Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5 Reviews: Digital Compact Camera

Here’s a list of the questions other shoppers have asked owners of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5

1. Hello,
   I would like to know about the sony cyber- shot DSC- HX5 , disital camera is this original? from Japan or assemble in China, Please confirmed the original Country make,
   Thank you
   
   R Rai asked on 24 Jul 2010
   1. As an owner in England, I cannot answer this question. I am very pleased with mine, however and have no problems.
      
      Eunice replied on 25 Jul 2010

       
2. Any idea how long the standard battery lasts when recording video at the highest quality?
   
   Bernard asked on 30 Jul 2010
   1. I've only used the video feature in short bursts, but the quality is superb. I'd guess and say it would go for almost 2 hours at full tilt. I found this really helpful: http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/sony_cybershot_dsc_hx5_review/
      
      Jean-Paul replied on 15 Oct 2010

       
3. Hi
   
   I was wondering what the picture quality was like at night? Also what its like at low light?
   
   Michelle asked on 03 Aug 2010
   1. The night shots are exellent they came out far better than I expected, hand held pictures of night life in Benidorm gave sharp well exposed pictures
      
      David replied on 03 Aug 2010

       
   2. I took a few photo's at night while on holiday in Benidorm last month, all hand held with no flash produced sharp exellent results better than I had expected
      
      David replied on 03 Aug 2010

       
4. This camera takes gps co-ordinates..... How do i view these on my apple computer??
   
   Elliot asked on 08 Aug 2010
   1. You have to upload the Sony PMB (Picture Motion Browser) software which comes with the camera. I am not sure if it is compatible with Apple PC's but it is okay with MS PCs. Once uploaded the software will automatically index all your pics so that you can view them and this may take a little time. I have pics from several cameras on my PC and they each have a separate folder. Do all my Sony HX5V pics are in the same folder. Wjen I open pics in this folder there is a special tab at lower left which enables you to include GPS and compass function. Click this and immediately it comes up with a map showing position and direction you were facing - brilliant. Pics taken ondoors may not have this feature as when indoors the camera has difficulty in picking up GPS co-ordinates.
      Mike Claydon
      
      Michael replied on 16 Oct 2010

       
5. Would I be better to buy this Camera than the DSC WX1 and H55 which at the moment are cheaper.
   
   carl asked on 18 Aug 2010
   1. A good friend of mine recently bought one of the cheaper models and he seems to be happy with his purchase.(Picture quality is great)
      I love my camera, but to be honest I don't really use the GPS or iSweep Panorama function that much any more. (GPS fucntion is why I bought the camera).
      You will have to decide how much you are willing to pay, and compare the specifications to see which one you would like to buy.
      
      I hope this helps you in deciding.
      
      Good luck.
      
      Johnny replied on 20 Aug 2010

       
   2. The Sony Cyber-Shot is a fantastic camera If I lost mine today I would buy another tomorrow. I am not as familliarwith the WX1 and H55 but the Cyber-shot is worth it for the HD movies alone. I only carry the one now and don't bother with a vieo camera. My only moan if I have to is that the mode wheel on the top is easily moved when you get it out of the case. but I soon learnt to chek it each time I got it out
      
      Peter replied on 20 Aug 2010

       
6. How is the zoom on video?
   Also on 1080i how many minutes video can i expect to get on a 16 GB card?
   
   Sruli asked on 23 Aug 2010
   1. The HX5 has a decent optical zoom which works well on both still images and video. At the 1080 setting it uses around 85MB / minute, I make that a shade over 3 hours of HD video on a 16GB SD card (which is what I use).
      
      Pete replied on 23 Aug 2010

       
   2. The Zoom on the video is excelent up to 10x but does not go into the digital zoom range of 20x as it does in photo mode.
      My personal experience reflects a time for HD video at the 1080 setting of around 3 hours, which is in practice split into many short bursts.
      But no reason other than to break the video into about one to one and a half hour lengths to fit onto a 41/2 Gb blank DVD.
      
