Sony HX20V vs TX200V: Hands-On Comparison of Two 2012 Compact Cameras for Every Photographer

When Sony launched the Cyber-shot HX20V and TX200V back in 2012, they catered to two distinct segments of compact camera buyers. Nearly a decade later, I’ve spent enough time handling both to confidently reflect on their strengths, weaknesses, and the practical uses where each shines or stumbles. These cameras may no longer be cutting-edge, but they still offer valuable lessons for photography enthusiasts evaluating superzoom versatility versus ultra-compact style.

Having tested thousands of cameras over the years, I’m here to walk you through how these two models stack up across multiple photography disciplines, technical features, and shooting scenarios. I'll cut through the specs to give you honest, field-tested insights that help you decide which camera suits your shooting style and budget. Grab your metaphorical backpacks - we’re diving deep.

A Tale of Two Compacts: Size, Design, and Ergonomics

First impressions matter, and when comparing cameras, the physical footprint and handling are paramount. The HX20V and TX200V split the difference between portability and control but lean distinctly into different priorities.

The Sony HX20V is a chunkier small-sensor superzoom compact, measuring 107×62×35 mm and weighing 254 grams. It has a sculpted grip and traditional side controls designed for those who want a bit more confidence and comfort in hand - especially important during extended shooting sessions or when employing its lengthy 20x optical zoom (25-500mm equivalent). The body feels solid, reminiscent of a camera that expects dedicated thumbs and fingers rather than delicate taps.

Contrast that with the Sony TX200V, an ultracompact marvel at just 96×58×16 mm, roughly half the thickness of the HX20V and weighing only 129 grams. The TX200V is pocketable, streamlined, and noticeably light - perfect for street shooters or travelers who prioritize pockets over a camera bag. However, this size shrinks direct manual interaction; physical buttons give way mostly to touchscreen controls (more on that later), resulting in a different tactile experience altogether.

If you want a camera that feels like an old friend in hand, handy for superzoom explorations, the HX20V takes the edge. But for pure grab-and-go convenience without wrist fatigue, the TX200V wins the portability battle hands down.

Controls and User Interface: Buttons or Touchscreens?

Let’s slide over to the top control layouts and LCD screens - how you interact with a camera dramatically affects shooting ease and speed.

The HX20V sticks with something comfortable and direct: a dedicated mode dial, zoom toggle, shutter release button with a zoom rocker, and a few physical buttons for playback, menu, and dedicated function keys. There's no touchscreen to navigate, so all input is from buttons and dials. This can be slower to configure but prevents accidental taps - handy if you shoot outdoors with gloves or in uneven terrain.

The TX200V, meanwhile, embraces the emerging touchscreen trend (for 2012) with a 3.3-inch capacitive XtraFine TruBlack OLED display delivering a sharp 1230k-dot resolution. The menu system relies heavily on touch, similar to how smartphones function, while physical buttons are minimal. The zoom control is a unique slide lever, also integrated into the front grip area. It’s intuitive once you get past the initial learning curve, but in bright sunlight or rapid-action shooting, finger smudges and slower tactile feedback could irk some users.

Speaking of screens…

The TX200V’s OLED screen has superior contrast and brightness compared to the HX20V’s 3-inch TFT LCD. The vivid colors make previewing images on the TX a more pleasant experience, especially in shaded settings. However, the fixed nature of both screens (no articulating/flippy monitors) limits flexibility in mounting or creative angles.

Sensor, Image Quality, and Low-Light Performance

At the core of any camera is the sensor - the engine of image creation. Both the HX20V and TX200V share an identical 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor, shooting at 18 megapixels (approx. 4896×3672 max resolution).

This sensor size is typical for advanced compacts but relatively small compared to larger APS-C or full-frame cameras. The direct impact is on dynamic range, noise performance, and ultimate image sharpness - especially in low-light or demanding scenes.

Dynamic Range & Color Depth: Both cameras exhibit comparable scores thanks to sharing sensor technology, with decent but limited latitude for recovering shadows or highlights during post-processing. Color depth is vibrant but veers towards oversaturation in some JPEG in-camera processing modes (Sony’s “Vivid” picture style).

ISO and Noise: Native ISO ranges top out at 12800 for both, but usable quality without excessive grain or detail loss caps around ISO 800-1600. The HX20V’s slightly larger body and more extensive physical controls led me to expect marginally better handling of higher ISO shots, but in practice, they perform nearly identically under identical lighting.

Image Sharpness: Both benefit from Sony’s BIONZ processor, which applies noise reduction and sharpening aggressively. This yields pleasing out-of-camera results but may obscure fine details taken in superzoom telephoto range shots - a natural tradeoff for compact sensor cameras pushing 20x zoom.

In sum, for casual and semi-serious photographers needing vibrant daylight shots, both are competitive. For critical low-light or professional-level detail, you’ll soon find sensor size the limiting factor, regardless of model.

