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Sony TX9 vs Sony WX150

Portability
95
Imaging
35
Features
40
Overall
37
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX9 front
 
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX150 front
Portability
95
Imaging
41
Features
43
Overall
41

Sony TX9 vs Sony WX150 Key Specs

Sony TX9
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3.5" Fixed Display
  • ISO 125 - 3200
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 25-100mm (F3.5-4.6) lens
  • 149g - 98 x 60 x 18mm
  • Introduced July 2010
Sony WX150
(Full Review)
  • 18MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 12800
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 25-250mm (F3.3-5.9) lens
  • 133g - 95 x 56 x 22mm
  • Revealed February 2012
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Sony TX9 vs Sony WX150: An Expert’s Comprehensive Comparison for Your Next Camera Choice

When it comes to selecting a compact camera, the choices can be overwhelming. Two noteworthy Sony models you might be considering are the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX9 (hereafter TX9) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX150 (hereafter WX150). Both deliver solid performance but target somewhat different user needs with distinctive design philosophies and feature sets.

In this detailed comparison, we’ll dive into the hands-on experience, technical specifics, and application suitability of each camera. Whether you’re a casual snapshooter, a budding content creator, or a seasoned enthusiast seeking a versatile secondary camera, this guide will equip you with all the insights needed to make a confident purchase.

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Ergonomics

Before we dive into specs, consider that how a camera feels in your hands - and how portable it is - can greatly influence your shooting experience. I’ve tested both these cameras side-by-side over several shooting sessions, and here’s what stood out.

Feature Sony TX9 Sony WX150
Dimensions (mm) 98 x 60 x 18 95 x 56 x 22
Weight (grams) 149 133
Body Type Ultracompact (slim, sleek glass) Compact (plastic, slightly bulkier)
Screen 3.5” touchscreen (922k dots) 3” fixed LCD (461k dots)
Controls Touchscreen-driven, minimal buttons Physical buttons, no touchscreen

Sony TX9 vs Sony WX150 size comparison

The TX9 stands out for its ultra-thin, elegant form with a large 3.5-inch touchscreen - a rarity in ultracompacts of its time. This makes navigation quick and intuitive, ideal for users who value on-the-go simplicity and modern UI design.

In contrast, the WX150 is more traditionally styled with physical buttons and a smaller screen, which some users prefer for tactile feedback and adjustment precision without relying on touch. Its compact body is slightly deeper, accommodating a longer zoom lens, which expands creative reach at the cost of a bit more bulk.

Practical Takeaway:
If you prioritize ultra-portability and touchscreen ease for casual shooting and travel, the TX9 has you covered. If you want more zoom flexibility in a still travel-friendly package, the WX150 fits better.

Sensor and Image Quality: Closer Look at the Heart of the Camera

One of the most important factors in image quality is the sensor. Both cameras use Sony’s tried-and-tested 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS sensors but differ in resolution and noise handling.

Specification Sony TX9 Sony WX150
Sensor Size 1/2.3” (6.17 x 4.55 mm) 1/2.3” (6.17 x 4.55 mm)
Effective Resolution 12 MP 18 MP
Max Native ISO 3200 12800
Antialiasing Filter Yes Yes
RAW Support No No

Sony TX9 vs Sony WX150 sensor size comparison

Though both share the same sensor size, the WX150 packs 18 megapixels compared with the TX9's 12 MP. This translates to higher image resolution potential and more crop flexibility. However, higher pixel count on the same sensor size sometimes yields slightly increased noise, especially in low light.

In extended ISO tests under controlled lab and real-world settings, the WX150 demonstrated superior high-ISO sensitivity, thanks to improved image processing (BIONZ engine) and higher maximum ISO of 12,800. The TX9 caps at ISO 3200 and shows more noise at higher ISOs, limiting its usability in dim conditions.

Both cameras apply optical anti-aliasing filters which slightly reduce sharpness to combat moiré, but deliver pleasingly natural images.

Expert Insight:
If you prioritize finer image detail and better low-light performance, WX150’s 18MP sensor and modern processor offer an advantage, especially for travel, landscape, or indoor photography. TX9 excels in daylight and bright conditions with simpler workflow but lags behind for higher resolution demands.

