The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX1 is an ultra-compact, point-and-shoot camera that uses a new “back-illuminated” CMOS sensor, which promises better higher sensitivity and less noise than traditional CCDs. Throw in a wide and fast 5X zoom lens, HD movie recording, and a fair number of point and shoot features, and the WX1 looks like it could compete against the reining low light champ, the Fuji FinePix F200EXR.
What’s In The Box?
The Sony WX1 has a pretty standard bundle for a point-and-shoot camera. Inside the box, you’ll find the following:
- The 10.2 effective Megapixel Cyber-shot DSC-WX1 camera
- NP-BG1 rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Battery charger
- Wrist strap
- USB + A/V cable
- CD-ROM featuring Picture Motion Browser software, Cyber-shot handbook and Step-up Guide
- 59 page basic manual (printed) plus 135 page full manual (on CD-ROM)
Like all of Sony’s recent cameras, the Cyber-shot DSC-WX1 has built-in memory, in lieu of having a memory card included in the box. The WX1 has a paltry 11MB of onboard memory, which holds just two photos at the highest quality setting. Thus, you’ll want to get a memory card, and fast. The DSC WX1 supports Memory Stick Duo cards, and I’d recommend a 2GB card at the very least.
Performance
Good low-light shooting without help from a flash is a rarely attained goal in the world of compact cameras. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX1 does it with three of the company’s own components: a new sensor design, a high-end lens, and a very fast image processor. The combination pays off for low-light photos as well as several other great features. However, though the Sony WX1 is capable of delivering fast performance and some very good photos, those expecting extraordinary results equal to its features will likely be let down.
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