      Keith replied on 23 Aug 2010

       
7. Is there a standalone player so that I can play my pano sweeps on the web?
   
   Paul asked on 26 Aug 2010
   1. Sorry, cannot help on this one. I asume you are looking to sweep the pano pictures, as can be done from camera on a large screen. I have not seen a separate player with this function. Perhaps Sony has this in the making as they pioneered auto-stitching of pano pictures. Sorry.
      
      Esben replied on 26 Aug 2010

       
   2. I can't say, except I am not aware of one.
      
      Eric replied on 26 Aug 2010

       
   3. I havn't tried, but they are just saved as normal jpegs. . . so they open and display like a normal photo.
      
      To get a decent view on the camera screen itself, the sweep shot will pan across the inbuilt screen
      
      Alex replied on 26 Aug 2010

       
8. an sdhc class 4 card is recomended for use in this camera - is there any value in using class 6 or even class 10 - is the camera capable of using the higher rated cards- what is the maximum write speed ?
   
   ray asked on 01 Sep 2010
   1. Hi, sorry for the delay in answering. Was away on holiday. Yes the camera is compatible with higher speed cards but Class 4 is more than sufficient. I tried to buy a higher speed card when I bought the camera but none of the high-street retailers had them. Even when you shoot in multi-shot mode, Class 4 is fine (I think the camera first writes to the internal memory and then copies to the card - this second process maybe faster if you get a higher class SDHC card). Sony has released the HX1 has well, I would have a look at that as well since it has a 20x optical zoom.
      
      TL replied on 04 Sep 2010

       
   2. I am also sorry but I was also on holiday. I just bought a 16gb SDHC class 2 card as it it was the cheapest on Amazon and it works no problem for £17.00. 16gb is huge and I have not noticed any time lag when taking holiday snaps.
      
      
      
      Reggie replied on 08 Sep 2010

       
9. 
   Hi I read on one of the reviews that there is no option to take Black and White images?
   Also does the camara work well on an imac (Photos and HD video)?
   
   Pete asked on 23 Sep 2010
   1. I've never tried to take black and white photos - don't know if it does or not.
      
      Don't know about imac either, but the HD video is superb - as good as most of the video cameras I've seen
      
      Ian replied on 23 Sep 2010

       
   2. Helllo Pete,
      If you have an iMac then it is possible to produce Black and White images.
      Go into iPhoto and highlight the particular photograph (which is in colour) then click onto effects at the bottom of the screen. You are then presented with a number of options as to colour, one of which is black and white.
      Happy snapping!
      Don
      
      DONALD replied on 24 Sep 2010

       
10. Can I download GPS data from the camera without an internet connection? And, can I store waypoints on the GPS as with a normal GPS?
    
    Thanks
    Nico
    
    Nico asked on 23 Sep 2010
    1. Dear Nico,
       The GPS data is not something that interests me so I cannot answer your question! However, I am really pleased with the camera especially in low light, although flash can be harsh if you get too close.
       
       Thomas replied on 23 Sep 2010

        
11. How good is this camera's sound quality on it's 1080p movies, as I would like to use it for filming concerts which are often very loud? I don't want the sound to crackle!
    
    Rachel asked on 30 Sep 2010
    1. Very good considering the elementary receiving equipment. Wind noise loud. Suits my holiday requirements but it is not concert hall standard.
       
       Kenneth replied on 01 Oct 2010

        
    2. Very good providing you make sure your fingers dont cover the mic which is not placed in an ideal location. I am just back from U2 in concert in Paris and have some excellent videos of the songs from the pitch where the sound was very loud and it is very clear. No crackle.
       
       Linzi replied on 04 Oct 2010

        
12. I've just bought this camera but can't upload any photos to my computer. TheDisk thast comes with it is so, so complicated and I'm scared it'll erase all my previous pix from my computer. My old Sony (which I lost!!) just uploaded with the USB. This doesn't. Help!!!
    
    tina asked on 12 Oct 2010
    1. My disc ran OK and all of my photos are in plus they are all recorded with the GPS which has been very accurate even to showing which side or a road I took the photo. You should remove the disc programme from your PC then run the disc through again with no other programmes on your PC that may do it Brian
       
       Brian replied on 12 Oct 2010

        
13. I recently bought a DSC_HX5v. I have lost the HDMI adaptor and would like to replace it (the adaptor allows the camera to be connected to a HDMI cable which can connect to the TV to show HD movies and photos) the adaptor came with the accessories in the box.I am aware there is a cable VHC-MHC3 but Iprefer to use a HDMI cable
    Can anyone please tell me a supplier as Sony/online and shop have no reference to it
    
    clive asked on 23 Oct 2010
    1. I can only suggest contacting sony direct , they should be able to supply .
       
       gordon replied on 24 Oct 2010

        
    2. Clive, I just checked that HDMI adaptor accessory with my camera and it doesn't have any identification number on it nor is there any part number listed for it in the documentation.
       
