Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W510 vs. DSC-WX300: A Hands-On Comparison for the Discerning Photographer

Choosing the right camera for your photography needs can be a complex journey, especially when comparing models from the same brand but different generations and categories. Today, we dissect two Sony Cyber-shot ultracompacts - the DSC-W510 and the DSC-WX300 - with hands-on insights gathered from extensive testing and real-world use. Whether you’re a casual shooter, a travel enthusiast, or an aspiring content creator, this detailed comparison will illuminate which camera is best suited for your style and budget.

Getting to Know the Players: W510 and WX300 at a Glance

Before diving deep, let's establish a baseline by looking at each camera's core specs and design philosophy.

At first glance, the W510 is geared toward simplicity and portability, while the WX300 targets versatility, particularly in zoom range and video capabilities.

Design and Ergonomics: Handling the Experience

When testing cameras for real-world usability, ergonomics and interface design are paramount. The W510’s ultracompact form is incredibly pocketable - with its slim profile measuring just 96x54x20mm and tipping the scales at 119g, it’s ideal for casual snapshots and travel where size matters most.

In contrast, the WX300 is noticeably larger and heavier (96x55x25mm, 166g), a tradeoff made to accommodate its extended 20x zoom lens. Though this reduces pocketability slightly, it offers far greater creative flexibility.

Both models feature a simple control scheme, but the WX300’s slightly larger body benefits from better grip comfort during extended shoots. Neither has a viewfinder, relying exclusively on their rear LCDs, though the WX300’s screen is larger and almost twice as sharp, assessing usability under various lighting conditions.

The top view shows minimalistic button layouts on both cameras. Neither offers full manual controls or custom dials, reflecting their casual consumer orientation. The WX300 excels with its faster continuous shooting mode and improved zoom control ergonomics.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

A foundational factor in image quality is the sensor. The W510 relies on an older 12MP 1/2.3" CCD sensor, common for its time but limited in dynamic range and low-light performance. The WX300 upgrades to an 18MP 1/2.3" Backside Illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor, which boasts better light-gathering capabilities - a crucial advantage for noise control and color fidelity.

This identical sensor size but newer technology in the WX300 means:

• Higher resolution: 4896x3672 pixels vs. 4000x3000 on W510
• Better low-light sensitivity: CMOS with BSI structure enhances performance at higher ISOs.
• Improved video capture: Enabled by the more advanced sensor and processor.

During our tests in daylight, the WX300's images displayed noticeably richer colors and finer detail. The W510's output, while decent in well-lit scenarios, tended to wash out in shadows and produce more noise at ISO 800 and above.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed and Precision

Despite their shared brand lineage, autofocus systems between these two diverge significantly.

• Sony W510: Features contrast-detection AF with 9 focus points. It supports single AF only, lacking continuous autofocus or face detection. Autofocus speed is moderate, acceptable for casual subjects but struggles in low light or fast action.

• Sony WX300: Also employs contrast-detection AF but includes face detection and AF tracking capabilities. The presence of tracking and improved AF algorithms make it more reliable for moving subjects. It also supports 10 fps continuous shooting, enabling better burst shots for wildlife or sports-themed photography.

From our experience shooting moving subjects, the WX300’s autofocus proved more dependable and faster to lock, especially thanks to its multiple focusing modes and tracking. The W510 often lagged, missing crucial moments.

Displays and User Interface: Staying in Control

A camera’s rear display significantly influences composition and reviewing your shots. Here, the WX300 leads with its 3-inch LCD panel and 460,000-dot resolution versus the W510’s 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD at 230,000 dots.

The WX300’s screen provides sharper previews which help especially when checking focus and exposure outdoors. Neither camera offers touchscreen or tilt/swivel functionality, limiting flexibility for various shooting angles.

The W510, however, provides a basic easy-to-navigate menu engaging for newcomers who prefer simplicity over customization.

Lens and Zoom Capability: Creative Range on Tap

This section highlights one of the starkest differentiators.

The WX300’s 20x optical zoom lets you tackle a wide range of subjects - from wide landscapes to distant wildlife - with a single camera. This versatility is a significant creative advantage for travel and outdoor enthusiast photographers.

The W510’s modest 4x zoom is better suited for casual portraits and everyday shots but lacks reach for wildlife or sports.

Both cameras have image stabilization, but the WX300 uses optical IS which tends to be superior in reducing shake, particularly at longer focal lengths.

Photography Discipline Performance: Real-World Use Cases

Understanding how these cameras perform across photography styles can guide your choice.

For portraits, the WX300’s face detection autofocus improves sharpness on subjects’ eyes, a crucial factor for appealing portraits. The W510’s brighter f/2.8 aperture at the wide end can help isolate subjects with nice background blur but is restricted by its fixed 4x zoom.

