Name: Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500
Brand: Sony

Technical Specifications of Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500

Overall score

5.0

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Sensor & Image

5.2

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Sensor size

What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

Main camera megapixels

What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). A higher resolution can capture more detail.

When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

Main camera pixel size

What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.

When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

Base ISO

What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.

When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

Max ISO

What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

Photo Features

4.2

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Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.

When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Built-in focus motor

What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.

When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

N. of focus points

What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.

When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.

When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

AF tracking

What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.

When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

Video & Audio

4.8

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Max video resolution

What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.

When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

Video bitrate

What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.

When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

Video bit depth

What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.

When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

Video chroma subsampling

What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.

When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

Video codecs

What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.

When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264

Display & Design

6.1

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Type

What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.

When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact

Weight

What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.

When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

Width

What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.

When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

Height

What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.

When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.

When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

Battery & Power

6.0

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Battery life (CIPA)

What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.

When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

Battery capacity

What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

Removable battery

What it is: Indicates whether the camera battery can be removed and replaced by the user.

When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly during a long shoot or replace an aging battery.

Importance: LOW

USB Power Delivery (PD)

What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.

When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

Connectivity & Storage

5.0

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Wi-Fi connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.

When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi version

What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.

When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.

When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth version

What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.

When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A

USB Type-C

What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.

When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 vs the average camera

Why is Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 better than the average camera?

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Uses a BSI sensor
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
What it is: Indicates the use of a Back-Side Illuminated sensor, which arranges the wiring behind the light-receiving surface to improve low-light sensitivity.
When it matters: When you take photos in dim environments and need better light sensitivity.
Importance: LOW
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
4.3 fps faster mechanical burst
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (10 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 10 fps
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (10 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.10 fps vs 5.7 fps
Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.
Importance: LOW
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
Clean HDMI output
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 offers clean HDMI output, the average camera does not.
What it is: An HDMI signal that can be sent without menus or status overlays for external recording or monitoring.
When it matters: When you want to record externally or monitor video without menus and status graphics over the image.
Importance: LOW
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 offers clean HDMI output, the average camera does not.
Supports live streaming
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports live streaming, the average camera does not.
Imaging Edge Webcam.
What it is: Official built-in support for broadcasting live video using the camera manufacturer’s own apps or services.
When it matters: When you want a simpler path to live broadcasting without relying entirely on third-party workarounds.
Importance: LOW
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports live streaming, the average camera does not.
Smartphone remote control
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
via Imaging Edge Mobile
What it is: The ability to control the camera remotely from a smartphone app for shooting, settings, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you shoot remotely, transfer files on location, or want to control the camera without touching it.
Importance: LOW
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
5 more customizable buttons
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has more customizable buttons than the average camera (5 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
What it is: The number of physical buttons the user can assign to custom functions or shortcuts.
When it matters: When quick access to your preferred settings matters and you want a camera that can be tailored to your workflow.
Importance: LOW
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has more customizable buttons than the average camera (5 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.5 vs 0
Supports 24p cinema mode
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
What it is: Support for recording video at 24 frames per second, a frame rate commonly associated with cinematic motion.
When it matters: When you want footage with a more traditional cinematic cadence instead of standard video motion.
Importance: LOW
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
5 more customizable buttons
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has more customizable buttons than the average camera (5 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
40.3% lighter
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 is lighter than the average camera (236 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
15.8 mm shorter body
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 is shorter than the average camera (58.1 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
18.3 mm narrower
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 is narrower than the average camera (101.6 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
Uses a BSI sensor
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
2 MP higher sensor resolution
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a higher sensor resolution than the average camera (18.2 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a sensor resolution of 16.2 MP.
2 newer
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 is newer than the average camera (2015 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
4.3 fps faster mechanical burst
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (10 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
Clean HDMI output
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 offers clean HDMI output, the average camera does not.
Supports live streaming
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports live streaming, the average camera does not.
Supports 24p cinema mode
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
20 Mbps higher video bitrate
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a higher video bitrate than the average camera (50 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
70 shots more shots per charge
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has longer battery life than the average camera (400 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
Smartphone remote control
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
Has NFC
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 supports NFC, the average camera does not. 15% of cameras support NFC.

Connectivity & Storage

Why is Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 worse than the average camera?

