5 Best Sony Video Cameras

Here Are Our Top Picks Of 5 Best Sony Video Cameras

1. Sony A7S III:

The Sony A7S III is a highly anticipated addition to Sony’s A7 series of mirrorless cameras, specifically designed for videographers and content creators who require high-quality video recording capabilities. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the A7S II, the A7S III brings several improvements and features that make it a compelling choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Key Features and Specifications:

1. Sensor and Image Quality:

The A7S III features a full-frame 12.1-megapixel Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor. While the megapixel count might seem low compared to other cameras, this sensor is optimized for video with larger pixels that excel in low-light conditions. This results in impressive low-light performance and excellent dynamic range.

2. 4K Video Recording:

The A7S III is capable of recording 4K video internally at up to 120 frames per second (fps). This high frame rate option is particularly beneficial for creating slow-motion footage. It also supports 10-bit 4:2:2 color depth, providing enhanced color grading options during post-production.

3. Dual Native ISO:

This camera introduces dual native ISO, which allows for cleaner image quality in low-light conditions. This is crucial for maintaining image quality while shooting in challenging lighting situations.

4. High-Resolution EVF and LCD:

The camera features a 9.44-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a fully articulating 3-inch LCD touchscreen. The high-resolution EVF offers a clear and accurate preview of your shots, while the LCD can be useful for vlogging or capturing shots from different angles.

5. Autofocus and Tracking:

The A7S III utilizes Sony’s Fast Hybrid AF system, which combines phase-detection and contrast-detection autofocus. It offers improved real-time Eye Autofocus for both humans and animals, making it great for capturing portraits or wildlife.

6. Heat Management:

One of the significant improvements over its predecessor is the enhanced heat management system. The A7S III is designed to manage overheating issues that plagued the A7S II during prolonged video recording sessions, making it suitable for extended shoots.

7. Internal 10-Bit Recording:

The camera can record 10-bit 4:2:2 footage internally, which provides more color information for post-production editing and grading. This contributes to higher-quality videos with smoother transitions and gradients.

8. Build and Ergonomics:

The A7S III features a robust build with weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture. The redesigned body includes improved ergonomics, including a larger grip and a more intuitive button layout.

9. Dual Card Slots:

The camera offers two CFexpress Type A or SD UHS-II card slots, providing flexibility for recording and backup options.

10. Battery Life:

The A7S III has improved battery life compared to its predecessor, thanks to the larger NP-FZ100 battery.

Pros:

• Outstanding low-light performance.
• High-quality 4K video recording.
• Dual Native ISO for better low-light results.
• Impressive autofocus and tracking capabilities.
• Improved heat management for extended video shoots.
• Excellent dynamic range for a wide range of lighting conditions.
• Versatile for both photography and videography.

Cons:

• Lower-resolution sensors might not be suitable for high-resolution photography needs.
• Limited to 12.1 megapixels for stills.
• The high price point for non-professional users.

Conclusion:

The Sony A7S III is a powerful tool for videographers who prioritize exceptional video quality and low-light performance. With its 4K 120fps capabilities, dual native ISO, improved autofocus, and heat management, it addresses many of the concerns that users had with the A7S II. However, its lower resolution might not be appealing to photographers who also require high-resolution stills. It’s a camera designed with video content creators in mind, and it delivers impressive results in that regard.

2. Sony PXW-FS7 II:

The Sony PXW-FS7 II is a professional-grade camcorder designed for filmmakers, videographers, and content creators who require high-quality video production capabilities. It’s a successor to the original PXW-FS7 and comes with several improvements and refinements. Here’s a detailed review of the Sony PXW-FS7 II:

1. Build and Design:

The PXW-FS7 II inherits the ergonomic design of its predecessor, featuring a well-balanced and compact form factor suitable for handheld or shoulder-mounted operation. The body is constructed from durable materials, making it rugged enough for use in various shooting conditions. The adjustable and extendable SmartGrip handle provides comfortable control over the camera, and the redesigned viewfinder mount offers enhanced stability.

2. Sensor and Imaging:

The camcorder boasts a Super 35mm-sized 4K Exmor CMOS sensor, which delivers exceptional image quality with a wide dynamic range and excellent low-light performance. The sensor is capable of capturing 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) video at various frame rates, up to 60fps in DCI 4K and up to 180fps in Full HD. This flexibility in frame rates allows for creative shooting and slow-motion capture.

3. Recording Formats:

The PXW-FS7 II supports a range of recording formats, including XAVC-Intra, XAVC-Long, and MPEG-2. It offers internal recording at up to 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling, ensuring rich and detailed imagery. Additionally, it supports external RAW recording with the optional XDCA-FS7 extension unit, which enables recording in formats like ProRes RAW and X-OCN.

4. Electronic Variable ND Filter:

One standout feature of the PXW-FS7 II is its built-in Electronic Variable ND filter, which allows seamless and precise control over exposure without changing the aperture or shutter speed. This feature is particularly useful when shooting in changing lighting conditions or when achieving specific depth-of-field effects is necessary.

