Testing / Performance

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For each camera, we test color proficiency using a GretagMacbeth color chart and Imatest Imaging Software. The software reads the colors produced by the camera and the extent of variance from the ideal tones of the chart. For each tile on the color chart, the exterior square is the actual color produced by the camera, the inner square is the color produced by the camera as corrected by the software, and the inverted rectangle in the right-center of the tile is the ideal tone.

 

The graph below represents the colors produced by the Sony DSC-T1 and the colors' ideal tones. The circles are the actual tones produced by the camera and the linked squares are the ideal hues. The length of the line connecting the two is the degree of error for that color.

The Sony DSC-T1 received a 9.76 overall color score. This is a particularly high score for any camera, let alone a credit-card sized imager that can get lost in your pocket. The 105.7% mean saturation score the Sony DSC-T1 received is admirable. This is a respectable score because it shows that there is some over-saturation in the T1’s colors; however, it is not over exaggerated. Saturation is important in adding vibrancy and life to the color tones and will create a more three-dimensional representation on the printed page, yet far too often it is overdone.

In terms of color accuracy, the 6.15 color error the Sony T1 received is remarkable. Looking at the graph above, all of the colors as the tone approaches white are all close to "spot on." The "red"(#15), "moderate red"(#9), and "yellow" (#16) as well as the green (#11) are the only colors to stray from the ideal slightly. This is not an accidental error in the T1’s representation as often cameras are made to over-saturate red, yellow, and orange to accentuate skin tone and create a more lively look when exposing human subjects. Otherwise, color replication is ideal and performs as well as can be expected from a point-and-shoot camera.

 

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Still Life Scene

This is a shot of our still life setup that we photograph with each camera.

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](../viewer.php?picture=Sony-T1-StillLifeLG.jpg)Click on the above image to view a full resolution version (CAUTION: The images is very large)

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Resolution/Sharpness*(4.32)*

The Sony DSC-T1 produces precise, crisp imagery that surpasses all expectations for a pocket-sized camera. As a point-and-shoot imager, the T1 seems to defy convention. With physical limitations on the sensor in a camera this small, it is a wonder that we recorded images with the Sony T1 at 4.32 megapixels of 'real resolution.' This is just over 86% of the manufacturer’s marketing claim. Unfortunately, all cameras contain some discrepancy in the suggested megapixel count and actual imaging ability. In general, any camera that produces images exceeding 80-89% of the camera’s stated resolution is considered a good performer, while anything above 90% is excellent. Therefore, the 86% real resolution score the Sony DSC-T1 received ranks the T1 amongst the top performers, and given its minuscule size and range of features, this makes this an ideal travel companion for anyone with serious photographic inclinations.

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Noise — Auto ISO*(5.09)*

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 offers both automatic and manual ISO settings. Auto ISO offers the same sensitivity range, but it is controlled automatically. Characteristic of most point-and-shoot digital cameras, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1’s ISO range is concentrated at the lower end (100, 200, 400), which produces the least noise. These settings are ideal for outside and well lit shooting situations, but aren’t usable when light is scarce. When light is decreased the automatic ISO will increase the sensitivity, but this results in noise. Comparatively the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 performed well, even next to another Sony 5 MP, camera the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P100 (which got a score of 6.71). This is a great advantage in image quality.

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Noise - Manual ISO*(7.21)*

For our manual noise test we use each offered ISO setting and analyze them all using Imatest Imaging Software. The following graph displays our results for each ISO setting on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1. The ISO ratings are on the horizontal X-axis while the resulted noise reading is on the vertical Y-axis.

The graph above displays the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1’s fine performance at lower sensitivity settings, but also displays its decline as the ISO rises to 400. This decline in image quality results in evenly spaced monochromatic dots appearing on top of the image, similar to the effect of grain on film images. This is not a huge surprise, in fact, it is expected, but some cameras produce more noise than others and therefore less suitable for lower light conditions.

 

Speed Timing
***Startup/First shot(8.57)*

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 takes 1.43 seconds between being turned on snapping the first shot. With this fairly fast speed, the user will be able to see possible subject matter and successfully capture the image without the shot being lost.

Shot to shot*(2.66)*

At this price, 3.17 seconds between shots is atrocious. This huge delay makes it so that you’ll constantly have to use the Burst Mode settings on the camera, an aggravation if the user is worried about missing that special moment.

