Sony 4K Camera Review and Guidelines

Today it is difficult to find a family in which there would never be such a thing as a video camera. Everyone wants to capture the valuable moments of life that can be seen in the future, and the mentioned device will help with this. But earlier, such devices were shooting in not very good quality.

That all changed when 4K cameras came along. They make it possible to record high-quality video, which can then be comfortably watched on modern TVs. In this article, we will consider camcorders from a well-known manufacturer - Sony.

A feature of 4K cameras is the ability to record videos in 4K format. This refers to the resolution in digital video that surpasses recording in Full HD, which has 1920 x 1080 pixels. In our case, the standard in pixels will be 3840 by 2160, that is, exactly 2 times more. Due to the fact that the horizontal resolution is approaching 4000 pixels, the format got its name - 4K.

Here is a brief overview of the most interesting models of 4K cameras from this manufacturer, which can be called the best in terms of price and quality - these are Sony FDR-AX100E, Sony FDR-AX53, Sony FDR-AX700 and Sony FDR-AX33.

The first model from the aforementioned manufacturer worth talking about is the Sony FDR-AX700. According to the representatives of this brand, this is not just a great camera. They talk about this model as a camcorder, a device for professional shooting of the highest quality. And in general, this is so, if you look at the characteristics of this device. The model is lightweight and compact - the mini camera weighs less than a kilogram.

At the same time, it can record videos in 4K 30 fps or Full HD at 120 fps. And also Sony FDR-AX700 is equipped with 198x digital zoom and 12x optics. Naturally, you can set the shooting parameters manually.

The heart of this Sony model is the 14.2MP CMOS sensor, which works in conjunction with a fixed type lens with a focal length of 9.3 to 111.6 mm. In addition, filters with a diameter of 62 mm can be installed here. The model is also equipped with a mechanical image stabilizer, which eliminates the shaking effect if a person is holding the camera in their hands.

Another model of the manufacturer under consideration from Japan has the FDR-AX53 index. It is a 4K video recording device with a resolution of 3840 by 2160 pixels. Equipped with a Wi-Fi module, as well as an image stabilizer for better picture quality. The presence of a wide-angle lens allows for excellent group and panoramic shooting. An 8.29-megapixel CMOS sensor is installed here. The Sony FDR-AX53 has a 250x digital zoom as well as a 20x optical type zoom. This camera model is equipped with an Optical Image Stabilizer. There is also a 3-inch LCD touchscreen display, as well as a color viewfinder.

The device can record videos in 4K and HD at 30 frames per second, and at Full HD, 60 fps will be available. In addition to Wi-Fi, NFC is available from the wireless interfaces. And also this camcorder is equipped with USB and HDMI connectors for data transfer and connection to various types of equipment.

This device weighs only 635 grams, and this model can also be described as a professional camera with not very large dimensions. Separately, it should be noted that the manufacturer equipped this model with Balanced Optical SteadyShot technology. Its essence lies in the use of intelligent automatic focus, which makes it possible to provide the clearest picture in the process of shooting while moving, and reduces to zero the effect of hand shake when shooting.

The third camera model that deserves the attention of prospective buyers is the Sony FDR-AX33. This model from the manufacturer of the same name is a mini-camera that can record video in ultra-high definition. Despite the fact that this model is among the amateur and can be used, say, for a blog or home photography, professional operators will also appreciate it.

Considering that a high-performance modern processor is installed here, you can carry out smooth shooting in 4K format. And this is when the device weighs 600 grams. The centerpiece of this Sony camera model is an 8.29-megapixel CMOS sensor with a physical size of 1 / 2.3. It works in combination with a fixed lens that has a focal length of 3.8-38 mm and an f / 1.8-f / 3.4 aperture. If we talk about the zoom, then the optical is 10x, and the digital is 120x.

The latest camera model from Sony to be presented is the Sony FDR-AX100E. It is another solution that will be appreciated not only by fans of amateur photography, but also by professionals. The model has good functionality and allows you to record video in UHD 4K format with a resolution of 3840 by 2160 pixels. And it is also possible to shoot video in Full HD format. The heart of this model is a 14.2 megapixel CMOS sensor. There are 2 types of zoom - 12x optical and 160x digital. This camera model is equipped with an Optical Image Stabilizer.

If we talk about the display, then it is made on the basis of liquid crystals and is touch-sensitive. In addition, it is equipped with a color viewfinder. From various interfaces, the model is equipped with NFC, HDMI, Wi-Fi, USB-out, AV-out, microphone in and headphone jack.

To make the choice of a 4K video camera that best suits your interests, you should pay attention to the following criteria:

• recording standard;
• scan type;
• matrix type;
• lens;
• sound;
• data carrier;
• autonomy;
• screen;
• additional functions.

If we talk about the first criterion, then the best quality devices are those that allow recording in AVCHD format. The best solution would be models that are equipped with a progressive scan. Today, CMOS-matrices are more common, and models with CBC-type matrices are still considered extremely expensive.

When determining a good lens, you should rely on three characteristics: aperture, zoom, and angle of view. As for the storage media for the camcorder, it can be either a hard disk or a memory card. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and each user will decide for himself which option best suits his needs.

Speaking about such criteria as additional functions, we understand that we are talking about various wireless interfaces such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, shooting modes, night shooting capabilities, image stabilization, and so on.

When using the device, you should not neglect the instructions included in the kit, because it is in it that all the necessary rules for using a particular model of a 4K video camera are collected. Moreover, here you can also find out what exactly is needed in case of a particular malfunction, as well as how to fix this or that phenomenon in the operation of the device.

For an overview of the Sony Handycam FDR Ax100, see below.