Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T77

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By Leonard Goh
Oct 14, 2008

Sony's Cyber-shot lineup has recently been updated with the introduction of three new shooters, and one of the most eye-catching units has to be the Cyber-shot DSC-T77. Touted as the slimmest T-series point-and-shoot in the family, the T77 can fit well into any pockets or small bags. This touchscreen-operated model succeeds the Cyber-shot DSC-T70 with upgrades made to the sensor resolution, aesthetics and features. What impressed us about this camera was how Sony engineered a shooter that delivers performance and decent image quality within a small package. However, the icons on the screen are quite small, so tapping on them accurately may take some getting used to.

Design

Zooming is done by shifting the lip left or right.
(click for larger image)

One look at the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T77 and we're in awe of its slimness. Measuring a mere 15mm thick with credit card-sized dimensions, this point-and-shoot is very compact. You can probably slip it into your pocket and forget it's even there.

As with Sony's Cyber-shot T-series offerings, the T77 features a slide-down front cover and a minimalist design. There are no buttons on the rear, and the top is furnished with just the power, shutter and playback button as well as the zoom rocker.

About the zoom rocker, Sony has taken an interesting approach with it. Instead of the usual W and T button or a zoom collar, the Japanese company has implemented a tiny lip that shifts left and right to change the focal length. While we eventually got used to the new zooming method, we couldn't help but feel strange while using it.

The T77 is just a bit thicker than your normal ball-point pen.
(click for larger image)

Bundled with the package is a stylus which you can attach to the handstrap. It didn't look particularly stylish, although the pointed tip can be a good replacement for your fingers if you don't want to smear the screen with fingerprints.

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