Sony announces Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 and EVF-equipped DSC-HX90V compact superzooms

Sony has announced the Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V and DSC-WX500, two travel zooms which the company claims are the world’s smallest. Both cameras boast an 18.2MP BSI-CMOS sensor plus a 30x, 24-720mm equiv. lens with optical image stabilization, 3″ LCD that tilts upward, a control ring around the lens, 1080/60p video using the XAVC S codec, and Wi-Fi with NFC. The HX90V goes the extra step by adding a pop-up OLED viewfinder similar to that found in the RX100 III, as well as built-in GPS.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V will cost $430, the Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 will cost $330. Both cameras will be available in June.

Press release:

Sony Introduces Duo of World’s Smallest 30x Zoom Cameras

New Models Include HX90V with Built-in EVF and Ultra-Compact WX500 

SAN DIEGO, Apr. 13, 2015 – Sony today has introduced a pair of the world’s smallest 30x optical zoom cameras, the new HX90V and WX500 models.1  

The new compact cameras boast a variety of impressive imaging credentials including high-resolution 18.2 MP2 Exmor R CMOS Sensors, 30x optical zoom ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lenses, powerful BIONZ X processors and Optical SteadyShot® stabilization, making them the ultimate companion for any travel photographer or casual weekend shooter.  

The new HX90V model features the same type of high-quality retractable OLED Tru-Finder found on the acclaimed RX100 III model, making it the first truly ‘pocketable’ compact high-zoom camera with a built-in electronic viewfinder.  It also includes a variety of adjustable dials and functions including a customizable control ring, and has GPS functionality for automatically tagging photos and videos3.

Each of the new cameras also features high-resolution, 921k dot LCD screen that tilts a full 180 degrees for comfortable arms-length portraits or “selfies” and is Wi-Fi / NFC compatible.  

 “These two new models serve as great examples of how Sony is driving innovation throughout all aspects of the imaging business,” said Neal Manowitz, director of the still imaging business at Sony.  “With these new cameras, we’ve taken some of the most unique, advanced imaging technologies from our RX and α cameras and leveraged our unique ‘miniaturization’ ability to deliver a high-zoom shooting experience unlike anything else in the compact camera market today.”

A complete outline of key features for two new cameras is included below:

Compact Hi-Zoom HX90V Camera w/ Built-in Retractable EVF

Available in June for about $430 

• Premium 30x ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* optical zoom lens with 60x “Clear Image” digital zoom capability
• Built-in pop-up OLED Tru-Finder EVF w/ high contrast and vivid colors
• 18.2 MP Exmor R CMOS sensor and BIONZ X processor ensure the finest capture details for still images and Full HD videos in all lighting conditions
• Optical SteadyShot with 5-axis image stabilization minimizes effects of camera shake
• 921k dot, 3.0 type LCD screen that tilts a full 180 degrees 
• Full HD movie shooting capabilities including high-speed XAVC S format at 50 mbps 
• Built-in ‘pop up’ flash for low-light shooting support
• Compatible with Wi-Fi / NFC for seamless wireless transfer of content and with select Sony PlayMemories™ Camera apps 

Ultra-Compact WX500 Camera w/ 30x Optical Zoom

Available in June for about $330 

• Premium 30x ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* optical zoom lens with 60x “Clear Image” digital zoom capability
• 18.2 MP Exmor R CMOS sensor and BIONZ X processor ensure the finest capture details for still images and Full HD videos in all lighting conditions
• Optical SteadyShot with 5-axis image stabilization minimizes effects of camera shake
• 921k dot, 3.0 type LCD screen that tilts a full 180 degrees
• Full HD movie shooting capabilities including high-speed XAVC S format at 50 mbps
• Built-in ‘pop up’ flash for low-light shooting support
• Compatible with Wi-Fi / NFC for seamless wireless transfer of content and with select Sony PlayMemories™ Camera apps 

New Cyber-shot® Accessories

Sony has also introduced new accessories for its Cyber-shot line including the LCJ-HWA body case and the ECM-CG60 shotgun microphone.  

The new body case, compatible with both of the new HX90V and WX500 cameras, features a high-quality quality black leather-style finish for protection while offering a sure, stable grip.  The new CG60 mic attaches to the multi-interface shoe on Sony’s RX camera line to enable crystal clear audio recording during movie shooting.

The new HX90V and WX500 compact high zoom cameras and all relevant Cyber-shot® accessories will be sold at all authorized retailers throughout the Sony dealer network.

1 DSC-HX90: Among compact digital cameras with a built-in viewfinder and 30x or greater optical zoom lens, as of April 13, 2015.  DSC-WX500: Among compact digital cameras with 30x or greater optical zoom lens, as of April 13, 2015.  According to Sony survey.
2 Effective Megapixels
3 Need to connect to compatible PC to show maps and photo / video tags

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V and DSC-WX500 specifications