Landscape photographers will appreciate WX300’s higher resolution and extended zoom flexibility for distant details. However, the W510’s compactness and battery life simplicity might appeal to minimalists.

Wildlife and sports enthusiasts benefit strongly from WX300’s 10 fps burst mode and superior autofocus tracking, capturing fast-moving moments far better than the sluggish W510.

Street photographers who prize invisibility and lightness may prefer the W510’s diminutive size and quiet operation.

Low Light and High ISO Capability: Nighttime Shooting

Both cameras max out at ISO 3200, but sensor technology dictates usable quality.

In dim lighting and indoor conditions, the WX300’s BSI CMOS sensor delivers cleaner images with lower noise levels. The W510’s older CCD sensor introduces noticeable grain and color shifts when pushed to higher ISO sensitivity.

Manual exposure controls are absent on both, limiting astrophotography and complex night scenarios. Still, the WX300's better sensor and video capabilities make it more adaptable for creative night shoots.

Video Functionality: Moving Beyond Stills

Video has become vital for content creators, so let's compare.

The WX300 is a clear winner here. Full HD recording at up to 60 frames per second delivers smooth, sharp video suitable for vlogs and everyday filming. Good optical stabilization helps minimize shake.

The W510 falls behind with its VGA video, insufficient by contemporary standards except for minimal casual clips.

Build Quality and Durability: Everyday Use and Travel Readiness

Neither camera offers rugged weather sealing or extreme durability features. Both are constructed primarily of plastic, resulting in low weight but less robustness compared to more expensive, professional models.

Both lack waterproof, dustproof, or shockproof certifications, so care is advised in harsh environments.

Battery life varies slightly based on model and battery type:

• W510 uses NP-BN1 batteries
• WX300 uses NP-BX1 batteries, typically offering longer life given the later generation tech

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide good endurance for casual shoots.

Connectivity and Storage: Sharing and Saving

The WX300 boasts built-in wireless connectivity, facilitating convenient photo transfers to smartphones and social platforms, a major plus for social media enthusiasts. The W510 lacks any wireless features.

Both cameras support similar storage types including SD, SDHC, SDXC cards, and Sony's proprietary Memory Stick formats, using a single card slot.

Physical connections are limited to USB 2.0 with no HDMI or audio input/output ports on either.

Expert Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Sony W510 front Sony W510 screen back Sony WX300 front Sony WX300 screen back

Reviewing side-by-side sample images from both cameras affirms the WX300’s advantage in sharpness and color fidelity, particularly noticeable at telephoto focal lengths and indoor lighting.

Our comprehensive scoring system based on image quality, autofocus, ergonomics, video, and portability prioritizes the WX300 for versatility and image quality, while the W510 retains appeal for ultra-budget and compact needs.

When broken down by genre, the WX300 shines in wildlife, sports, and travel uses. The W510 suits street photography, casual snapshots, and portraits requiring simplicity.

Recommendations: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Sony DSC-W510 if:

• You want the smallest, most portable point-and-shoot possible.
• Budget under $150 is crucial.
• Snapshot convenience, light travel, or backup camera use is your priority.
• You value simple operation without fuss.

Choose the Sony DSC-WX300 if:

• You desire a versatile camera capable of close-up, telephoto, and wide-angle shooting.
• Video quality and fast continuous shooting align with your creative work.
• Wireless features and improved autofocus tracking serve your workflow.
• Image quality including in low light is a priority, but you do not require manual controls or RAW files.

Final Thoughts: Expanding Your Creative Horizons

Both the W510 and WX300 reflect Sony’s efforts to serve casual photographers seeking compact solutions, but their distinct features cater to very different needs.

My experience with testing these cameras underscores how newer sensor technology, autofocus improvements, and video enhancements contribute massively to overall satisfaction and creative flexibility. These factors tip the scale decisively in favor of the WX300 for enthusiastic users wanting more from their compact cameras.

However, the W510 remains a worthy consideration for those prioritizing ultra-lightweight design and budget-friendly simplicity without venturing into the complexity of modern tech.

No matter which you lean toward, I encourage you to hold both in your hand - even if just at a store - to see what fits your comfort and style best. Complementary accessories like protective cases, memory cards, and spare batteries make excellent investments that prolong your creative journey.

Start exploring, keep experimenting, and capture moments your way.

Appendix: Quick Specs Table for Reference

Thank you for joining this detailed comparison between two interesting Sony Cyber-shot cameras. Your photographic journey deserves tools that inspire and support your unique vision - may this guide help you find them. Happy shooting!