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No hot shoe
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
Smaller sensor
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
2.08 µm smaller sensor pixels
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has smaller sensor pixels than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average sensor pixel size is 3.34 µm.
3200 ISO lower maximum sensitivity limit
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3200 ISO vs 6400 ISO). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6400 ISO.
12500 ISO lower extended sensitivity limit
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (12800 ISO vs 25300 ISO). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25300 ISO.
Multi Frame NR only.
Worse low-light autofocus
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (2 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
No RAW photo capture
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
14 fewer AF points
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
No manual focus mode
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
Smaller sensor
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: Full frame or larger
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
Worse low-light autofocus
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (2 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
What it is: The lowest light level at which the autofocus system is rated to work reliably.
When it matters: When you shoot in dim environments and need autofocus that still locks confidently after dark.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (2 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.2 vs -4
2.08 µm smaller sensor pixels
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has smaller sensor pixels than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average sensor pixel size is 3.34 µm.
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 3.5 µm
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has smaller sensor pixels than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average sensor pixel size is 3.34 µm.1.26 µm vs 3.34 µm
No hot shoe
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.
Importance: LOW
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
No RAW photo capture
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
What it is: The ability to save images in an uncompressed RAW format, preserving all sensor data for advanced post-processing.
When it matters: When you plan to edit your photos professionally and need the most data possible.
Importance: LOW
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
14 fewer AF points
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 200 points
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.9 vs 23
No manual focus mode
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
What it is: A pro mode feature that allows the user to manually adjust the focus distance using a slider.
When it matters: When the autofocus struggles or you want a specific creative artistic effect.
Importance: LOW
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
3200 ISO lower maximum sensitivity limit
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3200 ISO vs 6400 ISO). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6400 ISO.
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least ISO 25,600
Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX500 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3200 ISO vs 6400 ISO). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6400 ISO.3200 ISO vs 6400 ISO

Expert reviews

ephotozine.com

26/10/2015

Summary of the review

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 Review - ePHOTOzine

The Sony Cyber-shot WX500 is described as an exceptionally lightweight, pocket-sized travel camera featuring a 30x optical zoom Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens and an 18.2-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor that delivers vibrant colors. Key strengths include a 180-degree tilting LCD screen, 5-axis image stabilization, fast 10fps shooting, and an excellent battery life of approximately 400 shots. Conversely, the compact, smooth metal body lacks a front grip, making it somewhat slippery, and the controls can feel cramped for users with larger hands. Furthermore, digital noise is apparent at higher sensitivities, the panorama mode produces low-resolution files, and it lacks the electronic viewfinder and lens ring found on higher-end alternatives.

tomsguide.com

11/07/2016

Summary of the review

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 Review: Best Compact Camera

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 is a highly portable, 18-megapixel point-and-shoot camera that offers a lot of value for its $300 price tag, making it an excellent all-around option for both beginners and experienced photographers. Measuring 4.0 x 2.3 x 1.4 inches and weighing just 8.3 ounces, it easily fits into pockets or small bags. One of its standout features is the 30x Zeiss zoom lens (24-720mm equivalent), which provides a wide focal range capable of capturing everything from group shots to distant subjects. Performance is solid across various conditions, delivering well-saturated colors, clean Full HD video, and quick shooting speeds up to 10 frames per second. It also features built-in image stabilization to prevent blur at slower shutter speeds and an impressive battery life that can last for up to 400 images. The camera comes with notable advantages and a few drawbacks. On the positive side, it features built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity that links with Sony's PlayMemories mobile apps, allowing users to add fun effects, time-lapses, and remote control functionality. It also includes a 3-inch LCD screen that flips...

imaging-resource.com

13/04/2015

Summary of the review

Sony WX500 Review - Imaging Resource

Here is a summary of the Sony WX500 review: Review Summary The Sony WX500 is a highly affordable, pocket-sized compact camera that shares many features with the higher-end HX90V and RX100 III models. It is marketed as the world's smallest camera to feature a powerful 30x optical zoom lens (24-720mm equivalent), which is paired with an 18.2-megapixel sensor and a fast BIONZ X image processor. For easy framing and self-portraits, the camera includes a 3.0-inch LCD screen that tilts upward a full 180 degrees. Users can also record high-quality Full HD videos at up to 60 frames per second and easily share their files using the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity. However, the camera makes several tradeoffs to keep its small size and lower price tag. On the downside, the lens is relatively dim with a maximum aperture of f/3.5-6.4, it lacks a handgrip for steady holding, and manual focus is completely unsupported. It also lacks a built-in GPS receiver and an electronic viewfinder, which are both found on the pricier HX90V. Furthermore, advanced photographers should note that the WX500...

consumerreports.org

May 08, 2026 (Accessed)

