Sufficient memory is not included. Don't get caught without memory, get a high-capacity memory card.
The Sony Cyber-shot W290 contains a whole lot of neat technologies in a sleek, brushed-aluminum package. Designed around a 12.1 megapixel (1/2.3") Super HAD CCD sensor, the W290 features a Carl Zeiss-designed 5x (5 - 25mm) power zoom that covers the equivalent field-of-view of a wide 28mm to semi-long 140mm lens. Despite its compact size, the W290 can capture up to 100 continuous exposures at speeds up to 1.8fps thanks in part to its Sony BIONZ image processor. Along with vibrant still images, the W290 can also capture vivid 720p HD video clips.
For easy composing, viewing and editing your still and video imagery, the Cyber-shot W290 features a 3" 230,400-dot Photo Clear LCD. For capturing stills, the W290 offers an immense selection of exposure and scene mode selections including an Easy Shooting Mode for those wishing to keep things nice and simple. There are also 10 in-camera retouching tools available for enhancing your pictures post-capture.
Still images can be captured at 8 levels of JPEG compression and video with sound (mono) at 3 levels of image compression to best fit your needs. To further enhance your pictures, the Cyber-shot W290 has a PHOTOMUSIC feature, which combines music and a selection of visual effects into your still image slideshows and video clips.
For admiring your pictures on a grander scale, you can output images at sizes up to and exceeding 13x19", or view them in high-definition on a Sony BRAVIA or similarly compatible HDTV using the optional VMC-MHC2 HD output adapter cable.
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290 is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is good for about 300 images (or 150 minutes of video), and along with 11MB of internal memory records images onto Memory Stick PRO and Memory Stick DUO PRO (up to 16GB) media.
| Camera Type | Point-and-shoot Digital Camera |
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Effective: 12.1MP, Recorded: 12.4MP |
| Sensor | 1/2.3" CCD |
| Bit Depth | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| File Formats | JPEG, MPEG-4 |
| File Size | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Color Spaces | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Creative Color Modes | Normal, Vivid, Sepia & B&W |
| Image Stabilization | Yes |
| Crop Factor | N/A |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens | 5.0-25.0mm f/3.3-5.2 (35mm film equivalent: 28-140mm) |
| Zoom | Optical: 5x, Digital: 10x |
| Lens Mount | N/A |
| Focus Type | Autofocus & semi-manual |
| Focus Range | Normal: 3.3' (1 m) - infinity |
| Accessory Lens/Filter Mount | 46mm (with optional Lens Adapter) |
| Shooting Controls | |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | ISO 80-3200 |
| Shutter Speeds |
Auto: 2 - 1/1,600 sec Program Auto: 1 - 1/1,600 sec |
| Metering | 9-Point Evaluative, Center-weighted Average, Spot |
| Exposure Modes | Intelligent Auto, Easy Shooting, Program Auto, Movie (Auto Adjustment, High Sensitivity, Underwater), Custom Scenes (High Sensitivity, Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Soft Snap, Landscape, Beach, Snow, Fireworks, Hi-speed Shutter, Underwater, Gourmet) |
| White Balance | Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent (1, 2, 3), Flash, Underwater White Balance Mode (Auto, Underwater 1, Underwater 2) |
| Mirror Lock-Up | N/A |
| Burst Capability | 1.8fps continuous shooting (max 100 shots) |
| Self Timer | 10 & 2 seconds |
| Interval Recording | No |
| Remote Control | No |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Yes |
| Effective Flash Range |
Wide: 7.8" - 9.8' (0.2 - 3.0 m) Tele: 1.7" - 6.2' (0.5 - 1.9 m) |
| External Flash Connection | No |
| Dedicated Flash System | N/A |
| Max Sync Speed | N/A |
| Memory | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Memory | Yes (approx. 11MB) |
| Memory Card Type | Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo |
| Still Images per GB | 173 @ max resolution |
| A/V Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Video with mono Audio, NTSC & PAL Output |
| Video Resolution | 1280 x 720 @ 30fps (Fine), 1280 x 720 30fps (Standard), 640 x 480 @ 30fps (VGA VX Fine) |
| Video Clip Length | Limited by card size, 10min. max continuous shooting |
| Audio Recording | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder Type | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Viewfinder Coverage | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Display | 3.0" LCD |
| Connectivity/System Requirements | |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | USB 2, A/V Out |
| System & Software Requirements |
Windows XP, Vista Mac OS X (10.2 or later) |
| Environmental | |
|---|---|
| Operating/Storage Temperature |
Operating Temperature:32-104°F/0-40°C Humidity: Less than 90% |
| Weatherproofing | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Durability | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion "G" type rechargeable battery (NP-BG1 included) |
| Power Adapter | AC-LS5K AC Adapter (optional) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3.8 x 2.25 x 0.8" (98 x 57 x 22mm) |
