Sony Announces Cybershot WX300, HX300, And TX30 Ultra-Zoom And Waterproof Cameras

Sony has rolled out three new compact cameras, two of which boast exceptionally small bodies, and one that has all the outdoorsy trimmings needed to withstand long treks and harsh environments. Each camera – the WX300, HX300, and TX30 – offer their own array of features tailored to a specific kind of user. Whether you're looking for an ultra-slim compact or something to snap images underwater, these cameras will meet that need.

First up is the WX300, which Sony boasts as the world's lightest and smallest camera available with 20x optical zoom. This super-zoom compact features a wide-angle Sony G Lens, and utilizes SteadyShot for blur-free images. According to the announcement, this camera features double the image stabilization of the last Cybershot 20x zoom camera. Likewise, autofocus is said to be 3.6x faster than the previous model. There's integrated Wi-Fi that allows photographers to utilizes their smartphone as a remote, as well as making it easy to send images to the cloud without using an SD card and computer.

The HX300 offers quite a bit more zoom at 50x optical, which is just about the highest you'll find on a compact camera. The HX300 is designed to resemble a dSLR, but does not have an interchangeable lens, instead offering a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T with a coating to reduce flares and reflections. There's on-board Optical SteadyShot for blur-free images, as well as a high-speed autofocus for a combination that produces sharp, clear images.

Last but not least is the TX30, which is designed for outdoor use, offering protection against freezing temperatures and jostles. The camera is waterproof to 10 meters, and is likewise dustproof. Touted as the world's thinnest compact digital camera, the TX30 features 5x optical zoom and a Magnifying Glass Plus zoom mode that takes it to 15x.

All three cameras can be pre-ordered now, and will be released next month.

[via Sony]