Sony HX90V vs Sony HX99: Pocket Superzoom Showdown for the Savvy Shooter

When it comes to compact superzoom cameras, Sony has carved out a solid reputation for delivering feature-rich options that pack a punch well beyond their modest sensor sizes. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX90V, released in 2015, and its successor, the 2018 Sony HX99, both offer impressive 30x zoom ranges, vibrant electronic viewfinders, and surprisingly versatile shooting modes in palm-friendly bodies - all while remaining relatively affordable.

But which model is the better buy today? Having spent several weeks hand-testing these two siblings back-to-back, I’m here to share a detailed, no-nonsense comparison across all major photographic disciplines and use cases. I’ll dive deep into real-world performance, technical differences, and the user experience to help you pinpoint which of these compact zooms fits your style and budget.

Let’s start by putting them side-by-side, physically and technically, so you can get a tangible sense for their builds.

Nearly Indistinguishable Small Compacts - But With A Few Crucial Upgrades

At first glance, the Sony HX90V and HX99 look virtually the same. They share an identically sized compact body with a 102 x 58 x 36 mm footprint, tipping the scales around 240-245 grams with battery and memory card. Both make smart use of space, fitting a monstrous 30x optical zoom lens (24-720mm equivalent) within an impressively compact package.

The ergonomics on both models are decent for a compact, with a reasonably grippy handhold despite their small size. The HX90V sports a small thumb rest on the back, while the HX99 retains this comfortable layout but adds some fingertip-friendly tweaks here and there, mostly in button responsiveness rather than layout changes. You won’t feel like you’re lugging a club for thumbs, which is a blessing for street and travel photographers.

On top, it’s business as usual: a mode dial, shutter release with zoom ring, and power switch remain standard for both. However, one subtle but welcome refinement for the HX99 is a touchscreen interface (which the HX90V lacks), allowing more intuitive navigation without fumbling through menus - especially handy when you want to adjust settings quickly on the fly.

Behind the Glass: Sensors and Image Processors

Both cameras employ a modest 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor offering an 18-megapixel resolution (4896 x 3672 pixels), paired with Sony's capable BIONZ X image processor in the HX90V. While the HX99 lacks Sony's official processor naming in specs, it’s safe to assume a similar or slightly updated processor under the hood given its 2018 release and feature upgrades.

Here’s the rub: with such a small sensor, there are inherent physical limits to dynamic range, low-light sensitivity, and ultimate image quality. Neither camera will rival APS-C or full-frame brethren, but they do impress for their sensor size, delivering usable images in a wide range of conditions.

The HX99 offers RAW shooting capability - a feature the HX90V conspicuously lacks, locking you into JPEG output only. RAW gives pros and adept enthusiasts a huge advantage in post-processing flexibility, preserving shadows and highlights far better.

At base ISO 80 to max 12800, both cameras perform adequately for daylight and indoor shooting, but differ subtly in noise control and color fidelity. The HX99’s improved processing tightens high ISO performance slightly, meaning cleaner images in dimmer environments.

User Interface and Viewfinder Experience

The HX90V sports a 3.0-inch 921K-dot tilting LCD that’s bright and colorful but lacks touchscreen functionality. For photographers who rely on touch-based menus or framing, the HX99’s 3-inch tilting screen adds a high-res touchscreen overlay that enhances usability and quick control access - particularly beneficial in dynamic field shooting or street photography.

Both cameras feature a built-in 638K-dot electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage, magnification of 0.5x, and equally respectable brightness. This EVF is a critical feature for strong outdoor visibility in sunlight, which many compacts skimp on. I found the EVF on both to offer similar performance, but the HX99’s paired touchscreen makes adjusting settings through the viewfinder faster and less finicky.

Autofocus, Speed, and Burst Performance

Neither camera uses phase-detection autofocus, relying instead on contrast-detect AF system, which tends to be more deliberate but middling in speed - fair enough for casual or deliberate shooting.

