Sony HX350 vs Sony HX400V: An In-Depth Technical Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

Selecting a bridge camera with a superzoom lens from Sony’s well-regarded Cyber-shot line involves dissecting nuanced technological details and practical usability first-hand; particularly between the Sony HX350 and Sony HX400V. Both cameras cater to users desiring versatile focal ranges wrapped in compact, SLR-like form factors, but diverge on sensor performance nuances, autofocus capabilities, connectivity, and feature sets.

Drawing from extensive personal evaluation of these models alongside cross-referencing industry standard tests and use-case scenarios, this analysis elucidates distinctions grounded in real-world operational experience. Photography professionals and serious enthusiasts will find critical insights for informed decision-making adapted specifically for their discipline and budget considerations.

Form Factor and Handling: Ergonomics Under the Microscope

At first glance, the Sony HX350 and HX400V exhibit near identical physical dimensions, each adopting a robust SLR-style bridge design that facilitates comfort during extended handheld shooting sessions.

Detailed Dimensions and Weight

• HX350: 130 × 93 × 103 mm, 652 g
• HX400V: 130 × 93 × 103 mm, 660 g

The marginal weight difference favors the HX350 slightly, potentially benefiting prolonged outdoor use. Both employ textured grips that provide firm handling security, but neither extensively tailors to larger hands, meaning users with larger palms may find the grip modestly undersized.

Control Layout and Interface Accessibility

Examining the top-panel controls reveals minor distinctions worth noting:

• Both feature dedicated dials for shutter speed and exposure compensation, affording quick manual adjustments.
• The HX400V incorporates a customizable function button and enhanced flash mode switch with wireless flash control capabilities, absent on the HX350.
• Both employ tilting (non-touch) 3-inch LCD screens, but the HX400V’s interface benefits from a slightly more refined menu system, facilitating easier navigation despite the similar resolution (~922k dots).

In sustained practice, the HX400V's slightly expanded control customization caters better to advanced users despite small incremental complexity for beginners.

Sensor Characteristics and Image Quality Potential

At their heart, both models utilize a 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor measuring 6.17 × 4.55 mm with approximately 20 megapixels resolution:

• Sensor Resolution: HX350 (20.4 MP, max res 5184 × 3456), HX400V (20.4 MP max res 5184 × 3888)
• Native ISO Range: HX350 (80-3200), HX400V (80-12800)

Sensor Technology and Processing

Both feature Sony’s proven BIONZ X processor, delivering similar baseline image processing capabilities such as noise reduction and detail recovery. However, the HX400V supports higher ISO sensitivity up to 12800, theoretically allowing better performance in low-light albeit with expected increased noise at upper limits.

In practical shooting scenarios with controlled daylight conditions, both cameras render images with moderate detail, but the inherent limitations of the small sensor size introduce noise and limited dynamic range when pushed beyond ISO 800-1600.

Color Science and Exposure Latitude

Neither camera supports raw file output - a notable constraint for professional workflow flexibility. JPEG files remain the sole capture format, with the HX400V offering slightly more adjustable custom white balance settings and white balance bracketing.

While color reproduction remains generally satisfactory for casual usage, the limited dynamic range and lack of raw inhibit post-processing flexibility essential to professional image refinement.

Autofocus Systems: A Deliberate Comparison

Sharpness and focus accuracy are paramount, especially given the demanding 50x zoom range offered by these bridge cameras.

Autofocus Modes and Points

• HX350: Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF) with face detection, continuous autofocus, and selective AF but does not support tracking AF.
• HX400V: Also employs CDAF but adds AF tracking and has 9 focus points; continuous AF is not supported.

Practical Focus Performance Evaluation

The HX400V’s inclusion of autofocus tracking presents tangible advantages for subjects in motion, commonly encountered in wildlife and sports photography. However, in real-world usage, neither camera approaches the speed or precision of dedicated DSLR phase-detection systems.

The HX350’s continuous AF mode can better maintain focus on static or slow-moving subjects. The absence of continuous tracking on HX400V limits its practical utility in fast-paced scenarios, although its selective AF with tracking offers additional flexibility over the HX350.

Lens and Zoom Functionality: Identical Twins?

Both cameras boast an identical fixed lens with a 24-1200 mm (35mm equivalent) focal length and aperture range of f/2.8–6.3.