| Weight | 6.1 oz (174g) (incl. battery & memory) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
Cons
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Most Liked Positive Review
Great Camera
This is a beautiful, stylish camera with many excellent features. I love the automatic smile detection software! Everyone is surprised to find that it actually works great. I have to admit, some of...Read complete review
This is a beautiful, stylish camera with many excellent features. I love the automatic smile detection software! Everyone is surprised to find that it actually works great. I have to admit, some of my best shots of my family have resulted from putting this camera on virtual auto-pilot! The screen is large and vivid, and the lens on this camera is worth paying the extra money. I am very satisfied with this buy. However, there are 2 reasons why this is not 5 out of 5. First, I think it's ridiculous that you have to use Sony's memory stick media cards. They really should go with the standard SD cards! I had to buy a whole new media card because everything else I have runs off SD, not Memory Stick. Also, when taking photos, the camera does that double flash thing that seems to delay the speed of taking a photo. I'm sure you can probably turn that mode off, but I have not figured it out quite yet.Again, I am very satisfied with this camera and the price at B&H Photo. It's rare for a retailer to be neck to neck with [...]
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Most Liked Negative Review
Great camera
This is a great camera. It is very fast and takes really clear pictures. The night and low light shots also come out in great quality. My biggest complaint about the camera is Sony's...Read complete review
This is a great camera. It is very fast and takes really clear pictures. The night and low light shots also come out in great quality. My biggest complaint about the camera is Sony's use of their own memory cards. You can't just plug in the memory card in your computer if you have an SD port which I have really liked about having other cameras. The cord to hook this camera up to your computer is very bulky. Otherwise, I would highly recommend this camera.
Reviewed by 34 customers
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Pros
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Best Uses
Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
We use this mostly for point and shoot family snap shots but have been doing some more artistic photos recently. The controls are intuitive, the screen on the back is large and bright and clear, the options are scalable so I can keep it simple or get more technical. My hands are a little large and the heft of the camera a little light but this has not hampered taking pictures. Very pleased and would recommend it.
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
I picked this camera because I wanted a camera that had a better zoom and still maintained good picture quality. This camera lives up to this and more. I love the function of cropping and zooming even more once the picture is already taken.
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
I am not a techie person and this camera is easy to operate, takes great pictures.
Pros
Cons
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
It's small, light, portable, and takes amazing photo's.
If you do not want a SLR then this is the best as it gets.
awsome camera, I highly recommend this to anyone.
Easy to use just point and shoot.
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
almost daily...good picture quality...could be more sharp..but thats fine...the smile feature is great...overall look n feel is good!
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
Solid new version of a Sony workhorse. Recently took it into the rainforests of Puerto Rico and the images, even in the rain, were excellent. Amazing features (image stabilization, auto face detection, etc) that are almost standard today are seamless in this unit. For it's price range, I'm not sure it can be beat.
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
Everything as advertised. Ease of use, size and quality of pics as expected for a good compact camera.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
This is a great camera. It is very fast and takes really clear pictures. The night and low light shots also come out in great quality. My biggest complaint about the camera is Sony's use of their own memory cards. You can't just plug in the memory card in your computer if you have an SD port which I have really liked about having other cameras. The cord to hook this camera up to your computer is very bulky. Otherwise, I would highly recommend this camera.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
I use the camera for my personal pictures. I'm travelling all over North America and it's so convenient to carry. The whole package fits well with my computer and was easy to use...thank goodness. All this stuff about importing and exporting pictures was solved by this dandy little digital and its program. YIPPEE !!!