5. Ergonomics and Workflow:

The camera’s ergonomic design contributes to comfortable extended use, whether handheld or shoulder-mounted. It offers modularity and expandability through various optional accessories, making it adaptable to different shooting styles. The camera menu is intuitive and user-friendly, and the customizable buttons and controls allow for quick adjustments.

6. Slow-Motion Capabilities:

The ability to shoot in high frame rates, especially in Full HD, makes the PXW-FS7 II a versatile tool for capturing slow-motion footage. This feature is valuable for adding cinematic effects, capturing fast-paced action, or emphasizing specific moments in a scene.

7. Dual XQD Card Slots:

The camcorder features dual XQD card slots, which provide efficient and reliable media recording. XQD cards are known for their high-speed data transfer rates, ensuring the smooth recording of high-bitrate formats like 4K.

8. Connectivity and Outputs:

The PXW-FS7 II offers a range of connectivity options, including HDMI and SDI outputs, providing flexibility for monitoring and external recording. It also includes a dedicated Genlock/Timecode input, which is valuable for multi-camera setups.

9. Price and Value:

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the Sony PXW-FS7 II falls into the higher price range due to its professional-grade features and capabilities. However, its performance, image quality, and versatility make it a worthy investment for serious filmmakers and content creators.

10. Overall Impressions:

The Sony PXW-FS7 II builds upon the strengths of its predecessor and offers enhancements that cater to the needs of professionals seeking a versatile and capable camcorder. Its impressive sensor, electronic ND filter, slow-motion capabilities, and modular design make it suitable for a wide range of production scenarios, from documentaries to commercials to indie films.

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3. Sony FDR-AX700:

The Sony FDR-AX700 is a high-end 4K camcorder that offers a range of advanced features and capabilities for both amateur and professional videographers. It’s designed to deliver exceptional video quality and versatility in a compact and user-friendly form factor. Here’s a detailed review of the Sony FDR-AX700:

1- Video Quality:

The FDR-AX700 boasts impressive video quality, capturing 4K Ultra HD footage with a 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor and a powerful BIONZ X image processor. This combination enables excellent low-light performance and dynamic range, resulting in sharp, vibrant, and detailed footage even in challenging lighting conditions.

2- Resolution and Frame Rates:

The camcorder supports a variety of resolutions and frame rates, including 4K at 30fps and Full HD at up to 120fps for smooth slow-motion shots. This versatility allows users to adapt to different shooting scenarios and creative needs.

3- Optics:

The Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens on the FDR-AX700 is known for its optical quality. It offers a 12x optical zoom and a wide aperture range, enabling users to achieve impressive depth-of-field effects and excellent subject isolation. The lens also features Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, which helps in attaining steady shots even when shooting handheld or in motion.

Advanced Features:

1- High Dynamic Range (HDR): The AX700 supports Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) HDR recording, which enhances the dynamic range of your videos and results in more lifelike and detailed footage, especially when viewed on compatible HDR displays.

2- Dual SD Card Slots: The camcorder features two SD card slots, allowing for extended recording times or simultaneous backup recording. This redundancy is particularly useful for important shoots where data loss is not an option.

3- Manual Controls: For more experienced videographers, the FDR-AX700 offers extensive manual controls, including manual focus, iris, shutter speed, and gain adjustments. These controls provide greater creative control over the final look of your videos.

4- Customizable Buttons: The camcorder has customizable buttons, allowing users to assign frequently used functions for quick access, streamlining the shooting process.

5- Built-in ND Filter: The built-in Neutral Density (ND) filter is valuable for controlling exposure in bright lighting conditions, allowing you to maintain a shallow depth of field and creative control over your shots.

6- Touchscreen and EVF:

The FDR-AX700 features a 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen that is intuitive to use and provides easy access to settings and controls. Additionally, it comes with a high-quality electronic viewfinder (EVF) for precise framing, particularly in bright environments.

7- Connectivity:

The camcorder offers multiple connectivity options, including HDMI, headphone and microphone jacks, and a Multi-Interface Shoe for attaching external accessories like microphones and lights.

8- Battery Life:

Battery life is respectable, allowing for a decent amount of shooting time on a single charge. However, if you plan to shoot extensively, it’s advisable to carry spare batteries.

Overall Impressions:

The Sony FDR-AX700 is a feature-packed 4K camcorder that strikes a balance between consumer-friendly operation and advanced capabilities. Its exceptional video quality, versatile shooting modes, manual controls, and advanced features make it suitable for a wide range of users, from enthusiasts to semi-professionals. Its compact size and ease of use make it particularly appealing for on-the-go videography. However, its higher price point places it in the premium category, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget before making a purchase decision.

4. Sony PXW-Z150:

The Sony PXW-Z150 is a professional 4K camcorder designed for versatile shooting scenarios and tailored for content creators who require high-quality video capture with advanced features. It’s particularly suitable for independent filmmakers, corporate videographers, and event coverage. Here’s a detailed review of the Sony PXW-Z150:

1- Video Quality:

The PXW-Z150 boasts impressive video quality with its 1.0-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor and a fast BIONZ X image processor. The sensor’s large size contributes to excellent low-light performance and dynamic range, resulting in sharp and vibrant footage even in challenging lighting conditions.

