Value (7.0)
The Sony Cyber-shot H1 is competitively priced with other comparable models with long zoom lenses, image stabilization, and 5 megapixels. At $499.95, the H1 offers a full palette of manual and automatic modes. However, this Sony requires a Sony-brand Memory Stick Media (or Media Pro to fully use the movie mode). The camera comes with a 32 MB card, but enthusiasts will definitely want more memory. Expect to pay at least another $50 for a decent amount of memory. There are also conversion lenses that can be added for $150 each. The H1 is still competitive with other manufacturers, so you still have to choose which camera is right for you based on its qualifications – and not the price tag.
Comparisons
Kodak EasyShare Z7590 – This 5-megapixel digital camera has the same SLR shape of the H1 except it’s slightly smaller. This model offers a similar array of manual and automatic controls with a few differences: the Kodak has a shorter shutter speed range, an additional 800 ISO rating, and the lack of a manual white balance setting. The Z7590 leads Kodak’s high zoom series with a 10x optical zoom lens, but there is no image stabilization. 16 custom image presets make this camera more attractive to point-and-shooters. The movie mode is disappointing at 12 fps at 640 x 480 resolution. However, a 2 fps burst mode sure beats the Sony H1’s speed. At $399, the Kodak is economical and easy to use – but keep in mind, it does not contain image stabilization technology.
Canon PowerShot S2 IS – This freshly released Canon depicts colors very accurately and comes in a good-looking package with a 1.8-inch LCD screen that flips out like a camcorder. The S2 IS offers manual quality settings for audio and contains a stereo mic. While the S2 has a similar 12x optical zoom lens doubles up with an optical image stabilization system, there is a flash exposure compensation feature that provide control over illumination that is not available on the H1. The movie mode shoots 30 frames per second at 640 x 480 and takes still pictures at a full 5 megapixels. The S2 IS comes with a $499.99 price tag.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ5 – This 5-megapixel model also goes for $499, has a 12x optical zoom lens (a nice Leica one), and has image stabilization with two modes. So what are the differences between this and the Sony H1? The Panasonic FZ5 has a substandard movie mode, a 1.8 inch LCD screen (although it does have higher resolution with 130,000 pixels), and somewhat noisy still images. However, it is more compact than the H1, depicts colors accurately, hardly has any shutter lag, and shoots at 2 fps in its burst mode.
Konica Minolta DiMage Z5 – This 5-megapixel model also has a 12x optical zoom lens and retails for $499.95. It offers image stabilization technology and has a better flash and even a hot shoe atop the camera. It also has a much stronger movie mode with high resolution, optical zoom and image settings. However, the Z5 eats batteries, has a significant shutter lag, a short ISO range, and an oddly shaped body.
Who it’s For
Point-and-Shooters - This model isn’t marketed for the point-and-shooter, but should be. It’s easy to use and has a simple automatic mode. It may not be the most economical choice for someone who will only use the auto mode, but it is optimized for it.
Budget Consumers - This depends on the type of budget you are on. You’ll pay about $500 for the camera and another $100 for 1 GB of memory, then $150 for each conversion lens you purchase. Keep in mind that the camera is only part of the purchase.
Gadget Freaks - The outer shell of the H1 has enough buttons to attract the gadget-minded. However, the most interesting feature on this Sony is the movie mode’s “divide” option that splits a clip into two (handy for deleting stuff you don’t want). Gadget freaks may be more attracted to other models with more toys.
Manual Control Freaks - The Sony DSC-H1 should attract photographers who appreciate controlling the picture’s parameters. A fully manual mode as well as some semi-automatic modes with a few manual controls should be enough to please some users graduating into more control, but those accustomed to full control over the image might find the single (and flimsy) job dial a bit cumbersome to utilize and will not like the limitations of the camera’s flash.
Pros/ Serious Hobbyists - The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 is marketed for enthusiasts, but depending on your level of enthusiasm, you may or may not like this model. If you’re looking to add to your collection of medium format and 35mm film SLRs, a digital SLR might be the only logical addition; however, if you’re a pro that wants a vacation camera that isn’t quite so hefty as your 5-pounder, but still want to retain some degree of control, this could be a logical option.
