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The main feature that distinguishes Sony dsc w170 and dsc w150 digital cameras from other models of the “W” series, and, to date, from all the compact cameras of other brand – is the 5x lens. Only Sony compacts DSC-T300 and DSC-T500, which are positioned as elite toys, have the same zoom. It should be taken into account that dsc w170 and dsc 150-w are only 2.5 mm thicker than «ultra-thin» DSC-T300 and DSC-T500, while the width and the height are, even, a little lesser: Width (mm) - 93.7; Height (mm) 58; Depth ( mm) 24. This main feature is, of course, the principal advantage of these cameras, although other characteristics are rather worshipful and respected. Let us see.
Both models feature large 2.7-inch LCD screens, own optical viewfinders. They also include Sony’s Super SteadyShot Optical Image Stabilization very useful function; newly-available Sony’s Intelligent Scene Recognition function and Smile shutter function, which automatically shots an image when people smile – without necessity to press the shutter. There is even the possibility to choose between adult or child smile to capture the photo; newly-improved Sony’s face detection technology which optimizes exposure, focus, white balance and flash control, allows now distinguish between the faces of adults or children to capture the shot (camera detects up to eight faces). Both cameras include intelligent scene recognition mode, to choose automatically the right scene preset.
These two cameras also include more playback and storage options than the w120 and w130, such as slide show with multiple transition effects and music accompaniment, more of photo filtering and some other upgrades.
Talking about distinctions between these cameras we should mention the appliance of different sensor matrixes, except which both cameras are twin-brothers. The Sony w170 owns increased in the size CCD sensor (1/2.3 "), compared with smaller one (1/2.5") used in Sony w150, as well as in all previous models. Accordingly, the number of recordable megapixels has increased up to 10.3 MP in Sony w170 from 8.3 MP in Sony w150. Quite naturally, that the replacement produced with minimum constructive changes (or without them at all) had an impact on another characteristic: Sony w170 had become slightly more wide-angled: focal length 28-140 (mm-equivalent), against 30-150 (mm-equivalent) in Sony w150.
Talking about image quality, it is difficult to raise any claims, as the quality of photos, made with these cameras, is really no worse than that of previous models. Intelligent Scene Recognition function proudly displays itself by showing details in areas of shadow without losing light details. New Carl Zeiss 5x lens looks praiseworthy. Of course, in some shooting modes, by certain scene exposition, it is possible to discern shortcomings. As well as by using any other camera. In general, I think that these cameras are to be recommended.
If the question comes, which the camera is to be chosen from these two, I think, the answer will be very simple. If you need to print posters A4 size (or a little bigger) with the professional quality (300 dots per inch), then choose Sony w170. If this is not the case, do not spend your money for free and purchase Sony w150.
Some other reviews: dsc w90, w120 and w130
Sony cybershot dsc w150 and dsc w170 package.
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