Sony Cyber-shot DSC-M2

Value
The Sony Cyber-shot M2 is meant to replace the necessity of buying separate imaging devices for still and video recording. So instead of buying a $300 digital camera and a $600 camcorder, consumers can opt for a $500 hybrid M2. You’re saving money, right? Maybe. Users must decide how much they’re willing to compromise to save a bit of cash. The pros: users won’t have to lug two big chunks of electronics on vacation to capture photos and videos. The cons: the video still isn’t camcorder quality and the camera’s lack of manual options makes it roughly equivalent to a cheaper point-and-shoot. All in all, the Sony M2 is marketed as a serious hybrid model, but there are other compact, cheaper models that offer just about the same functions and features.

Comparison to the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-M1
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-M1 – The first camera in Sony’s hybrid line has many very similar features. Both cameras have the same vertical design, but the M1 is slightly thicker and isn’t quite as comfortable to hold. The M1 is a tenth of an ounce lighter as well. Both cameras have 5.1 megapixels and a non-extending Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 3x optical zoom lens. They have the same 2.5-inch LCD monitor that flips outward and boasts 123,000 pixels of resolution. The M1 does not have the pocket album function or the 57 MB of internal memory that the M2 has; this is the main distinguishing feature between the two cameras. The M1 retailed for $499 when it was released last year and can be found just above $400 online now.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters – The Sony M2 has nine scene modes and hardly any manual controls, so it is definitely geared for consumers who don’t want to bother with extraneous features to get a good shot. Still, the layout isn’t completely intuitive for point-and-shooters.

Budget Consumers – At $500, the M2 isn’t the cheapest camera out there. But if consumers are still tempted by its cool slide shows and vertical look, they can justify it by arguing that it replaces buying both a digital camera and a video camera.

Gadget Freaks – These consumers will appreciate the unique vertical grip and the 57 MB of internal memory. The pocket album function with transitions and background music is the perfect venue to show off photos – and the new gadget.

Manual Control Freaks – Without manual control over shutter speed or aperture, the Sony M2 will have a hard time attracting this crowd. Even worse, white balance cannot be adjusted manually.

Pros / Serious Hobbyists – These individuals will have a hard time with the concept of this hybrid model. Serious hobbyists are more likely to get a Panasonic camcorder with three CCDs along with a high-end digital SLR for their imaging needs. These consumers don’t mind the pain of lugging 15 pounds of equipment. They’ll take the pain over the comparatively sub-par performance of a smaller model like the M2.