The Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder puts full 1920 x 1080p high def recording and 16GB of internal memory right in the palm of your hand. While the CX160 might be a mid-range camcorder, as far as budgets are concerned, it provides numerous features and functions, not to mention the stunning detail of progressive high definition. Your memories will look beautiful on your HDTV or HD monitor.
Helping the CX160 take those gorgeous HD videos would be the camera's 'Exmor R' CMOS sensor, otherwise known as the heart of the camera. Back-illuminated, this sensor has superb low light capabilities for capturing readable images even in dimly lit situations. In addition to the sensor, features like the Sony Wide Angle G lens, a 3.0" touch screen LCD, Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, and 42x Extended zoom also play key roles in preserving the memorable moments of your life.
In addition to these core tools, the CX160 also comes equipped with a number of user-friendly shooting controls. These controls help take the guesswork out of filming, allowing you to focus on the moment and not futzing with the camera's settings. Such functions include Intelligent Auto, Golf Shot, and Tracking focus, just to name a few. Of course when you're done shooting, the work isn't over just yet. Sony provides editing software with the CX160 for making the most of your videos. When you're done styling your masterpiece, the software will also help you to upload your videos to the 'net for sharing on sites like Facebook and YouTube.
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 1/4" CMOS |
| Lens |
2.1 - 63 mm f/1.8 - 3.4 |
| Zoom |
Optical: 30x Digital: 350x 1 Please Note:Extended zoom: 42x close |
| Filter Size | 37 mm |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| System | NTSC |
| Recording Media |
Internal Flash Memory 16GB Memory Stick PRO Duo, SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Video Format |
High Definition MPEG AVC/H.264 1920 x 1080p, 1920 x 1080i, 1440 x 1080i (60/60/60 fps) Standard Definition 720 x 480i (60 fps) |
| Still Image Resolution | JPEG: 3.3 Megapixel |
| Audio Format | 2-Channel Stereo |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Screen Size | 3.0" |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Lux |
11 (1/60 shutter speed) 3 (1/30 shutter speed) |
| Built-in Mic | Yes |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Built-in Light/Flash |
Light - No Flash - No |
| Tripod Mount | 1/4" |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Inputs | 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Stereo Mini |
| Outputs |
1x HDMI C (Mini) 1x USB 2.0 1x Composite Video (out) 1x Component Video (out) |
| Microphone Input | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | No |
| General | |
|---|---|
| System Requirements |
Windows
|
| Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 2.07 x 2.24 x 4.86" / 52.5 x 57 x 123.5 mm |
| Weight | 8.8 oz / 249 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
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Most Liked Positive Review
Better than I Expected
I was looking for a simple-to-use HD camcorder in a very small package and this is exactly what I got out of the CX160.
With such a low price and compact package, ...Read complete review
I was looking for a simple-to-use HD camcorder in a very small package and this is exactly what I got out of the CX160.
With such a low price and compact package, I honestly wasn't expecting very much from this camera, but I was blown away by the stunning quality of the footage viewed directly off of the memory card on my PC. Absolutely unreal.
One thing I really like about this camcorder over most of the competition in this range is the native progressive footage. While fast pans do blur a little, there are no interlacing artifacts that I was getting with my previous Vixia - even when using the Vixia in "24p" mode. You see, the "24p" mode isn't really progressive, it's still recorded @ 60i with pulldown applied. You still get those interlacing artifacts. Not with this camera :)
The only reason I chose this model over the 130 was the addition of the 1/8th inch mic input. Funny thing is, I haven't had a need for an external mic as the built in mic works far beyond my expectations.
The only downside to this camera (and all others in its range) are the touch controls. It would be awesome if you could get a handful of 'quick access' real buttons to most used menu items instead of relying on the touch-screen. Other than that, I love this camcorder. I would buy it again if I had it to do over again.
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Most Liked Negative Review
No option to Pause and start recording
by looking at the reviews I bought 3 pieces for me, my brother and my uncle. I'm very disappointed as there is no option to pause & start the recording option. Everytime we s...Read complete review
by looking at the reviews I bought 3 pieces for me, my brother and my uncle. I'm very disappointed as there is no option to pause & start the recording option. Everytime we start and stop, it is creating a new file. I want to record a session using Pause and record so that the entire session will be covered in a single file. but this is not possible using this camcorder. Planning to return as this feature is important for me.
Reviewed by 40 customers
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
I've had the camcorder about 2 weeks and am very pleased with it so far. I've taken it to my son's swim meet and gotten some great shots. We are very impressed with the picture - what I see on the LCD is exactly what I see on our HD TV. Love the zoom. The manual is worthless - going by trial and error and still learning. Can't wait to use it for an upcoming band concert and see how it does in low light and what kind of sound quality we have. Swim meets are just screaming parents - no way to judge that sound.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
The items arrived were in condition i expected to see. The cam is very easy to use and provides very good quality HD picture. The internal memory is a good start point with possibility of expanding it by adding SDHC cards. Touch screen is very convenient in operation and fast in respond. This item is worse more than it costs. very good option!