Both deliver a respectable 10 fps continuous shooting mode, sufficient for capturing moderately paced action like street moments or kids at play. Tracking autofocus is present but doesn’t shine for fast, erratic movement like sports or wildlife - but more on that shortly.

The HX99 does feature improved multi-area autofocus modes, center-weighted metering options (vs. the HX90V’s lack thereof), and better face detection algorithms, which slightly boost accuracy and reliability during portraits or busy scenes.

Picture This: Real-World Image Quality Across Genres

Sony HX90V front Sony HX90V screen back Sony HX99 front Sony HX99 screen back

Let’s break down what these results mean across different photography types:

Portrait Photography: Skin and Soul

Both cameras render skin tones well under natural lighting, with faithful color reproduction aided by Sony’s color science. The HX99’s RAW support allows tweaking white balance and exposure nuances to your heart’s content, invaluable for professional retouching.

The constant f/3.5 max aperture at wide-angle narrows to f/6.4 at full zoom, limiting bokeh for portraiture - which is a known commodity in superzooms. However, the HX99 benefits from finer autofocus nuances during face detection, helping nail critical focus on eyes more reliably than the HX90V.

Landscape Photography: Detail and Depth

With identical sensor sizes, the difference in detail capture is subtle but visible, especially when shooting RAW with the HX99. Both cameras deliver 18MP images with good sharpness at base ISO, but dynamic range is inherently limited by the sensor size, causing some highlight clipping in harsh daylight.

Neither camera features weather sealing, which is a downside for outdoor pros who often brave the elements. Still, their compactness and zoom versatility make them great for casual travel landscapes where portability trumps bulletproofing.

Wildlife and Sports: Zoom and Speed Test

With identical 30x zooms reaching 720mm equivalent, both cameras offer telescopic reach ideal for wildlife spying or distant sports. But autofocus speed and tracking precision lag behind mirrorless or DSLR systems. The HX99’s improved AF algorithms and touchscreen-controlled AF area selection give it a slight edge for “on the wing” focus adjustments.

Burst shooting at 10fps can snag fleeting moments, but buffer depth isn’t generous, meaning these cameras aren’t clutch for extended shootouts or high-action sports.

Street and Travel Photography: Stealth and Mobility

This arena is where both cameras truly shine: compact size, light weight, and fast zoom adaptability make roaming urban streets or roaming through foreign markets a breeze. The HX99’s touchscreen adds intuitive menu control, speeding up changes while on foot or hiding behind the viewfinder.

GPS tagging is built-in on the HX90V (the V stands for GPS after all), which is an advantage for travelers keen on geotagging photos efficiently - an advantage the HX99 foregoes.

Macro and Close-Ups

A minimal focusing distance of 5 cm with lens retracted allows decent close-up work on either model. Image stabilization feels effective at these ranges, helping capture steady detail handheld. Neither camera offers focus stacking or advanced macro features - reasonable tradeoffs given their compact format.

Night and Astro Photography

Small sensor size hurt in low-light scenarios, but both cameras manage surprisingly well up to ISO ~1600 with some noise. I found a slight edge in the HX99 for cleaner night shots, especially in RAW post-processing.

Both cameras capture timelapse sequences (though no built-in timelapse recording), and the HX99’s 4K video mode (which we’ll touch on next) can be repurposed creatively for astrophotography videos.

Video Capabilities and Multimedia Performance

Here’s where the HX99 pulls ahead with relatively modern specs:

• The HX90V maxes out at Full HD 1080p (60fps), whereas the HX99 also supports UHD 4K recording at 30p/24p, granting shooters access to ultra-high detail video capture.

• Both cameras offer AVCHD and XAVC S formats, but the HX99’s inclusion of 120p slow-motion 1080p footage broadens creative options.

• Image stabilization is present and effective in both, though specifics on stabilization type in the HX99 are less documented.

• Neither model includes microphone or headphone ports, limiting professional audio control - a common limitation in compact superzooms.

• Touchscreen interface on the HX99 makes video setting adjustments friendlier in run-and-gun scenarios.

Durability and Build Quality

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged protection of any sort. Both are susceptible to moisture, dust, and shock better avoided during adventure trips. This isn’t unexpected for a sub-250g pocket zoom, but worth remembering for working pros.

Battery Life and Storage

Sony uses the same NP-BX1 battery in both models, delivering approximately 360 shots per charge according to CIPA standards. This is adequate for casual travelers or street photographers but will require spares on longer outings.

Storage options are identical, with a single card slot supporting SD, SDHC, SDXC, and Sony Memory Stick Duo cards.

Connectivity and Wireless Sharing

Wi-Fi and NFC are built into both for quick sharing and remote control - but no Bluetooth on either model. This means you can pair the cameras with smartphones easily for image transfer or remote shooting but lack the always-on low-power connection some newer cameras boast.

Price, Value, and Who Should Buy Which?

By the numbers, both cameras occupy similar price points (roughly $440 for HX90V and $470 for HX99 at launch), representing great value for a pocket superzoom with electronic viewfinder.

However, the HX99 justifies a modest premium with:

• RAW image capture (hugely valuable for post-processing)
• 4K UHD video with slow-motion options
• Touchscreen controls enhancing the user experience
• Slightly refined autofocus algorithms

The HX90V remains a competent, cost-effective choice if you:

• Primarily shoot JPEG, are okay without a touchscreen, and want the convenience of GPS tagging.

• Are on a tighter budget but crave that long 30x zoom in a pocketable form.

On the other hand, the HX99 will better serve:

• Enthusiasts prioritizing post-processing flexibility and video versatility.

• Street photographers valuing touchscreen control speed and better AF accuracy.

• Casual videographers who want UHD capture without investing in larger cameras.

Wrapping Up with a Personal Take

Having clicked the dials and zoom rings on both extensively, I appreciate the evolutionary (rather than revolutionary) nature of the HX99 over the HX90V. The HX90V is a rock-solid performer for its era, and you can often snag great deals on it secondhand.

That said, the HX99’s added touchscreen, RAW support, and 4K video make it a smarter investment if your budget stretches just a bit further - particularly if you’re a serious enthusiast or content creator who values flexibility.

Both cameras share the pitfalls typical of small sensor superzooms: limited low-light prowess, moderate AF speed, and unsealed bodies. But their portability, zoom versatility, and ease of use carve out a unique niche for travel, street, and everyday snapshots.

Ultimately, if you want a small camera to slip into a jacket pocket and deliver respectable images and video with minimal fuss, both cameras fit the bill. Your choice boils down to whether the HX99’s incremental improvements are worth the extra cash, or if the HX90V’s GPS and price point charm you more.

Summary of Pros and Cons

Final Recommendations by User Type

For Travel Photographers: The HX90V’s GPS and lightweight design paired with an extended zoom make it ideal for geo-tagged adventures at a friendly price.

For Enthusiasts & Hobbyists: The HX99’s RAW images and 4K video open creative doors without fuss, perfect for those who appreciate editing potential.

For Street Shooters: Both are stealthy and responsive enough, but the HX99’s touchscreen streamlines quick menu'accès in bustling settings.

For Casual Videographers: The HX99 is the clear pick with UHD capture and slow-motion modes.

For Wildlife & Sports: Both offer long reach and reasonable burst speed, but expect compromises in AF speed and tracking - consider mirrorless if this is your primary focus.

In closing, both Sony superzooms deliver remarkable capabilities well beyond their size and sensor limitations - a testament to Sony’s engineering finesse. Your choice hinges on the balance of price, control preferences, and how much you value incremental feature upgrades like RAW and 4K video.

Happy shooting, and may your next pocket companion capture memories as vividly as you envision them!

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