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  • Testing /Performance

  • Physical Tour

  • Components

  • Design / Layout

  • Modes

  • Control Options

  • Image Parameters

  • Connectivity / Extras

  • Overall Impressions

  • Conclusion

  • Specs

  • Testing /Performance
  • Physical Tour
  • Components
  • Design / Layout
  • Modes
  • Control Options
  • Image Parameters
  • Connectivity / Extras
  • Overall Impressions
  • Conclusion
  • Specs

Testing /Performance

**Color ***(7.53)*

Sony included 7.1 effective megapixels on its large 1/1.8-inch CCD and coupled it with a Real Imaging Processor. The image processor is the device that takes the data from the CCD and constructs it into an image file. Some image processors are more accurate than others at depicting actual colors. To determine how accurate the Sony W7's colors are, we took several exposures of the GretagMacbeth color chart and uploaded them into Imatest Imaging Software. The program analyzed the data and output several charts for comparison's sake. Below is a modified GretagMacbeth color chart with the ideal color in the inner rectangle. The outer square is the color produced by the Cyber-shot W7 and the inner square is the color-corrected version you would see when you uploaded the pictures into a software application.

 

Another chart is shown below to illustrate exactly how far or how close the W7's colors are to the ideal. The squares on the chart represent the ideal colors of the industry standard GretagMacbeth color chart. The circles depict the colors produced by the Sony W7. The greater the distance between the two, the less accurate that particular tone is.

 

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7 performed decently with an overall color score of 7.53. This is very similar to the Sony W1, which scored a 7.51. Most of the colors in the W7 are slightly off the ideal, but the red #15 is especially exaggerated. This particular color is over-exaggerated in many compact digital cameras to enhance skin tones and conceal facial blemishes. Most compact cameras also slightly over-saturate the colors to make the scene appear more vibrant and pleasing to some; the W7 also does this, as it has a 104 percent mean saturation score.

 

**Still Life Scene
**Below is a shot of our inspired still life scene photographed with the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7.

[

Click on the above image to view a full resolution version (CAUTION: the linked file is very large!)](../viewer.php?picture=SonyW7-StillLife-LG.jpg)

 

**Resolution / Sharpness ***(5.87)*

The W7 aims to be a contender in the major megapixel market with its 7.41 total and 7.2 effective megapixels on the 1/1.8-inch CCD. To test the number of pixels this camera actually uses, we took several un-cropped pictures of the ISO 12233 resolution chart and uploaded them into Imatest Imaging Software, which counted the pixels in each picture. If a camera comes within 70 percent of its advertised megapixel count, we consider that 'good.' When within 80 percent, it is 'very good.' We designate a camera as 'excellent' when it comes within 90 percent, but this is quite rare.

[

Click on the chart to view the full res image](../viewer.php?picture=SonyW7-ResCH-LG.jpg)

 

Recording 5.87 megapixels, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7 recorded the most for a compact digital camera that we've tested (and also advertises near the top, I might add). This is still 83 percent of the advertised 3072 x 2304 pixel size that the best picture resolution offers, earning it a 'very good' designation. The Sony W1, with its lower pixel count, recorded 84 percent of its advertised count.

 

**Noise - Auto ISO ***(8.88)*

We tested the noise levels while using the automatic ISO setting and found that the Sony W7 performed very well. It earned an overall automatic ISO noise score of 8.88, which is far better than the W1's score of 5.13. Most compact cameras score even below this, so the W7 is definitely on the better end of the cameras we've tested.

 

**Noise - Manual ISO ***(8.09)*

The Sony W7 offers a limited range of ISO settings: 100, 200 and 400. We tested the noise level at each of these settings and input the data into a regression analysis to determine the overall score. The noise level at each setting can be seen on the vertical axis on the graph below, with the ISO rating shown on the horizontal axis.

 

This Cyber-shot earned a slightly lower overall score when compared to its automatic noise score, which is odd. Most cameras perform better when manually adjusted, but this discrepancy is largely attributed to the lack of ISO options offered. The W7 received an overall manual ISO noise score of 8.09, which is still very good. For comparison's sake, the Sony W1 scored 8.28 in this same test.

**Low Light ***(5.5)
*To evaluate a camera's low light performance, we record four exposures of our GretagMacbeth color chart at decreasing light levels and import the images into Imatest Imaging Software. The software helps us perceive the degree of error in the camera’s reproduced colors as well as the volume of noise emitted at a specific light increment. The images are recorded at the camera’s highest ISO rating - ISO 400 for the W7 and shot using the Program exposure mode. If custom white balance is offered, we calibrate the camera at each differing light setup; however, when this is not applicable, as with the W7, we use the automatic white balance setting.

 

Cameras are tested at four diminishing light levels: 60, 30, 15, and 5 Lux. These levels are selected as a means of representation — simulating common low light conditions; 60 Lux appears to the eye as the soft cast of a bedroom might look after dark, when illuminated with two small lamps. When this is cut in half, down to 30 Lux, the emitted light equates to roughly a single 40 watt lightbulb. When dropped down to 15 and 5 Lux, the test displays the camera’s ability to record in near darkness and will isolate the limitations of the sensor.

**


As you can see from the above progression, the major low light issue with the DSC-W7 is color. Surprisingly, given the camera’s difficulty with automatic focusing, the W7 is able to maintain focus in diminishing light, even at 5 Lux. This is a common flaw of many compact cameras that remarkably, the W7 manages to avoid. However, the 7-plus megapixel W7 did not fare quite as well in terms of tonal representation in the compromised lighting setups.

