Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX99
Sony · Compact · 18 MP · 1/2.3” · 4K video

Score Breakdown
Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.
General | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sony |
| Model | Cyber-shot DSC HX99 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2018 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 1, 2018 |
| Camera type | |
| Camera size | 102 x 58 x 36 mm |
| Camera weight | 242 g |
Optics51/100 | |
About the OpticsThe Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX99 receives a score of 49/100 for its general specifications. In today’s market, the size and weight make it a convenient option for casual photographers and travelers. However, the score reflects that there are other cameras with better features in the same category. Despite its limitations, the HX99 remains a viable choice for those seeking a lightweight and easy-to-carry camera. Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX99 Overview and OpticsThe optics of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX99 receive a score of 51 out of 100. This camera features 18 megapixels, a shooting speed of 10, a CMOS sensor type, and a Bionz X processor. Its DXOMARK score for the sensor is 82, which is quite impressive for a compact camera. The sensor size is 1/2.3″, and there is no lens mount, as it uses a fixed lens mount. Image stabilization is present, and the aspect ratio is 4:3. Comparing these specifications to other cameras in the market, the HX99 has a decent sensor performance and image stabilization, which ensures sharp and clear images. However, the fixed lens mount limits its versatility, as users cannot change the lens for different photography needs. Despite this limitation, the camera’s optics perform well in various situations, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a compact and easy-to-use camera. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX99’s optics perform well for a compact camera, but the fixed lens mount might not be suitable for users who require more versatility. Nonetheless, its sensor performance and image stabilization make it a reliable option for casual photographers. | |
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 18 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 4896 x 3672 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS |
Sensor size ⓘThe sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps045 |
Lens mount ⓘThe lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Fixed |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Bionz X |
Aspect ratio ⓘThe aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. | |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 8030200 |
Max ISO ⓘRefers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 32003003280000 |
Min ISO (expanded) ⓘExpanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 8030200 |
Max ISO (expanded) ⓘExpanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 128003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 3044080 |
Max shutter speed ⓘThe maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 200080032000 |
Autofocus points ⓘAutofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 90300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘIn-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Viewfinder type ⓘThe viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Electronic |
| Viewfinder dots | 235929609900000 |
Video69/100 | |
About the VideoThe video capabilities of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX99 receive a score of 69 out of 100. This camera delivers 4K video resolution with maximum dimensions of 3840 x 2160, ensuring crisp and clear footage. The HX99 also supports a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, allowing for smooth and seamless motion in videos. However, this camera lacks built-in time-lapse functionality, which is a feature many competitors offer. Despite this, the HX99’s video specifications remain competitive in the market, as 4K resolution and high frame rate are sought-after features. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX99 provides quality video performance with its 4K resolution and 60fps frame rate. Although missing time-lapse functionality, its video capabilities still hold strong in today’s market. | |
Video ⓘIndicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
Max video resolution ⓘThe best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. | |
Max video format ⓘVideo resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 3840 x 2160 |
Max video frame rate ⓘHow many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 60 fps |
Timelapse built in ⓘA built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. | No |
Video file format ⓘDifferent cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | AVCHD, XAVC S |
Features52/100 | |
About the FeaturesThe Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX99 receives a feature score of 52/100. This camera boasts a 3-inch touchscreen with a screen resolution of 638,400 dots, allowing for simple control and clear image previews. The inclusion of a flip screen provides flexibility for various shooting angles and self-portraits. The HX99 does not offer GPS functionality, but it compensates with built-in WIFI, making it easy to transfer images and remotely control the camera. However, the lack of Bluetooth connectivity may limit options for wireless accessories and seamless connections. When compared to other cameras in today’s market, the HX99’s features are adequate but not groundbreaking. While the touchscreen and flip screen are convenient, the absence of GPS and Bluetooth might deter some potential buyers. The HX99 is a decent option for casual photographers but may not be the top choice for those seeking advanced features. | |
Builtin flash ⓘA built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. | |
External flash ⓘExternal flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. | No |
GPS ⓘGPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. | No |
Weather sealing ⓘWeather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. | No |
| Screen type | TFT LCD |
Touch screen ⓘTouchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. | |
| Screen size | 3" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 6384001150001500000 |
Flip screen ⓘA flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. | |
Live view ⓘLive View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. | |
Wi-Fi ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. | |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. | No |
Storage & Battery21/100 | |
About the Storage & BatteryThe Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX99 scores 21/100 in storage and battery. The camera has a single memory card slot accepting SD, SDHC, SDXC, and Memory Stick Duo cards. It uses an NP-BX1 battery which lasts for 370 shots. However, the camera lacks USB charging capabilities. Comparing the HX99’s storage and battery with other cameras in the market, it falls short. Many cameras now offer dual memory card slots and longer battery life. The lack of USB charging is also a disadvantage, as it has become a common feature in modern cameras. Considering these specifications, the HX99’s storage and battery performance could be better in today’s market. | |
| Memory card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo |
| Dual memory card slots | No |
| Battery type | NP-BX1 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 370 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | No |