Summary of the review

Sony Cyber-shot WX500 Camera Review YouTube·John Sison

The Consumer Reports review of the 18-megapixel Sony Cyber-shot WX500 highlights the device as a highly portable superzoom camera featuring a versatile 30x optical zoom lens (24mm–720mm equivalent) capable of producing very good image quality in daylight. Key strengths include effective optical image stabilization at up to 4x zoom and high-quality full HD 1080/60p video with excellent stereo sound. Consumer Reports Conversely, the evaluation identifies limitations in low-light performance, noting that the camera can produce blurry images and has a flash with limited range. Furthermore, the WX500 lacks an electronic viewfinder, requiring users to rely on the 3-inch LCD screen for composition. Consumer Reports

chip.de

18/06/2015

Summary of the review

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-WX500 (Digital Camera) Review

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 is a compact, pocket-sized travel zoom camera featuring a versatile 30x optical zoom (24-720mm) and an 18-megapixel sensor that offers good edge sharpness up to ISO 800. It is well-suited for varied lighting conditions, including indoor shots. Key advantages include a 180-degree tilting selfie screen, fast autofocus even at maximum zoom, and strong battery life, yielding up to 730 shots per charge, likely due to the lack of an electronic viewfinder. However, the camera has some drawbacks in its video capabilities, which are limited to Full HD rather than 4K. Additionally, while the image quality is decent for its class, it does not reach the highest standards found in more advanced compact models. Despite these minor limitations, it serves as a highly portable and capable option for travelers needing significant zoom range.

dkamera.de

23/05/2020

Summary of the review

The Verdict on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 is a highly compact travel-zoom camera equipped with an 18-megapixel 1/2,3-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor and an impressive 30x Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens, spanning a 24-720mm equivalent focal range. For its class, it delivers slightly above-average image quality with strong detail preservation at low ISO levels. Performance is a major highlight: the autofocus operates at a blistering 0.11 seconds in wide-angle mode, and the camera boasts a swift burst mode capable of capturing 10 frames per second. Additional strengths include highly effective optical image stabilisation (compensating for up to four stops), excellent Full-HD video recording at 60fps, manual PSAM exposure controls, and a crisp 3.0-inch display that tilts upwards by 180 degrees for easy framing and selfies. However, the camera's compact architecture compromises handling, as the smooth front surface lacks a proper grip, and the physical buttons are notably small. Its extensive 30x zoom lens carries a dark maximum aperture of F3.5 to F6.4, meaning the telephoto end is poorly suited for low-light shooting and forces the camera to raise its ISO sensitivity....

avguide.ch

18/06/2017

Summary of the review

Sony DSC-WX500 – A Pocket-Sized Gem

The avguide.ch review highlights the Sony DSC-WX500 as an ultra-compact, pocket-sized travel companion priced at 429 francs. Serving as a smaller, more affordable sibling to the HX90V, it retains the core internals—such as an 18.2-megapixel sensor and a powerful 30x optical zoom lens—but removes the GPS, electronic viewfinder, and physical control ring. Key pros include its highly portable design, excellent 5-axis image stabilization (SteadyShot) for videos and low-light shooting, and a 3-inch selfie display that flips up 180 degrees. It delivers sharp, vibrant daylight images with balanced portrait fill-flash performance, alongside convenient modern features like Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity. However, the review outlines several prominent cons regarding its handling and hardware limitations. The camera's completely smooth plastic front lacks a contoured grip, causing it to easily slip out of the reviewer's hands. Furthermore, the highly reflective 3-inch LCD screen makes outdoor composition in direct sunlight difficult, causing the user to shoot "blindly" due to the lack of an integrated viewfinder. From an operational standpoint, the dedicated video button is poorly placed right next to the thumb rest, resulting in frequent...

leclaireur.fnac.com

29/06/2015

Summary of the review

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC WX500 Lab Test: Making the Most of the Zoom

The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC WX500 is a mid-range compact camera highlighted for its impressive 30x optical zoom and portable design, making it a strong candidate for travel photography. Lab tests show it excels in color fidelity, achieving a high score for its natural rendering in daylight, and maintains a fast performance with a startup time under two seconds and a quick shutter lag of 0.2 seconds. Users will also appreciate the 180° tiltable screen, which is ideal for selfies and creative angles, alongside integrated NFC and WiFi for easy photo sharing. However, the camera's primary weakness is its image resolution at full zoom, where detail significantly drops compared to wide-angle shots. While it handles low light decently for its class, images begin to show heavy smoothing at 1600 ISO. Key hardware omissions include the lack of a viewfinder and a lens control ring, which may frustrate advanced users. Additionally, the flash performance is inconsistent, showing uneven lighting at wide angles and losing power at long distances. Despite these flaws, it remains a "highly recommended" compact for those prioritizing zoom and...

