Sony HX80 vs Sony HX99: A Hands-On Comparison of Compact Superzoom Powerhouses

In the compact superzoom category, Sony has long been a key player, offering photographers a blend of pocketable size with impressively versatile zoom ranges. Two models that epitomize this approach are the Sony HX80, introduced in early 2016, and its successor, the Sony HX99 from late 2018. At first glance, both share the hallmarks of a high-zoom travel companion: 30x optical zoom, a 1/2.3" stacked CMOS sensor, and a compact body designed to slip into your pocket. But as they say, the devil is in the details - and in this article, I will walk you through precisely where the HX80 and HX99 differ in practice, what each camera brings to the table, and which might be the right fit depending on your photography style and needs.

Over the years, I’ve taken these cameras on nature hikes, urban walks, family events, and even quick wildlife outings, testing their capabilities under all sorts of lighting and conditions to gauge real-world performance beyond spec sheets. Let’s dive deep but keep things accessible, layering technical insights atop practical experience, so you walk away informed and ready to decide.

Size, Handling, and Ergonomics - Pocketability with a Purpose

When it comes to travel-friendly zoom cameras, how a camera feels in your hands - and your pockets - can be a dealbreaker. Both the HX80 and HX99 share remarkably similar physical dimensions: 102 x 58 x 36 mm, and weigh roughly 245 grams (HX80) and 242 grams (HX99) respectively. This almost negligible weight difference means both slip comfortably into coat or cargo pants pockets without complaint.

The build quality between the two models feels comparable, composed predominantly of plastic with a matte finish that resists fingerprints reasonably well. Neither camera offers weather sealing, so caution in inclement weather is a given for both.

The grip, although modest, provides sufficient stability when holding at long focal lengths. I noticed the HX99’s slightly updated shutter and zoom controls feel marginally more refined under the finger, but the difference is subtle. Both cameras feature the handy tilting 3-inch LCD screen, which we’ll explore further in its own right.

In day-to-day use around my neighborhood or on bustling city streets, both cameras’ size and weight made them unobtrusive companions - definitely not the “bulk” that often deters casual shooters from carrying bigger superzooms.

Design and Control Layout - Subtle Refinements with the HX99

Examining the top view shows a near-identical placement of control dials and buttons, yet the HX99 benefits from some small but meaningful tweaks, making for slightly faster operation in the field.

On both cameras, the mode dial sits to the right of the shutter button, offering standard PASM modes plus intelligent auto and scene presets, catering well to beginners and enthusiasts alike. The HX99 adds touchscreen functionality to the rear LCD, whereas the HX80 relies purely on physical buttons. This addition, as trivial as it seems, opens up a world of faster AF point selection and menu navigation, which serious shooters will appreciate.

Neither camera offers customizable buttons or illuminated controls, which mildly limits quick access customization during shoots, but this is typical in the compact superzoom segment where simplicity is prioritized.

Overall, users familiar with Sony’s earlier compact superzoom designs will feel immediately at home with both cameras, but the HX99’s incremental ergonomic polish and modern interface edge give it the nod here.

Sensor and Image Quality - The Heart of the Matter

At the core of both cameras lies a 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor capturing 18 megapixels. Physically identical sensor dimensions (6.17 x 4.55 mm) and identical maximum image resolution of 4896 x 3672 pixels place both cameras in the typical compact zoom category in terms of underlying imaging hardware.

Despite this hardware similarity, the more recent HX99 provides some technological advantages. Unlike the HX80, which is limited to JPEG-only capture, the HX99 introduces RAW shooting - a significant boon for enthusiasts and pros wanting more latitude in post-processing.

ISO sensitivity ratings differ notably. The HX80 tops out at native ISO 3200, while the HX99 extends native ISO to 12800, a jump that suggests improved signal processing, allowing better low-light capture. This is corroborated in my field tests - noise levels and detail retention at higher ISOs are perceptibly cleaner on the HX99, a critical factor for night photography or shadowed venues.

Both sensors feature an anti-aliasing filter, which slightly softens images to prevent moiré patterns but can marginally reduce sharpness. Neither camera offers sensor-shift stabilization (unsurprisingly in such models), leaning instead on optical stabilization through the lens.

Summarizing, while the fundamental sensor remains similar, the HX99’s improved image processing pipeline and RAW file support present a clear advantage for image quality, especially under challenging lighting.

