Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V – Full-featured, ultra high zoom (30x)

If you’re ready to upgrade from your measly little point and shoot, there are actually a few different options you can consider. You can go all out and get yourself a DSLR, you can get one of those new mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras, or you can get one of these ultra zoom cameras that are slotted between point-and-shoots and interchangeable lens cameras.

Sony has one such camera with the new Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V. It is a bit smaller than a DSLR but has tons of pro features you’ll really enjoy. The DSX-HX200V features an 18MP “Exmor R” CMOS sensor paired up with a 27,, Carl Zeiss Sonnar T lens with 30x optical zoom. It also features full HD Movie recording as well as simultaneous still image shooting while recording. It feels very DSLR-ish in your hands and even features a manual focusing ring. Unlike a DSLR however, you can not swap out the lens but you also never need to worry about cleaning the sensor or exposing it to dust. The Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V even features GPS geo-tagging.

You get many of the same features as Sony’s more expensive NEX-5N camera including super fast AF and very good low-light results but at a much lower price.

Features

• 18 MP “Exmor R” CMOS sensor
• 27-810mm equivalent Carl Zeissâ„¢ Vaio Sonnar T lens with 30x optical zoom, 60x virtual zoom via “Clear Image Zoom” technology
• “Extra High Sensitivity” technology enhances low-light shooting capabilities
• Lightning-fast AF speed of approximately 0.1 second in daylight, 0.2 seconds in low-light
• 3-inch tilting LCD display with 921,600 pixels, plus a 0.2″ electronic viewfinder with 201,600 pixels 
• Captures 13.5 MP still images while shooting video via “Dual-Record”
• Full HD Movie Shooting capability (1920×1080/60p) and three-way Optical image stabilization with “Active Mode”
• Photo Creativity interface and 9 “Picture Effect” options for creating unique, custom-styled photos and video
• Manual Focus ring for adjusting focus accordingly
• GPS geo-tagging functionality

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V will be available this March in black for approximately $480.