Sony HX10V vs Sony A77 II: A Deep Dive into Two Generations, Two Worlds

If you've ever found yourself torn between a compact superzoom and a robust mid-size DSLR, you're not alone. Both categories offer distinctive advantages, and the Sony Cyber-shot HX10V and the Sony SLT-A77 II represent two very different photographic philosophies from the same manufacturer. Two years separate their introductions - HX10V came out in 2012 as a pocketable superzoom, while the A77 II arrived in 2014 and targeted enthusiasts craving DSLR-grade performance.

Having logged countless hours behind both types of cameras, I’ll share practical insights into how these two Sony models perform across a broad photography spectrum - from portraits and landscapes to wildlife and video. Along the way, we’ll dissect their technical underpinnings, build quality, and real-world usability. Whether you seek ultimate versatility on travels or professional-grade detail, this comparative review will help you make an informed decision.

Let’s start with the physical design, which forms your first tactile impression.

Size and Ergonomics: Pocket-Sized Zoom or DSLR Presence?

First, observe the clear size difference. The Sony HX10V is petite - just 105x60x34mm and 234g. It’s small enough to slip into an ample jacket pocket or your everyday bag without fuss. Nano-sized but packing a 24-400mm zoom, it’s almost magical how much reach they squeezed into this form factor. Ergonomically, though, it’s limited by size. The grip is minimal, and controls are tiny, demanding more deliberate button presses, especially in cold or wet conditions.

The Sony A77 II, by contrast, is mid-size for a DSLR, measuring 143x104x81mm and weighing 647g with battery. It offers a substantial grip, ideal for longer handheld sessions, balanced well with large telephoto lenses. Button layout is more expansive, and the top LCD panel (forthcoming) offers quick access to core settings - a huge plus for those who value speed.

In practice, I prefer the HX10V for casual strolls and travel due to its compactness. The A77 II feels more natural in intense shooting sessions requiring extra stability and a grip for heavy glass.

Design and Control Layout: Familiarity vs Modern Virtues

Peeking from above, the HX10V ethos is simplicity. It keeps things straightforward with a zoom rocker, shutter, mode dial limited to preset modes (no PASM), and an absence of dedicated exposure control dials - reflecting its point-and-shoot style. This works well for casual users but limits creative exposure control on the fly. The lack of touchscreen and electronic viewfinder nudges you to compose mostly on the rear LCD.

The A77 II is Sony’s more mature design, featuring a top control LCD, dual control dials, and fully customizable buttons. You get dedicated PASM exposure modes, fast exposure compensation dial, and extensive autofocus mode switches - tailored for quick responsiveness. The electronic viewfinder is a game-changer, providing a bright, detailed live view with 100% coverage - ideal for framing precision in bright light when the LCD can wash out.

If you value quick, confident manual control and an extensive button layout, the A77 II clearly outshines the HX10V. Yet, that complexity comes at a cost: a steeper learning curve and larger form factor.

Sensor and Image Quality: Compact Sensor vs APS-C Flagship

Arguably the most critical comparison, the HX10V sports a 1/2.3” BSI CMOS sensor, measuring only 6.17x4.55mm, with 18MP resolution. The A77 II houses a much larger APS-C sensor at 23.5x15.6mm, delivering 24MP. This size difference alone defines the image quality gulf.

From decades of testing sensors, I can say: bigger sensors like the A77 II’s deliver superior dynamic range, color depth, and low-light performance. The HX10V's sensor is optimized for compact size but inherently limited in noise control and tonal gradation, especially above ISO 800.

The A77 II’s sensor combined with the Bionz X processor achieves impressive 13.4 EV dynamic range and 24.4-bit color depth (DXO Mark scores), making it suitable for pro workflows requiring color criticality and post-processing latitude. The HX10V cannot shoot RAW, frustrating image quality purists, whereas the A77 II offers full RAW support.

In practical shooting, landscapes and portraits under challenging light benefit massively from the A77 II’s sensor. The HX10V struggles with noise at higher ISOs, especially in shadows or night shots - but shines in bright daylight travel snaps thanks to its sharp Zeiss lens and image stabilization.

Viewing Experience: Screen and Viewfinder in Daily Use

Both cameras offer 3” screens, but the details differ sharply. The HX10V’s fixed non-touch XtraFine TruBlack LCD offers 922k dots, quite readable but limited in angle flexibility. The A77 II provides a fully articulated 3” screen with 1.23M dots, offering much greater resolution, brightness, and articulation, critical for shooting at awkward angles or video.

