Sony's Cybershot DSC-W80: their latest 7.2 megapixel camera?

Out of the gates early for PMA (Photo Marketing Association) 2007, we've got rumors of the latest Sony Cybershot, the DSC-W80. The cam's already made its appearance on a few German and Dutch web sites and certainly makes sense as the successor to the 7.2 megapixel W70 launched at last year's show. However, instead of 8 megapixels like you might expect, we're still talking that same 7.2-megapixel, 1/2.5-inch CCD (which won't help improve the high rates of noise above ISO 200 any), 3x optical zoom, and 2.5-inch LCD. Other than a new ISO 3200 sensitivity and slightly larger chassis -- up from 89 x 57 x 23-mm to 91 x 58 x 23-mm -- there isn't anything new on the surface to report. No one's sayin' but perhaps they've added some optical image stabilization to bring these in-line with most other compact shooters in this range. We've also got rumors of a new Cybershot DSC-W60 and Cybershot DSC-W90 -- both unannounced and both said to work with a new SPK-SA underwater case (pictured after the break). The W80 is expected to hit in April for around €280/$368. As to the rest... well, the PMA show starts March 8th so we'll know soon enough.

[Via Let's Go Digital, thanks David]

[zargon @ Feb 19th 2007 9:47AM]

You'd think since Sony finally broke down and is starting to produce SD memory, that they would make the switch. Possibly that the switch is further down the pipe?

Being forced to use a propritary format like Memeory Stick is a reason why I have and never will look at Sony digital cameras.

[v_dogg @ Feb 19th 2007 10:17AM]

ok, why cant camera company's stop trying to work on other things, and start to work on zoom, i dont konw if its just me, but im tired of crappy 3x optical zoom. kodak is the only one that has even attempted more zoom on a mini camera

[zargon @ Feb 19th 2007 10:35AM]

If you want more than 3x, you will have to look past the slim/compact designed cameras. There is a reason these thin cameras only have 3x zoom, it is due to their compact size. With that limitation, it is hard to get the glass in there to obtain more than 3x.

If I need zoom, I have a Nikon D50 and lenses to take care of that. However, it can be a pain to lug around sometimes, which is why I picked up a new point and shoot compact camera to fit in my pocket to bring with me everywhere.

[Jon Drake @ Feb 20th 2007 9:31AM]

Try and check out the Samsung L77 with it's 7 X zoomm lens.. also 7 MP camera, looks like a real winner to me. Also Panasonic has 7 X and 10X zoom cameras.. check it out.

Thanks,

Jon.

Jon

[v_dogg @ Feb 19th 2007 11:19AM]

ya, i realize its 3x because of the thinness. but i think, somehow in todays age, someone could work hard to overcome the 3x mark.

[Dan @ Feb 19th 2007 10:56AM]

If this doesn't have image stabilization, then it isn't really worth it. The W55 for $199 is good enough as is, this probably won't be worth the extra cost they will surely charge for it, unless it has stabilization.

[Andrew Hillman @ Feb 19th 2007 11:21AM]

To bad Sony always cost too much!


Andrew Hillman

[zargon @ Feb 19th 2007 11:23AM]

There is only so much they can do with optics, they are probably pushing they limits as it stands right now. However, I don't doubt that they can do better, but I would assume the cost would sky rocket.

[Nish Vamadevan @ Feb 19th 2007 12:08PM]

Looks like you can carry it in your shirt pocket.. But how much does it weigh.

Well, If you want more zoom, Go for an SLR, Cos this is pretty much a pocket camera.

[Mike @ Feb 20th 2007 3:54AM]

I have the 9.1MP W100, which would "seem" to be top of the line, but in fact does not support the lense/filter attachments that the other W models have.

The build quality is also far less robust than the earlier Cybershot DSC-V models. After barely 6 months my W100 looks worse than my V1 after 4 years. The battery latch won't stay closed even from the beginning and the mode dial is incredibly flimsy.

I don't think that I will return to the Sony lines while they use the Memory Stick since these actually use the Pro Duo, and my old MSticks are now useless in it. The W series also throws out the mini-USB connection for a custom cable...

[Frances @ Jul 26th 2007 9:25AM]

I bought this camera and, as a fairly novicee photographer, was happy with it until three weeks later it began to malfunction. Sony had me send it in for repair, but I got a letter back from them saying they weren't fixing it. Not only would they not fix it, it didn't work AT ALL when it was returned to me, when it was only slightly malfunctioning when I sent it in. I called Sony and they basically said "that's your problem, not ours", and refused to do anything for me. DO NOT BUY THIS CAMERA! WORST $300 I'VE EVER SPENT IN MY LIFE!

[Joseph @ Jul 30th 2007 6:04PM]

First i bought SONY Cyber-shot W50 and it was working good until 2 mounth and then i had a problem with it but really i was using it very carefully and it is not from me and it is strange to have a problem and it is the best company in the world can anybody answer this question please?.Then i bought a new one it is W200 and it is amazing i wish it will be like that but can anyone tell me how to select the quilaty of the picture? because i didn't find any option to select it.Please anyone answer my two questions and thanks a lot.