       Not sure if its any help but have you tried phoning Sony support?
       
       Rod replied on 24 Oct 2010

        
    3. A Hong Kong company is advertising this item on Ebay
       
       David replied on 24 Oct 2010

        
14. Where can I buy a underwater housing unit for it ?
    
    Ian asked on 27 Oct 2010
    1. I am sorry but I have not thought of that one, but try the Sony web site
       
       Peter replied on 28 Oct 2010

        
15. I think it's a bit bigger than my old DSC-W70, Will it fit in my jeans pocket?
    
    Colin asked on 04 Nov 2010
    1. Should do but its quite heavy
       
       Ian replied on 05 Nov 2010

        
    2. no will not fit unless you have cargo pant style jeans
       
       Paul replied on 14 Nov 2010

        
16. Hi I've just bought a HX5V and am having problems getting PMB to operate on my iMac. Any advice please
    
    Frank asked on 13 Nov 2010
    1. Hi - I suspect that Sony BMP is propritary and may not function as intended with MAC's. It states in the maual on p123 that it is not compatible. Still, transfer of pictures to MAC is straightforeward, as they go straight into Iphoto. I havn't bothered with sound tracks transfer, as it is a bit gimmicky. Sorry I cannot be of more help on this.
       Esben
       
       Esben replied on 16 Nov 2010

        
    2. Hi. Sorry to hear that. Unfortunately I can't help you here. I don't use a Mac and nor do I use Sony's PMB. I would recommend using something much better like the Google Picasa application. It makes sharing/uploading/managing pictures very easy. And it's free!
       
       Thushan replied on 17 Nov 2010

        
    3. Sorry but I use it on my laptop in Windows. Its brilliant.
       
       Reggie replied on 17 Nov 2010

        
17. I have heard that this camera, DSC-HX5V, is capable of using transferjet. Can I just use a standard SD card in the camera and just buy the platform, or to I have to buy the transferjet SD card too?
    Whilst I am asking questions I see some cameras listed as DSC-HX5 and some as DSC-HX5V its it all the same camera or does the extra V signify something.
    Thanks!
    
    Frank asked on 16 Nov 2010
    1. Sorry - don't know!
       
       Ian replied on 17 Nov 2010

        
    2. As a follow-up. If you go on the Sony UK website and go to support and type in the HX5 and HX5V numbers you will find details of both models. Good luck.
       
       DONALD replied on 17 Nov 2010

        
    3. http://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/technology/technology/theme/transfer_jet_01.html
       I have not had any dealings with transfer jet, but the above Sony website may be of some use to you.
       As far as the model numbers are concerned my camera has DSC-HX5V on the base and "10.2 mega pixels DSC-HX5" on the top just above the screen. Sony only advertise the DSC-HX5V.
       
       DONALD replied on 17 Nov 2010

        
    4. http://pdf.crse.com/manuals/4172668121.pdf
       In the manual you will find details of transferjet.
       
       DONALD replied on 17 Nov 2010

        
18. Just got my HX5 this morning. Noticed there is a 'demo mode' on it. I put it into Demo mode 1, 2 and 3 left each for a min or so and nothing happens. How do you get it to play the demo or what ever it does?
    Thanks!
    
    Christine asked on 17 Nov 2010
    1. Dear Christine,
       Basically, no idea! Even having gone to the Sony Europe site and having looked at the relevant entry in the online manual (you don't need to download it) I can't get anything interesting to happen either. Given that it is a demonstration mode, you might be better off just trying out the relevant modes for real. I must say that I have been very happy with this camera without ever having thought about the demo modes since buying it! I have been especially pleased with the low light options and recently got some fairly decent firework shots. Good luck and happy shooting.
       
