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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20 review: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20

Headshot of Joshua Goldman
Headshot of Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman Managing Editor / Advice
Managing Editor Josh Goldman is a laptop expert and has been writing about and reviewing them since built-in Wi-Fi was an optional feature. He also covers almost anything connected to a PC, including keyboards, mice, USB-C docks and PC gaming accessories. In addition, he writes about cameras, including action cams and drones. And while he doesn't consider himself a gamer, he spends entirely too much time playing them.
Expertise Laptops, desktops and computer and PC gaming accessories including keyboards, mice and controllers, cameras, action cameras and drones Credentials
  • More than two decades experience writing about PCs and accessories, and 15 years writing about cameras of all kinds.
Joshua Goldman
6 min read

With the Cyber-shot DSC-TX20, Sony has once again proven that a rugged camera need not look like a tank or some sort of extreme sports gear in order to be waterproof and shockproof. The TX20 is dustproof and can operate underwater down to 16 feet and handle 5-foot drops (albeit onto plywood, but, hey, it can still do it). And it doesn't look any different that Sony's regular ultracompact, the TX66.

7.0

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20

The Good

The <b>Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20</b> is a slick, small rugged ultracompact that is fast to focus and shoot, and has plenty of fun shooting options for those looking to do more than just take pictures.

The Bad

The TX20's photo quality is disappointing compared with nonrugged Sony Cyber-shots, and its design is almost too small and slippery to use in water.

The Bottom Line

The rugged camera that doesn't look rugged, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20 is a nice option for people wanting an ultracompact for days by the pool and nights on the town.

The design, however, is both a blessing and a curse. Its small size can make it difficult to use for those with larger hands. Its smooth metal surface doesn't help with your grip, especially compared with models like the Pentax Optio WG-2. On the other hand, the Pentax would look out of place in a bar or club; the Sony would not.

Aside from its hidden durability, the TX20 is no different than Sony's other midrange to high-end point-and-shoots. Well, except maybe for its photo quality.

7.0

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20

Score Breakdown

Design 7Features 8Performance 7Image quality 6