Sony makes some great cameras, but the H90 isn't one of them. This camera, released in February 2012, feels like a holdover from last year's model. Video is limited to 720p and there is no direct video recording button. The screen is low in resolution. The camera itself is physically larger than most of its competitors, and while the 16X zoom range is best-in-class, the Panasonic ZS15 matches this range in a smaller package.

The Good

Zoom range. The H90's 16X zoom lens can capture a wide range of subjects, just like the Panasonic ZS15. While the lens shows a touch of softness in the corners, this is not unusual for long zoom lenses.

The Bad

Video resolution. Video capture on the H90 is limited to 720p at 30 frames per second, while the H90's closest competitor, the ZS15, is able to capture 1080p at 60 frames per second.

Burst speed. We don't make it a habit of commenting on burst speed in pocket cameras, because anyone who cares about capturing fast action should be looking into mirrorless or DSLR cameras instead. However, the ZS15 is capable of capturing four frames at 10 frames per second, which is a respectable (if brief) shooting speed. The Nikon S8200 can capture six frames per second for a similarly limited duration. The Sony H90 is capable of one frame per second, period.

Bulky. The H90 weighs more than the ZS15 and has a larger case. While these differences are small, the H90 does not really provide any capability that the ZS15 lacks, so why someone would carry a heavier, larger camera is a bit of a mystery.

Awkward flash. Like the S8200, the H90 has a pop-up flash that deploys directly under your finger if you're not careful. And, like the S8200, the flash will not lock down again once it has been deployed.

The Verdict

The Sony H90 isn't terrible, but it fails to distinguish itself in a field of very memorable contenders. Its zoom range is matched by the Panasonic ZS15, which surpasses it in several key areas. Its other features are all matched or surpassed by at least one other camera in the shootout. What's left is an also-ran, a camera that exists because Sony wanted to fill a hole in its line, not because they had a good idea for a new and exciting product. At least, that's the impression that one gets.