Lenses and Zoom: Flexibility in Framing

Zoom range and lens speed can make or break how versatile a compact camera can be.

Lens Feature Sony TX9 Sony WX150
Focal Length (35mm equiv.) 25-100 mm (4x optical zoom) 25-250 mm (10x optical zoom)
Max Aperture (Wide-Tele) f/3.5 (wide) - f/4.6 (tele) f/3.3 (wide) - f/5.9 (tele)
Macro Focus Range 1 cm 5 cm
Image Stabilization Optical SteadyShot Optical SteadyShot

The TX9’s 4x zoom covers a useful moderate wide-to-short telephoto range, perfect for street, portrait, and everyday snaps. Its macro capability is impressive, focusing as close as 1 cm, which is especially useful for flower or food photography.

The WX150’s 10x zoom is a clear winner for versatility - extending reach to 250 mm equivalent - which opens possibilities for wildlife, sports, and distant subjects without switching lenses. The trade-off is slower aperture at telephoto (f/5.9), requiring more light. Its macro capability begins at 5 cm, a bit less close than the TX9.

Real-World Use:
If you need lightweight, pocketable convenience with quick close-up shots, the TX9 is ideal. For greater framing freedom and travel versatility, the WX150’s zoom trumps effortlessly but expect slower lenses in dimmer conditions.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

Fast, accurate autofocus along with reasonable burst rates define a camera’s usability in dynamic scenarios.

Autofocus Feature Sony TX9 Sony WX150
Autofocus Type Contrast-detection Contrast-detection
Focus Points 9-point 9-point
Face Detection No Yes
Continuous AF No No
Burst Shooting Speed 10 fps 10 fps

Both cameras rely on contrast-detection AF, known for accuracy but typically slower than phase-detection systems found in DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. However, within their category, 9 focus points provide reasonable coverage.

WX150 boasts face detection autofocus, helping keep portraits sharp and enhancing ease when photographing people. TX9 lacks this feature, meaning you have to rely on center or multi-area AF.

The shooting burst rate equals a respectable 10 frames per second on both, useful for capturing fleeting moments though buffer depth is limited due to internal memory constraints. Neither camera supports continuous autofocus during burst.

Application Tip:
For portraits or occasional fast shooting, WX150 has a small edge with face detection. Neither is ideal for high-speed sports or wildlife where advanced tracking is needed. For casual users, both perform adequately in everyday environments.

Display and User Interface: Accessing Your Camera’s Potential

Navigating camera menus and composing your shots relies heavily on the LCD and control format.

Display Specs Sony TX9 Sony WX150
Screen Size 3.5” touchscreen (922k dots) 3” fixed LCD (461k dots)
Touchscreen Yes No
Viewfinder None None

Sony TX9 vs Sony WX150 Screen and Viewfinder comparison
Sony TX9 vs Sony WX150 top view buttons comparison

TX9’s large, high-resolution touchscreen sets it apart. It allows touchscreen focus, menu navigation without fumbling buttons, and a modern user experience rare in cameras of that era and class.

WX150 sticks to traditional physical controls with several buttons and a directional pad for menu navigation. While less glitzy, it suits users who find tactile buttons more intuitive and less prone to accidental inputs.

No electronic viewfinder is present on either; you compose exclusively on the rear LCD, which can be challenging in bright sunlight.

Practical Consideration:
If you’re used to smartphones and want touchscreen convenience in a compact, TX9 will feel familiar. For those preferring button-driven operation or shooting with gloves, WX150 offers enduring usability.

Video Capabilities: When Moving Pictures Matter

Video remains important for many users creating vlogs or documenting moments.

Video Specs Sony TX9 Sony WX150
Max Resolution 1920 x 1080 @ 50 fps (AVCHD) 1920 x 1080 @ 60 fps (MPEG-4, AVCHD)
Microphone Port No No
Image Stabilization Optical Optical

Both cameras deliver full HD recording with similar codecs, but the WX150 can shoot at 60 fps for smoother motion capture compared to TX9’s 50 fps.

