Sony

Sony DSC-HX50V/B 20.4MP Digital Camera 30x Zoom

4.1 (468 reviews)

Pocket a 30x zoom and 20.4MP sensor in one of Sony's most compact travel cameras.

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Overview

The Sony DSC-HX50V/B strikes an appealing balance between reach and portability that few compact cameras can match. Its 20.4MP Exmor R CMOS sensor captures rich detail and handles low-light situations well, while the 30x optical zoom — extendable to 60x with Clear Image Zoom — lets you frame distant subjects without hauling a bulky telephoto lens. Sony's Optical SteadyShot with Active 3-Way Stabilization is a notable inclusion, actively compensating for camera shake across three axes, which proves especially valuable when shooting handheld at the long end of the zoom range.

Beyond stills, the DSC-HX50V/B records 1080/60p Full HD video, making it a capable companion for capturing travel moments in motion. Built-in Wi-Fi simplifies sharing by letting you push images to a smartphone or use a mobile device as a remote viewfinder. Full manual exposure controls give enthusiast photographers the creative latitude they expect, while automatic and scene modes keep things simple for everyday shooting. The 3-inch LCD serves as your primary composition and review tool, providing a clear view of your shots in most lighting conditions.

Specifications

Brand
Sony
Model
DSC-HX50V/B
Sensor
20.4MP Exmor R CMOS
Optical Zoom
30x
Clear Image Zoom
60x
LCD Screen
3-Inch
Image Stabilization
Optical SteadyShot with Active 3-Way Stabilization
Video Recording
1080/60p Full HD
Connectivity
Wi-Fi

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • 30x optical zoom in an exceptionally compact and lightweight body
  • 20.4MP Exmor R CMOS sensor delivers detailed, low-noise images
  • Built-in Wi-Fi for wireless photo transfer and remote shooting
  • Optical SteadyShot with 3-Way Active stabilization reduces blur at full zoom
  • Full manual controls alongside automatic modes suit a range of skill levels

👎 Cons

  • 3-inch LCD screen is fixed and does not tilt or articulate
  • Small body size can feel cramped for users with larger hands
  • Electronic viewfinder is not included, limiting bright-light composition options
  • Buffer clears slowly during continuous burst shooting

Frequently Asked Questions

It offers 30x optical zoom and 60x Clear Image Zoom, covering a wide focal range in a compact body.
Yes, built-in Wi-Fi lets you transfer photos wirelessly to a smartphone or tablet for easy sharing.
It records Full HD 1080/60p video, producing smooth and detailed footage.
It uses Sony's Optical SteadyShot with Active 3-Way Stabilization, which compensates for pitch, yaw, and roll to reduce blur especially at long zoom distances.
Yes, it includes full manual controls for aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, giving experienced photographers creative flexibility.