2- Resolution and Frame Rates:

This camcorder supports 4K Ultra HD recording at up to 30fps and Full HD at various frame rates up to 120fps, allowing for slow-motion footage. This range of resolutions and frame rates offers versatility and creative options for different types of projects.

3- Optics:

Equipped with a high-quality Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens, the PXW-Z150 offers a 12x optical zoom and a wide aperture range. This combination enables filmmakers to achieve shallow depth-of-field effects and excellent subject isolation. The lens also incorporates Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, ensuring steady shots even in handheld or on-the-move shooting scenarios.

Advanced Features:

1- XAVC Codec Options: The PXW-Z150 supports XAVC Long GOP and Intraframe codecs, providing high-quality video compression with various bit rates. This allows users to choose between higher quality or more efficient compression based on their project’s needs.

2- High Frame Rate Recording: The camcorder supports HFR (High Frame Rate) recording, allowing for impressive slow-motion shots with frame rates up to 120fps in Full HD.

3- Built-in ND Filters: The PXW-Z150 features built-in Neutral Density (ND) filters, offering flexibility in controlling exposure levels in bright environments while maintaining creative control over depth of field.

4- Dual SD Card Slots: Similar to the FDR-AX700, this camcorder comes with dual SD card slots, enabling simultaneous recording for redundancy or extended recording times.

5- Gamma Curve Options: The PXW-Z150 offers a variety of gamma curve options, including S-Log2 and S-Log3, which are especially useful for post-production color grading and achieving a cinematic look.

6- Interface and Controls:

The camcorder features a comprehensive set of manual controls, including manual focus, iris, shutter speed, and gain adjustments, providing filmmakers with precise control over their shots. The physical controls and menu layout are designed with professional users in mind.

7- Connectivity:

The PXW-Z150 is well-equipped in terms of connectivity, featuring HDMI, 3G-SDI outputs, XLR audio inputs with phantom power, headphone and microphone jacks, and a Multi-Interface Shoe for attaching external accessories.

8- Battery Life:

Battery life can vary based on usage and settings, but the PXW-Z150 generally provides decent shooting time on a single charge. As with any professional shooting scenario, carrying spare batteries is recommended.

Overall Impressions:

The Sony PXW-Z150 is a robust and feature-rich 4K camcorder designed for serious videographers who require high-quality video and advanced features. Its professional-grade optics, extensive manual controls, advanced codecs, and versatile shooting options make it suitable for a wide range of projects, from corporate videos and documentaries to independent films. While it’s priced at a higher level due to its professional capabilities, the investment can be justified by the level of control and quality it offers for filmmakers who require precision and flexibility in their work.

5. Sony HDR-CX405:

The Sony HDR-CX405 is an entry-level camcorder designed for casual users and beginners who want a simple and compact device to capture family events, vacations, and everyday moments. It’s known for its ease of use, affordability, and portability. Here’s a detailed review of the Sony HDR-CX405:

Video Quality:

The HDR-CX405 offers Full HD 1080p video recording, which is suitable for capturing everyday moments and events. While it doesn’t provide the high-resolution 4K capabilities of more advanced models, it still delivers good-quality video for its intended audience.

Optics:

The camcorder features a 1/5.8-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor and a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens. The sensor’s Back-Illuminated technology helps in improving low-light performance and reducing noise. The lens offers a 30x optical zoom, which allows for a decent range of framing options.

SteadyShot Image Stabilization:

The HDR-CX405 includes Sony’s SteadyShot image stabilization technology, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce smoother footage, especially when shooting handheld or in motion.

Zoom and Focus:

The 30x optical zoom lens provides a good range for capturing subjects at varying distances. However, it’s worth noting that at higher zoom levels, maintaining steady shots might become a bit challenging.

Recording Formats:

The camcorder records in AVCHD format, which is a standard format for Full HD video. This format is compatible with a wide range of devices and video editing software, making it easy to share and edit your footage.

Ease of Use:

The HDR-CX405 is designed with simplicity in mind. It features a straightforward interface, intuitive controls, and automatic settings that make it easy for beginners to start capturing video without the need for extensive technical knowledge.

LCD Screen:

The camcorder has a 2.7-inch LCD screen that serves as both a viewfinder and a playback monitor. While the screen size is adequate for most users, it’s not a touchscreen, which means navigating through menus might require using physical buttons.

Battery Life:

The HDR-CX405 generally offers decent battery life for its size and usage. However, like with any portable device, it’s advisable to carry spare batteries for longer shooting sessions.

Connectivity:

The camcorder provides basic connectivity options, including a USB port for transferring files and charging, and an HDMI output for connecting to a TV or monitor for playback.

Overall Impressions:

The Sony HDR-CX405 is a budget-friendly camcorder that’s perfect for casual users who want an easy way to capture memories without delving into complex settings and controls. Its compact size, user-friendly interface, and affordability make it a great option for family vacations, gatherings, and events where simplicity and convenience are priorities. While it lacks some of the advanced features and higher resolutions found in more expensive models, it’s a solid choice for its intended audience of beginners and those seeking a basic video recording solution.