Video camera recorder has been around for quite some time now and it is still being upgraded today to deliver an even better capabilities than their predecessor. Sony as a big manufacturer also offer numerous new product in their camcorder catalogue like Sony FDR AX53 vs Sony FDR AX100. Both of them are coming from the same line, so they will have similar capabilities but bound by different model you may also find some notable differences here.
In this article, we are going to give you information about:
– What are Sony FDR AX53 and FDR AX100
– What Sony FDR AX53 and FDR AX100 Look Like
– What Sony FDR AX53 and FDR AX100 can offer to you
– Sony FDR AX53 vs FDR AX100
About Sony FDR AX53
Sony has been very active in the last few years releasing their new camcorders to the market with the experience they have and well-known quality which is among the best you can get out there. Along with the popularity of 4K TV and content, camcorder also moves forward and increase the capability to record the eye-catching resolution. One item in their line with the 4K feature is Sony FDR AX53 which is released around the beginning of 2016. Since 1080p is still a thing even now, you also don’t have to spend so much to get this camera.
Sony FDR AX53 Design
One of the best thing about almost any camcorder is their compact size and this is also apply to this camcorder. Measuring around 6.6 inches long similar to those older cameras which is definitely not so small either, this one is supposed to be handled firmly thanks to the handle-strap that will support your hand when recording using the unit. Just like many other Sony’s product, FDR AX53 is made with a quality material and on the surface you can find several major controls like start/stop, zoom, focus, etc.
Sony FDR AX53 Features
As the upgraded camcorder of the company’s former models AX33, this unit is said to improve the inner components rather than the outer appearance which is why they look very similar from the outside. The prominent difference and upgrade they put on FDR AX53 is the lens because it is now using new ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T lens that will allow you to take video at 26.8mm wide-angle and this is also bring another difference such as the zooming capabilities.
FDR AX53 is supporting a zooming operation up to 20x for Optical Zoom that you can use in both 4K recording or HD while the Clear Image Zoom is still at the same amount like the previous model with up to 30x for 4K recording and 40x for HD quality. Even though optical zoom is still superior compared to clear image zoom, the quality is still more acceptable if compared against the digital zoom. This camera is coming with the Exmor R CMOS sensor to provide bigger pixels and an ability to deliver an even better quality when under low light condition.
Compared to the older model, FDR AX53 Autofocus is also about 40% faster with Balanced Optical Steady image stabilizer that now using 5-axis intelligent Active mode to let you take better footage even when recording in an unsteady position. However, it is a bit unfortunate for this feature is not applicable when recording in 4K. Several modes available including 4K time lapses and slow motion video at full HD which is good to capture fast moving objects.
About Sony FDR AX100
Before the release of FDR AX53 or other newer camcorders, Sony already have another camcorder with the same capability to record 4K quality videos even from 2014 with their FDR AX100 which is their entry in the market for the certain video quality. Not only it is more affordable than many other high-end units out there, it is also able to deliver great performance and coming with a good set of useful features you will surely love. Read also: Sony FDR AX100 vs Panasonic GH4 here.
Sony FDR AX100 Design
Even from the outside we can already see what this camera is boasting on and yes thanks to the 4K label on the unit, all people will know that this camera is capable of recording the footage in that quality. It is also made from robust material that feels good when handled and not flimsy at all. Just like many other camcorders, there are several buttons on the body for quick operation while the screen is also touch sensitive, so you can adjust focus and exposure easily.
Sony FDR AX100 Features
FDR AX100 is using a big 1-inch Sony Exmor R CMOS sensor which is such a good specification to have in a camera since it will improve and give a big contribution to the overall video and image quality. With its sensor that has maximum readout of 14 Megapixel, this camcorder is featured with QFHD mode with the company’s AVC-S format to record 3840 x 2160 resolution at 30 frame per second. This most friendly edited format may also be used in 1080p recording with an even broader set of frame rate options.
Another good element Sony put inside this camera is the BIONZ X processor which makes this camcorder able to intelligently optimizes specific area of the image depend on the situation with the right amount of noise reduction. This processor also what makes FDR AX100 able to record super slow motion 120fps videos. As for the lens, this camcorder is using Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T lens which is capable of delivering up to 12x zoom for Optical while Clear Image Zoom is up to 18x for 4K videos and 24x for HD.
Additionally, FDR AX100 is supporting Wi-Fi connectivity with no proprietary accessories, so now you can easily pair your smart devices with the camcorder to use the nifty remote control through its PlayMemories mobile app.
Comparison
Now, let’s compare Sony FDR AX53 with A100. As you may already know, both of these camcorder has the same capability to record in 4K and AX100 is using bigger sensor than AX53 but it is also supporting less zoom capabilities either for the optical or the clear image zoom. However, in term of autofocus, since AX53 is released later, it is also able to perform better than in the older model.
Sony FDR AX53 vs. Sony FDR AX100
Conclusion
All in all, the decision is all yours to make. In our opinion, both of them are a good option if you are looking for a camcorder with 4K capability but after considering the price and features, if we are to choose, we will recommend you to pick Sony FDR AX53 for its improved capabilities and more zoom.
