Product Description

With an increase of resolution to 2.1 Megapixel the Sony DSC-P50 is a perfect "step-up" model from the entry level CyberShot. With an impressive list of features, which include high resolution, 3x optical zoom lens, 6x digital zoom, and an outstanding design the DSC-P50 is an easy step to enhance your overall picture taking experience.

Stylish, high quality design, and feature packed the DSC-P50 offers more than your basic 2.1 mega pixel camera.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #151413 in Consumer Electronics
• Brand: Sony
• Model: DSC-P50

Amazon.co.uk Review
The Sony DSC-P50 digital camera is Sony's latest addition to the Cyber-shot range, offering 2.1 megapixel resolution, with a 3x optical zoom at an affordable price. Its design echoes that of the classic DSC-P1, though the form factor is significantly larger and the casing is predominantly plastic. The build quality is excellent despite this and the two-tone silver and blue finish is stylish--typically Sony.

The controls are well laid out and simple to follow. A power button on the top is next to a mode dial wheel, which enables you to select different modes. On the back is the LCD display, which provides a digital viewfinder, and lets you review your shots and change your settings via the on-screen menus. These are controlled by a directional button, best described as a miniature d-pad for anyone who's used a games console. A rocker button, sensibly placed at the top right, enables you to easily adjust the zoom level.

There are connections placed around the camera for video out, USB, DC In, a Memory Stick slot and battery compartment. Interestingly, the camera comes supplied with two AA alkaline batteries, though it will also take an InfoLITHIUM S series rechargeable battery (available separately). This makes possible the best of both worlds, with the rechargeable unit providing the most cost-effective solution, but having the option to throw in a couple of AAs when you run out of juice and are away from your charger. The DSC-P50 comes supplied with a 4MB Memory Stick, which isn't overly generous. It will only hold 3 images in fine JPEG mode at the maximum resolution of 1600x1200 and doesn't have room for a single TIFF image.

The DSC-P50 does take great pictures though. Most of the camera settings are automatic by default and make for smart "point and shoot" operation. However, there are options available to take more control of your photography, such as manually adjusting the exposure value, focus or flash to name a few. While not enough to satisfy true photography enthusiasts, these additional settings do provide some flexibility. The DSC-P50 also comprises a film mode, which enables you to record short MPEG files for emailing, at variable qualities up to 320x240. There is no microphone, so this is video only, rather than the video/audio of some higher models.

The software supplied with this camera includes a USB driver, which enables you to access the files from your Memory Stick on your PC as a "drag and drop" removable drive. You also get MGI PhotoSuite v8.1 and MGI VideoWave III SE for Windows and MGI PhotoSuite v1.1 for Macintosh, which do an adequate job of image editing.

The DSC-P50 is a nice addition to Sony's range of cameras in the hotly contested 2 Megapixel marketplace. It delivers the basics well and has some nice tricks up its sleeve to make it worth shortlisting.--Jason Weston

Customer Reviews

A nice camera, but what's the real price?
This is a great little camera. Lots of nice features. Ideal for a point and click photographer who needs a little bit more. The movie option is great, although there's no sound, and the quality of pictures is excellent. However, as with many digital cameras you really need some extras that will cost you that little bit more. The memory stick included is tiny, only 4MB, so you'll need something bigger to take more than 3 or 4 high-res piccies. A 64MB stick is over £100. Also, although you can use normal AA batteries, they don't last very long so it's essential to get the rechargeable batteries and AC power cord (they come in an "Accessories kit"). These will set you back another £60.

Hidden costs
I sent back the first one of these I bought as I couldn't believe that when using the flash and LCD screen it would have a battery life of about five minutes with Duracells. I received another - it's battery life is about 15mins. The camera may do excellent pictures, but you've got to pay another 60 quid or so for the rechargeable battery and power supply. Avoid and get a Fuji instead.

A SONY OUTLOOK FOR P50 OWNERS
I do agree that it's a cheap shot (sorry about the pun)to bundle the P50 without long-term, sustainable energy resources. (Full marks, indeed to Fujifilm, who include a charger and a case with the FP 6800.) However, if you budget for the back-up pack and a 32MB+ Memory stick, the P50 is a digital dream. It is remarkably silent in operation, the lens is the internal zoom type, so it won't cause any raised eyebrows at parties! As with so many DSCS, the buttons and menus are a bit fiddly, especially when negotiating the menus. Fuji scores again here. Again, these are quibles, as picture quality is superb and the special effects such as sepia and solorisation ar fun! The infolithium pack charges up quickly and the display tells you how much juice is left - Fuji could learn here. Contrary to other reports, given a fully charged pack, power consumption is very good, just don't leave the LCD on all the time! The build quality is good and the chunky shape and feel are just right. It makes a neat package with the case in the backup kit, providing an ideal entry into the brave new world of Sony digital imaging. I would heartily recommend the P50 to any doubters.