Sony Announces Two New Compacts: the HX90V and WX500

Sony’s got two new cameras on deck: the HX90V and the WX500. Both are compact zooms with 30x optical zoom, 18MP 1/2.3-inch sensors, built-in wi-fi, 5-axis image stabilization and full-HD video. They also sport an ISO range of 80-3200 (expandable up to 12,800) and an aperture range of f3.5-6.4. They’re identical in nearly every way with one crucial exception.

The HX90V has a pop-up electronic viewfinder, whereas the WX500 has none. Sony is positioning the WX500 as an entry-level camera to its premium compact family, while the HX90V is for more serious users. The top of the line cameras are still the RX10 and the RX100 Mk III & its predecessors. The undisputed king of Sony’s lineup is the RX1.

Sony’s new additions won’t break the bank. The HX90V is a sixth of the price of the RX1. The WX500 is an eighth. They’re affordable options with what seems to be a good degree of versatility. Of course, we won’t know until we test them, but they look promising for casual photographers.

The HX90V will be available for $429 in black at the end of June. The WX500 will be available for $329 in black and white at the end of June

More photos and specs after the break.

HX90V

Tech specs: