LCD and Viewfinder
Sony HX20V has a Fixed Type 3″ LCD screen with a resolution of 922k dots. Both the screen size and the screen resolution is up to the standards of this class.
HX20V doesn't have a viewfinder and no option for external viewfinder. Lack of a viewfinder can be problematic especially under strong light where visibility of LCD screens goes down dramatically. If you need a Compact camera with a built-in viewfinder in a similar price range, consider Nikon Coolpix P7800 (Compare) or Fujifilm X30 (Compare). If the price is not an issue, take a look at our Top Rated Cameras with Viewfinders.
Max Shutter speed
Sony HX20V can shoot continuously at max speed of 10 fps and has max shutter speed of 1/1600 sec.
Flash
Unfortunately HX20V doesn't have an external flash shoe so you are limited with the built-in flash.
Focusing
Sony HX20V features a Contrast Detection autofocusing system. The AF system has 9 points to choose from.
Sony HX20V also features
Face detection AF where it intelligently detects the faces in the frame and locks the focus automatically.
Video Features
With Sony HX20V, you can record your videos at a highest resolution of 1920 x 1080 at 60 fps and save in MPEG-4 and AVCHD formats. Full HD resolution of Sony HX20V will be adequate in most of the situations. But if you are after the highest resolution videos available, see our list of Top Cameras with 4K (Ultra-HD) Video.
HX20V has a built-in Stereo microphone and a Mono speaker.
Sony HX20V doesn't have any connections for external microphones and headphones. If you need a Compact camera with external microphone connectivity, consider Nikon Coolpix P7800 or Fujifilm X30 in a similar price range.
Connectivity and Storage
You can connect HX20V to compatible devices via its HDMI port or USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) port.
Battery Sony HX20V is powered by battery which provides a shooting life of 320 according to CIPA standards.
Considering that the average battery life of Compact type cameras is 255 shots, Sony HX20V has a good battery life for its class.
Battery Life Comparison in Small Sensor Superzoom Cameras
Fujifilm HS35EXR with its 600shots is the model with longest battery life among Small Sensor Superzoom cameras. Check the comparison of Sony HX20V vs Fujifilm HS35EXR or take a look at Longest Battery Life Compact cameras list.
Sony HX20V Features Compared to Main Competitors