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Ergonomics
The Sony DSC-HX10V is easy to use and has a clean interface which is easy to navigate. Images on the LCD panel appear sharp. The camera has a protruding hand grip lined with a synthetic lining. The device can slip out of your hand, and hence do not forget to attach the strap while using the camera. Though the camera features Manual and Program modes, it does not have priority modes, which hinders creative freedom. Also the lack of a comprehensive user manual could be worrisome for some since all features are not self-explanatory.  

Performance
Sony compacts are known for their fine performance and the HX-10V is no exception. Focussing was fast and accurate even under low light. Images were sharp and colours vibrant. The camera did not produce any perceptible distortion at any focal length, which is very rare. Metering was accurate with all metering modes performing as expected. The camera reproduced colours as expected with all White Balance modes performing very well, except under incandescent light, where Auto White Balance produced slight red cast. 

Native print size of the images was 12.24 x 16.32 inches at 300 ppi. We compared the images for noise on a monitor with 1280 x 1024 pixel resolution. At 25 percent of the screen size, the images were free of noise up to ISO 3200. Though ISO 6400 and 12800 produced slight noise, the images were perfectly usable. At 50 percent screen size, the images remained noise-free up to ISO 800. Here, ISO 3200 appeared less noisy than ISO 1600, probably because of the noise reduction algorithm acting at this sensitivity level. Viewed at 100 percent, we observed noise from ISO 400 onwards, but they were quite usable throughout the ISO range. The noise levels were judged as observed on our computer screen and it might differ on print. Noise observed on print depends on various factors such as the size of the final image, viewing distance, printing method, printer, printing paper, and the ink used.  Generally, noise seen on screen is more than what one sees on a print.

We observed some darkening of corners at the wide-angle end with the lens wide open. Prominent flare with purple fringing was observed at the wide-angle end with the lens wide open, in against-the-light shots, but you might not even notice these in general, everyday images.   

Value for Money
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX10V retails at an MRP of Rs.17,990. At this price, the camera appears good value for money.

+ Excellent Build and Design
+ Brilliant Performance
+ Feature-packed

- No Priority Modes
- No Complete User Manual

FINAL SCORE
Design and Build Quality 17/20
Key Features 17/20
Ergonomics 16/20
Performance
Autofocus 5/5
Metering 5/5
Noise Control 4/5
Distortion/Sharpness 5/5
LCD/VF 4/5
AWB 4/5
Sub-Total 27/30
Value for Money 8/10
Grand Total 85/100

VERDICT
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX10V is a compact and capable super zoom camera that performs like a champion. The lack of priority modes and a comprehensive user manual can prove to be a problem for many users. Nevertheless, with its superior performance and sensible pricing, the camera earns itself a Best Buy.
Sujith Gopinath