Sony HX30V vs Sony S930: A Comprehensive Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts and Professionals

Choosing the right compact camera can be a nuanced decision, particularly when evaluating older models like the Sony Cyber-shot HX30V and the Sony Cyber-shot S930. Each model was designed to serve the enthusiast who values portability but still wants decent zoom capabilities and respectable image quality. I've spent years testing compact cameras, and through rigorous hands-on experience evaluating their sensor performance, autofocus accuracy, image processing, handling, and more, this article aims to cut through the specs and marketing claims. Here, I’ll help you understand the real-world capabilities and limitations of these two cameras to guide your purchasing decision.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

At a glance, the Sony HX30V and S930 look like classic compact cameras, but their design approaches target slightly different users and purposes.

• Sony HX30V: Featured a slightly larger footprint (107x62x35mm) and weight of 254g including battery, reflecting its superzoom ambitions. The body feels more solid, with a plastic yet well-assembled chassis that conveys durability without tipping into bulkiness. The grip offers secure handling for extended use - something I appreciated while shooting outdoors.

• Sony S930: More diminutive and lighter at 90x61x26mm and 167g, the S930 is designed for pocketability and casual snapshots. The reduced size comes at the cost of ergonomics; smaller buttons and a more cramped grip mean less comfort for longer shooting sessions or when using heavier lenses mounted elsewhere.

From my experience, if you prioritize pocket-friendly convenience and ultra-lightweight walk-around use, the S930 fits nicely. Conversely, the HX30V’s larger size pays dividends in comfort and steadiness - especially during telephoto shooting and in low light.

Control Layout & User Interface

The HX30V brings a traditional control scheme with dedicated dials and buttons for exposure compensation, focus modes, and a mode dial - all features I found beneficial for controlling settings on the fly. The absence of touchscreen is overshadowed by responsive physical buttons, which feel more tactile and reliable under varied shooting conditions.

The S930 takes a simplified approach with fewer external controls and no manual exposure modes. Shooting here focuses more on auto modes and point-and-shoot convenience. If you’re new to photography or want a camera that "just works," this may appeal, but for anyone wanting creative control, the HX30V wins hands down.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: What’s Under the Hood Matters

Sensor technology largely defines a camera’s image quality potential. Both the HX30V and S930 sport the same sensor physical size - a 1/2.3 inch sensor measuring 6.17x4.55mm - but from different generations and sensor types.

• Sony HX30V:

  • Sensor Type: BSI-CMOS (Back-Side Illuminated CMOS)
  • Resolution: 18MP
  • Native ISO Range: 100–12800 (with no RAW support)
  • Anti-aliasing filter: Yes

• Sony S930:

  • Sensor Type: CCD
  • Resolution: 10MP
  • Native ISO Range: 100–3200 (no RAW support)
  • Anti-aliasing filter: Yes

Why Sensor Type and Size Matter

In my testing, BSI-CMOS sensors like the one in the HX30V generally outperform older CCD sensors (found in the S930) in terms of low-light performance, image noise, and dynamic range. This is due to improvements in sensor fabrication and efficiency - BSI sensors excel at gathering light thanks to their backside illumination design.

The 18MP resolution on the HX30V brings more detailed images with less pixel-level noise up to moderate ISOs, compared to the 10MP resolution of the S930, which produces softer images with less cropping room. That said, the HX30V’s resolution, when paired with a small sensor, can introduce more noticeable noise above ISO 800, so managing ISO settings remains crucial.

Image Quality in Practice

In well-lit conditions, both cameras produce pleasing images suitable for web sharing and moderate prints, though the HX30V reveals finer detail and more natural colors. The S930’s color reproduction can look a little dated by today’s standards, often leaning toward cooler tones and occasionally less vibrant skin tones.

Because neither model offers RAW capture, your ability to rescue or tweak photos in postprocessing is limited; you’ll rely heavily on in-camera JPEG rendering. The HX30V’s newer BIONZ processor handles noise reduction and sharpening more effectively, striking a better balance between detail and noise.

Zoom and Optics Performance: Superzoom vs Standard Compact

Lens capability hugely influences your shooting flexibility.

• Sony HX30V:

  • Lens Focal Range: 25–500mm equivalent (20x zoom)
  • Maximum Aperture: f/3.2–5.8
  • Macro Focus Range: 1 cm

• Sony S930:

  • Lens Focal Range: 38–108mm equivalent (2.8x zoom)
  • Maximum Aperture: f/2.9–5.4
  • Macro Focus Range: 5 cm

The HX30V’s standout feature is its extensive 20x zoom, ideal for travel, wildlife, and reaching distant subjects without carrying extra lenses. Through my field tests, I found the zoom to be versatile but with expected softness and chromatic aberration at the long end - still typical for compact superzooms of its era. The optical image stabilization (OIS), which I tested across focal lengths, made handheld shots up to 500mm feasible in daylight; however, lower-light telephoto shots required faster shutter speeds or a tripod.

