that has remarkable light gathering abilities thanks to its backside illumination design. Besides taking still photos, Sony WX500 can record excellent Full HD movies with XAVC S, MP4 and AVCHD codes with noise reduction even in places where there is a lot of movement. Linear PCM is what is used for this noise compression and thanks to it, you have audio that is up to standard and matches your incredible movies.

The Sony WX500 has an Intelligent Auto mode and a Superior Auto mode that one can choose from. The first mode selects suitable shooting settings depending on the scene while the Superior Auto mode can capture multiple exposures in order to reduce camera shake as well as maximize the dynamic range. There are also a number of effect functions that come with the phone for example HDR Painting, Pop Color, Richtone Monochrome as well as a beauty effect for photo retouching that can smoothen skin tone and whiten teeth and eyes in better, more flattering self-portraits. You can also download applications from PlayMemories Camera Store for more creative editing functions. These features are a guarantee that the Sony WX500 will definitely give you value for your money.