Versatility of Superzoom

The 50x optical zoom is beneficial for travel, wildlife, and landscape photography requiring extensive reach without carrying interchangeable lenses.

• Macro focus range is equally tight on both at 1 cm, enabling detailed close-up work.
• Optical image stabilization (OIS) is present in both, critical for handholding at telephoto lengths, especially in low-light or slower shutter speeds.

The similarity of lens characteristics means users selecting either model will experience comparable framing flexibility and creative control potential.

Display and Viewfinder: Framing and Feedback

Both cameras integrate 3-inch tilting LCD screens and electronic viewfinders (EVF), essential for composing in bright sunlight and various shooting angles.

• The HX350’s EVF resolution is rated at 202k dots, and the HX400V does not specify EVF resolution but is widely regarded to have a similar quality.
• Neither model features touchscreen capability, reducing interactive convenience but potentially benefiting power efficiency and durability.
• The tilting screen facilitates creative low- and high-angle framing but is limited to vertical tilt without full articulation or touch control.

Combined, these components supply adequate composition tools but fall short of the clarity and responsiveness offered by newer mirrorless systems that emphasize high-resolution EVFs and touch-sensitive controls.

Video Capability: For Casual and Semi-Pro Use

Both cameras provide Full HD (1920 × 1080) recording but with operational differences:

• HX350: Offers 10 fps continuous shooting and Full HD video in AVCHD and MPEG-4 formats, without an external microphone port.
• HX400V: Includes similar video resolution options but provides microphone input support, unlocking enhanced audio recording quality for content creators.

Neither supports 4K video or advanced stabilizations modes beyond optical lens stabilization, positioning them chiefly as stills-focused devices with competent but basic video functionality.

Connectivity and Additional Features: Wireless and GPS

Significant gulf exists favoring the HX400V for connected applications:

• HX350: No built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, or GPS.
• HX400V: Incorporates built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for streamlined smartphone pairing and image sharing, plus integrated GPS for geotagging.

For travel and outdoor enthusiasts valuing connectivity and location tracking, the HX400V presents more modern conveniences. The HX350 remains reliant on wired USB and HDMI connections for data transfer.

Battery Life and Storage: Operational Endurance

Both cameras utilize rechargeable battery packs delivering approximately 300 shots per charge under CIPA standards, translating to modest endurance suitable for day outings sans battery swaps.

Storage compatibility includes SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with the HX400V also supporting Memory Stick Duo variants, offering slightly broader compatibility but generally unnecessary as SD cards dominate the market.

Durability and Environmental Resistance

Neither camera offers weather sealing or ruggedized construction. Both are vulnerable to dust and moisture ingress, limiting their use in harsh environments unless supplemented by additional protective measures.

Practical Performance across Key Photography Genres

Delving deeper, it is instructive to evaluate each camera’s efficacy across major photography disciplines:

Portrait Photography

• With no raw support and limited dynamic range, achieving studio-grade skin tones and nuanced exposure control requires careful lighting.
• Both include face detection; however, neither supports eye tracking autofocus, impairing optimal sharpness on portraits with very shallow depth of field.
• The HX400V's more refined white balance controls and flash flexibility lend it an edge in controlled portrait environments.

Landscape Photography

• Both cameras offer moderately high resolution at 20 MP, but the 1/2.3-inch sensor limits fine detail and shadow recovery under demanding light contrasts.
• The expansive 24 mm wide angle is useful but not ultra-wide, constraining composition options.
• Lack of weather sealing hinders outdoor reliability in adverse conditions.
• Optical stabilization aids handheld shooting but prioritizing tripod use yields better results for landscapes.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• The 50x zoom at 1200 mm equivalents is a key strength, enabling distant subject capture.
• The HX400V’s AF tracking supports moving subjects better, but slow continuous shooting (10 fps max) and contrast detection autofocus limit fast action responsiveness.
• Neither camera rivals specialized professional systems in focusing speed or accuracy under dynamic scenarios.

Street Photography

• The cameras’ significant size and weight detract from street photography’s characteristic spontaneity and discretion.
• Absence of silent shutter and relatively slow autofocus may disrupt candid moments.
• Tilting screens aid composition flexibility, though lack of touchscreen slows operation.

