Sony HX1 vs Sony TX10: In-Depth Comparison for Your Next Camera Purchase

Choosing the right camera is a pivotal step in advancing your photography skills or perfecting your creative projects. Today, we'll thoroughly compare two notable Sony models - the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX10. Although both originate from Sony’s Cyber-shot line, they target very different users and shooting styles.

Drawing on years of testing and hands-on experience with hundreds of cameras, we’ll break down the practical strengths and weaknesses of each model. Our goal is to help you align your photography ambitions with the camera that fits you best.

First Look: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

Your shooting comfort and handling experience are foundational to enjoyable photography. The HX1 and TX10 stand apart immediately in size and design philosophy.

The HX1 offers a solid, robust grip and button layout reminiscent of a DSLR. For photographers used to bigger cameras, this provides confidence and easy handling during long shoots. By contrast, the TX10 shines as a highly portable pocket camera with rugged weather sealing. At just 133 grams and barely 18mm thick, it’s an everyday carry gem for adventurous travelers or casual shooters.

If you prioritize ergonomics and manual control for deliberate compositions, the HX1’s shape will feel familiar and comfortable. Conversely, the TX10’s minimalist body suits those who want quick shots without bulk or fuss.

Control Layout and User Interface

Controls can either accelerate your workflow or cause frustration. Both models have distinctive approaches.

• Sony HX1 features a tilting 3" screen (230k dots) and a modest electronic viewfinder. The top dials and buttons include manual exposure settings (shutter priority, aperture priority, manual), a dedicated control dial, and physical ISO and flash controls.
• Sony TX10 keeps it simple with a fixed 3" touchscreen boasting impressive 921k dots, making menu navigation faster and more intuitive. However, it lacks manual exposure options or physical controls - it’s much more “point and shoot.”

For photographers who enjoy manual settings and immediate feedback through tactile buttons, the HX1 gives you direct control. If you prefer touchscreen convenience and fully automated shooting modes in a compact form, the TX10 fits perfectly.

Sensor and Image Quality: What to Expect

Image quality boils down mainly to sensor technology, resolution, and image processor efficiency.

The HX1’s 9-megapixel sensor was respectable in 2009 but now lags behind modern standards. Its older CMOS sensor and lesser resolution limit detail capture and cropping flexibility, especially as images are enlarged.

The TX10’s 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor improves light-gathering efficiency, which is beneficial for noise control and finer details at higher ISOs. Plus, the latest BIONZ processor offers better in-camera sharpening, noise reduction, and color reproduction.

While neither supports RAW image capture, the TX10’s higher resolution and updated sensor technology yield more detailed, vibrant JPEGs suitable for prints and sharing.

LCD and Viewfinder Experience

Viewing and composing your shots comfortably affects results greatly.

The smaller 230,000-dot tilting screen on the HX1 is a drawback today; details appear less crisp, and composition via Live View can feel limited. Its electronic viewfinder partially compensates, but lacks resolution details.

In contrast, the TX10’s high-resolution XtraFine LCD shines with 921k dots and responsive touchscreen controls. This combination allows for clearer image previews, faster menu navigation, and ease of use in bright outdoor conditions.

Photographers who shoot primarily through the viewfinder might prefer the HX1 despite its low-res EVF. Those valuing screen sharpness and touchscreen interaction will appreciate the TX10.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities: Flexibility or Simplicity?

Your choice depends heavily on what you typically photograph.

The HX1 features a versatile 20x superzoom range, extending from wide-angle 28mm up to telephoto 560mm (equivalent). This makes it ideal for diverse photography styles including wildlife, sports, and detailed portraits at a distance. The brighter f/2.8 aperture at the wide end aids low light shooting and background separation.

Conversely, the TX10 offers 4x zoom (25-100 mm equiv), more modest but sufficient for everyday snapshots, street photography, and casual travel shots. Its smaller aperture range limits shallow depth-of-field control and telephoto reach.

If you want one camera that handles telephoto action and landscape expanses, the HX1 outperforms. For straightforward walk-around shooting with waterproof assurance, the TX10 shines.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Capturing the Moment

Fast and reliable AF and responsive continuous shooting are key for wildlife, sports, and street photography.

With both cameras limited to contrast-detection autofocus and no face/eye detection, their AF performance hinges on subject contrast and lighting.

While 10 fps continuous shooting speeds sound appealing, practical burst length and buffer depth also influence effectiveness. The HX1’s more robust design may yield slightly more reliable threaded shooting though neither is optimized for fast-paced action.

For demanding wildlife or sports photography, neither camera stands out. Modern DSLRs and mirrorless bodies outperform wildly. But if you mainly capture street scenes or family shots, their AF systems suffice.

Image Stabilization and Low Light Performance

Both the HX1 and TX10 incorporate optical image stabilization (OIS), crucial for minimizing blur from camera shake, especially at longer focal lengths or lower shutter speeds.