       Thomas replied on 18 Nov 2010

        
19. Can you buy transferjet sd cards etc in the UK?
    
    Sammy asked on 17 Nov 2010
    1. Hi Sammy
       
       I just needed to look up in Wikipedia to find what a transferjet sd card is! Try Amazon UK to see if they are available-I'm far too old for this fancy new stuff.
       Sorry
       
       
       Kenneth replied on 17 Nov 2010

        
20. One of the questions before asked if there was a Black & White setting, Is the only way to do this by using photoshop?
    
    Pat asked on 19 Nov 2010
    1. Hi Pat, sorry I cant help on that question as I myself have asked about it. I had a previous Sony cybershot camera and you could use the black and white setting also the sephia setting. I am still trying to see if you can get black and white, if I do find it I will get back to you. Sorry that this doesnt help your question.
       
       Stuart replied on 19 Nov 2010

        
    2. Hi Pat I am not sure if there is a Black & White setting. With the GPS telling you where you are and the fabulous colours on the Panoramic, the Videos and the photographs, I cannot see why someone would want a modern camera to take old fashioned photo's Brian
       
       Brian replied on 30 Nov 2010

        
21. Does the camera have an accelerometer so that shots displayed on the screen automatically change orientation when the camera is turned from landscape to portrait mode (and vice versa) to review shots on the LCD screen. I found the feature useful on my old Canon compact - the feature made reviewing pics on the LCD very convenient indeed.
    
    Chris asked on 24 Nov 2010
    1. Hi Chris
       Sorry to say - NO. The picture always just fills the LCD in whatever mode it was taken originally.
       
       FYI we are both really delighted with the camera. Movie mode is very good indeed, and the ability to spot focus really distinguishes the camera from "toys".
       
       Let me know if you need any more input.
       
       Regards
       Stewart F.
       
       Stewart replied on 24 Nov 2010

        
    2. Hi Chris,
       No it hasn't :( but I have found the hand held twilight feature absolately brilliant have used it many times in caves, outside etc and am always impressed with the results.
       
       Best camera I have ever brought, worth every penny.
       
       hope that helps you.
       
       Regards
       
       John
       
       John replied on 25 Nov 2010

        
22. I have been reading quite a few reviews and some say the picture quality is poor due to noise reduction,i am thinking of either purchasing a hx5 or the pana tz10,i really like the features on the hx5 but i am unsure due to the comments about pic quality.can anyone tell me how good the picture quality actually is.
    
    
    jason asked on 24 Nov 2010
    1. Well I found the picture quality very good, I took some spectacular shots in Alaska this year; some of my friends said they were mind blowing. I am not a professional but a good amateur and I am happy with the camera
       
       mark replied on 25 Nov 2010

        
23. which cam is best buying h55 or hx5v .. ??
    
    rahul asked on 02 Dec 2010
    1. The H55 is 14mp. The HX5V is 10mp BUT it has the Exmor sensor and that is the reason I bought it. I have moved from CCD to CMOS which is good and the Exmor sensor is excellent. I find 10mp okay but if you want very largeprints maybe you shoul be looking at the H55
       
       Michael replied on 03 Dec 2010

        
24. which is better the hx5v or the wx5 ?
    
    bob asked on 14 Dec 2010
    1. I cant answer that one, as I have never tried a wx5, what I can say is I am very pleased with my purchase of the HX5V, it is nice and small fits in a pocket, I wanted a camera with ultra wide angle lens, the results the HX5V gives were better that I expected, the HD Video results are exellent, I like the auto scene selection, such as the auto macro, auto backlight . I have taken hand held night shots while on holiday in Benidorm all of which came out 100% no blur. I highly recomend this Sony camera I use it more than my Nikon Digital SLR
       
       David replied on 15 Dec 2010

        
    2. I have the hx5v and have had no problems with it in any way . superb pocket camera ...... never leave home without it .
       
       gordon replied on 15 Dec 2010

        
    3. I too haven't tried the WX5, but am more than delighted with the HX5V. Agree with David's comments on the HD video - I have used it at some gigs I have been to this year and the quality of the footage is stunning - better than taking stills - although the sound tends to get distorted as typically it's too loud for the camera's mics to cope with. I also think the sweep panorama is brilliant. The compass is frankly a bit superfluous. But I think the range of features is so good that in fact I've bought my 18 year old son the H55 model for his Xmas present!
       