 

Shutter to shot*(8.82)*

There is often a noticeable delay in digital cameras between the time when the shutter is depressed and when the actual image is taken. However, with a shutter to shot speed of just 0.09 seconds, the time lapse on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is barely noticeable.

Physical Tour

 

 

 

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Front ***(9.0)*

The front of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 features a sleek silver surface, with a raised bar that spans the top of the camera body running horizontally across the surface. Upon first examination,, I presumed the scalloped line on the right side would somehow allow for the bar to be moved, exposing the lens and allowing for images to be captured. However, the bar doesn’t move horizontally across the camera body; instead, it moves downward. The camera can be turned on via the power button located on the top of the camera, or by sliding the bar downwards.

Once open, the user will find the small lens located in the upper left corner of the front side. The 3x optical zoom lens is a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens with a 0-4x Smart Zoom feature and 12x total zoom. Both features are based upon selected resolution rating. To the right side of the recessed lens is the built-in flash. Underneath the flash, the user will find the Self-Timer lamp and the AF Illuminator, both housed in a circular dot which is flush with the camera body.

 

Back*(9.0)*

The back of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is dominated by its 2.5-inch, 211,000 pixel hybrid LCD Screen. In the upper right-hand corner of the camera body are the Wide Angle/Telephoto zoom tabs, denoted by an embossed W/T. If Wide Angle is engaged when in Playback mode, it will switch the view from single-image to nine-image, then to sixteen-image layout before returning to normal. The Telephoto tab can zoom in on previously captured images in Playback. (It is possible to view pictures in the following zoom ratings: 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.5, 1.6, 1.8, 2.0, 2.2, 2.4, 2.7, 3.0, 3.3, 3.6, 3.9, 4.3, 4.7, and 5.0.) To move within an image while in zoom mode, the user can navigate by using the four-way controller located underneath these controls, towards the bottom of the camera body.

Beneath the zoom rocker, alongside the LCD screen on the right side, is the flash/charge light. A series of textured bumps create a pattern to the right of this light that allows for a more comfortable grip during image capture or during inclement weather conditions. Nestled among these bumps are the in-camera speakers, represented by four small open dots. Next, on the right side of the camera under the grip, the user will find the Image Size settings, allowing the user to choose among 640 x 480 (Fine), 640 x 480 (Standard), and 160 x 120. While in Playback mode, this button functions as a delete button, canceling unwanted images and movies to free up space on the memory stick. The four-way keypad controller is used to navigate the in-menu options and maneuver the playback zoom, allowing for transitions throughout the image being reviewed.

When in regular camera mode, the Up arrow doubles as the flash controller, allowing the user to select among various flash settings. The Right arrow button controls whether or not the camera is in macro mode, a feature denoted by a tulip icon. (Doesn’t everyone photograph tulips in close-up? I know I do.) The Down arrow also controls the Self-Timer feature of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1. The Left arrow engages the LCD in displaying the photograph/video just captured to the memory stick. To the lower left of the four-way keypad, the user will finally find the display button, which controls the amount of information being shown upon the LCD screen. When showing the greatest possible number of features and settings, the entire screen is overwhelmed. Even with a screen this large, there is just too much information being featured. Luckily, there are settings that display less.

 

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Left Side ***(8.0)*

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 has no features, controls, ports or other options available on its left side. There is only a caution sticker, and a plea to recycle.

 

**Right Side ***(8.0)*

The right side of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 has an eyelet located halfway down the camera body for the optional wrist strap. Above this eyelet, the user will find the switch to change between Movie, Digital Still, and Playback Modes. The symbols for each setting are located on the back of the camera body, in corresponding placement.

 

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**Top ***(8.5)*

The top of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 has, to the far right side, the shutter button. This engages digital still image capture, and marks the In/Out points for video and audio capture. To the left of this button are the Power button and light. Finally, furthest left, the user will find the microphone for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1.

Components

**Viewfinder ***(0.0)*

There is no viewfinder available on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1. This will not be a problem for people who are digital-camera savvy and are comfortable composing with an LCD screen.