 

In all of the low light scenarios, the W7 handled noise reasonably well, boosting the exposure without filling the images with grain. Even at 5 Lux, the chart is easily visible and the boundaries between tones clearly distinguishable. But the main point of contention is the camera’s horrid color calibration. Throughout the test (60 Lux down to 5 Lux), the exposures are tainted with glaring red overtones. The camera seems to be reading white as a dark blue, and shifting the tones accordingly. Without a custom white balance setting, images captured with the Sony W7 in low light will not be able to avoid this tonal deficiency and unless the user is partial to extremely warm casts, the images will require substantial work in an external software application.

Speed / Timing
Start-up to First Shot (8.7)

A few weeks ago, the Fujifilm FinePix F10 held our title for the fastest startup time in a compact digital camera we had tested--but we have a new winner. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7 narrowly beats it out by 0.04 seconds with a 1.3-second time to its first shot.

 

*Shot to Shot Speed (9.33)
*There are two burst modes on the W7: burst and multi-burst. The burst mode is what most photographers will use. It takes sets of five pictures (at the highest resolution), with a long 19-second nap in between bursts. Those five pictures shoot as fast as 0.4 seconds, but average is around 0.67 seconds. There is also a multi-burst mode that takes 16 shots in 0.32 seconds. Don't get too excited though; it can only do this in a 320 x 240 resolution.

 

*Shutter to Shot Time (8.76)
*There is a tiny bit of shutter lag, as the camera takes 0.12 seconds to capture a picture after the shutter release button is pressed.

Physical Tour

 

 


Front ***(8.0)***

On the front of the W7, to the left of the lens, is a nicely sized finger swell. This swell gives the user a comfortable place to place their index finger. There is a black elongated oval on the finger swell, appearing to be rubber, but it is not — the coloration is purely deceptive, I mean decorative.

 

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7’s basic rectangular shape and silver metallic case apply a simple and traditional overtone to the W7’s aesthetic. The design works for the camera, redirecting attention to the image quality and handling ability of the camera, rather than a hollow, flashy appearance. The lens is recessed in a glossy silver, double stepped ring. Telescoped out in two sections, the lens is hidden behind two matte black guillotine-style shutters. Above the lens is the obligatory black lettered credit to the optical designer: Carl Zeiss. Below and to the left of the lens opening is the lens model, "Vario-Tessar" and on the bottom right, arcing upward "2.8-5, 2/7, 9-23,7" which expresses the focal length and F-stop ratings of the lens.

 

The face of the W7 is not very wide for its components, clustering the lens, viewfinder, and flash together just right of the center of the camera. The flash is rectangular and formed into the frame. The viewfinder sits on the top right edge under a gray, raised plastic window. On the upper left edge of the lens ring housing sits the self-timer lamp/AF illuminator in a slit notch in the outer lens ring. On the left of the flash is the W7’s four-hole mic for sound recording.

 

The ever-important Sony branding is modestly displayed in raised silver letters on the upper left side, positioned above a silver colored sticker. The sticker boasts the camera’s 7.2 megapixels on the top, as well as the Zeiss brand name and the 2.5-inch LCD monitor. The sticker does peel off, by the way. On the bottom right edge of the camera’s face are the words "3x optical zoom" above the Cyber-shot logo.

 

Back ***(8.0)***

From behind, the W7 looks very much like its predecessor, the W1, with a few design alterations rendered to the embossed Cyber-shot logo and a raised panel around the control cluster removed. As with the W1, three quarters of the W7’s back is taken up by the dominant 2.5-inch LCD screen, starting from the left edge. The viewfinder sits on the top left edge and to its right are the small double stacked lamps for the AE/AF lock/self-timer (green) and the flash/record lamp (orange). Along the top right edge is the rocking two-way zoom control. Inset on the rocker button’s left side is the wide-angle "W" and on the right is the "T" indicating control of the telephoto region. Magnification icons sit above the left/right switch, whereas on the W1 the same icons sat beneath the button. Also on the left side of the button is a black icon for index mode when reviewing the photos taken.

 

Beneath the zoom button are six raised bumps for a thumb grip. Directly to its left is the icon for the LCD display on/off button which sits right below the zoom. Beneath the LCD button is the Menu button, which allows access to most of the W7’s exposure settings.

 

Towards the bottom right edge of the W7 is a cluster of five buttons which control a variety of functions and make up the navigational panel. With one button in the center to render selections, the remaining four are positioned as directional points on a compass. Unlike the W1, the up/down/left/right arrows on the W7 are taken off the buttons and turned into black icons surrounding the control cluster. On the top button is a black flash icon; on the bottom button is the self-timer icon. The left button controls "quick review" which selects the last picture taken; it is represented by a small thin-lined box with a play arrow inside swooping to the right. The right button, with the familiar black tulip, controls the macro (close-up) shooting function. The center button, without any icons or embellishments, acts as the "enter" control for selecting menu items.

 

To the bottom left of the five button control cluster is the trash/image size control. In shooting mode, pressing this button will allow you to select the size and quality of the photos. Once users enter into the playback mode on the top dial, the button then acts as a delete function. One drawback to this setup is that there is no way to delete all of the pictures at once with this button; each photo must be manually selected and deleted — a cumbersome and time-consuming process.

