Sony DSCW800/B 20.1 MP Digital Camera - Compact Point & Shoot

In this review the Sony DSCW800/B is presented as a compact, budget-friendly point-and-shoot for casual photographers who prioritize pocketable convenience and straightforward operation. The biggest reason to buy is its combination of a 20.1 MP Super HAD CCD sensor and easy menus, which make it simple to capture everyday shots without fuss. It is best suited for travel snapshots, family moments and beginners who want a small camera that still offers a handful of useful features like 5x optical zoom and 720p movie recording.

Key Features

• 20.1 MP Super HAD CCD sensor: delivers high-resolution stills that print well and crop more flexibly than lower megapixel compacts.
• Sony Lens with 5x Optical Zoom: provides useful framing range for everyday scenes without degrading image quality like digital zoom.
• SteadyShot image stabilization: reduces blur from handshake so more shots come out sharp in typical indoor and low-light conditions.
• 720p HD Movie mode: captures basic video clips in AVI (Motion JPEG) format for easy playback and sharing.
• Easy Mode: simplifies the camera menu and settings so new users can shoot confidently with minimal setup.
• Accessory bundle included: ships with battery (NP-BN), AC adaptor, wrist strap and USB cable so it is ready to use out of the box.

Who It's For

The DSCW800/B is ideal for casual users, travelers and families who want a lightweight, pocketable camera that is easy to operate and includes basic stabilization and a helpful zoom range. The simple menus and online manual make it approachable for first-time camera owners who do not want the complexity of an interchangeable lens system.

Photographers who need high-end low-light performance, fast autofocus for sports, or a long, high-quality zoom should look elsewhere; this camera is aimed at convenience and value rather than advanced imaging or professional features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact, lightweight design that fits in a pocket and is comfortable to carry on trips.
• Large 20.1 MP sensor for detailed still images and flexible cropping.
• Easy Mode and a clear online manual make basic operation straightforward for beginners.
• Includes useful items in the box so the camera is ready to use immediately.

Cons

• Zoomed images can be soft or blurry at longer focal lengths, and some users report inconsistent image quality when relying on digital zoom.

Specifications

Sensor	Super HAD CCD, 20.1 MP
Lens	Sony lens, f=4.6-23 mm, F3.2 (W) - 6.4 (T), 5x optical zoom
Display	2.7-in LCD
Movie Format	AVI (Motion JPEG), 720p HD
Stabilization	SteadyShot image stabilization
Included	Battery (NP-BN), AC adaptor, wrist strap, USB cable, manual
Modes	Easy Mode, Multi Pattern light metering, blink detection

Our Verdict

The Sony DSCW800/B is a sensible buy for shoppers who want a small, easy-to-use camera that produces decent stills and handles travel and family snapshots well. It represents good value for users who prioritize portability and simplicity, but those needing strong zoom performance or consistently high image quality in challenging conditions should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this camera record video?
Yes, it records video in AVI (Motion JPEG) format and supports 720p HD movie mode for short clips.

Is the camera easy for beginners?
Yes, the Easy Mode and clear online manual make basic shooting straightforward for first-time users.

How is the zoom quality?
The 5x optical zoom is useful for everyday framing, but some customers report blurry results when heavily zoomed or using digital zoom.