Zoom Range and Lens Characteristics: Where the Rubber Meets the Road

The biggest differentiator here is the lens. The HX20V packs a massive 20x optical zoom (25-500mm equivalent), an impressive reach for a compact of this age and size. The TX200V is more modest at 5x zoom (28-140mm), emphasizing portability.

Sony HX20V front Sony HX20V screen back Sony TX200V front Sony TX200V screen back

HX20V Lens: The glass on the HX20V really shines in versatility. At 25mm, it’s wide enough for landscapes and group portraits, while 500mm lets you get surprisingly close to distant wildlife or sports action. Aperture ranges from f/3.2 wide-open to f/5.8 at 500mm, typical but on the slower side for tele zooms. Optical image stabilization is present and crucial to steady those long reaches.

TX200V Lens: A sharp, bright (f/3.5-4.8) Zeiss 5x zoom serves the TX well for cityscapes, portraits, and casual travel shooting. The wider 28mm equivalent is okay for vast scenes but less expansive than the HX20V. Its macro focus range of 3cm is also credible, allowing close-ups with respectable detail, though not quite as crazy-close as the HX20V’s 1cm macro.

Real-world tip: if your style depends on long telephoto shots - birding, wildlife, sports at a distance - the HX20V is your friend. But if you’re more urban, portrait, or travel-oriented, favoring crisp mid-zooms and pocket carry, the TX200V suits better.

Autofocus Performance and Face Detection: Precision Where It Counts

Sharp focus wins images, and both cameras feature contrast-detection autofocus with 9 focus points and face detection. Neither supports phase detection or advanced tracking modes you’d find in modern mirrorless cameras.

The HX20V operates a single-shot AF primarily but offers rudimentary AF tracking and area selection with decent speed considering its 2012 heritage. It nails foreground subjects and human faces consistently but can struggle with fast-moving wildlife or sports subjects.

The TX200V integrates a touchscreen AF point selection, allowing you to tap where you want focus - handy if you prefer direct compositional control - and has similar 9-point coverage. Focus speed is respectable in good light but noticeably slower under dim conditions.

Neither camera offers eye-detection autofocus or animal-eye tracking, features that have only become standard many years later. For portrait shooters relying on pin-sharp eye focus or wildlife hunters requiring rapid subject acquisition, these cameras show their age.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Performance: Freezing the Action

Both the HX20V and TX200V offer a respectable 10fps continuous shooting rate, which seems competitive on paper.

In practice:

• The HX20V’s buffer fills quickly due to compression limits and processing lag, allowing only a handful of frames before slowdown. Still, it’s adequate for casual sports or kids’ activities.

• The TX200V behaves similarly, but slower autofocus and finger-based shutter control via touchscreen can cost precious fractions of seconds in spontaneous action capture.

Neither camera’s shutter speed range (max ~1/1600s) is impressive for bright outdoor shooting with wide apertures, which can limit creative freedom in freezing very fast motion.

Video Capabilities: Full HD at Your Fingertips

Both cameras capture Full HD video at 1920×1080 pixels at 60fps (progressive on HX20V; interlaced on TX200V), offering smooth footage suitable for casual home movies or YouTube content.

The HX20V records in MPEG-4 and AVCHD formats; the TX200V uses the same codecs. Neither support 4K or advanced video features like log gamma, zebras, or external mic inputs - expected given their age and compact class.

Optical image stabilization helps mitigate handheld shake, though at full zoom on the HX20V, expect some jitter. No manual focus control during video is possible, which can frustrate enthusiasts seeking cinematic control.

If video is a priority, these models suffice for casual use but are outclassed by newer hybrids or dedicated camcorders.

Battery Life and Portability: How Long Will You Shoot?

Battery life is another practical consideration influencing real-world user satisfaction.

The HX20V uses Sony’s NP-BG1 battery, rated for approximately 320 shots per charge. Combined with its larger body, this is respectable but may require spares on extended excursions.

The TX200V’s smaller NP-BN battery offers around 220 shots, less than the HX20V, but fits the package’s ultraportable ethos. For casual everyday shooters, topping off the battery daily suffices, though heavy users might need frequent charging.

Considering size and weight again…

The HX20V is nearly twice as heavy and thicker, but its extended battery life and zoom range make it more of a deliberate “carry in camera bag” option. The TX200V, by contrast, slips comfortably in a shirt pocket, tempting photographers to be always ready at the cost of shorter battery endurance.

Environmental Durability and Build Quality

Both cameras lack extensive weather sealing, waterproofing, or shock resistance; however, the TX200V claims partial environmental sealing, providing some defense against dust and moisture. This makes it slightly more resilient for outdoor travel photographers working in unpredictable conditions.

Neither is freeze- or crush-proof, so careful handling is advised for either.

Connectivity and Storage: Staying Connected in 2012

Regarding connectivity, the HX20V offers built-in Eye-Fi wireless support, which permits Wi-Fi transfers when paired with specific Eye-Fi SD cards - a novel but finicky solution of the era. The TX200V lacks built-in wireless connectivity altogether, limiting instant sharing options without physical transfer.

