Best Value Sony Digital Camera

Best Value Digital Cameras - Sony Cybershot DSC W530

If you are looking for a good value digital camera for less than $200 then take a close look at the Sony CyberShot DSC-W530 , which is described as a simple, snapshot digital camera. My first digital camera had 4 megapixels and produced really high quality pictures, this Sony Cybershot has 14 megapixels, which was impossible just a few years ago, so it is more than good enough for taking photos of your family and holidays and it won't cost you the earth.

The DSC W530 comes in a number of bright colors and is small enough to fit in your pocket or handbag. The features are basic but more than enough for taking good photos. If you are on a budget (and who isn't ?), but still want a stylish digital camera then check it out, it comes in black, silver, pink and blue. Pink cameras are apparently very popular with certain sectors of the population.

The 14 megapixel sensor will allow you to easily make good quality prints up to A4 size. The 4x zoom lens offers you plenty of scope for taking wide angle pictures inside your living room or close-ups from 40 feet away.

One unusual feature that is not generally available on digital cameras under $200, is the Sweep Panorama mode, which as the name implies allows you to take panoramic pictures, just by pressing the shutter button and sweeping the camera round in an arc. The shot is then corrected if necessary inside the camera.

A smile shutter automatically takes a photo if it detects someone smiling !

The 2.7 inch LCD screen is standard for the price but there are cameras with larger screens available. There is no image stabilisation and the movie quality of the Cybershot DSC W530 is only standard TV quality rather than HD. Not all digital cameras offer movie mode.

The DSC W530 is very compact but easy enough to get a good grip of. There is room at the back for your thumb, which helps make the camera easier to hold.

One drawback is the shutter lag, which is a short delay between when the shutter button is pressed and when the picture is taken.

The menu system is relatively straightforward. There is useful help text on screen explaining each option.

For a small compact digital camera under $200 the picture quality is surprisingly good. Better quality would be welcome when the zoom is fully extended but for that you would probably have to pay more than $200.

Strong Points
Value For Money
Ease of Use
Style

Weak Points
Shutter lag
Zoom fully extended
Turn on time

Our Conclusion
The Sony CyberShot DSC-W530 is basic when it comes to features, but it provides good quality pictures. It is reasonably priced, and easy to use.

If you think you may require a higher end digital camera check out here - top rated digital cameras.