 

On the very bottom right edge is a small rectangular red light (access lamp) which lights up when the camera is switched on. It is designed as a visual reminder that when that light is on the memory stick should never be removed.

 

**Left Side ***(6.5)*

In the center of the left side of the Cyber-shot W7 is the A/V out and USB port, both covered by a gray rubber cover which opens when the user pulls upwards. The port cover stays in place with a tight "t" shaped tab and shouldn’t open accidentally. A shiny silver band runs down the side.

 

Right Side ***(6.5)***

Other than a shiny silver band, which runs around the majority of the W7’s frame, there is nothing to speak of on the W7’s right side - no ports or controls. However, there is a small plastic cover that opens upward and allows the user to connect a Sony AC-LS5K AC adapter.

 

 

Top ***(8.0)***

With the silver band continuing to wrap the camera, the Cyber-shot promo material continues as well in small satiny lettering on the left side of the top of the Sony W7. Close to the camera’s center line is the power button, which is smooth, shiny, and silver, like the band in which it sits. To its right is the lime green power light and on the right top edge is the main mode dial. In the center of the mode dial is the smooth shutter button. The distinct placement and separation of the shutter and power buttons is a wise move by Sony. This is the same arrangement as the Cyber-shot W1.

 

The top dial is larger than average and has vertical serrations around the edge to aid rotation. Atop the mode dial are the icons for the seven preset shooting modes (Twilight, Beach, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Candle, Soft Snap, and Snow), as well as auto, program auto, manual, playback and movie mode. An icon missing from the W7 mode that was on W1 is the Setup selection. The Sony W7 also adds a little snowman to the dial to cover shooting in the bright white reflective light of snow.

 

**Bottom ***(8.0)*

On the left side of the bottom is the W7’s five-hole speaker, set in a shallow divot. To the right, near the battery/memory stick cover, is the tripod socket. The battery/memory stick cover opens by pressing a button while pushing towards the edge of the cover with the thumb, and the silver band seen elsewhere around the frame doesn’t continue across the cover.

Components

**

Viewfinder ***(4.0)*

Simply put, the world seen through the optical viewfinder is way off compared to the world seen through the LCD. When you frame the word Cyber-shot in the viewfinder, on the LCD screen you see "Cyber-shot" and a bunch of space — enough for about four more letters — to the right of the word. So when your subject is perfectly framed in the viewfinder, it is really on the left side of the LCD screen — and the final printed picture. Sony’s W series is certainly better known for its wide LCD screens, not for its optical viewfinders. The LCD screen is recommended for framing shots, but in case of a low-battery emergency where you’re left totally desperate, the optical viewfinder is there.

 

**

LCD Screen ***(7.5)*

Sony expects the W7’s large 2.5-inch LCD screen to attract a wide audience. They have reason to believe that too; after all, the success of the W1 is what spurred the expansion to an entire series of "wide screen" digital cameras. Although, the lone drawback to the massive display is the meager 115,000 pixels included to form displayed images. The screen performs fairly well when turned at an angle; only at extreme angles is it really difficult to see. When in tough lighting, users can enter the setup menu and brighten or darken the LCD’s backlight in three steps. Since the optical viewfinder is so inaccurate, prepare to have the LCD screen powered up much of the time — so pack a few extra batteries.

 

**

Flash ***(7.0)*

Sitting directly above the Carl Zeiss lens, the built-in flash has a pretty powerful punch. It can reach from 11.8 inches to 14.75 feet, which is slightly more than the average compact camera’s flash range. The Sony W7 has several flash modes: Auto, Forced On, Forced Off, Slow Sync, Red-Eye Reduction On, and Red-Eye Reduction Off. The first four options in that list can be scrolled through (the icons, anyway) with the top button of the four-way navigational dial. The red-eye reduction setting can be turned on and off within the setup menu only. This is a bit of an inconvenience, as this option is buried in the menu within a menu (to enter the setup menu, you have to enter a shooting or playback menu). A Flash Level option controls the intensity of the flash; this can be found in the menu with + and — settings and will offer substantial control over the illumination. The flash works well in practice and evenly lights its subjects.

 

**

Zoom Lens ***(7.0)*

One of the best deals Sony ever made was partnering with Carl Zeiss to pair their high-caliber glass with Sony digital electronics. Carl Zeiss is known for high-quality low-distortion lenses; the one fixed to the Cyber-shot W7 reaches from 7.9-23.7mm (equivalent to 38-114mm in 35mm format). This 3x optical zoom lens is constructed of 7 elements (3 of them are aspheric) in 5 groups. The lens makes a tiny mechanical noise that is somewhat high-pitched when focusing. It’s not as obnoxious as some zoom lens noises that I’ve heard, but is still audible and may bother some users or nearby small dogs. When turning the camera on or off, the lens extends or retracts and makes a brief noise similar to a small drill. In case this lens does not reach far enough for you, there is an extra 2x digital zoom. There are two digital zoom options available in the setup menu: Smart and Precision. The Smart zoom aims for little to no distortion, but cannot be used in the 7 megapixel image size. The Precision zoom deteriorates image quality the more it is used.

 

A better option would be to utilize the camera’s compatibility with conversion lenses; however, like the movie mode, this requires users to purchase something additional, in this case a $30 adaptor ring plus the accessory lens. The W7 has a filter diameter of 30mm and is compatible with several wide and telephoto conversion lenses; there are at least three extra lenses available on the Sony web store. There are also polarizing filters and such available for the engaged user.

Design / Layout

**Model Design / Appearance ***(8.0)*

The Sony W7 is formed into a rectangular shaped, metal alloy body and is a bit boxier than most compact digital cameras in its class. Sony kept this boxy shape from the W1, but modified it with a few cosmetic details such as fewer holes for the microphone and a rectangular flash rather than the rounder, slightly oval shape flash that adorned its predecessor. When you turn on the W7, it makes a reassuring sound that is somehow reminiscent of a mechanical bug. It lets you know that the lens has extended or retracted and sounds like a strange cross between a hiss and whir. Although the zoom mechanism is audible, it does not seem feeble; so as long as the sound doesn’t get to you, it shouldn’t be too much of a problem.

 

**Size / Portability ***(7.0)*

With a strong rectangular design and slightly rounded edges, the W7 is a bit on the thick side, but might be able to squeeze into the pocket of loose fitting jeans. The camera spans 1.5 x 3.6 x 2.4 inches (12.96 inches3) and weighs 8.9 oz. when fitted with two AA batteries and wrist strap.

 

No lightweight, the W7 feels like it has substance without being overly burdensome. Even with no major protrusions to speak of (other than the slight crescent-shaped finger grip on the camera’s front face), the W7 is not a camera for the ultra slim crowd, but does offer a bit more in the way of durability and stability than many of its point-and-shoot foes. The W7 feels dense in the user’s hand and will appease those looking for a camera that’s both portable and rugged.

 

**Handling Ability ***(8.5)*

Handling on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7 feels pretty good for a compact camera. The camera is wide enough to provide a natural and comfortable grip position for the right fingers, with enough real estate for the left hand to stabilize the shot without obstructing the lens. The moon-shaped finger support on the front of the camera offers additional support and a nice rest for the fingertips. Navigating the camera’s functions is simple, with all essential control features within reach of the right thumb. The W7 definitely has an edge over most point-and-shot cameras on the market in terms of handling, largely attributed to the camera's substantial weight and thick frame. Although this is a knock in the portability department, in terms of control and usage, the chunky W7 will feel much more like a traditional 35mm point-and-shoot than a diminutive digital camera.

 

**Control Button / Dial Positioning / Size ***(7.0)*

All of the control buttons are located on the right side of the back of the camera, all within easy reach of the user’s right thumb. This makes quick changes convenient and one-handed shooting possible.

 

The W7’s control buttons are a bit on the small side, especially considering the amount of space available. The zoom toggle is a single rectangular button that rocks toward the wide and telephoto edges. This can at time present a problem, particularly as the control wears with age. However, the camera’s four-way navigational dial is separated into an organized cluster of five buttons, which makes it easier to operate by feel.

 

With the camera in one hand and the thumb placed on the release button, a slight push forward makes the bottom battery cover smoothly open on its spring-loaded hinge. This is exactly what is needed for quick reloads of fresh batteries. But one problem is that the button that makes it easy to open could also be depressed when put in a pocket or in a bag, causing it to open and the batteries to fall out.

 

 

Menu ***(6.5)***

The menus on the Sony W7 are simple and easy to navigate. A display bar running across the bottom of the screen projects a series of icons. The icons are not all that intuitive; luckily, the title of each function appears when the icon is selected. Once selected, the available options appear in a pop-up gray box on the left side of the LCD screen. The setting currently in use is highlighted by a yellow box and designated with a check mark next to it.

 

The menu changes as the mode dial is turned. The most complete menu is, of course, in the manual mode. In manual mode, the menu offers the following lengthy list of options: Focus, Metering, White Balance, ISO, Picture Quality, Burst Mode, Flash Level, Picture Effect, Saturation, Contrast, Sharpness, and Setup. The shortest menu is the Auto mode, with only Burst and Setup options for alteration. The scene modes hover somewhere in between, with most offering exposure compensation, metering, white balance, ISO, picture quality, burst, picture effects, and setup options.

 

The setup menu differs from the shooting menu in that it is on a completely opaque background. There are five tabs on the left side of the screen, each with its own icon. When the icon is highlighted, the title appears at the top of the screen. In the Camera 1 menu, the following setup options are available: AF Mode, Digital Zoom, Date/Time, Red Eye Reduction, AF Illuminator, and Auto Review. The Camera 2 menu consists only of one option: Enlarged Icon. This is for nitpicky consumers who wish to have the flash, macro, and self-timer icons temporarily enlarged when the proper button is pressed. The third tab down the side is the Internal Memory Tool menu and also consists of a single option: Format. The Setup 1 menu offers LCD Backlight, Beep, Language, and Initialize settings. The Initialize setting is Sony's title for Reset, and restores the factory default settings to the digital camera. For multi-lingual or international consumers, the W7 speaks the following languages: Italian, French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and English. The Setup 2 menu offers File Number, USB Connect, Video Out, and Clock Set options.

 

All of the menus are easy to navigate with the four-way control. I was impressed with the number of live views available in the recording menu. Every function that would benefit from a live view had it. Way to go, Sony.

**Ease of Use ***(7.0)*

The Sony W7 can be used intuitively and with ease by starters and most digital camera users. There are no real surprises or confusing elements to its layout, as it remains true to the traditional digital camera form and function. Functions respond rapidly; zoom provides quick, fluid feedback via the 2.5-inch LCD. When the camera is powered up, it makes a reassuring whir and buzz. The placement of the shutter button atop the mode dial is distinct and slightly higher than the rest of the camera body. With simple menu choices and intuitive navigation, the W7 is quite easy to use. The only difficulty users should have with usage is the moderately temperamental automatic focusing mechanism.

Modes

 

**Auto Mode ***(6.5)*

Excellent news for the point-and-shooters: the Auto mode is truly an auto mode. It is so automatic that you cannot change metering, white balance, or much else. You do have access to the burst mode and the setup menu, as well as the macro, self-timer, and flash options. But even those options return to default when the Auto mode is selected. So point-and-shooters rejoice; all you have to do is point and shoot. Although, intrigued consumers should be aware, at times, that the W7 overestimates the exposure and sets the shutter duration slower then necessary. This could result in a sequence of blurred shots and missed opportunities. Also, in lower light, the camera's ability to accurately adjust color balance does wane substantially.

**Movie Mode ***(6.5)*

Sony included strong movie mode capabilities on the W7; however, it is only fully available to those who also own a Sony MemoryStick Pro — which isn’t included with the camera, of course. (Oh, those marketing executives — always thinking!) The movie mode records VGA-quality videos at a rate of 30 frames per second with the Pro card, but slows to 16 frames per second with the basic MemoryStick card. A 512 MB card retails for $84.99, so if you plan on using the movie mode extensively, consider this as part of your total purchase price. If you’re only shooting video to post on the web and quality is of no importance, there is a Video Mail option available that shoots at 160 x 112 pixels at a choppy 8 frames per second. All of these options can record with audio and play back within the camera — and it actually sounds quite good. Some compact models are now offering optical or digital zoom in their movie modes, but the Sony W7 hasn’t caught on to that trend yet. There is no zoom — optical or digital — available in the movie mode. There are many other options available though: white balance, metering, color effects, focus mode, and even exposure compensation.

 

Drive / Burst Mode*(5.5)*

Sony advertises a burst mode that can capture five shots in the highest resolution at a rate of 0.9 frames per second. There is also a multi-burst mode that works more like a slow movie mode, taking 16 frames at a selectable 1/7.5, 1/15, or 1/30th of a second. Yes, that’s incredibly fast! However, the pictures are taken with 320 x 240 pixels and are saved as a single 1280 x 960 image — although they can play back in the camera sequentially. This is pretty fun to watch in the playback mode, but blowing the low-res shots up on a television screen doesn’t look very good. Sony recommends using this mode for analyzing your golf swing, but not for capturing your kid’s first steps. Basically, don’t use the multi-burst mode on anything worth remembering. To view our speed timing evaluation of the DSC-W7, refer to the Speed / Timing segment of the review (below).

 

 

**Playback Mode ***(6.0)*

The playback mode is conveniently located on the mode dial and is symbolized by the typical ‘play’ icon. Once the mode is selected, users can access the following options in the menu: Protect, DPOF, Print, Slide, Resize, Rotate, and Divide. There is no on-camera crop feature, but resizing a picture to the 3:2 size will optimize it for 4 x 6-inch prints. The Slide option is just a shortened name for the slide show function, which allows users to select intervals and images. When frames are viewed individually, file info and a histogram can be displayed with each of them. One major drawback is that there is no easy way to delete pictures. Each picture has to be manually selected and deleted. This was possibly designed to avoid accidental, wholesale wipes of pictures - but having to flick through photo after photo proved tedious and frustrating. If users want to immediately view photographs after taking them, they can turn the Auto Review feature on in the Setup menu. Once this is done, pictures will appear on the screen for about three seconds before returning to the live view. Movies can be played back — complete with sound — on the Sony W7. The speaker is on the bottom of the camera and works surprisingly well so long as you move your palm.

 

**Custom Image Presets ***(6.0)*

Providing quick options for point-and-shooters, the W7 offers seven scene modes that are all easily accessible on the mode dial. Most recently released compact cameras offer at least ten presets, although many image presets are more for style than substance (for example, the Food mode on the Casio Z750). The Cyber-shot W7 goes straight for the basics with the following list: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Soft Snap, Landscape, Beach, Snow, and Candle. The Twilight Portrait mode uses the slow sync flash, as the camera’s shutter speed will only slow to 1/8 of a second. The shooting menu changes slightly in some scene modes. For example, white balance can be set in every scene except Candle. In the Twilight Portrait mode, the white balance menu’s options are limited to Auto and Flash. The Sony W7 retains some exposure control in the scene modes; users can even access the burst modes when using the Snow, Beach, Landscape, and Soft Snap modes. When users move the mode dial through the scene modes, there is a live view.

Control Options

Manual Control Options

For photographers who wish to do more than just point and shoot, there is a vast array of manual control options available on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7. Shutterbugs can control the exposure with the four-way navigational dial. The up and down arrows select the shutter speed; the right and left arrows control the aperture (although aperture alterations are limited). The shutter speed and aperture can only be manipulated on the LCD screen and are not available within a menu (which I think is practical). Other settings can be manually selected, including White Balance, ISO, Exposure Compensation (although not in the Manual mode), Metering, and Focus (sort of). The following sections go into greater detail about the versatility of these features.

 

**Focus ***

Auto (6.0)*

The Sony W7 has two auto focus modes, Single and Monitor, that can be selected in the Setup menu. The Single mode activates the focus only when the shutter release button is pressed halfway. The Monitor option acts like a continuous mode, but really sucks the juice out of the batteries. When in Auto mode, the W7 blurred lots of shots it shouldn't have. When subjects move quickly, there is a slight hesitation with the auto focus. The W7 does have an AF illuminator that helps the camera focus at times in compromised lighting, but is not enough to ensure accuracy. The illuminator casts an eerie red light in the center of the frame and could almost pass as a laser pointer. All in all, the autofocus is definitely sub-par compared to other cameras of the W7’s caliber.

 

 

Manual (1.0)

Manual focus is offered on the Sony W7, but as with most compact models, it is a travesty of the meaning of 'manual.' A Focus option in the menu offers two auto focus settings and the following manual focus settings: 0.5m, 1.0m, 3.0m, 7.0m, and infinity. These settings are more like focus presets than actual manual focus. I doubt you'll want to whip out your measuring tape and make sure your subjects are exactly 3 meters away, so don't expect much from these options.


**Metering ***(7.5)*

The multi-pattern metering mode is the default in the W7, but there are two other options. Similar to other compact models, this Cyber-shot has spot, center-weighted, and multi-pattern metering modes. The default mode measures from several points on the screen and reads photo conditions from them. The spot metering mode measures from a tiny point in the center of the screen and is useful for backlit subjects. In this mode, the camera puts a small cross in the center and reads conditions from that point. The center-weighted metering mode measures from the subject in the center of the frame.

**Exposure ***(7.5)*

Users of the Sony W7 can control the exposure both automatically and manually, depending on their fancy. The mode dial on the top of the camera pictures all of the exposure modes, including the scene modes. The camera has manual, automatic, and priority modes on the mode dial, as well as seven image presets. When users turn the mode dial, a picture of it appears on the LCD screen and as it is turned, the current mode is highlighted in color — indicating its potential engagement.

 

This compact camera also offers the typical exposure compensation range of +/- 2 EV in 1/3 steps. It is available in every mode except for Manual and Auto.

 

 

**White Balance ***(4.5)*

Staying within the automatic realm, the Sony W7 only offers white balance presets. The list is even a bit limited: Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Fluorescent, Incandescent, and Flash. Sadly, there is no manual white balance mode. This is unfortunate, as a camera that allows users to manually adjust the shutter speed and a bit of the aperture should ideally also let users set the white balance. However, I do appreciate the interface of the white balance menu. The different modes are represented by intuitive icons on a gray background, which takes up the left side of the screen. The right side of the screen is left for users to see live views. The implementation is strong, but the options are weak. This would not be so much of a problem if the camera’s automatic white balance function worked appropriately, but it seemed to be one of the camera’s weakest elements. Particularly in compromised lighting, the W7 displayed significant difficultly finding true white and often (inside and out) produced images with strong reddish overtones.

**ISO ***(4.0)*

The Cyber-shot DSC-W7 has a truncated ISO range that approaches the typical offerings of most compact digital cameras. Users can select Auto, 100, 200 or 400 within the menu. And when they do, they can see a live view and watch the lighting brighten and darken when the different ratings are selected. Most point-and-shoot models will throw in an additional setting below the ISO 100 rating, either an ISO 50 or 80 rating to ensure (given ample lighting) that noise is not a problem. Sony skimps out a bit here with the limited sensitivity range, but compensates for it by controlling stray noise with an effective image processor and strong sensor.


**Shutter Speed ***(7.5)*

The shutter speed can be automatically or manually controlled on the Cyber-shot W7. When the W7 takes over and selects the shutter speed, it does so from a range of 1/8-1/2000th of a second. This range will suffice as long as users aren’t taking pictures of night landscapes or fireworks — or anything that would require a shutter speed longer than 1/8 of a second. The Program Auto setting allows slightly more freedom with a 2-1/2000th of a second range. Even then, sometimes two seconds will not be enough. Luckily, the shutter speed can be manually adjusted from 30-1/1000th of a second when more control is needed to attain the proper exposure. While this range leaves out the quick 1/2000th of a second option, it is far more valuable for its longer shutter speeds. The shutter speeds can be manually adjusted by pressing the button in the center of the four-way navigational dial, then pressing the up and down arrows. When users select any speed below 1/8 of a second, the camera shows the letters "NR" on the LCD screen to indicate that the noise reduction system has been activated. And there are plenty of shutter speed options to choose from — 46 of them to be exact.


Aperture ***(3.5)***

The W7 is equipped with a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens. This 3x optical zoom lens has an aperture range of f/2.8-f/5.6 when it is zoomed out and a range of f/5.2-f/10 when zoomed all the way in on a subject. The aperture can be semi-manually adjusted by pressing the same central button in the four-way navigational dial, then pushing the right and left arrows. I say semi-manual because users have only two choices at a particular focal length. The aperture is either open or stopped-down and there’s nothing to select in between. This is typical of many compact cameras that offer manually adjustable aperture controls.


As users scroll through the options, there is a live view available that shows how the lighting and depth of field changes.


Image Parameters

**Picture Quality/ Size Options ***(6.0)*

The Sony W7’s current image size can be switched with the delete button, which is also labeled with a vague icon of what looks like a stack of boxes. The following options appear: 7 M, 3:2, 5M, 3M, 1M, VGA (E-Mail). All of these options are available in Fine or Standard compression. The equivalent aspect ratio of the previous list are as follows: 3072 x 2304, 3072 x 2048, 2592 x 1944, 1280 x 960, and 640 x 480, respectively. This range should offer versatility for photographers who want to shoot everything from 11 x 18-inch prints to standard 4 x 6 snapshots to pictures that can be easily posted on the web.


**Picture Effects Mode ***(7.5)*

The W7 has two color effects and three image parameters that can be toyed with to embellish pictures a little and avoid the computer and an extra half hour in Photoshop. Photos can be shot in Black & White and Sepia tones — and both actually look quite nice for in-camera effects. These are in addition to the default color mode, of course. The following image parameters are all available with Normal and one-step + or — options: Saturation, Contrast, and Sharpness. The Sony W7 offers live views as users scroll through the options and most can be clearly seen; the only exception is the Sharpness mode, which is difficult to see on the 115,000-pixel LCD screen.

Connectivity / Extras


 

Connectivity
Software *(4.0)*

The Sony W7 comes with Picture Package version 1.6 for Windows and ImageMixer VCD2 for Macintosh. The software takes about ten minutes to install and once uploaded, it is not very intuitive to use. Once the program is open, users must load pictures from the camera or from the computer. Pictures are not saved in the software once the application is closed, so don't close anything unless your work is saved and you don't plan on finding your previously loaded files there. Once pictures are loaded into the browser, users can doubleclick on a frame and it will enlarge in a separate window. Once there, users can choose to email or edit the picture. If the email option is chosen, the program will automatically open the default email program on the computer and let users select an image size. If the editing option is chosen, a separate window appears with the following options: red-eye fix, brightness/color, crop, resize, and save as (this latter option is of utmost importance in this program). The brightness/color option offers several image adjustments, such as hue, saturation, sharpness, brightness, and contrast. Ironically, the W7 has half of these editing options in the camera's picture effects menu; namely the hue, saturation, and sharpness. Because of this and the lack of real color balancing options (whatever happened to adjusting individual red, green, and blue frequencies?), as well as the inability to save loaded pictures in the software, the Sony Picture Package software was thoroughly unimpressive.

 

Jacks, Ports, Plugs (5.0)

Like most other compact digital cameras, the Sony W7 includes a single port that covers two separate connections: Mini-USB and A/V out.

**

**


*Direct Print Options (6.5)
*The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7 is PictBridge compatible and will print within the playback menu via the DPOF and Print options. The camera also has a resizing option, so if users want to print 4 x 6-inch snapshots, they can resize pictures to the 3:2 format size for accurately framed pictures.

 

Battery *(6.5)*

The W7 comes with two Cyber-shot AA nickel-metal hydride batteries and a battery charger for them. When these batteries are unavailable, the camera also accepts R6 AA alkaline batteries.

**

**

 

Memory (8.0)

In case you haven’t figured this out by now, Sony wants its customers to stay customers forever. If you get the camera and want to use the movie mode, you have to buy the MemoryStick Pro card. If you want to use accessory lenses, you must buy the lens adaptor too. So it only makes sense that the W7 does not accept the traditional SD, MMC, or CompactFlash cards. Rather, it uses the Sony-brand MemoryStick and MemoryStick Pro media. This Cyber-shot also includes 32 MB of internal memory, which is admittedly more than most digital cameras will offer. This is a nice feature to have when you’re in a bind and can’t find a Sony-branded memory card anywhere.


Other Features *(0.0)*
Self-Timer- The camera has a self-timer, which activates and takes a picture 10 seconds after the shutter release button is pressed.

 

Overall Impressions

Value*(5.5)*

Like George Lucas, Sony knows something about marketing, tie-ins, and accessories. Because this is Sony, you'll be paying for more than just the camera. There's the MemoryStick Pro, the conversion lens adaptor, accessory lenses and filters, etc. So when you look at the price, factor in the gear for the W7 because you're probably going to end up paying for it. If you have the money to drop, you probably won’t be disappointed with the W7, but if you're on a budget, there are far better values out there.


Comparisons
[

Fujifilm FinePix F10 *-](../content/Fujifilm-FinePix-F10-Digital-Camera-Review-.htm)*At its most basic, the F10 weighs in with 6.1 MP and the same-sized 2.5-inch LCD screen and retails for $50 less than the Sony W7. When it comes down to the numbers and the finer points, the Fuji starts up in 1.34 seconds as compared to the faster 1.3 second W7. Shot-to-shot, the F10 and W7 take the same length of time: 0.4 seconds. And from shutter to shot, the F10 is lightning fast at .01, while the W7 is a only slightly behind at 0.12 seconds. The F10 offers users far more shooting flexibility, providing a sensitivity range from ISO 80 all the way up to 1600. The W7 comes with only three ISO settings. When you look at aesthetics, the two are basically the same design, with the W7 packing a bit more weight. The F10 has a more powerful flash, but the W7 isn’t a slouch when it comes to illumination with a reach of 14 feet and added control. *
[

*Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W1 *-](../content/Sony-Cyber-shot-DSC-W1-Digital-Camera-Review.htm)*With basically the same layout and features as the W7, the W1 might have won over consumers who like the feel and use of Sony Cyber-shot line of cameras when it was released in February of last year. The 5-megapixel W1 is a year old and therefore, now a year cheaper; it retails online for about $200. The older model has a similar 3x optical zoom lens and the 2.5-inch LCD screen that inspired the W-series "Wide LCD" line. *