The A77 II’s electronic viewfinder, with 2.35M dots and 100% coverage, provides a preview that effectively simulates an optical one, but with additional overlay options. The HX10V lacks an EVF, so composing under strong sunlight can be challenging without the LCD’s shade.

For those shooting outdoors or wanting traditional eye-level composition, the A77 II delivers a major usability advantage. The HX10V’s rear LCD is fine for casual shots but reveals its limits on prolonged or serious photographic sessions.

Image Samples: Real World Practical Output

Sony HX10V front Sony HX10V screen back Sony A77 II front Sony A77 II screen back

Looking at example images side-by-side, several points emerge:

• Portraits from the A77 II exhibit smoother skin tones, natural depth, and creamy bokeh thanks to larger sensor and quality lenses. Eye detection autofocus is more precise, capturing sharp detail on faces.
• HX10V images are sharper in center due to smaller sensor pixel density but rapidly lose detail in shadows and low light. The smaller sensor struggles to isolate subjects subjectively - bokeh control is minimal.
• Landscapes from the A77 II show richer tonal gradation and more recoverable shadow detail.
• Wildlife and sports images benefit from the A77 II’s expansive lens range and faster autofocus.
• Street shots feel more spontaneous on HX10V due to discreet size and quieter operation.

It's a vivid illustration of the tradeoff between portability and ultimate image quality.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting: Catching the Action

Among the most impactful features for wildlife and sports photographers are autofocus system and continuous shooting.

The HX10V utilises contrast-detection with 9 AF points and face detection. It handles static subjects well but isn’t tuned for fast movements. Burst speed is a respectable 10 fps, but buffer depth and autofocus tracking limit performance for fast sequences.

The A77 II boasts a hybrid autofocus system with 79 phase-detect points (15 cross-type) spread across the frame, offering excellent subject tracking when paired with continuous AF modes. Burst rates hit 12 fps, making it a solid choice for sports and wildlife photography. The camera’s ability to maintain focus on erratic subjects makes a tangible difference in capturing decisive moments.

From my field tests, I can confirm the A77 II’s tracking beats the HX10V hands down. For action photography, you want the accuracy and speed the A77 II delivers.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Can They Handle the Elements?

The HX10V is a compact with a plastic body and no weather resistance. It’s best kept dry and clean - harsh conditions risk damage.

The A77 II incorporates weather-sealing for dust and moisture resistance, making it better suited for professional fieldwork in varied environments. The heavier magnesium alloy chassis adds robustness but also weight - a tradeoff for durability.

If you shoot outdoors regularly into unpredictable weather, I’m inclined to recommend the A77 II on build quality alone.

Lens Ecosystem: Versatility and Quality Options

The HX10V’s fixed Zeiss lens covers 24-400mm equivalent at f/3.3-5.9, combining an impressively versatile zoom with optical image stabilization. It’s a jack-of-all-trades lens that brings flexibility without changing glass.

However, you’re limited to this lens alone; no option to upgrade or match specialized lenses.

The A77 II takes advantage of Sony’s extensive α-mount system, compatible with 143 lenses from wide-angle primes to ultra-long telephotos and macro options. You can use legacy Minolta glass or modern Sony G-series optics. This adaptability enables tailored setups for every genre - from crystal-clear macro to fast telephoto wildlife shots.

In short, the A77 II shines for those planning to invest in upgrading their lens arsenal.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Will You Shoot?

The HX10V uses the NP-BG1 battery, rated for approximately 320 shots per charge. It’s decent for casual travel, but prolonged sessions or video gigs require extra packs.

The A77 II’s NP-FM500H battery rates about 480 shots - significantly longer. Given its larger size and power demands, this is a respectable endurance figure, enough for a full professional day on location with reasonable reserve.

Both cameras use a single card slot compatible with SD and Sony’s proprietary Memory Stick formats. If you shoot much video or in burst mode, investing in a fast, high-capacity SDXC card will pay off.

Connectivity and Extras: Modern Conveniences

The HX10V supports Eye-Fi wireless cards for photo transfers and features built-in GPS for geotagging - a boon for travel photographers who like to map photo locations effortlessly.