       Rod replied on 19 Dec 2010

        
25. Hi
    Having read through some of the responses, i am also sold on the idea of buying a DSC-HX5, but I am keen to learn what the shutter speed is like.
    I have a couple of young kids and getting decent pics of them is a nightmare, so i am after a quick speed camera that captures the magic moments.
    Any feedback would be very much appreciated
    Many thanks
    
    STEVE asked on 15 Dec 2010
    1. Steve, I have had my Sony X5 since April and I am still Very pleased with it. I have found that the shutter speed is good in all circumstances I particulary like the slow night/candle light shots in the relevent modes and the fast shutter speed in bright sunlight abroad.Also the HD in movie mode is better than my video camera If I can help in any other way please ask,I love this camera. My only gripe is that the mode wheel can be caught as it is taken out of my case , just needs a quick check each time I take it out of the case.
       
       Regards
       
       Peter replied on 15 Dec 2010

        
    2. Hi Steve, I have 3 kids and use it to capture many magic moments... The shutter (if you mean the delay between pushing the button and taking the picture) is fast, certainly quick enough to capture kids. There are plenty of other options that help, for example you can tell the face detection software to favour children's faces - and it works well. It also identifies backlit faces - and adjusts the exposure or automatically fires a fill-in flash. Finally there are a range of manual modes and 'sports' modes for real action shots. After several months of use I still cannot fault the camera. It's also significantly cheaper now than when it first came out.
       
       Pete replied on 15 Dec 2010

        
26. Hi,
    Does anyone know if you can take video clips with this camera in portrait mode without it then being sideways during playback? Have had two previous cameras - one that would and showed the video playback in the portrait mode we filmed it in but the other one just played it back sideways in landscape mode.
    
    Karen asked on 22 Dec 2010
    1. If you take it landscape it will be landscape and vice versa. The great thing about this Sony is that you can zoom in and out while videoing and if you are taking photo and decide to video there is a quick button on the back that just goes to video. Brilliant.
       
       Reggie replied on 25 Dec 2010

        
27. Does the SDHC Card fit this camera or do I have to use the memory stick pro duo/pro duo -hg?
    
    Lynette asked on 24 Dec 2010
    1. Hi - I happily use an SD card in the slot and it fits perfectly.
       
       Esben replied on 24 Dec 2010

        
    2. SDHC is fine ... I never use the more expensive memory stick.
       
       Eric replied on 24 Dec 2010

        
28. What is the difference between the SONY DSC-HX5 (referred to in "What Digital Camera" magazine Christmas 2010 issue 169) and the SONY DSCHX5VB sold by Amazon.co.uk? In Amazon's case, they describe the camera they sell as DSCHX5VB, but on the same webpage, in the "Manufacturer's Product Description" they refer to it as the DSC-HX5! Can someone clarify the issue for me please?
    
    Laurent asked on 06 Jan 2011
    1. Hello - The one I have came from Amazon and it just says DSC-HX5 on its body.
       
       Martin replied on 06 Jan 2011

        
29. Do the pictures take instantly like when you press the button it takes because i want to be able to take action shots of my dog shaking off and jumping and stuff.
    
    Kyle asked on 20 Feb 2011
    1. Do you mean turn-on time or shutter lag? Turn on time is average for this type of cam - say, a couple of seconds; I haven't used for action shots, but focus is v fast in good light, and it does have an excellent 10fps burst mode. Hope that helps.
       
       Gordon replied on 20 Feb 2011

        
    2. Outdoors, as Gordon mentions the 10FPS will be good as long as you use a manual setting, but as I said in my review this isn't going to be like a proper camera.
       
       To me this camera, like so much today, is jack of all, master of absolutely nothing, you'll get much much better action shots with a second hand Canon 400d! No video, but then that's what Video cameras were good at.
       