*

[

  • Canon PowerShot SD500 -](../content/Canon-PowerShot-SD500-Digital-Camera-Review.htm)* A**nother contender in the compact major megapixel war is Canon's SD500, a slim-line camera from their Digital ELPH line. This model definitely has more style than the Sony W7. It has rounded sleek edges rather than the boxy look. The SD500 packs 7.1 effective megapixels on its 1/1.8-inch CCD and couples it with a DIGIC II image processor that produces accurate colors. This model has less manual control and instead aims for the point-and-shoot market with nine scene modes, a host of cool color modes, and a 2-inch LCD screen. For $499, this Canon offers a better movie mode with faster frame rates but lacks manual exposure control.****

***[

  • Nikon Coolpix 7900 -*](../content/Nikon-Coolpix-7900-First-Impressions-Review-.htm)***This digital camera retails for the same $449.95 as the Sony W7. The Coolpix has 7.1 effective megapixels on a large 1/1.8-inch CCD, a 3x optical zoom, and a 2-inch LCD screen. There are manual shutter speed and aperture controls - although this model has the same 2-step aperture adjustment that the W7 has - as well as 16 scene modes. The Nikon includes interesting features such as lighting compensation, in-camera red-eye fix, and an auto focus mode that recognizes faces and automatically focuses on them. With similar 3.5 x 2.4 x 1.4-inch dimensions, the Nikon offers a very similar package.****

**[

  • Fujifilm FinePix E550* -](../content/Fuji-FinePix-E550-Digital-Camera-Review.htm)**The E550 established a foothold in the digital camera market when it launched last summer. With 6.3 megapixels and pricing in the $400 range, this Fuji offers a 4x optical zoom lens and a 2-inch LCD screen. The E550 has a much slower burst mode, but starts up in 1.52 seconds, which is slower than the W7 but still not too bad for a compact camera. This model has a similar boxy look, but also has a larger right-hand grip. This FinePix is compatible with conversion lenses and, unlike the Sony, comes with a lens adaptor included with the camera.****

****Who It’s For**
Point-and-Shooters- Turn it on and shoot. That's what most point-and-shooters want from their digital camera, and the W7 does that perfectly well. Given its price and 7.2 megapixels, it will most likely not be a starter digital camera, but it does satisfy the need for someone looking for a higher quality, higher priced second camera. So if you're ready, feel free to upgrade.**

 

Budget Consumers- **For $449 you'll get 7.2 megapixels and a 3x zoom in a nice little camera. However, if you want that memory stick and conversion lens adaptor, it'll cost you. So for the budget-minded, the W7 will not be the most economical camera.**

**

Gadget Freaks -If accessories count as gadgets, then Sony’s DSC-W7 is king. However, to shoot in movie mode, you’ll need the MemoryStick Pro card. Hook up an external flash, a lens adaptor, and three accessory lenses and your add-on cravings will be satiated. As far as built-in goodies, the W7 is pretty average and doesn’t stir the lust in this gadget freak.**


Manual Control Freaks*- *MCFs will be pretty bummed with the choices on the W7. Billed as having manual control, there are essentially only two aperture settings for each focal length, three selectable ISO settings, and no manual adjustment of white balance. However, there is a healthy list of 46 shutter selections built into the W7.

 

Pros/Serious Hobbyists -Once again, resolution will attract the wannabe pros and seemingly serious shooters. Yet the need for special cards and accessories to get the W7 to perform more like a higher-end camera might prove dissuasive.

Conclusion

**

Conclusion

Overall, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7 pulls in a lot of desirable features for its retail price of $449.95. This isn't exactly a stellar deal unless you will really use all of the functions and features. It's like a pricey pair of shoes; if you're going to wear them a lot, get them - no matter the price you'll probably get your money's worth. The W7 upgrades from the W1 with 7.2 effective megapixels, but keeps the same 2.5-inch LCD screen that the W series is now known for with a slight decrease in screen resolution.

The Sony W7 aims to be the everyman's camera by offering manual and automatic modes and selling the camera in black and silver-colored bodies. Indeed, these features - coupled with the 3x Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar optical zoom lens and 32 MB of internal memory - should attract a wide audience. There are many strong elements and features included on the Cyber-shot W7, such as the 1/1.8-inch CCD and Real Image Processor that contribute to the clear, virtually noise-free images. The menus are easy to navigate and make choosing options easier with the live views that accompany nearly every function. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7 also outperformed other compact digital cameras with its 1.3-second startup time.

Of course, there are some strong downsides to this model as well. The optical viewfinder is completely inaccurate, the aperture and white balance controls don't offer much manually (seems to be more in the way of padding for the specs), and the delete function is tedious in the playback mode. Also, the automatic focus control will present a problem if you use the camera frequently - it is temperamental and often inaccurate, leading to a lot of wasted frames.

Also, when you buy a Sony digital camera, you're bound to spend more money than you expected on Sony products. For example, if you really want to use the fluid 30 fps movie mode, you have to buy the Sony MemoryStick Pro (not included with the camera). If you want to use conversion lenses, you have to buy the lens adaptor too. So if you've got a pocketbook full of cash and you're looking for a small camera with a mega amount of megapixels and some added features, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W7 won’t be the best bargain, but it might be what you're looking for.**
**

Specs

Specs Table
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Meet the tester

Emily Raymond

Emily Raymond

Editor

Emily Raymond is a valued contributor to the Reviewed.com family of sites.

See all of Emily Raymond's reviews

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