 

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LCD Screen ***(9.0)*

The LCD Screen for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is a 2.5-inch, 211,000 pixel hybrid LCD screen, allowing for great image resolution and viewing. It doesn’t solarize very much, which enables shooting in a variety of situations.

 

**Flash ***(6.5)*

The Flash for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is controlled through two controllers, either the upper arrow on the four-way controller, or via the onscreen menu. Settings include Auto, Forced On/Off, and Remote Space/Slow Synchro. The Flash symbol appears in the upper left corner of the LCD screen.

 

Zoom Lens*(7.0)*

The Sony DSC-T1 contains a 3x optical zoom lens, with an equivalent focal range of 38mm - 114mm on a 35mm camera. For a pocket-sized point-and-shoot imager, 3x optical zoom grants the user some flexibility in the type of shots available. The Sony T1’s lens has an aperture range of f/3.5-f/8.0. This is an expansive range, balancing speed and precision. The range available allows for advanced sharpness when closed down as well as faster accompanying shutter speeds when opened up. While the T1's zoom lens cannot compete with interchangeable fixed lenses, for a point-and-shoot camera the Sony T1’s lens is a provider.

Design / Layout

Model Design / Appearance*(9.0)*

The design of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is sleek, small, and slender, with silver detailing and a nicely sized LCD screen that allows for easy viewing of images and reading of onscreen text. It’s an aesthetically attractive model, a camera certain to impress family members at any gathering.

 

Size / Portability*(9.0)*

The distinct portability was the first thing considered when viewing this camera. Its slender build and reasonable size immediately emphasized its ability to be transported and slid into a pocket without extra baggage, accessories, or protection. It’s a perfect size for those late nights and day trips. The bar on the front side hides the lens with enough resistance to keep the user from worrying that it might accidentally slide open and expose the lens to scratches.

 

Handling Ability*(7.5)*

Sony’s Cyber-shot DSC-T1 allows for easy changes between settings. The menu controllers are laid out fairly well, with basic symbols and instructions allowing for quick comprehension of controls and their settings parameters. I appreciated the small body size, for the most part. The only major worry concerned the placement of the lens. It’s close to the left side, often forcing my fingers into the image being captured.

 

**Control Button / Dial Positioning / Size ***(7.0)*

With a camera as small as the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1, there was a concern that the buttons would be too closely formatted, or that my hands would overwhelm the camera body. However, pleasantly enough, my hands found the buttons without strain, and with no concerns about incorrectly engaged controls and features. My only worry arose with the microphone located on the top of the camera body. However, accidental brushing or covering of this section would most likely only happen during very long recording sessions, which are relatively unlikely.

 

 

Menu*(8.5)*

The menu is accessed by pressing the Menu button located to the left and up from the four-way keypad. It can be perused using the four-way controller, and is for the most part comprised by symbols, which at times can be arcane and slightly unintuitive. It would be a wise choice for the first-time user to refer to the handbook when beginning to use the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1. Otherwise, the menu allows for rapid and efficient setting changes, and permits manual control when in both digital still and video modes, along with Automatic and Program Preset settings.

**Ease of Use ***(7.5)*

Even though the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 has a slender and compact body, I found that its generous layout and clearly labeled buttons made this a simple and straightforward camera, perfect for those get-togethers when you aren’t sure who will take the photos of you and your drunk friends, but you do know that you need the camera to work the first time, not the eightieth. Its large LCD ensures that you will be able to view your image, and its lack of a viewfinder is, oddly enough, a plus – with the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1, there is the design realization that undersized and badly placed viewfinders on digital cameras are irritating and often moot.

Modes

 

**Auto Mode ***(8.5)*

Automatic Mode is initiated by entering the menu and selecting the Automatic Section of the Menu, using the four-way keypad on the back of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1. While shooting within Automatic mode, it is still possible for the user to control such options as flash setting, zoom, macro, and so forth.

Movie Mode*(8.5)*

When in Movie Mode, the user must press the Shutter Button to engage and disengage the Record mode, and to establish appropriate In and Out points for the video/audio. It is not possible to engage zoom while actively recording, nor can the user take advantage of any of the buttons on the back of the camera, for that matter. This straightforward no-frills recording operation is devoid of user control. It is possible, however, to enter manual control or menu settings prior to beginning. Along with the zoom feature, the settings must be established prior to the initiation of the recording session, an important fact to remember during shooting.

