Sony Action Camera: Review Of The FDR-X3000 4K Model And Other New Camcorders, Comparison With GoPro. Which Camera Should You Choose?

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-18 12:09

Action cameras allow you to capture breathtaking videos even in extreme conditions. These gadgets are in demand among athletes, hunters, fishermen, and travelers. Many manufacturers produce such devices, including Sony. Its flagship cameras are quite capable of competing with the famous GoPro.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of these devices are clearly noticeable if you use them for their intended purpose - for shooting in dynamics and in extreme conditions. First of all, it is compactness. The small model easily clings to a vehicle or is fixed directly on the user's body and does not interfere with movement . You can carry it with you everywhere to start shooting at any time.

The user-friendly and simple interface is also worth noting. The main functionality is the record button, several control buttons, the minimum number of settings; focus and exposure - on the machine . You do not need to fiddle with your device for a long time and remember how to set the appropriate parameters - this way you will definitely not miss out on valuable shots.

Cameras are not afraid of water. Some models have an initial protection level that allows you to take pictures while diving.

Also on sale you can find sealed boxes where the camera is placed. Such covers do not allow water to pass through, and also protect against dust and sand.

The devices are designed for heavy loads, impacts, use at high speed . Even if the camera flies off the car or helmet on the go, there is a chance that it will remain intact and work properly. For additional protection, if desired, you can use a special box.

Among Sony action cameras there are models in different price categories. You can choose an inexpensive device for the first experiments with extreme shooting, or purchase a professional-grade device.

Also, gadgets have a number of disadvantages:

• the use of small sensors 1/2, 3, which leads to noise in low light conditions, and the picture quality leaves much to be desired;
• inexpensive models do not always have a viewfinder, so shooting is actually done blindly;
• the choice of focal length is limited, since the cameras have a built-in lens, which can also give geometric distortion;
• lack of an optical stabilizer for budget options.

Comparison with GoPro

Choosing a brand can be a daunting task. GoPro has an advantage here - they know this company as a pioneer in the production of action cameras, they are often mentioned and recommended.

However, fame is not always justified, so it is worth comparing the technical characteristics and capabilities of cameras, not trusting one advertisement.

After testing different models from both manufacturers, the following conclusions can be drawn:

• GoPro produces sharper photos due to the higher resolution;
• Sony lasts longer battery life, allowing you to shoot without interruption;
• optical stabilizer on HDR-AS300 and FDR-X3000 models gives better results than GoPro cameras;
• when fixing Sony in front (on a helmet, car), the resistance to air flow is less due to the streamlined shape of the devices;
• on GoPro, even when recharging, you can record video using a special accessory;
• the latest Sony models are easily attached to a tripod or selfie pod without installing additional adapters and frames; a standard microphone input is also used - a 3.5 mm mini-jack;
• The GoPro is lighter, for example the Hero 4 SE weighs 82 grams with the battery inserted, while the Sony FDR-X1000V weighs 115 grams.

You can also compare the popular GoPro Hero 5 Black and Sony FDR-X3000 models separately. These action cameras are considered one of the best and are similar in characteristics.

The first step is the composition of the kit . It is almost identical, but Sony has a sealed protective box, and GoPro has only a frame, and not of the best quality. With active use, the gum quickly wears out and deteriorates. It is difficult to remove the camera from the frame, but Sony can be pulled out of the box without any problems, the case itself is also made with high quality, the surface is not scratched.

Features of operation . The FDR-X3000 is only splash-proof, and with the Hero 5 Black you can dive up to 10 meters without any problems. Sony has a standard tripod mount and can be fixed without additional accessories. Also, this camera is more convenient to hold in your hands, you do not need to constantly monitor so as not to cover the microphones with your fingers, as is the case with the GoPro, which has them from the ends.

Display and control . The Hero 5 Black has two screens, one of which is a touchscreen. You can adjust the frame and see what happened after filming. The FDR-X3000 has a black-and-white display without backlighting, it is not very convenient to work with it at dusk. The GoPro is touch-configurable and sometimes lacks mechanical control keys like the Sony. However, in terms of information content, Hero 5 Black is better, because all the options and functions are displayed on the large display, it is more convenient to select the desired option.

Shooting quality . The FDR-X3000 features an optical image stabilizer that smoothes out noise in shaky shooting conditions. Also, high sensitivity allows shooting in low light conditions. Hero 5 Black has more video modes and high resolution. Sony supports XAVC S (50Mbit / s) recording, while GoPro only supports 28Mbit / s.