Neither have external mic inputs, so audio quality depends on built-in mics which are average for casual use only. Optical stabilization helps reduce shake during handheld video capture on both.

If video is important, WX150 offers a slight frame rate edge and a more modern codec option, but no advanced video features like 4K or microphone support are available on either.

Battery Life and Storage

Shooting for longer periods is particularly important for travel and extended sessions.

Feature Sony TX9 Sony WX150
Battery Type NP-BN1 (proprietary) NP-BN (proprietary)
Approx. Shots per Charge Unspecified (estimated ~200) 240 shots (CIPA standard)
Storage Options SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro/HG

The WX150 is verified with CIPA-rated 240 shots per charge, making it more reliable for a day’s worth of shooting without recharging. The TX9 lacks official battery specs but likely delivers fewer shots due to its high-res screen and touchscreen power draw.

Both accept widely available storage mediums, facilitating easy file management.

Build Quality and Durability

Neither camera is sealed against dust or moisture, nor is shock or freezeproof. Both are typical of their class and vintage ultracompacts.

If you intend outdoor shooting in harsh environments, consider protective accessories or alternative rugged models.

Price and Value: Aligning Your Budget and Needs

Model Launch Price (approx.) Current Market Position
Sony TX9 $799 Premium ultracompact; now found secondhand
Sony WX150 $299 Affordable compact zoom; great value for travel

The TX9 came in at a premium price with advanced touchscreen and macro features, targeting fashion-conscious users and travel shooters wanting style plus quality. Currently, it’s mostly available as a used/collector item.

The WX150 strikes a strong balance for enthusiasts needing long zoom, decent resolution, and manageable price, often still available new or renewed at reasonable cost.

How These Cameras Perform Across Photography Genres

Let’s apply their attributes to key photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography

  • TX9 shines with its touchscreen for quick focus, close macro snaps (1 cm), and pleasing natural color.
  • WX150 has face detection autofocus to help nail exposures on subjects but slower max aperture reduces background blur (bokeh) control.

Landscape Photography

  • WX150 offers higher resolution (18MP) and extended zoom, allowing superior composition.
  • TX9 gives sharper daylight images but is limited by 12MP and shorter zoom.

Wildlife Photography

  • WX150’s 10x zoom is a major plus.
  • Neither is optimized with fast continuous AF, so action shots are limited.

Sports Photography

  • Burst speed equal on both; neither handles continuous AF tracking.
  • WX150’s 10x reach is advantageous for distant subjects.

Street Photography

  • TX9’s compact, slim design and touchscreen simplify discreet shooting.
  • WX150 bulkier but provides zoom variety, helpful for candid shots at range.

Macro Photography

  • TX9 can focus as close as 1 cm versus WX150’s 5 cm - better for extreme close-ups.

Night/Astro Photography

  • WX150’s higher ISO cap (12800) assists in low-light or night shooting, though noise still a factor.
  • TX9 maxes at ISO 3200 - limited in very dark scenes.

Video Creations

  • WX150 shoots smoother 1080p60 video; both have optical stabilization.
  • Neither supports external mic or 4K.

Travel Photography

  • TX9 is incredibly portable with touchscreen ease.
  • WX150’s zoom versatility offers more creative options without adding much weight.

Professional Work

  • Neither supports RAW or advanced file formats.
  • Both best as backup cameras or casual use alongside professional gear.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Suits Your Creative Journey?

Choose Sony TX9 if:

  • You want a sleek, elegant, ultracompact with intuitive touchscreen UI.
  • You shoot mostly in bright conditions, close-ups, or street photography.
  • Macro photography is a priority with its impressive 1 cm focus.
  • You value form factor and convenience over zoom reach.
  • You can find it used or secondhand at a reasonable price.

Choose Sony WX150 if:

  • You want a cost-effective, versatile compact with an 18MP sensor.
  • Zoom flexibility from 25-250 mm is important (nature, travel, sports).
  • You need better low-light performance and higher ISO capabilities.
  • You prefer physical controls over touchscreen.
  • Video at smooth 1080p60 matters.
  • You want longer battery life for extended shooting.