 

Drive / Burst Mode*(6.5)*

When the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is placed in Burst Mode, the user is able to engage in continuous shooting. Every time the shutter is pressed and held down, it is possible to garner four images in quick succession. It is possible to capture only two or three images by letting the shutter button come up during image capture. Speed Burst priority allows for a faster image capture rate (an interval of approximately a third of a second between shots), but the images will not be displayed on the LCD. When in Framing Priority, the images are displayed on the LCD screen as they are taken, albeit with a slightly longer delay. For the ability to actually see the images as they are being taken, this is an acceptable cost.

 

 

**Playback Mode ***(7.5)*

By sliding the switch to the "play" insignia surrounded by a box on the back right of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1, the user may review previously garnered images and video/audio footage. By pressing the middle button nestled in the four-way controller, the user will start playback of garnered footage. For digital still images, the user can scan through single shots using the right and left buttons of the four-way controller, or view the images in either a nine or sixteen multi-up review. It is possible to zoom while in playback mode, by pressing the telephoto button.

 

Custom Image Presets*(7.5)*

The custom image presets for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 are accessed within the main onscreen menu and can be selected by scanning the list using the up and down buttons of the four-way controller. They are as follows: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Snow, Beach, High Speed Shutter, Fireworks, and Magnifying Glass. They are represented by arcane symbols that are vaguely representative of their function; it would be recommended that the user read this portion of the menu carefully to select the feature most desired for the general shooting circumstances. It is also important to remember that these settings are basic general parameters of a scene’s attributes, and will react in a general fashion. Manual control, and knowledge of the controls available, will inevitably give the user a more successful and accurate image than the preset coordinates of the camera manufacturer.

Control Options

**Manual Control Options
**Manual control is accessed through the Menu button, and allows the user added features beyond the standard point-and-shoot Automatic controls with which the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is equipped. The menu is navigated via the four-way controller and the Enter button located on the back of the camera, near the Menu button.

 

Focus*

Auto (7.0)*

Automatic Focus on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 allows for distance settings of 1.0m and 0.5m, with program settings of Spot AF, Center AF, and Multi AF. These settings are available through the Menu in the Manual control setup, under the Focus subsection. When taking a picture, the user can partially depress the shutter button to engage the focus, or to initiate these preset parameters. It is important to consider the fact that there are no manual focus settings available; if a user wants more control over image parameters, it would be advantageous to purchase a camera with this option available.

Manual (0.0)

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 has no manual focus options. I am not surprised by this, because most of its users will probably not care, but it would be nice to have the option available for those who do.

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****Metering *****(6.5)*

Metering control on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is established via the onscreen menu. These settings allow the user to choose between Multi-metering and Spot-metering. Spot allows for the user to control the specific area used for focus and exposure settings. The Multi setting allows for readings to be taken throughout the image frame in general.**
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****Exposure****(7.0)

Exposure for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is +/-2.0 EV , with settings occurring at -2.0, -1.7, -1.3, -1, -0.7, -0.3, 0, 0.3, 0.7, 1, 1.3, 1.7, and 2. A setting of two will allow the most light to enter the camera, and a setting of -2 allows the least light to enter the picture, darkening the image overall.****

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****White Balance*****(7.5)*

White balance settings for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 are available within the onscreen menu and allow the user to establish settings via the Manual Control subsection of the Menu. The settings available are: Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Fluorescent, Incandescent, and Flash. It is possible to set the White Balance manually on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1; the user must select the White Balance section within the Menu, and then press the up and down arrows on the four-way controller to adjust the levels within the Menu.****

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****ISO*****(6.0)*

The ISO settings for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 are as follows: Auto, 100, 200, and 400. ISO controls the light sensitivity of the camera, allowing for a certain amount of light to enter the scene. The lower the light levels of a scene, the higher the ISO setting. ISO settings are accessed by entering the Menu and then scanning down to the ISO setting. With this camera, the high sensitivity will cause higher noise levels, compromising the quality of the overall image.****

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****Shutter Speed*****(0.0)*

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC T-1 does not offer manual Shutter Speed options. The automatically controlled shutter speed allows the user to take shots as slow as 1 second and as fast as 1/1000 of a second. Sony teases the user by displaying the automatically controlled shutter speed and aperture settings, but stops short of allowing you to change them. **

Aperture***(0.0)*

Similarly, there is no manual aperture option available on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1. The range, which is controlled automatically, is f/3.5 at a wide angle and f/4.4 at Telephoto.

