Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 Digital Camera, Black {18.2MP}

Sony HX99: 30x zoom pocket camera with RAW and 4K

The HX99 fits a 24-720mm equivalent zoom range into a body that weighs 242 grams and measures 36mm deep. That reach, paired with optical image stabilization, makes it a practical tool for travel photographers who refuse to carry a second bag. The 18.2MP BSI-CMOS sensor feeds the Bionz X processor, which handles 4K video at 30p via XAVC S and pushes continuous stills at 10 fps, a spec that belongs in a much larger camera. RAW support means you're not locked into in-camera JPEG processing, which matters when you're shooting in mixed or difficult light at ISO 80-12800.

The built-in electronic viewfinder at 638,400 dots is a genuine differentiator for a compact this size. It gives you an eye-level option when the 3-inch tilting touchscreen at 921,000 dots isn't practical in bright sun. Full manual exposure controls, aperture priority, shutter priority, and AE bracketing round out a control set that punches well above what most pockets can offer. Wi-Fi with NFC and smartphone remote control add a practical layer for solo travelers shooting self-portraits or sharing images on the road. For the zoom range and feature density in this footprint, the HX99 earns its place.

Who It's For

Travel photographers who need a single carry-on-friendly camera will find the 24-720mm range handles everything from architecture to candid street moments without a lens change. Wildlife and nature observers who want grab-and-go reach benefit from the 30x optical zoom and optical stabilization when shooting distant subjects handheld. Videographers producing travel content can record 4K at 30p in XAVC S while the tilting touchscreen lets them frame low-angle shots on a tripod. Photographers who process their own files will value RAW support alongside the full manual and semi-manual exposure modes.

Key Features

• 30x optical zoom (24-720mm equivalent) in 242g compact body
• 18.2MP BSI-CMOS with Bionz X processor
• 4K video at 24p and 30p via XAVC S codec
• RAW and JPEG output with fine and standard quality
• 638,400-dot electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage
• 10 fps continuous shooting with autofocus
• Optical image stabilization across full zoom range
• 3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD with 921,000 dots

FAQ

What zoom range does the HX99 actually give you?

24-720mm equivalent with 30x optical zoom and 120x digital zoom. That covers wide landscape work through serious telephoto without changing lenses.

Can you shoot RAW on this camera?

Yes. RAW support means you process your own files instead of being locked into Sony's in-camera JPEG rendering, which is crucial when you're dealing with mixed light or extreme contrast.

How fast can it shoot continuously?

10 fps with continuous autofocus. That's a legitimate burst rate for a pocket camera, useful for wildlife or unpredictable moments.

Is the electronic viewfinder actually usable at this size?

The EVF has 638,400 dots at 0.5x magnification. It's small but resolves detail cleanly and lets you frame without raising the camera to your eye-a real advantage in bright sunlight when the 3-inch touchscreen washes out.

What video formats does it record?

4K at 24p or 30p via XAVC S, plus 1080p up to 120p in AVCHD. The 4K output is 8-bit, so expect solid color but not infinite grading latitude.

How heavy is it and what are the actual dimensions?

242 grams with 102 x 58 x 36mm dimensions. It fits shirt pockets, though the 36mm depth means you're pushing it-a reason Sony claims it for travel over true pants-pocket carry.

Does it have image stabilization?

Optical stabilization built in. That matters with a 720mm telephoto equivalent and hand-holding at slower shutter speeds on trips where you won't always have a tripod.