Sony Cyber-shot DSC H1

Review summary: The Cyber-shot DSC-H1 ($499) is Sony's first true ultra zoom camera (the DSC-F828 doesn't count in my opinion). Featuring a 5.1 Megapixel CCD, 12X optical zoom lens with image stabilization, a large 2.5" LCD display, and full manual controls, the H1 ...

Pros: Very good photo quality (though see issue below) ; redeye not a problem ; 12X optical zoom lens (though why not Zeiss?) ; Optical image stabilization system ; Well designed, solid body ; clever door over memory card/battery compartment ; Large 2.5" ...

Cons: Purple fringing worse than competition ; Burst mode could be better ; A little too easy to accidentally use the jog dial ; Memory Sticks cost more than other card formats ; Except for the tutorial, bundled software is lousy

Verdict: When it's time to charge the batteries just place them into the included charger. This charger is very slow, taking six hours to fully charge the battery (buying a faster charger may not be a bad idea). This isn't one of those chargers that plugs ...

Review summary: The tank-like camera that's as ugly as it is accomplished.

Pros: Its sharp, clear screen; Easy manual focusing; Works well in low light

Cons: Ugly and heavy; Fiddly controls; Image quality is erratic

Verdict: A great screen, low price and good performance can't quite disguise the fact this is one heavy, ugly runt.

Review summary: Consumers consistently demand better digital cameras.

Verdict: The H1 is up against some very stiff competition (the Canon Powershot S2 IS, the Konica Minolta Z5, and the Panasonic Lumix FZ5) in this very popular class. Competing models in the 5 megapixel monster zoom product niche are remarkably well matched, so ...

Award: Recommended!

Review summary: SLR-style functionality, 12x optical zoom and a killer price - the Sony DSC-H1 has a lot going for it.

Verdict: Sony's first SLR-style super-zoom camera is a real winner, and a bargain at the price. Excellent handling, a good list of features and superior picture quality, combined with a 12x image-stabilised lens make this a good all-rounder and a superb ...