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
Our family used the VC to record our visit to Manhattan. The experience was good and we dediced to buy another for a friend of us.
This VC is easy to operate, provides records of very good quality for the purposes we requiere.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
friendly interface
excelent compact size for travel
excelent quality of images
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
I bought one for the holidays and must say I'm addicted to it. The first thing you'll notice is the size and weight, or lack there of in both cases. This camera is so light and easy to use that you will have no problem hand-holding it for longer periods if needed.
The only insight I'll provide those just moving into digital HD Filming is that I strongly recommend Sony's Vegas Movie Studio HD 11.0 software for editing. What comes with the camera is very, very basic and a PIA to use. Vegas is very intuitive and allows for very powerful editing with ease.
I also recommend upgrading your PC to one that is capable of editing video and offers the ability to burn BluRay Discs. Lastly, check to see if your BluRay player will play those recordable discs. Mine was from early 2008 and I had to replace it with a newer model.
All of the above will add to your overall costs so worth being aware of.
Back to the camera, excellent IQ, even in low light and the Auto Scene mode is very intelligent and works perfectly.
Still image capture isn't great, so if you plan on using it for that, I would suggest reconsidering those expectations.
One cool feature is it's short burst of slow motion capture ability. Very fun to use with kids playing.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
I am going to travel to Europe in April and May 2012, and wanted a quality camcoder small enough to keep lugage size down to a minimum. The battery charger can be used for USA or European voltage and frequency.
Great things...Picture quality appeard great in HD on my computer (have not tried it on HD TV yet). Low light conditions are good. The Optical Image Stablization is extreemly good.
Not so great...Does not have an optical view, but so far, it appears that this might be a very minor issue
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
Great product
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
Just made switch to HD after using digital 8mm tapes. This camera works great, it's just the transition from tapes I'm not used to. One thing I'm not sure how to do is go back and erase/edit the video I've already taken w/o deleting entire clip. I like being able to go back and write over what I just recorded on a tape, need to figure out how to do on this and then I will be 100% satisfied. Amazingly light, great image. Also need to transfer video to HDD and DVD to see how it compares to tape.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
Camcorder is very light weight and slim.
Video quality is good.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
This was a gift for my wife. She loves it. It is small, easy to operate. Great wide angle and zoom. SHOULD HAVE GOTTEN IT FOR HER SOONER.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
Used this camcoder for recording my family togethers and I am impressed with quality
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
Using it for 15 days now to record winter music concert for kids. Nice compact still have not used all features. The still picture is quality is good too as a bonus.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
I purchased sony HDR-cx160 from this site and the product is amazing and it has been reached my expectations.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
I used it for casual shooting... it is very compact, easy to hold and very simple to use. Nice photographs for a camcorder, Good clarity in the videos taken during the day.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
Handy cam is great especially for the first time user like me. It is easy to operate and functions are easy to understand . To understand the basic function one is not required to go through the manual. Touch screen is good and quite sensitive. Images and videos are quite clear. If LCD could be a bit more bigger would be great.. but it is nice handy cam to have
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
by looking at the reviews I bought 3 pieces for me, my brother and my uncle. I'm very disappointed as there is no option to pause & start the recording option. Everytime we start and stop, it is creating a new file. I want to record a session using Pause and record so that the entire session will be covered in a single file. but this is not possible using this camcorder. Planning to return as this feature is important for me.
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
Bought this Camcorder in September 2011, produces wonderful HD videos, works good in low light too, I would highly recommend this Sony Camcorder to all who want great home movies to share with their Family & Friends.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
I am using this cam corder for our vacation to Hawaii. I have taken test video around my area and the pictures are beautiful. The high definition really make a difference on picture quality. The light weight makes it easy to handle and the built in stablilizer makes your video still at full Zoom. Also unlike my last cam corder it shows very little movement while taking pictures. The 42 zoom lense makes even that far away shot more beautiful. I will probably purchase the extended zoom lense so I can even get closer shots. For my trip I purchased two 32 mega bite sdhc cards to go along with the 16 mega bite internal memory so I don't have to worry about running out of room. Fill up one sdhc card just place another in start filming.
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
For this money it's the best choice !
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Comments about Sony HDR-CX160 HD Flash Memory Camcorder (Black):
I bought this camcorder to capture my son's wedding ceremony. It is very easy to use. zoom is excellent.
Got excellent quality video out doors.However, low light video did not come out good on its own. need to figure out what settings i have to change. I am familiar with DSLR..where I change ISO for low light situation.Over all very impressed with the product.
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