Rating of the best models

In addition to the new flagship FDR-X3000 with 4K quality, Sony has other extreme camcorders worthy of note. The gadgets are available in black and white. The complete set can be different, some of them come with a holder and a sealed box, as well as a control panel. A review of popular models will help you choose a camera that is suitable in terms of performance and price.

Budget

Sony HDR-AS50

If this is your first time choosing such a device and do not plan to shoot action often, you can pay attention to inexpensive options. Sony's model includes the HDR-AS50. Cost - from 12,500 rubles. Despite the price, the functionality is quite decent.

The camera supports Full HD shooting at up to 60 frames per second . Electronic stabilization is used. There are 3 modes for adjusting the white balance, the possibility of panoramic shooting, photo mode.

In the presence of 3 microphones, which are located on the front panel, and a noise reduction system for high-quality sound recording.

Dual micro USB inputs, so you can shoot videos even while charging. Not every budget model can boast of such an opportunity. The device weighs 58 grams, the body fits comfortably in the hand and does not slip.

The disadvantages include the lack of a viewfinder - you will have to additionally use your smartphone as a second screen. In poor lighting conditions, the picture quality decreases.

Sony HDR-AS20

Differs in a good package for a budget device - with a camera comes a sealed box, a threaded adapter, two fasteners on tape (for flat and curved surfaces), a USB cable. All this at a cost of 13 thousand rubles. You can immediately try different types of photography without having to buy additional accessories.

As usual, the manufacturer uses optics from ZEISS, which are renowned for their good quality. A BIONZ processor is also available.

The device can handle different types of memory cards. Built-in stereo microphone, noise suppression system. Allows you to shoot at 1920x1080 pixels 60 fps.

The camera has problems with stabilization, and the quality of the picture deteriorates when shooting in a darkened room

Expensive

Sony HDR-AS300

The higher the price, the more opportunities. The HDR-AS300 model was a kind of breakthrough for the manufacturer, it is one of the first cameras in which Steady Shot optical stabilization appeared . This technology allows you to compensate for constant shaking and sudden movements, which is very important when shooting action.

The device has a built-in 8 MP sensor with dimensions 1/2, 5, optics with aperture f / 2.8. Shoots at Full HD resolution at 60 fps.

To synchronize with the device, you can use Bluetooth and Wi-fi, it is also possible to indicate geolocation using GPS.

The camera is controlled by mechanical buttons, so you can operate it without removing your gloves. There is a USB output and a microphone jack on the body. The battery allows you to shoot for two hours on a single charge. The device comes with a sealed box and a platform mount. Cost - from 20 thousand rubles.

The disadvantage is the lack of shooting in 4K quality, although Full HD is quite enough for non-professional users . Also, there are no additional mounts in the basic configuration - you have to buy them in order to be able to fix the camera to different surfaces.

Sony FDR-X1000V

This model already supports UHD 4K shooting, which dramatically increases image detail. The speed has also increased - from 120 to 240 frames per second, depending on the selected mode. Auto White Balance eliminates the need for time-consuming adjustments . There is autofocus and face recognition function.

The device uses a matrix of 12, 8 megapixels. Synchronization is performed using Wi-fi, there is also a USB output and a microphone jack. Geolocation tracking using GPS is possible. The battery is designed for 2 hours of shooting. The camera weighs 89 grams. The cost is from 25 thousand rubles.

A significant drawback at such a price is a digital stabilizer, although cheaper models already have optical ones . Also, you cannot use the fasteners and an external microphone at the same time - the platform obstructs the connector.

Sony FDR-X3000

It can be called the flagship of the brand, as it combines all the advanced features. First of all, this is shooting in 4K quality and the presence of an optical stabilizer. There is also an HDMI output, which allows you to broadcast live by placing the camera on a tripod . A similar function will be useful for video bloggers. In addition, the battery provides continuous operation for 2.5 hours.

The clarity of the picture is provided by a matrix of 8, 2 megapixels. There is a 3x zoom.

The manufacturer traditionally uses ZEISS optics with excellent aperture, so even when shooting in a dark place, you can get a decent image quality. Control can be carried out using a remote control or display. There is also overheating protection.

The cost of the camera is quite high - from 30 thousand rubles. There is no remote control as standard and you may need to purchase other accessories.

Component overview

Most likely, for shooting you will need not only a camera, but also various accessories to it. Some of them can be found as standard, while others will have to be purchased.