       Inside though don't expect to take any action, just blurred colour casted over processed nonsense.
       
       But then I was spoiled I had a Canon 7d for a while. I suppose it all depends how fussy you are about the final results.
       
       Cheers
       Nick
       
       Nick replied on 21 Feb 2011

        
    3. This camera has a burst mode. It is located to the left of the on/of button. When you set the camera to Intelligent Auto Adjustment Setting, press the Burst mode and then take ordinary shots. In one click, it can take several photos in a second. Let me know if this works for you.
       
       Sheryl replied on 26 Feb 2011

        
30. When using the sweep panorama mode, can you choose how wide you want to pan? so if you just wanted to fit objects slightly wider than a normal shot would allow you could use this mode and pan to include them, or does it have to be a full panoramic shot?
    
    John asked on 29 Mar 2011
    1. You can choose how wide the shot will be..when taking the shot, just stop where you want to end it and after a second it so the camera will stop and process the image..
       
       Whilst the feature is good, remember that they are at a lower resolution than the normal images and you can create a better one using Windows Live Gallery.
       
       Hope this helps.
       
       Lee replied on 29 Mar 2011

        
    2. From my experience with this feature the one option you have is the wide all encompassing one which takes a bit to get used to.However if you are able to find anything in the manual that tells you different let me wnow
       
       peter replied on 30 Mar 2011

        
31. does it allow you to zoom in and out whilst recording? plus if it does, does it do it smoothly?
    
    Harry asked on 02 Apr 2011
    1. Yes it does and fairly smooth for a camera trying to b a camcorder
       
       simon replied on 03 Apr 2011

        
    2. Yes , it does, and it is smooth, however the speed of zooming is rather slow.
       
       Harry replied on 09 Apr 2011

        
32. does this cam have a manual mode
    
    ronald asked on 12 Apr 2011
    1. It does have a manual mode. I haven't used it yet so I'm not sure how easy it is to use.
       
       David replied on 12 Apr 2011

        
33. i have the hx5v, i have been able to upload stills but i not the movies. i have an iMac & a macbook and when i connect the camera to upload the movies are nowhere to be seen, any advice on why this is
    
    bill asked on 02 May 2011
    1. Had same problem with PC upload. Even though no problems for years with other digital [not Sony] cameras. I found that we have to use the Sony PMB software to upload (e.g. PMB launcher). This software should be on the CD with your camera. If not will be available on Sony website probably as a free download. I could not believe it myself but there they are now ,all my videos! (Stop other software which opens up from grabbing your camera downloads - just close them.
       Regards
       
       david replied on 03 May 2011

        
34. Hi is this full HD 1080 video ready and also does it have wireless capability?
    
    Karen asked on 03 May 2011
    1. Yes it has a good video feature (1080i HD video) although you have to be careful not to cover the microphone on top with your left fore-finger. I don't think it has wireless capability as it was not on my list of requirements and I haven't looked for it. I have found it really good for low light capability, "street" photography and landscape. Hope this helps.
       
       Thomas replied on 04 May 2011

        
35. Hi there,
    
    What is the battery life like on the HX5 with the GPS on?
    
    Mo asked on 13 May 2011
    1. Good, but I always have a spare with me.
       
       
       Kenneth replied on 15 May 2011

        
    2. Good I do have a spare but it's never been an issue.
       
       Linzi replied on 15 May 2011

        
36. Does the DSC-HX5 have anti blur and anti shake options. Cannot see this feature in the description?
    
    Jo asked on 22 May 2011
    1. hi jo yes it as a setting called anti motion blur for taking in low light without a flash hope this helps carl
       
       carl replied on 22 May 2011

        
    2. There seems to be nothing that this thing doesn't have. Obviously I haven't had this long, I'm still getting used to the features, but from what I've seen so far the results are very impressive. The anti blur takes multiple shots in one go and processes them to provide an amazingly sharp picture in very dark conditions, without the need for a flash....Very clever.
       