Autofocus and Performance - Speed and Accuracy in the Field

Focusing systems on these compact zooms use contrast-detection autofocus across all focus modes. Neither camera sports phase detection points, which we typically see in larger mirrorless or DSLR bodies.

Both cameras offer single, continuous, tracking, and face-detection AF modes. The HX99 adds touch AF via its touchscreen - a marked convenience. During practical shooting sessions, autofocus speed was comparable, with both models locking onto static subjects briskly. However, moving subjects, particularly under lower light, exposed the limits of contrast detection; hunting was sometimes noticeable, especially at the telephoto end.

Tracking moving wildlife or sports subjects felt challenging on both cameras compared to larger-sensor, phase-detect equipped models. But for casual birdwatching or street shooting where sudden action is less pivotal, they hold their own.

Continuous shooting maxes out at 10 frames per second on both, a respectable speed given the sensor and processor limitations. In practice, this rate suffices for most everyday action capture, though buffer depths limit long bursts.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities - Versatile Reach for Every Occasion

Sony equips both cameras with the same 24–720mm equivalent lens (30x optical zoom) sporting a variable aperture range of f/3.5–6.4. This focal length covers wide-angle landscapes at 24mm, sweeping telephoto reach for distant wildlife or sports subjects, all within a pocket-sized setup.

Macro capabilities extend to a 5cm focusing distance, enabling detailed close-ups suitable for flower or insect photography. I routinely captured crisp, well-resolved macros with both.

While build quality and optical design remain similar, the HX99 gains a subtle edge thanks to slightly improved lens coatings reducing flare and ghosting in backlit scenes - a critical factor in landscape and street photography.

Optical image stabilization is featured in both models, crucial for handheld shooting at long telephoto arms. The systems perform similarly in practice, delivering steady shots at shutter speeds down to about 1/100 sec at 720mm equivalent. There is no sensor-shift stabilization or multi-axis correction, so tripod use remains recommended for ultra-telephoto or slow shutter speed work for maximum sharpness.

Image and Video Capabilities - Resolving Details, Moving Stories

Both cameras mainly target still photography but also offer solid HD video features.

The HX80 records full HD 1080p at frame rates up to 60 fps and includes AVCHD and MPEG-4 codec support. The HX99 advances further to include UHD 4K (3840x2160) capture at 30 and 24p, alongside 1080p up to 120 fps for slow-motion capture.

For aspiring videographers, the HX99’s 4K video is a welcome and meaningful addition not present on its older sibling. However, neither model provides external microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio input options to the built-in mic. Autofocus during video shoots is smooth and continuous, thanks in part to the HX99’s touchscreen AF.

Both cameras apply the same optical stabilization during video capture to reduce handheld jitter.

Monitor and Viewfinder - Keeping an Eye on Your Frame

A 3-inch tilting LCD dominates the rear of both cameras. Resolutions at 921,000 dots provide sharp, bright viewing, making composing shots in daylight feasible.

A key distinction shows up in the electronic viewfinder (EVF) specs. The HX80’s EVF lacks a specified resolution and magnification, whereas the HX99 features a 638k-dot EVF with 0.5x magnification and 100% frame coverage, delivering a more immersive and accurate framing experience.

In bright outdoor scenarios, the EVF on the HX99 makes composing easier and more stable than relying solely on the LCD, especially when shooting long focal lengths.

Battery Life and Storage - Shoot More, Swap Less

Battery life under CIPA standards rates the HX80 at approximately 390 shots per charge and the HX99 at about 360 shots. Real-world usage matched these estimates, with both cameras offering a full day’s worth of casual shooting without recharge. However, heavy use of the LCD, Wi-Fi, or video function will dent battery longevity noticeably.

Both cameras rely on Sony’s NP-BX1 battery, an inexpensive and widely available model. Storage options cover SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, though the HX80 also supports Memory Stick Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo, while the HX99 extends to standard Memory Stick Duo, maintaining compatibility for a broad range of users.

Connectivity - Seamless Sharing on the Go

Wireless connectivity is built into both cameras via Wi-Fi and NFC, enabling quick sharing to smartphones or control through Sony’s PlayMemories Mobile app. Both models lack Bluetooth, which newer cameras increasingly include for constant pairing and geotagging functionalities.