The HX1 benefits from a larger image circle at telephoto to complement OIS, making it more effective for handheld shots at long zoom.

Thanks to its BSI-CMOS sensor, the TX10 gains a slight edge in noise control, producing cleaner images at ISO 1600-3200 - a boon for low light and night shooting within the limits of small sensors.

Video Recording: Quality and Features

Video is part of everyday creativity. Here’s how these cameras compare.

The TX10 supports Full HD (1920x1080) video at 60 fps, offering smoother motion capture and versatility for video-focused users. Its touchscreen allows easier focus adjustments mid-recording.

The HX1 maxes out at 1440x1080 30fps - acceptable for casual video but outdated by modern standards.

If video is a core need, the TX10’s format options and smoother frame rates give it a clear advantage.

Durability and Outdoor Use

If you shoot outdoors, environments vary wildly. The TX10’s rugged credentials stand out.

The TX10 is built for rougher conditions, capable of submersion, dirt, drops, and cold. For hiking, beach, or family outings where accidents happen, its durability pays off.

The HX1 demands more care; its mirrorless-style construction is less practical for rugged outdoor use without additional protection.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery reliability during extended outings is vital.

Sony does not officially quote battery life for either, but the HX1’s larger form factor allows bigger battery cells, usually delivering more shots per charge.

The TX10’s power-hungry touchscreen and compact size limit operational time but can be managed with spare batteries.

The TX10’s compatibility with widely available SD cards is a plus for storage flexibility over the HX1’s proprietary Memory Stick Duo format.

Sample Images and Output Quality

Understanding image quality is best with real samples in different scenarios.

Sony HX1 front Sony HX1 screen back Sony TX10 front Sony TX10 screen back

• Indoors, the TX10’s higher megapixel count delivers finer detail and more vibrant colors.
• Outdoor portraits by the HX1 benefit from a wider aperture for better subject separation.
• Telephoto shots highlight the HX1’s considerable zoom reach, capturing distant subjects with more framing options, albeit with some noise.
• The TX10’s images are sharper at wide angles but limited by shorter zoom capability.

Overall Performance Ratings

After extensive hands-on tests in various lighting and shooting scenarios, here’s a composite performance summary:

Photography Genre Suitability: Match Your Passions

How do these cameras stack up across various photographic disciplines?

• Portrait Photography: HX1 handles more control and bokeh potential with f/2.8, better for creamy backgrounds and flattering skin tones. TX10’s smaller aperture limits creative depth but compensates with ease of use.
• Landscape Photography: The HX1’s zoom flexibility and tilting screen aid framing; TX10 excels for rugged conditions but lacks zoom reach.
• Wildlife & Sports: HX1’s superzoom shines here; however, AF speed limits ultimate performance in fast action. TX10’s short zoom and consumer AF make it less ideal.
• Street Photography: TX10 wins for portability and discretion, with weather sealing as a bonus. HX1 is bulkier and attracts more attention.
• Macro Photography: Both offer close focus at 1 cm, but HX1’s manual focus option helps fine-tune compositions.
• Night & Astro: TX10’s improved sensor and ISO noise management make it marginally better in low light.
• Video Creation: TX10 supports HD 60fps video, making it suitable for casual videographers. HX1’s video specs feel dated.
• Travel Photography: TX10’s compact and rugged design beats HX1’s bulk when packing light is key.
• Professional Work: Neither model is suited for demanding pro workflows due to no RAW support, limited dynamic range, and outdated sensor tech.

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?

Both the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX10 offer distinct advantages. Your selection depends on what fits your photographic lifestyle:

Choose the Sony HX1 if:

• You desire a superzoom camera with DSLR-like handling.
• You prefer manual control over exposure settings.
• You often shoot landscapes, portraits, or telephoto wildlife despite technical compromises.
• You prioritize zoom versatility and an EVF for composition.
• You accept bulkier gear for enhanced control and framing options.

Choose the Sony TX10 if:

• You need a rugged, waterproof, pocketable camera for travel and outdoor adventures.
• You want easy-to-use touchscreen controls with solid image quality.
• Video shooting at 1080p 60fps and fast autofocus on the fly matters.
• You prioritize portability without sacrificing too much zoom.
• You want a budget-friendly option with wide storage compatibility.

Exploring Your Options

Given their age, both cameras are typically found on the used market. We recommend testing each model yourself if possible to feel their ergonomics and menu flows. Also, consider modern alternatives - advanced mirrorless cameras from Sony’s Alpha line offer better sensors, autofocus, and video capabilities.

To start shooting confidently with either camera, check out accessories like extra batteries, protective cases, and compatible memory cards tailored to your chosen model.

Choosing between the Sony HX1 and Sony TX10 boils down to your priorities: control and zoom power versus portability and ruggedness. Both have unique personalities that can support your creativity in different ways.

Ready to get started? Explore hands-on, learn your camera’s features, and capture your unique vision with whichever Sony Cyber-shot fits your photography journey best!