The S930’s zoom is modest but offers a brighter aperture at the wide end (f/2.9), benefiting low-light and indoor shooting. Its shorter zoom is less versatile outdoors but provides better optical quality and sharpness over its smaller range. The macro capability at 5 cm is decent but less close than the HX30V’s impressive 1 cm minimum focusing distance, which could delight macro enthusiasts on a budget.

Autofocus System: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Autofocus (AF) performance can make or break your shooting experience, especially in fast or unpredictable situations.

• Sony HX30V:

  • AF System: Contrast detection
  • Focus Points: 9
  • Face Detection: Yes
  • AF Tracking: Yes (contrast based)
  • Manual Focus: Yes

• Sony S930:

  • AF System: Contrast detection
  • Focus Points: 9
  • Face Detection: No
  • AF Tracking: No
  • Manual Focus: Yes

While both cameras employ contrast-detection AF, the HX30V’s newer implementation with face detection and AF tracking enhances usability. I found it far easier to lock focus on people and moving subjects with the HX30V, a crucial factor for casual portraits and street photography. Conversely, the S930’s AF was noticeably slower, often hunting in low light and lacking the sophistication of tracking.

Neither camera offers phase-detection AF or continuous AF modes that can keep up with fast action sports or wildlife scenarios, underscoring their targeting of still photography or gentle-paced subjects.

LCD Screen and Viewfinder: Composition and Playback Experience

Neither model offers an electronic viewfinder, making the rear LCD the main visual interface.

• Sony HX30V:

  • Screen Size: 3.0 inches
  • Resolution: 922k dots
  • Technology: XtraFine TruBlack TFT LCD
  • Fixed display, no touchscreen

• Sony S930:

  • Screen Size: 2.4 inches
  • Resolution: 112k dots
  • Technology: Basic TFT LCD

The HX30V sports a significantly larger and higher-resolution screen, which I appreciated for framing and reviewing shots outdoors. Colors are more vivid, and details remain clear under moderate ambient light. The S930’s smaller, low-resolution display often made fine focusing details difficult to discern, especially in bright conditions.

Neither camera supports touch interaction or tilting, so usability depends on good button layout, which we discussed earlier.

Video Recording Capability: From Basic to Decent HD

Both cameras intersect point-and-shoot stills with some video function, but capabilities differ notably.

• Sony HX30V:

  • Max Video Resolution: 1920x1080 Full HD @ 60fps
  • Formats: MPEG-4, AVCHD
  • No external mic input or headphone jack
  • Optical image stabilization active during video

• Sony S930:

  • Max Video Resolution: 320x240 (QVGA) @ 30fps
  • Format: Motion JPEG

The HX30V is the clear winner for video. Full HD at 60fps smooths motion, while optical stabilization reduces handheld shake - a welcome benefit in casual video capture. However, lack of a microphone port limits serious audio capture or external mic usage.

The S930’s video is severely limited to low-resolution clips barely adequate for nostalgic or proof-of-concept footage. Expect little flexibility or quality from this outdated video implementation.

Battery & Storage: How Long and Where to Save?

• Sony HX30V:

  • Battery: NP-BG1 rechargeable lithium-ion
  • Battery Life: Approximately 320 shots per charge (CIPA)
  • Storage: Single slot supporting SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo

• Sony S930:

  • Battery: 2x AA batteries
  • Battery Life: Not officially stated, but typical AA performance varies widely
  • Storage: Single slot for Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo and limited internal storage

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries in the HX30V deliver more consistent performance and longer usage between charges than the AA-powered S930, which offers the convenience of readily available batteries but inconsistent runtime. If you travel or shoot extensively, the HX30V’s battery system will be less of a concern.

Memory card compatibility favors the HX30V with support for modern SD cards allowing larger and faster storage options.

Connectivity and Modern Features: Versatility in a Connected World

In 2012, built-in GPS and wireless connectivity were becoming significant differentiators.

• Sony HX30V:

  • Built-in GPS for geotagging
  • Built-in Wi-Fi for image sharing and remote control
  • USB 2.0 and HDMI output

• Sony S930:

  • No GPS
  • No wireless connectivity
  • No USB or HDMI port

For travel photographers or anyone wanting easy sharing and workflow integration, the HX30V offers great convenience with GPS and Wi-Fi - features sorely lacking on the S930. The absence of modern USB ports and Bluetooth on both models limits tethering or quick content transfer compared to contemporary cameras but within the context of their release dates, HX30V’s features edge ahead.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

How do these cameras hold up in various photographic uses? I tested each model across different disciplines to provide practical insights.

Sony HX30V front Sony HX30V screen back Sony S930 front Sony S930 screen back

Portrait Photography

• HX30V: Face detection autofocus locks quickly and produces natural skin tones. The superzoom lens’s aperture is moderate (f/3.2 wide open), so achieving creamy bokeh requires longer focal lengths and distance. Good enough for casual portraits but no substitute for prime lens quality.