The USB port on each camera supports USB 2.0 speeds, suitable for file transfers but not fast by today’s standards. HDMI output is included, handy for connecting to external monitors or TVs.

Neither camera offers GPS modules, so geolocation depends on smartphone tethering when desired.

Real-World Photography Tests Across Genres

To present a holistic comparison, I undertook tests across multiple photography styles common among superzoom users.

Portrait Photography

Both cameras implement face-detection autofocus with eye-detection for better subject sharpness. Skin tones rendered naturally with subtle warmth, though the 1/2.3" sensor and JPEG processing limit fine gradations and subtle detail capture.

The HX99’s RAW capture allows more subtle tonal editing, especially with shadows and highlights, an asset for portrait retouching post-shoot.

Regarding background blur or bokeh, neither camera can produce strong subject isolation due to small sensor size and relatively narrow maximum apertures (f/3.5–6.4). The HX99’s slightly improved processing softens backgrounds modestly better.

Landscape Photography

For static scenes like landscapes, a combination of image resolution, dynamic range, and weather sealing matter. Both models share the 18MP sensor and identical zoom range starting at a useful 24mm equivalent wide angle.

Dynamic range is typical for 1/2.3” sensors - limited when compared to APS-C or full-frame types, restricting recovery in heavy shadows or highlights. The HX99’s ability to shoot RAW provides better latitude to adjust exposures and shadows, a real advantage for nuanced post-processing.

No weather sealing hampers use in wet or dusty environments, which is a downside for avid outdoor photographers.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Fast autofocus and burst rates matter here. While 10fps burst on both models is solid, autofocus speed and tracking will not rival cameras with phase-detect AF or larger sensors.

Both cameras struggled to lock and maintain focus consistently on fast-moving birds or athletes, especially in low light or cluttered backgrounds.

Telephoto reach at 720mm daylights many subjects, though image detail and noise increasingly degrade at higher ISO settings and tighter crops.

Street and Travel Photography

The size and discreetness of both cameras excel here. Quick startup times and responsive zoom control allow spontaneous capture of moments.

The HX99’s touchscreen focus point selection improves reaction speed in busy urban environments. The inclusion of 4K video enables higher quality travel documentaries.

Battery life is solid for intensive day-long walking tours.

Macro Photography

Both achieve sharp close-ups down to 5cm, suitable for flowers, textures, and insects. Optical image stabilization helps counter small hand movements at close range.

The HX99’s RAW support again shines, conserving detail in highlights and shadows for fine macro subjects.

Night and Astro Photography

Small sensors usually limit low-light performance, and these models are no exception.

The HX99’s boosted ISO range to 12800 and noise reduction algorithms allow more usable images under dim conditions without flash. The HX80 max ISO of 3200 limits flexibility indoors or at dusk.

Neither camera supports bulb modes or longer shutter speeds for true astrophotography, but reasonable 30-second exposures are possible with manual exposure settings.

Putting It All Together: Who Should Choose Which?

Looking at all the details, here are my candid summations and recommendations:

In short, if you want a budget-friendly, pocket superzoom capable of solid everyday shooting with decent zoom reach and decent image quality in JPEG, the HX80 remains a compelling option. However, if you value the flexibility of RAW, need 4K video, and prefer touchscreen controls with a better EVF, the HX99 is a clear step up for a modest premium.

Final Word: Compact, Capable, and Ready for You

Neither camera will replace large-sensor mirrorless or DSLR bodies for demanding professional work, but they excel as ultra-portable hybrids blending decent image quality, versatile zoom, and user-friendly operation.

Sony HX80 front Sony HX80 screen back Sony HX99 front Sony HX99 screen back

The Sony HX99 builds on the foundation laid by the HX80 with welcome features that meet the growing demands of modern photography and videography styles without compromising the compactness that makes these cameras shine in the first place.

For street, travel, landscape, casual wildlife, and family event photography, both are worthy tools, but the HX99 tips the balance decisively for those wanting more creative control, particularly in post-production and video.

Whichever model you choose, you gain a pocketable powerhouse capable of surprising you with reach and refinement that belies its size.

If you’re after more detailed user tips or how these cameras compare to competitors in the small-sensor superzoom niche (looking at you, Canon SX740 or Panasonic TZ90), drop me a note - I’m always testing and happy to share. For now, happy shooting!