| Likes |
|
- Optical image stabilization
- Rotary dial
- 2.2 fps burst mode
- 15x zoom lens
- Excellent color accuracy
- Strong handling of noise
- Solid low light performance
- Remote control
- Speedy face detection
|
| Dislikes |
|
- Zoom control
- Cluttered mode dial
- Poor LCD resolution
- Uneven strap lugs
- Flimsy battery door
- Lens hood shows in wide angle
|
Conclusion
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H7 is yet another addition to the ultra-zoom market. This SLR-shaped digital camera comes with a solid set of exposure modes and an interface more reminiscent of compact models than SLRs. Many of the exposure modes and features are the same as the Sony H9, which costs almost a hundred dollars more. The H9 throws in a much better LCD screen and infrared technology for photographing wildlife at night, but if consumers can do without those things then they will be perfectly happy with the H7. The 8.1-megapixel Cyber-shot H7 has a lot of great features: a 15x optical zoom lens with image stabilization, an impressive 2.2 fps burst mode that snaps up to 100 shots, high definition output for musical slide shows and videos, and even trendy face recognition technology that works quickly and effectively. The H7 is also a strong performer, displaying excellent color accuracy, low noise levels, and a lot of detail in captured images. As with all digital cameras, there are a few downers on the H7 – the poor resolution on the LCD and the intrusive lens hood being the most notable – but they aren’t enough to cancel out the other great features and impressive image quality at the retail price of $399.