Image Parameters

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****Picture Quality****/ Size Options*****(6.0)*

Picture Quality settings are accessed either within the onscreen menu or through the button located slightly above and to the right of the four-way controller. Using the controller located externally on the body of the camera, the user can choose among 640 x 480 (Fine), 640 x 480 (Standard), and 160 x 120 when shooting in Video Mode. When in digital still mode, this feature controls image size. The Sony Cyber-shot T1 offers the following image sizes: VGA, 1M, 3M, 3:2, and 5M. When in the LCD menu, the user can choose between Fine and Standard settings.

 

Picture Effects Mode*(6.5)*

Picture Effects available to the user of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 are Negative Art, Sepia, Solarized, and Off. To access these, go to the Menu, highlight the Program option by using the up arrow of the four-way controller, then press the right-hand button until Picture Effect is highlighted. Once there, these options become available in either regular camera mode, or video capture.

Connectivity / Extras

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****Connectivity**
***Software (6.0)
*The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 comes with Pixel ImageMixer Software for Sony v1.5 for image editing via personal computer. It runs on both Macintosh and Windows supported platforms, and allows the user to edit, crop, resize, and control the specifics of captured images.

 

*Jacks, ports, plugs (4.0)
*The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 has a USB terminal located on the base of the camera body, and is intended for USB Cradle use. The MemoryStick Duo Media/MemoryStick Duo PRO Media stick port is located on the bottom of the camera body underneath a port cover that can be pushed towards the camera’s back to access both battery and memory card. Unfortunately, this camera doesn’t have a tripod mount. This will probably not affect the average user, but makes low light shots difficult.

 

Direct Print Options*(6.0)*

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is capable of printing directly, allowing the user to forgo the image software that is included with the camera. However, the printer that is used must be formatted for the DPOF standard used by the camera. Not all printers will have this format or option, so choose carefully and with consideration.

 

Memory (5.5)

A 32MB Sony MemoryStick is included. Unlike other memory sticks and cards, which can be used universally between digital cameras and camcorders regardless of brand affiliation, the Sony MemoryStick can only be used with Sony products.****

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****Other Features*****(6.0)*
Video Capture Settings

The audio, first and foremost, isn’t the best, although the likelihood that audio captured on a digital camera primarily meant for point-and-shoot users would be good is pretty small. However, this slight disadvantage is definitely overcome when the user considers the fact that this camera is capable of recording in a full screen 640 x 480 image format at an incredibly impressive 30 frames per second. This puts it above and beyond most point-and-shoot cameras and many hybrid cameras within its price range, especially when this feature is considered with all of the camera’s other advantages.

 

Overall Impressions

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****Value*****(7.5)*

This camera is meant to impress. Its sleek design makes it a perfect camera for vacations, late nights, and clubs. Its credit-card-sized body will easily fit into the back pocket of your jeans. It has a great 5.1 MP CCD, a large 2.5-inch LCD, simple controls, and the Carl Zeiss lens, making this Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 the perfect camera for the point-and-shooter looking for a bit more in both the design and appearance departments. If you've got a bit over US $400 to spend, this camera is worth the investment.****

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****Comparisons**
***Kyocera/Yashica Finecam S5R -* This camera by Kyocera retails for around US $449, and is comparable to the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1. It features a 5.0 MP CCD, a 3x optical zoom, and a slightly larger 3.7x digital zoom. (Just remember that digital zoom will compromise the integrity of your image, making digital zoom specs generally useless.) It has a much smaller 1.6-inch LCD and a viewfinder. Manual controls for Exposure, ISO, shutter, and aperture settings rating between f/2.8-f/4.8 are present. The actual camera body is slightly larger, sizing in at 3.6 x 2.2 x 1.3 inches, for a total cubic volume of 10.296 cubic inches.