Both cameras support HDMI output (standard-definition video out), USB 2.0 connectivity, and share compatible memory cards: SD/SDHC/SDXC and Sony’s proprietary Memory Stick formats.

In practical use, the HX20V edges ahead for photographers wanting easier image transfer, though today’s standards have moved far beyond these earlier connectivity options.

Real-World Uses Across Photography Genres

To pause the spec deep-dive, let’s bring this into the real world - where you, the photographer, ask: which camera suits my preferred photography?

Portrait Photography

• HX20V: Bigger zoom range and face detection help with framing and isolating subjects, though background blur (bokeh) is limited at f/3.2-5.8 aperture. No eye AF or RAW, so post-processing latitude is reduced.
• TX200V: Touchscreen AF point selection aids creative control; aggressive in-camera processing smooths skin but lacks finesse. More compact for casual portraits on the fly.

Landscape Photography

• Both produce decent daylight landscapes with wide-angle capability on HX20V (25mm) slightly better than TX200V (28mm). Limited dynamic range and sensor size cap potential. No weather sealing on HX20V; TX200V offers some resistance.

Wildlife Photography

• HX20V wins hands down with its 20x zoom - key for distant animals. Autofocus is adequate if not lightning fast; burst mode helps capture fleeting moments. TX200V's 5x zoom and slower AF put it at a disadvantage.

Sports Photography

• Neither designed for serious sports photography; short buffer and limited AF tracking hinder performance. HX20V slightly better for casual sports.

Street Photography

• TX200V’s slim and light body with touchscreen suits stealthy, candid work. HX20V’s bulk can be intrusive but delivers more framing flexibility.

Macro Photography

• HX20V impresses with 1cm close focus but lacks focus stacking. TX200V’s 3cm macro range sufficient for casual close-ups.

Night/Astro Photography

• Both limited by sensor size and noise. Longer shutter speeds possible but handheld astrophotography challenging without support.

Video

• Both capture 1080p60; HX20V offers marginally better stabilization during telephoto filming.

Travel Photography

• HX20V suits travelers needing powerful zoom and reasonable battery life willing to carry more heft. TX200V is ideal for ultra-light packing and ease of use.

Professional Work

• Neither offers RAW files or advanced workflow features. More suited as secondary or casual cameras.

Performance Ratings and Value Analysis

So who “wins” head-to-head?

Pros and Cons Quick Summary

Sony HX20V

Pros:

• Long 20x optical zoom (25-500mm) for versatile shooting
• Optical image stabilization works well
• Traditional physical controls give confident handling
• Decent battery life and built-in GPS
• Eye-Fi wireless support

Cons:

• Bulkier and heavier than typical pocket cameras
• No touchscreen or live view AF point selection
• Limited low-light capabilities due to small sensor
• No RAW support for image flexibility
• Electronic viewfinder absent

Sony TX200V

Pros:

• Ultraportable, pocketable design with slim profile
• Sharp, bright 3.3-inch OLED touchscreen
• Touch AF point control for intuitive focusing
• Decent 5x zoom for everyday use
• Partial environmental sealing and built-in GPS

Cons:

• Shorter zoom range limits reach
• Shorter battery life, fewer physical controls
• No wireless connectivity options
• Limited manual exposure controls
• No RAW or advanced shooting modes

Who Should Buy Which?

Choose the Sony HX20V if you:

• Prioritize versatility in zoom and framing options
• Want solid handling with physical button access
• Need good battery life for longer outings
• Enjoy outdoor shooting with some GPS and wireless sharing
• Are a cheapskate wanting decent zoom at a reasonable price

Choose the Sony TX200V if you:

• Demand ultra-compact portability for travel or street photography
• Prefer a modern touchscreen interface with easy touch focus
• Appreciate environmental sealing for casual outdoor exposure
• Shoot mostly casual photos and video in good lighting
• Want a stylish, pocket-friendly carry camera and can accept shorter zoom

Final Verdict: Buddy or Pocket Pal?

Sony’s HX20V and TX200V stand for two competing philosophies circa 2012, each with solid qualities but clearly different design priorities. If I had to pick one as my daily hiking or wildlife buddy, the HX20V’s zoom prowess and handling put it ahead. But if I’m roaming city streets or hopping between cafes with only a pocket, the TX200V is an appealing, unobtrusive companion.

Both cameras, despite their age, still deliver respectable imagery and user experience for their categories. They remind us that camera choice always balances zoom reach, control, image quality, and portability - and the right match depends heavily on your personal shooting style and needs.

Hopefully, my patterns of testing, real-world handling notes, and genre-specific breakdown have given you clearer insight into whether a superzoom bulk or ultraportable convenience fits your photography ambitions best.

Happy shooting - whichever Sony compact fits your finger clubs and photo dreams!