The A77 II has built-in WiFi and NFC, allowing faster wireless pairing to smartphones and direct image sharing - more seamless than Eye-Fi cards. It also supports external flashes via hot shoe, including Sony’s advanced units for creative lighting, while the HX10V lacks a hot shoe entirely.

Overall, the A77 II offers more connectivity and accessory expansion potential.

Video Capabilities: Full HD with Distinctive Features

Both cameras can record Full HD video at 1920x1080. The HX10V records up to 60 fps in AVCHD and MPEG-4 formats, suitable for decent quality footage. However, there’s no microphone input, limited manual video controls, and no electronic stabilization beyond the optical on the lens.

The A77 II also does 1080p at 60p and 60i and supports the more advanced XAVC S codec for higher bitrates and better quality. Crucially, it offers a microphone input jack, enabling superior audio recording with external mics - a must for videographers aiming for professional results. The sensor-based stabilization further contributes to smooth handheld video capture.

For video shooters prioritizing control and audio quality, the A77 II is clearly preferable.

Practical Use Across Photography Genres

Let me break down how these cameras fare across key photography disciplines drawing on hands-on testing:

• Portraits: A77 II’s large sensor and eye-detection AF produce more natural skin tones and creamy bokeh. HX10V works for casual portraits but without selective focus finesse.

• Landscapes: A77 II’s dynamic range and resolution capture nuanced scenes. HX10V is okay for daytime snaps but limited in ISO performance.

• Wildlife: A77 II’s burst speed, native lenses, and phase-detect AF handle erratic motion better. HX10V’s zoom range is good, but AF lag and buffer depth hurt.

• Sports: A77 II tracks rapidly moving subjects reliably with 12fps shooting and phase AF points. HX10V is less capable.

• Street: HX10V’s compact stealth and quick start give it an edge for candid shooting. A77 II big and conspicuous.

• Macro: A77 II’s lens options deliver superior focusing precision and magnification. HX10V’s macro starts at 5cm but lacks finer focusing control.

• Night/Astro: A77 II’s higher ISO headroom and sensor gain work better. HX10V noisy and limited.

• Video: A77 II’s mic input, XAVC-S codec, and articulation beats HX10V’s modest video.

• Travel: HX10V lightweight and all-in-one lens win for travel convenience. A77 II heavier but more versatile.

• Professional: A77 II excels with raw files, rugged build, and expansive controls for pros.

Overall Performance and Value Scores

To summarize scored testing results:

The A77 II commands nearly double the price but delivers comprehensive upgrades in image quality, autofocus, and build.

Who Should Buy the Sony HX10V?

If portability, budget, and ease of use top your list, the HX10V remains a solid companion for casual shooters and travelers. You’ll appreciate the lightweight build, massive zoom range, GPS tagging, and respectable full-HD video for family trips, street photography, or vacations where carrying a heavy DSLR is impractical.

That said, avoid the HX10V if image quality nuances and creative control are important to you; its small sensor and limited manual controls will frustrate enthusiasts over time.

Who Benefits from the Sony A77 II?

The A77 II suits serious enthusiasts and professionals needing a flexible, rugged camera system. You’ll love the large APS-C sensor quality, blazing autofocus, articulated screen, weather sealing, and lens ecosystem that extends your creative reach. Portrait, sports, wildlife, landscape, and video shooters will find it packs the tools and performance for demanding projects.

Budget-conscious buyers willing to invest in lenses should see the A77 II as a value-packed DSLR that can grow with your skillset.

Final Thoughts: Picking Your Ideal Sony Ally

This comparison highlights how drastically form factor, sensor size, and system flexibility affect photographic potential. The HX10V is a marvel of compact engineering and zoom versatility, great for casual outings. The A77 II represents a professional-grade tool built to deliver exceptional images and performance across genres.

Selecting between them hinges on your priorities - if you want a camera to throw in a pocket and capture memories with minimal fuss, the HX10V won't disappoint. But if you yearn for control, speed, and superior image quality - and you’re ready to embrace a larger, more complex DSLR - your future lies with the A77 II.

Both cameras showcase Sony’s commitment to innovation at different ends of the photographer’s spectrum. I hope this detailed review steers you towards the right choice for your creative journey.

Happy shooting!

All images referenced in this article provide direct visual comparisons and highlight the nuances discussed here, helping you see beyond specs to real-world use.

Thank you for reading. If you have specific shooting styles or scenarios in mind, let me know - I'm happy to help tailor this advice further.