Digital Camera Reviews

Sony Cyber-shot W80 is one of three almost identical models that differ only in their pixel count. The W series has been gradually refined over the last few generations and now offers a more affordable alternative to the ultra-slim ‘T’ series whilst still offering a compact body, optical image stabilization and - new for these models - HDTV (1080i) output - albeit with an optional composite video cable or Cyber-shot Station dock. Also new to the W series is a new multi-point AF system and - of course - face detection AF/AE. Otherwise the spec is pretty standard ultra compact fare; 3x zoom, 2.5-inch screen and a claimed 340 shot battery capability.

The Sony Cybershot DSC-W80 is a stylish version of the DSC-W35/W55. The camera is made mostly of metal, and it feels pretty solid for the most part. The only exception is the plastic door that protects the memory card and battery compartment. 

The new Sony Cybershot W-series model incorporates a selectable in-camera editing function that can save you from hours of post-editing time at the computer. Equipped with Sony’s Dynamic Range Optimizer, the camera can analyze captured image data and instantly determine the best exposure and tonality of each picture before JPEG compression. Other helpful in-camera functions include red-eye correction and retouching effects. You can create artistic photos with the soft edge filter that emphasizes a focused subject by blurring the background. The partial color filter highlights the subject by letting it remain in color while making the background black-and-white. Photos can be enhanced with the cross filter that adds four-point star effects to the light in an image, and enlivened with the fish-eye filter for an amusing fishbowl effect. 

The camera is fairly easy to hold and operate with one hand. Your thumb sits on the mode dial, so you have to make sure that you don’t turn it accidentally. There aren’t many buttons on the camera, but the few that are there make the back of the camera a bit crowded. Sony is big on selling cameras in multiple colors, so you shouldn’t be surprised to see that the W80 comes in four shades. Choose from black, pink, silver, and matte white. 

The Sony W80 and the T20 here at the same time and actually gravitated toward the W80 over the two-week testing period. They’re almost exactly the same size (although the W80 feels lighter), but the Sony W80 has an extruding lens rather than the folding optics behind the T20’s sliding lens cover. The Cyber-shot W80 also adds an optical viewfinder. 

Sony is offering three accessory options to begin enjoying high-definition photo viewing. The Sony DSC-W80 camera can also be used with the new Sony CSS-HD1 high-definition Cyber-shot Station, which comes with the component cable. You can connect the camera to the station just one time, and it will also work as a charger for the camera. For complete integration into your home theater system, there is the DSC-W80HDPR kit, which bundles a DSC-W80 camera and Sony’s DPP-FPHD1 printer package. This package consists of the VMC-MHC1 high-definition component cable, a Cyber-shot cradle, a remote commander, and a digital photo printer with high-definition component output. This new printer lets you print photos on the spot in about 45 seconds. Designed to complement any living room, it comes in elegant black and can be positioned horizontally or vertically. The Sony Cybershot DSC-W80 further features a built-in slide show function. You can play back your images with pans, fades and wipe transitions set to your choice of music clips.

Features:-

# 1/2.5″ CCD sensor, 7.2 million effective pixels

# 3x Carl Zeiss branded optical zoom

# 2.5″ LCD screen

# HDTV video output (requires optional cable or dock)

# Super Steady Shot image stabilization

# 4cm macro

# ISO 80-3200

# 7 Scene modes

# 2.8 fps continuous shooting

# Available in 4 colors (black, silver, white and pink)           

Sony Cybershot DSC W80 Reviews:-

# dcresource Reviews:- I find myself scratching my head about some of the decisions made in Sony’s marketing department when they were designing the 2007 W-series models. Generally when you pay more, you get more. But on the W-series, the more expensive models have half the built-in memory and less expandability compared to the cheap models (the W35 and W55 in this case). The LCD resolution is low across the line, which is disappointing, especially on the W200. 

# letsgodigital Reviews: - You can easily knock out blurry photos, especially in challenging low-light conditions. The Sony W80 digital camera incorporates Super Steady Shot optical image stabilization to safeguard against blur caused by camera shake. Its high sensitivity (up to ISO3200) settings can help to fight blur associated with fast-moving subjects. Sony’s Clear RAW noise reduction technology will minimize picture noise common to images shot at high ISO levels.

# imaging-resource Reviews: - The W80 is a compact bargain, including the hottest technology Sony has introduced in its 2007 lineup. It has a Bionz processor, face detection technology, High ISO and Super Steady Shot one-two punch, in-camera editing and HD output signal. It does give away detail to hold onto color at higher ISO settings, but most users won’t mind that tradeoff, particularly if 4×6 prints are the game you want to play.