Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX80 Digital Camera, Black {18.2MP}

Sony HX80: 30x pocket zoom with a built-in EVF

The HX80 fits a 24–720mm equivalent zoom range into a body that weighs 245g and measures just 36mm thick. That kind of reach in a shirt pocket used to require compromises on control, but Sony included aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual exposure alongside a 100% coverage electronic viewfinder, a spec you rarely see at this size. The 5-axis hybrid optical stabilization matters most at the long end, where 720mm equivalent would otherwise produce unusable handheld shots.

The 18MP BSI-CMOS sensor pairs with a Bionz X processor and shoots at 10 fps continuous, with ISO expandable to 12800 for low-light situations. The 3-inch tilting LCD at 921,600 dots makes overhead or low-angle framing practical, and built-in Wi-Fi with NFC lets you pull images directly to a phone without cables. Video tops out at 1080/60p with XAVC S recording support. Battery life hits 390 shots CIPA, which is solid for a camera this compact. For travelers who refuse to carry a second bag but still want genuine telephoto reach and manual control, the HX80 makes a straightforward case for itself.

Who It's For

Travel photographers who shoot everything from architecture to wildlife on a single trip will find the 24–720mm range genuinely useful without the weight penalty of an interchangeable-lens kit. Street photographers working in tight or crowded spaces benefit from the built-in EVF, which allows stable eye-level shooting in bright conditions. Birders and wildlife observers who want a pocketable backup with real reach can rely on the 30x optical zoom and 5-axis stabilization at the long end. Family and event shooters who need 10 fps burst shooting and a tilting screen for awkward angles get both in a package that disappears into a jacket pocket.

Key Features

• 30x optical zoom (24–720mm equivalent) with 5-axis hybrid optical stabilization
• 18MP BSI-CMOS sensor with Bionz X processor
• 100% coverage electronic viewfinder, compact 36mm body
• 1080/60p video with XAVC S, MPEG-4, AVCHD support
• Aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual exposure
• 3-inch tilting LCD (921,600 dots) with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC
• 10 fps burst, expandable ISO to 12,800, 390 shots per charge

FAQ

Does the HX80 actually have a usable viewfinder at this size?

Yes. It's a 100% coverage electronic viewfinder, which is genuinely rare for a camera this compact. You get real-time exposure preview and framing without relying solely on the LCD.

How much does the 5-axis stabilization help at 720mm?

Substantially. At 24x zoom, even slight hand movement becomes visible shake. The hybrid optical stabilization makes handheld 720mm shots viable in decent light, though you'll still want to brace yourself or find support for consistent results.

Can you shoot manual exposure on the HX80?

Yes. You have aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual mode with exposure compensation from ±3 EV. Flash modes include auto, on, slow sync, and rear sync, giving you control over fill light.

What's the video situation, and does it shoot XAVC S?

1080/60p max, with XAVC S support alongside MPEG-4 and AVCHD. Stereo mic input is built-in; no headphone port to monitor audio on set. Slow sync and rear sync flash modes work in video too.

Will 390 shots per charge get me through a travel day?

It'll get you through morning or an afternoon, not a full day of shooting. Battery life is respectable for the body size, but you'll want a spare NP-BX1 if you're out all day without access to USB charging.

Does Wi-Fi and NFC mean I can pull images to my phone without cables?

Correct. Built-in 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi with NFC support lets you transfer images and control the camera remotely via the Sony app. No tethering cable required.

Is the tilting screen any good for low-angle or overhead shots?

Yes. The 3-inch TFT LCD tilts and has 921,600 dots, so you can frame from ground level or over your head without contorting your neck.