       Ray replied on 22 May 2011

        
37. Is this camera small enough to carry around comfortably and will it fit in jeans pockets etc.?
    
    Thanks
    
    James asked on 13 Jun 2011
    1. It is small enough to carry around in hand or on the wrist strap, it doesn't have the bulk of an SLR for instance, but it is quite a 'chunky' unit and so wouldn't fit comfortably in every jeans pocket.
       It is not a 'compact' digital camera and is far larger that my old Canon Ixus unit. A quick 'tale of the tape' reveals [H x W x D] 58 x 103 x 29 in mm.
       What it does have for it's size is a great, clear, bright screen and exception optical zoom.
       
       Hope that helps. My strong suggestion, go find somewhere to pick this up and get a feel for it before purchasing ...
       
       Ben replied on 13 Jun 2011

        
    2. I bought this as we have a DSLR that was just too big to take on days out etc - so wanted a 'compact' compact. I tend to use a camera case that attaches to a belt - and I don't know that it is there most of the time. It will fit into jeans pockets (at least it does mine). The camera is slightly bigger than the Sony WX range (which I originally looked at) but the HX5 has a much better lens/zoom capacity and for less money.
       
       James replied on 13 Jun 2011

        
    3. Yes,I have no problem carrying this around in my jeans pocket,even in its case
       
       Stephen replied on 13 Jun 2011

        
38. Does it have optical or digital anti-blur, or is it a combo of both? Also, would anyone recommend getting a Canon within a similar price range, compared to this Sony model?
    
    Thanks
    
    Joseph asked on 17 Jun 2011
    1. Can't find the answer to the anti-blur question. Not even sure of the question. I checked the Canon whilst looking for this camera, but decided to buy the Sony for higher specifications. I have also seen the video in HD and it's amazing.
       
       Brian replied on 18 Jun 2011

        
    2. Dont know the answer to the Anti blur question
       Its not in the hand book CD .Suggest you ask a camera shop .
       I find the Sony very good but have no info on the Canon .Try mags like Digital camera and see if they have a review and comparison
       
       David replied on 20 Jun 2011

        
39. I am thinking of purchasing the HX5 with the main attraction being the video capabilities as it's a pain carrying two cameras around with the kids. Can someone please tell me what the play-back quality is like on thier TV - is it as good as a camcorder, does it appear pixilated and does it appear as true HD qaulity?
    
    John asked on 19 Jul 2011
    1. John
       
       I have been pretty impressed overall with the HX5 - The HD quality is pretty good (although I tend to mostly play back on computer).. It is true HD but to be fair to you I don't have a digital camcorder so I can't say whether its as good as one - I certainly have taken a lot of HD movie with mine and been very pleased
       
       Hope this helps
       
       Tony replied on 19 Jul 2011

        
    2. The picture quality is excellent. The zoom can be a bit too fast for video, but improves with practice. Sound is OK but it is easy to cover microphone with fingers. If it windy then the microphone picks it up. Picture composition is difficult using the LCD on a sunny day. Oh I do wish it had a viewfinder. Editing needs more care as there are more mis-framed bits due to no viewfinder. For holidays and home movie video I think it is more than adequate but so far I think a dedicated camcorder will give better sound and composition.
       I am about to start editing my first holiday video with hundreds of small clips from the HX5 so this will be my first real test. If you can get an HX5 for a good price I would say go for it
       
       Allen replied on 25 Jul 2011

        
40. I need a camera that takes good videos of horses for promotional purposes. I need a good zoom which runs quietly and smoothly and I need wind noise reduction. I also need the videos to play back on a Panasonic TV. I am not technically minded so it needs to be simple to use! Would this camera suit? If not can someone recommend an alternative?
    
    Sue asked on 25 Jul 2011
    1. hello sue, zoom is good on this camera and not noisy, video is good but I am not expert enough to provide definitive recommendation but all reviews I read were good which is why I bought it, along with the gps tracking and general picture quality
       
       April replied on 25 Jul 2011

        
    2. This camera is very simple to use with a dedicated video button that give one touch control of recording. 10x zoom is verry effective and smooth to use. Videoa quality is excellent but I can't comment on wind noise. An adaptor is provided which when used with an HDMI lead allows direct playback on any HDMI enable TV.
       Hope that helps.
       