It is light and fits in any pocket or bag. It certainly isn't complicated to run, but produces great pictures to send home by email.
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
Honestly this is probably a bit more camera than I needed, but I wanted to make sure to get a product that has more than I need, not less. The Cyber-shot fits the bill. It's more than just a point and shoot camera, though that's what I mostly use it for. With the easy function the camera does the guess work for me (too much light, too little light, indoors/outdoors, etc). The pictures that come out are a great quality.
Personally, I love the large view screen and easy to manuver buttons. Also, the battery lasted forever when only taking photos (not video recordings). I went to Hawaii for 8 days and only had to recharge the battery once. When it came time to upload everything the software was easy as could be.
On the downside, if you really do want just a basic point and shoot camera with no added flourishes, this is probably more camera than you need. Also, because of the large view screen and extra hoo-ha's it's a tad bulkier than the super ultra-compact cameras. It might not fit in your pocket, but it fits fine in a purse or bag. Lastly, the battery/card compartment opens easily, especially if you use a snug case.
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
This is my 4th Cybershot camera and this is the best.Unremarkable quality and colors; ease of use with different programable modes; 5X optical zoom; 3" screen; HD video; and an excellent price at [$].I found it better than the new models that cost more with less functions.
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
Look good. A little bit small. Haven't used much so can't tell u yet. But it seems it's good enough for normal ppl :P
Pros
Cons
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
I wanted a little point and shoot that I could have with me when my DSLR is too bulky and annoying to carry around. This camera is perfect for the job. The photos are decently crisp, the video is great, and I couldn't really ask for anything more to have in my pocket.
Pros
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
I use the cameral mostly in comjunction with art work. In my classes I need to capture the still life in the best angles, colors,etc. I hate to study manuals and don't want the camera to bog me down with details........I save that for the painting. If I'm far from the subject the 5X zoom works well as well as the wide angle.
Pros
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Best Uses
Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
I have used this camera for a few weeks now and it is awesome! Takes amazing pictures and is so easy to use. The user interface allows any photographer, experienced or not, to navigate the menu's to find the right setting for their shot. There are various automatic settings to take out the guesswork and the smile option is great for getting the right family shot. I would definitely buy this camera or recommend it to anyone looking for a great compact.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
This is a beautiful, stylish camera with many excellent features. I love the automatic smile detection software! Everyone is surprised to find that it actually works great. I have to admit, some of my best shots of my family have resulted from putting this camera on virtual auto-pilot! The screen is large and vivid, and the lens on this camera is worth paying the extra money. I am very satisfied with this buy. However, there are 2 reasons why this is not 5 out of 5. First, I think it's ridiculous that you have to use Sony's memory stick media cards. They really should go with the standard SD cards! I had to buy a whole new media card because everything else I have runs off SD, not Memory Stick. Also, when taking photos, the camera does that double flash thing that seems to delay the speed of taking a photo. I'm sure you can probably turn that mode off, but I have not figured it out quite yet.Again, I am very satisfied with this camera and the price at B&H Photo. It's rare for a retailer to be neck to neck with [...]
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
Purchased camera for underwater use. Taking pictures is a breeze. Most underwater adjustments are easy. Large LCD makes viewing underwater great. I love the options that are available for all your picture taking.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
I owned a Sony DSC-W70, 7MP and upgraded it with this camera. I love Sony cameras. It's user friendly and pictures are great. It adjusts scenarios automatically. It's a perfect point and shoot camera for special occasions. You do not have to carry your bulky camera anymore. This baby does it great. Great price and good specs, plus a budget machine.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
I use this camera as an everyday point and shoot camera....carry it around in my purse. And it fits great in my pocket.
This camera takes great photos and I've been impressed with how it has auto adjusted to different types of scenes. Took some wonderful snow photos while sledding last week and no correction needed.
Love the wide angle.
I've had several other Sony digital cameras and have been pleased with them all.
I wish they would use a regular SD card, but obviously that doesn't bother me enough to not buy a Sony.
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Comments about Sony DSC-W290 Cyber-shot Digital Camera (Blue):
I take it everywhere and it's great
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