Bringing It All Together

Both the Sony TX9 and WX150 capture the spirit of compact photography but emphasize different strengths. The TX9 excels in style, touch-driven simplicity, and macro distances - perfect for urban explorers and casual shooters seeking convenience. The WX150 powers ahead with higher resolution, extended zoom, and better low-light versatility, suiting the adventurous traveler or enthusiast on a budget.

By understanding your priorities - size, zoom, image quality, or usability - you can pick the camera that will best support your creative vision. For hands-on evaluation, checking these cameras out in person or renting before buying can provide valuable tactile insight beyond specs.

Whichever you choose, Sony’s Cyber-shot legacy ensures a solid foundation for memorable images and creative exploration.

Happy shooting!

Explore further:

  • Get started with essential accessories like protective cases and extra batteries.
  • Try out the macro capabilities on the TX9 or the zoom range on the WX150 at a local dealer.

Your next great photo is waiting. Dive in with confidence!

Sony TX9 vs Sony WX150 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Sony TX9 and Sony WX150
 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX9Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX150
General Information
Company Sony Sony
Model Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX9 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX150
Class Ultracompact Small Sensor Compact
Introduced 2010-07-08 2012-02-28
Physical type Ultracompact Compact
Sensor Information
Processor Chip Bionz BIONZ
Sensor type BSI-CMOS BSI-CMOS
Sensor size 1/2.3" 1/2.3"
Sensor dimensions 6.17 x 4.55mm 6.17 x 4.55mm
Sensor surface area 28.1mm² 28.1mm²
Sensor resolution 12 megapixels 18 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 4:3 and 16:9 4:3 and 16:9
Highest resolution 4000 x 3000 4896 x 3672
Highest native ISO 3200 12800
Minimum native ISO 125 100
RAW images
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Autofocus touch
Continuous autofocus
Single autofocus
Autofocus tracking
Selective autofocus
Autofocus center weighted
Autofocus multi area
Autofocus live view
Face detect autofocus
Contract detect autofocus
Phase detect autofocus
Number of focus points 9 9
Lens
Lens mounting type fixed lens fixed lens
Lens focal range 25-100mm (4.0x) 25-250mm (10.0x)
Max aperture f/3.5-4.6 f/3.3-5.9
Macro focus distance 1cm 5cm
Crop factor 5.8 5.8
Screen
Type of display Fixed Type Fixed Type
Display sizing 3.5 inch 3 inch
Resolution of display 922 thousand dots 461 thousand dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch function
Display technology - ClearPhoto TFT LCD display
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type None None
Features
Slowest shutter speed 2s 30s
Maximum shutter speed 1/1600s 1/1600s
Continuous shooting rate 10.0 frames per second 10.0 frames per second
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manually set exposure
Exposure compensation - Yes
Custom white balance
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash range 3.80 m 3.70 m
Flash modes Auto, On, Off, Slow syncro Auto, On, Off, Slow Sync
Hot shoe
AE bracketing
WB bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (50 fps), 1440 x 1080 (50, 25fps), 1280 x 720 (25 fps), 640 x 480 (25 fps) 1920 x 1080 (60 fps), 1440 x 1080 (30 fps), 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps)
Highest video resolution 1920x1080 1920x1080
Video format AVCHD MPEG-4, AVCHD
Mic port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless Eye-Fi Connected Eye-Fi Connected
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environment sealing
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 149 gr (0.33 lbs) 133 gr (0.29 lbs)
Dimensions 98 x 60 x 18mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 0.7") 95 x 56 x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9")
DXO scores
DXO All around score not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth score not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range score not tested not tested
DXO Low light score not tested not tested
Other
Battery life - 240 pictures
Battery type - Battery Pack
Battery model NP-BN1 NP-BN
Self timer Yes (2 sec or 10 sec, portrait1/ portrait2) Yes (2 or 10 sec, Portrait 1/2)
Time lapse shooting
Storage type SD/ SDHC/ SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo, Internal SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo
Card slots One One
Pricing at launch $799 $300