 

Konica DiMage Z2 - The Konica, on the other hand, is built less like the Kyocera and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1, and is intended to appear more like a manual digital camera body. Thick and handsome, this camera has a presence in its size, making it less portable and compact. Like the Kyocera, it retails for approximately US $449, with a 1/2.5-inch 4.2 MP CCD, a 10x optical zoom (much larger than the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1), and multiple video format modes and frame-per-second ratings available for the consumer to set. This camera has way more manual control options, with settings available in almost all modes of shooting, along with image size and movie format options. This camera comes through as a distinct choice for the gadget and manual control enthusiast, but is less likely to suit the point-and-shooter uninterested in manual control. This camera has both a small 1.5-inch LCD and an electronic viewfinder available to the user. The camera is larger than the others with dimensions of 3.1 x 4.3 x 3.2 inches, for a total cubic volume of 42.66 cubic inches.

 

Canon PowerShot S500 - The Canon PowerShot S500, with its 5.3 MP CCD, 3x optical zoom, 1.5-inch LCD, and electronic viewfinder, is fairly comparable to the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1, although the LCD is distinctly smaller for this camera that retails at approximately the same price. It has fewer controls available, leaving this camera a bit short in both the point-and-shoot and manual realms. Its dimensions of 2.5 x 3.5 x 1.1 inches give it a cubic volume of 9.63 inches, making it a larger camera than the Sony, as well.

 

Canon PowerShot S60 - At US $524.95, Canon’s PowerShot S60 is the most expensive camera in the comparisons section, and about $25 dollars more than the Sony. It, like the other Canon PowerShot, has a slightly larger CCD at 1/1.8 inches, 5.3 MP, and has both multiple video format settings and a 3.6x optical zoom. This camera does have more manual options than the PowerShot S500, as well as a larger LCD and real image viewfinder. However, none of these cameras manage to match the 2.5-inch LCD size of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1, or its compact sleek and slender design for optimum transportability. The S60 ends up with sizable dimensions of 2.2 x 4.5 x 1.5 inches, for a total cubic volume of 14.85 inches cubed.****

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****Who It’s For**
***Point-and-Shooters*-- The perfect camera for the point-and-shooter who wants to pair a really sleek and slim design that is aesthetically appealing with easy controls, a large LCD, and simple buttons that function quickly.

 

Budget Consumers-- The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 isn’t exactly a cheap camera, with a general retail price of around US $499.95. It does look great, but there are cheaper cameras that are a bit bulkier with more options out there. They don’t feel so good in your back pocket, though.

 

Gadget Freaks-- For the gadget freak that needs one of everything, and would like a camera perfect for impressing friends, capable of still/video potential, and manual controls, I would have to say that this camera is tempting. When using this camera I began to consider things I could sell in order to buy it. Even with its high price, its design, looks, and size make it desirable.

 

Manual Control Freaks-- Manual control is available on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1. However, this aspect of the camera isn’t its selling point or major purpose. If a lot of manual control is wanted, a camera with more external buttons and features might be desirable.

 

Pros / Serious Hobbyists-- The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 is not really meant for the pro or serious enthusiast, unless a well-designed and sleek digital camera for point-and-shoot affairs is necessary. Although, as a travel accessory, this portable camera will live up to the highest of expectations.

Conclusion

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****Conclusion**
**The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1, with its impressive LCD, 5.1 MP CCD, 30 fps video capture, and overall size and design, is a great option for a user seeking a higher-end, well designed, and good looking point-and-shoot camera that won’t hold them down with cumbersome controls or bulk. The petite proportions make it great for slipping into a pocket and forgetting about, allowing for it to accompany you anywhere with ease and agility. The most bothersome aspect is the entirely onscreen manual control menu. Then again, this camera isn’t really meant to be used manually. This aside, this camera would be a perfect choice for those who find sleek good design and easy controls to be essential in their point-and-shoot digital camera.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 offers both automatic and manual ISO settings. Auto ISO offers the same sensitivity range, but it is controlled automatically. Characteristic of most point-and-shoot digital cameras, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1’s ISO range is concentrated at the lower end (100, 200, 400), which produces the least noise. These settings are ideal for outside and well lit shooting situations, but aren’t usable when light is scarce. When light is decreased the automatic ISO will increase the sensitivity, but this results in noise. Comparatively the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T1 performed well, even next to another Sony 5 MP camera, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P100 (which got a noise score of 6.71) This is a great advantage in image quality.

Specs

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****Specs Table
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