Exploring the Marvels of Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V: The Ultimate Guide

This article delves deep into the technical specifications, features, and functionalities of Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V. Packed with tips and tricks, this guide will help you unleash the full potential of your camera and take breathtaking shots.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V article cover photo

Key Features

Feb 12 2014

Announced

20 megapixels

Resolution

BrandSony
Sensor Type1/2.3-inch
SensorBSI-CMOS
Weight660g
MSRP$499USD

Other similar cameras

Overview of the Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V is a camera that has been designed for avid photographers who don't want to compromise on the quality of their shots. With a whopping 50x optical zoom and 20.4 megapixel resolution, this camera can capture details in inordinate detail at any distance. In this article, we will give you a comprehensive guide to Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V. From the basics of using the camera to advanced techniques, we have covered everything you need to know to get the most out of your device. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the marvels of Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V!

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

1. High resolution
20.4 MP2. Powerful zoom
50x optical zoom3. Great image stabilization
Optical SteadyShot4. Fast autofocus
Focus speed of 0.09 seconds5. WiFi & NFC connectivity
easy transfer of photos6. Wide angle lens
24mm to 1200mm

Cons

1. Not compact
bulky compared to other point-and-shoot cameras2. Limited manual control
not ideal for advanced photographers3. Battery life
drains quickly with heavy use4. Low light performance
struggles in low light conditions5. Slow burst mode
only 10 frames per second6. No RAW support
limits post-processing capabilities

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V

Weather sealed
Dimensions130 x 93 x 103mm
Weight660g
Thickness103mm
Weight
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Max
Thickness
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Weather Sealing

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderElectronic
Screen TypeTilting
Screen Resolution921k dots
Body typeSLR-like (bridge)

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a tilting 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 921k dots. This makes the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V includes a electronic viewfinder with n/a of resolution with a coverage of 100% and a magnification of n/a. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V has a 20MP sized BSI-CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 20 pixels. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V has a native ISO range of 80 - 12800 which can be boosted to null - null.

Key Features

Feb 12 2014

Announced

80 - 12800

ISO Range

Sensor1/2.3-inch
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution5184 x 3888 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: 1/2.3-inch

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Duo/Memory Stick Pro Duo, Memory Stick Pro-HG Duo
Battery Life300 shots
Battery ModelNP-BX1
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V supports SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Duo/Memory Stick Pro Duo, Memory Stick Pro-HG Duo with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V uses the NP-BX1 model of battery pack. This is rated for 300 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. It also offers a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.

Shutter

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/4000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 9 number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V?

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V features a BSI-CMOS sensor

Is the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V weather sealed?

No the Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V does not have weather sealing.

When was the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V announced?

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V was announced on Feb 12 2014

Does the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V have in-body image stabilization?

Yes the Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V?

The Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V has a native ISO range of 80-12800, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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