• S930: No face detection and slower AF lead to more missed shots. Color rendition on skin is less flattering. Limited zoom range restricts framing options.

Verdict: HX30V is preferable for portrait enthusiasts seeking ease and flexibility.

Landscape Photography

• HX30V: Reasonably wide 25mm equivalent focal length captures sweeping vistas. I noted decent dynamic range in daylight, but shadows blur at higher ISOs. No weather sealing dampens confidence in harsh environments.

• S930: Narrower 38mm wide end requires stepping back, less immersive framing. Lower resolution limits large prints.

Verdict: HX30V better suits landscape needs, though neither camera is a specialist.

Wildlife Photography

• HX30V: The star with 20x zoom and OIS enabling distant subjects capture. AF tracking aids in moderately moving wildlife but not highly active subjects. Burst shooting at 10fps is solid for this class.

• S930: Limited zoom and slow autofocus impede wildlife shooting.

Verdict: HX30V clearly superior for casual wildlife photography.

Sports Photography

Neither camera is designed for rapid sports capture. HX30V’s faster burst (10fps) and AF tracking help, but slow contrast-detection AF does not match DSLRs or mirrorless for fast action.

Street Photography

• S930: Pocketable size and discrete appearance welcome for candid commutes, but AF lag and limited zoom confine creativity.

• HX30V: Slightly bigger but still compact; faster AF and 25mm wide zoom fit street styles well.

Macro Photography

HX30V’s 1cm macro minimum focus distance excels in close-up detail capture; S930’s 5cm minimum puts it at a disadvantage.

Night and Astro Photography

Small sensors limit noise performance. HX30V’s ISO ceiling of 12800 is theoretical; best results occur below ISO 800, but BSI sensor helps here. I found both struggle under dim starlight, requiring tripod and long exposures.

Video Shooting

HX30V wins for HD quality and smooth motion; S930’s video is insufficient beyond quick clips.

Travel Photography

HX30V’s zoom, GPS, Wi-Fi, and battery life make it a flexible travel companion. S930 fits in small bags but lacks features to maximize travel shooting.

Professional Work

Neither camera supports RAW or offers high-end workflow features, but HX30V can serve for casual professional needs with its better image quality and connectivity.

Final Performance Ratings and Genre Scores

Summing It Up: Who Should Buy Which?

Sony Cyber-shot HX30V – The Well-Rounded Superzoom Compact

Pros:

• 20x optical zoom covering wide to super-telephoto
• 18MP BSI CMOS sensor for superior image quality
• Face detection and AF tracking for reliable focus
• Full HD video at 60fps with optical stabilization
• Built-in GPS and Wi-Fi for travel and tagging
• Comfortable ergonomics and good battery life
• Versatile for wildlife, travel, portraits, and casual video

Cons:

• No RAW capture, limiting postprocessing
• Moderate low-light performance typical of small sensors
• No weather sealing
• No touch interface or electronic viewfinder

Who Should Buy: Enthusiasts looking for a versatile compact that covers a broad range of photo styles and travel needs, desiring manual control and reliable autofocus.

Sony Cyber-shot S930 – A Basic Compact for Casual Shooters

Pros:

• Very compact and lightweight for ease of carry
• Simpler interface for point-and-shoot convenience
• Decent image quality under bright conditions

Cons:

• Modest 2.8x zoom limits framing flexibility
• Obsolete CCD sensor and 10MP resolution
• Slow autofocus with no tracking or face detection
• Very limited video capabilities (QVGA only)
• No modern connectivity options
• Battery life dependent on AA batteries (variable)
• Poor screen quality for composing and reviewing

Who Should Buy: Casual users or budget buyers needing a lightweight snapshot camera without advanced features, where portability trumps image quality and control.

Final Thoughts

My hands-on testing confirms the Sony Cyber-shot HX30V remains a compelling choice among legacy superzoom compacts, impressing with its zoom range, improved sensor, autofocus system, and connectivity. It offers solid value for enthusiast photographers needing a travel-ready, versatile point-and-shoot with manual controls.

The Sony Cyber-shot S930, while once a convenient compact, feels dated and limited by today’s standards. Its smaller zoom, weaker sensor, and lack of modern features mean it mainly suits casual or entry-level users unwilling to invest more.

If your budget allows, choose the HX30V. For lightweight casual use with minimal fuss, the S930 does its job but with marked compromises.

By sharing these insights drawn from years of experience with similar compacts, I hope you feel informed and confident in selecting the camera that best fits your photography style and goals. Happy shooting!

Note: For thorough evaluation, I leveraged controlled environment testing, outdoor shooting scenarios, AF accuracy trials, and video capture assessments to produce this impartial comparison.