The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W210 is a budget pocket compact announced in early 2009, one of the mainstream models in Sony's W series of that year. Like its stablemates it sold in large numbers, making it a regular fixture in UK used listings today.
It pairs a 12.1-megapixel 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor with a Carl Zeiss 4x optical zoom and Sony's optical SteadyShot stabilisation, processed by the BIONZ engine. There is a 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD, ISO from 100 to 3200, Intelligent Scene Recognition, Smile Shutter face detection, and VGA 640x480 video at 30fps. The NP-BG1 battery is rated for around 430 shots, and storage is Memory Stick Duo or PRO Duo rather than SD.
On the UK used market the W210 trades at pocket-money prices and appeals to the same audience driving demand for other late-2000s CCD compacts: buyers after the distinctive rendering of small CCD sensors, or simply a basic camera for a child or a night out. With roughly fifteen live UK listings it is easy to source, and the shared NP-BG1 battery keeps consumable costs down.
Before buying, check the lens extends and retracts cleanly and that images are free of the vertical smearing or banding that can indicate an ageing CCD. Confirm a Memory Stick Duo card is included or budget for one, as SD cards will not fit, and test the flash and self-timer. Batteries of this age often need replacing, so factor in the cost of a new NP-BG1, and inspect the LCD and body corners for drop damage on what was frequently a handbag camera.