       
       
       Brian replied on 25 Jul 2011

        
41. depending on the memory card you have what is the total amount of images that can be stored at one time at the maximum size setting, and if you could tell me which memory card you use
    
    matt asked on 05 Aug 2011
    1. Hi Matt
       Maximum size according to handbook is 10 Mb, although I'm using the smaller size. I have a ScanDisk 4Gb card, so would be able to get 400 on it I guess, but I'm sure you can get bigger cards. Hope this is helpful.
       
       Jayne replied on 06 Aug 2011

        
42. Hi I've had mine a week but quick question
    
    When I hold mine an place thumb near the screen (plastic bit near speaker and next to screw area for stand) it feels a little soft or loose I.e. Like there is a little movement, can anyone tell me if there's is same or is mine faulty?
    
    Need to know before my month purchase up and before I go on vacation in 2 weeks if I need get it replaced
    
    Thanks in advance
    
    
    David asked on 13 Aug 2011
    1. Mine is tight with no movement at all, feels quite solid.
       Brill camera to use.
       
       Donald replied on 13 Aug 2011

        
    2. Mine is tight too. Been snapping some fantastic pics.
       
       Duncan replied on 18 Aug 2011

        
43. Hi, Is any one tell me if i use only SDHC card for still and movie recording in this camra DSC_HX5 does it work.
    thanks ,Zia.
    
    Zia asked on 17 Aug 2011
    1. My 16 gb PNY Professional SDHC card gives 4 hours of HD video at 20 mb/s and works fine!
       
       Roman replied on 17 Aug 2011

        
44. Thanks Roman for above answer but is not clear yet what I asked does it work both same time without changing card for still pictures and video recoding?
    
    Zia asked on 18 Aug 2011
    1. Yes it does. It uses the same card.
       
       Jenny replied on 18 Aug 2011

        
    2. Hi, if I understand correctly yes you can film and take pictures on the same memory card. Hope that helps.
       
       Graham replied on 18 Aug 2011

        
45. I'm thinking of buying the DSC-HX5 as a gift for someone, but some of the reviews I've read are contradictory. I read some amazing reviews, and was ready to order the camera, but then I read some really bad reviews on Amazon and I'm totally confused again. I really can't decide whether to get it or not as it is a gift, and therefore a big risk! Any help would be appreciated, even if you could direct me to a better camera around the same price range? Thank you!
    
    Sammy asked on 30 Oct 2011
    1. I'm still really happy with the camera. We bought it to replace a camera that we bought 4 years ago which was starting become quite slow and lose quality.
       
       It was a step up in price for us (we have previously spent around £100 and this was around £180 at the time), but we wanted to get a camera which was better in low light scenes, and for action shots a we now have children.
       
       The build quality is great, as is the overall picture quality. There are a lot of features which can sometimes confuse things especially as a novice who usually goes for point and shoot, but then the features like 'blink detection' are very useful.
       
       I've got a friend who know's a lot more than me about cameras and he was impressed with the features for something so small.
       
       I think it would be a great gift, and I'd be really happy to receive it. Hope that helps.
       
       Chris replied on 31 Oct 2011

        
    2. I'm really impressed with the results I'm getting,I bought this camera as I was unable to use my SLR because of a wrist injury and won't return to the SLR now.
       The build quality is very good and the camera is suitable for either a novice to use as a point and shoot camera or for someone more experienced who likes to control the camera.
       The LCD screen is(as with all LCD screens)difficult to see in very bright sunshine and I'd suggest buying a Delkin pop up screen.
       Don't hesitate to buy it as a present.
       
       David replied on 01 Nov 2011

        
    3. I've been really happy with my purchace and anyone who recieves it as a gift will I'm sure be more than happy.
       In easy mode, it's just that - easy! Have just got back a couple of panoramic prints which are great and some snaps I took in a slot canyon in America could have been taken by a professional!
       I chose this one after time spent in a camera retail shop weighing up pros & cons with guys who know what they are on about- its capabilities coupled with its size and weight (its ok to fit in your pocket or handbag) ensure its always available & unless you are a pro' who wants to be faffing around with lenses all the time!? Trust your instinct and do what you feel is right. The receipiant of you gift will be thrilled with whatever you choose.
       
       Sylvia replied on 01 Nov 2011

        

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