Macro Photography

• Close focusing to 1 cm combined with 50x zoom versatility enables unique macro compositions.
• Optical stabilization and manual focus assist precise control.
• Focus peaking or magnification aids are absent, which may challenge users needing extreme precision.

Night and Astronomical Photography

• Max ISO 3200 (HX350) and 12800 (HX400V) offer moderate low-light capabilities, but sensor noise strongly increases at higher sensitivities.
• No long exposure bulb modes or astrophotography-specific settings limit performance.
• Image stabilization helps handheld night shots but cannot replace tripod stability for long exposures.

Video Workflows

• Full HD capture with codec choices (AVCHD and MPEG-4) suit casual videographers.
• The HX400V’s microphone port enables better audio capture, important in semi-professional video projects.
• Lack of 4K and advanced video encoding diminish appeal to videographers requiring ultra-high resolution and professional-grade footage.

Travel Photography

• Both cameras’ light weight and versatile zoom are assets.
• The HX400V excels with integrated GPS and wireless sharing.
• Battery life is adequate for day trips but carrying spares is advisable.
• Compact bridge form factors streamline packing compared to interchangeable lens systems.

Professional Applications

• Limitations in sensor size, lack of raw output, modest autofocus, and absence of environmental sealing preclude usage as a primary professional tool.
• They serve well as secondary cameras for casual documentation or travel shoots.

Image Quality Gallery: Real-World Photographic Output

Sony HX350 front Sony HX350 screen back Sony HX400V front Sony HX400V screen back

Test images reveal both cameras produce vibrant JPEGs with expected bridge camera noise and detail compromises at telephoto focal lengths and higher ISO settings. The HX400V’s images show marginally better color fidelity in some lighting due to enhanced white balance control, but differences are subtle.

Performance Ratings and Expert Scores

Combining technical metrics and hands-on assessment:

• Both cameras yield moderate scores reflecting their position as versatile bridge cameras suited to hobbyists.
• The HX400V generally rates higher on features and connectivity while the HX350 attains marginally better ergonomics.

Genre-Specific Strengths and Weaknesses Snapshot

• Portraits: Moderate performance with HX400V favored for flash options.
• Landscape: Comparable but limited by sensor size; neither excels in dynamic range.
• Wildlife/Sports: HX400V’s autofocus tracking provides an edge, but burst rate and autofocus speed are limiting.
• Street: Both suboptimal due to size and noise, no clear winner.
• Macro: Equivalent macro range and stabilization support.
• Night/Astro: Neither designed for long exposure astrophotography workflows.
• Video: HX400V leads due to mic input and wireless connectivity.
• Travel: HX400V offers better wireless and GPS convenience.
• Professional Use: Both fall short of professional standards.

Final Evaluation and Recommendations

Who Should Choose the Sony HX350?

The HX350 is appropriate for users prioritizing:

• Slightly lighter ergonomics with intuitive manual controls.
• Solid superzoom performance without wireless connectivity needs.
• An affordable entry point into 50x superzoom bridge cameras.
• Daytime outdoor photography without requirement for advanced AF features or GPS.

Its shortcomings in connectivity and autofocus trackability will not impair casual shooting but may frustrate users with evolving technical demands.

Who Should Opt for the Sony HX400V?

The HX400V suits those who:

• Require integrated GPS and wireless image sharing.
• Value enhanced manual flash control and microphone input for video.
• Need autofocus tracking despite continuous AF constraints.
• Desire more comprehensive exposure and white balance bracketing.
• Are willing to trade slight weight increase and complexity for feature gains.

It is arguably the better all-rounder for advanced enthusiasts valuing connectivity and expanded creative options alongside extensive zoom reach.

Summary

In conclusion, the Sony HX350 and HX400V represent well-engineered, small-sensor superzoom bridge cameras designed for versatile photography. Their underlying sensor and optics deliver similarly acceptable image quality, but diverge on autofocus functionality, connectivity, and video enhancements. Neither is positioned as a professional flagship device but rather as capable, budget-conscious tools for hobbyists and enthusiasts.

Choosing between these cameras thus centers on the importance of wireless features, autofocus sophistication, and video utility weighed against weight and simplicity. Both remain viable options for specific use-cases, and understanding their strengths and limitations ensures an informed purchase aligned to your photographic priorities.

For reference and further comparison, please consult the detailed image assets integrated throughout this review section to verify the comparative evaluation visually and technically.