Memory cards

Usually, the card is not sold with the camera, so you will need to purchase it. To prevent the device from slowing down when recording, pay attention not only to the amount of memory, but also to the class . For devices that shoot in Full HD, this is the U1. For cameras that support 4K quality, a speed class of at least U3 is required. As for the size, it makes no sense to buy a card less than 32 Gb. And for shooting in 4K mode for at least 3 hours, you will need 128 Gb or more.

Batteries

Not all models have the ability to install a replaceable battery, most often they are built-in, so you need an external Power Bank to recharge. Here you should look at the battery capacity - 10000-12000 mAh is quite enough. The advantage of Power Bank is that you can also charge any other device, such as a smartphone, from them.

If your model supports replaceable batteries, check with the manufacturer.

These accessories can be either original (of the same brand with the camera) or non-original. As a rule, the "native" brand produces better quality products, although you can find decent options among other names.

Additional protection

Although the action camera is designed for shooting in non-standard situations and can withstand quite serious loads, it has its weak points - it is the lens and the display. Special lenses can be used to protect the lens to avoid scratches and more severe damage.

There are also sealed boxes that protect the camera from moisture and dust and allow you to dive with it under water . For some models, these plastic cases are included immediately. With such protection, you don't have to worry about the safety of the device, however, it should be borne in mind that the sound quality will deteriorate.

Mountings

Depending on the shooting conditions, you need to choose a suitable fixation method. There are several types of mounts.

• On the head, chest or arm. Using the straps, you can fix the camera to yourself and shoot from the first person.
• Car Holder. Allows you to install the device in the car and use it as a registrar.
• Steering wheel mounts. Suitable for bicycles and motorcycles, they are distinguished by their ability to withstand rotational loads and gusts of wind.
• Swivel mounts. With them, you can place the camera on a flat or curved surface, as well as set at the desired angle.

In addition, you can use tripods for shooting in one place, for example, panoramic. There are also monopods for action cameras.

Storage facilities

The gadget can be kept in a special case or bag. This option is suitable not only for storage, but also for transportation, if you need to take the device with you on a trip. Bags are usually made of waterproof fabric. The cases have hard plastic walls, inside - soft padding. They also vary in size. There are options where you can fold not only the camera, but also the tripod, cables and battery.

Microphones

If you are interested not only in the picture, but also in the sound quality, these accessories are needed. A wireless lavalier microphone is the most convenient option . It easily clings to clothing, there is no risk of accidentally hitting and pulling out the wire if you are shooting in motion. However, you can also choose the option with a cable connection, such models are usually cheaper.

Which one to choose?

When buying, you should decide in advance for what purposes the camera will be used. Professionals and amateurs have different requirements, and the shooting conditions also matter: will it take place in the dark, underwater, or if you need a model for sports. This will allow you to narrow your search and choose a device with suitable technical characteristics.

• Permission . For modern models, this is Full HD or 4K. This indicator affects the detail and quality of the picture. For amateur photography, in most cases, Full HD is sufficient. Pros and slow-mo users choose 4K.
• Sensitivity . This is the ability of the device to adapt to changes in illumination. For most models, this happens automatically. To test, you can try moving the camera to a darker part of the room and see how quickly it reacts.
• Stabilization . This technology smoothes out shaking and sudden movements. It can be digital (electronic) or optical (mechanical). The second option gives a better result.
• Frequency (FPS) . Determines the number of frames per second. The larger this parameter, the smoother the picture will be. With a small number of frames, the image appears to be "jerky".
• IP level . Indicates moisture protection. Some models are splash and rain resistant, while others can be submerged to varying depths.

It will also be useful to pay attention to the angle of view, the presence of a zoom for zooming in and out, the presence of additional settings and shooting modes.

Operating tips

Cameras do not require any special care or use, but there are some guidelines to help you extend the life of your device

• If you do not use the gadget for a long time - about two weeks or more - then it is better to remove the battery.
• Do not put the camera on recharging as soon as you bring it indoors from the cold. You need to wait 30-40 minutes.
• Do not forget to clean the lens - this directly affects the quality of the shooting. Also, the lens is quite vulnerable, so you can think about using a protective glass.
• When shooting in the rain, you can use a water-repellent spray to avoid dripping on the lens.

If you are using a sealed box, press down on the cover carefully before closing the latch. This will provide reliable protection, especially when submerged under water. In addition, if it is not closed correctly, the pressure on the box structure increases, so it can quickly break.