daily-passions.com

13/08/2015

Summary of the review

Introducing the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 is an ultra-compact digital camera featuring an 18.2-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor paired with a powerful 30x Zeiss Vario-Sonnar zoom lens (24-720mm). Retailing between CHF 330 and CHF 420, it serves as an upgrade to the older WX350 by adding a slightly faster response time and a helpful 7.6 cm vertical tilting screen that flips 180 degrees for selfies. The device is highly pocketable, has an impeccable physical finish, features built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, and boasts excellent battery life. Its biggest strength lies in its video performance, as it captures spectacular XAVC-S format videos up to 4K resolution alongside high-quality audio recording.

xatakafoto.com

07/09/2015

Summary of the review

Sony DSC-WX500 Review - Xataka Foto

The Sony DSC-WX500 is a pocket-sized, lightweight compact camera designed primarily for street and travel photography, offering an aesthetic similar to the premium RX100 line but at a more budget-friendly price point of around €350 to €400. It features an 18-megapixel 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor paired with a powerful Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 30x optical zoom lens (24-720mm equivalent), a fast autofocus system, and an integrated orange LED for low-light focusing. Key highlights include its vertical 180-degree tilting screen—which functions similarly to a classic waist-level viewfinder for discrete street shooting—alongside a blistering 10 frames per second burst mode and built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for rapid smartphone transfers. However, the camera forces several hardware and software compromises to achieve its compact, affordable build. Its primary drawbacks are the complete absence of RAW file shooting and a slow, non-luminous lens aperture that drops down to f/6.3 at maximum telephoto zoom, severely crippling low-light usability. Because of the small sensor and slow lens, the camera suffers from poor, highly restricted ISO performance, generating uncorrectable image noise when pushed past ISO 800 or 1600. Furthermore,...

fotocamerapro.it

12/05/2017

Summary of the review

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 Review

The Fotocamerapro review highlights the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 as an exceptionally compact travel camera that manages to pack a powerful 30x optical zoom lens (24-720mm equivalent) into a highly pocketable, sturdily built metal body. Driven by an 18.2MP Exmor R sensor and a Bionz X processor, the camera delivers accurate metering and vibrant, natural colours with solid sharpness in bright environments. Key strengths include its stellar battery performance of up to 400 shots per charge, integrated Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for seamless smartphone transfers, rapid autofocus response, and a 188-degree tiltable 3-inch LCD screen perfect for capturing low-angle shots and selfies. Advanced automatic features—such as Intelligent and Superior Auto—alongside full manual configuration control and multi-frame noise reduction options, provide flexibility for both beginners and experienced creators. Despite these strong features, the evaluation points out several clear limitations to consider before buying. Due to its ultra-compact form factor, the front grip is remarkably small and slippery, making dual-handed operations or an aftermarket rubber extension necessary for stable holding. Image noise remains a persistent issue across all ISO settings, yielding softer details...

altroconsumo.it

Archivio

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Details of the archived camera test

The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-WX500 is a compact superzoom camera featuring a 30x optical zoom with a focal range equivalent to 24-720mm and an 18-megapixel 1/2.3" sensor. Tested by Altroconsumo in October 2016, it earned an overall "Good" quality score of 60/100, placing it slightly above the segment average. The device is highly portable at 233g and includes a 3-inch vertically tilting screen, though it lacks a touchscreen and an integrated viewfinder. It offers modern connectivity like Wi-Fi, NFC, and HDMI, and delivers a solid battery life of approximately 400 shots. The camera’s primary strengths include excellent audio quality for videos and fast shutter response, alongside good performance for outdoor photography. However, its overall photo and video quality are rated as only "fair," with performance dipping in low-light conditions. Notable technical cons include the absence of RAW format support, the lack of manual focus, and a manual pop-up flash. Additionally, while the optical stabilizer is effective, the review strongly recommends using a tripod or support when utilizing the maximum zoom range.

cameradeals.nl

02/04/2026

Summary of the review

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-WX500 white compact camera

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 (White) is highlighted as a highly portable, budget-friendly travel camera featuring a 30x optical zoom lens (24-720mm) and 5-axis image stabilization for sharp, detailed daytime photos and 1080p video. It includes a 180-degree tilting screen for selfies and Wi-Fi/NFC for easy sharing, making it ideal for casual users and vloggers. YouTube · However, the small 1/2.3-inch sensor results in significant noise in low light, and the dim f/3.5-6.4 aperture restricts background bokeh, with the slim body lacking a secure front grip. Additionally, the camera lacks RAW support, an electronic viewfinder, and a microphone input, limiting it for advanced videography.

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