Sony is a very popular brand in the world of technology. Although they are relatively new in the camera industry, many people genuinely trust their products. It makes sense, though since the brand has a good reputation.
However, the competition in the field is quite tight. And there are a lot of good names that can provide quality camcorders as well at a much lower price. So, in this day and age, is it still worth a shot to buy a high-end type of camcorders like Sony FDR-AX700 4K HDR?
If you are setting your sights on this camcorder, then this review might help you in making your decisions. As it happens, this review includes all the necessary details and information about the said camcorder.
Warranty Terms:
1-year warranty and 1 month for parts and replacement
Price: Below $2000
“Do I recommend the AX700? Yes, I absolutely do... For me, the AX700 is a must have, and I am very pleased. Dual Card Slots and Super Slow Motion sold me.”
“This camera is a jewel. Extremely well designed and built it feels great in my hands. The Zeiss lens is amazing, giving the camera the ability to 12x optical zoom in smoothly for an ultra-sharp closeup”
Key Features and Specifications
Apparently, Sony markets the FDR-AX700 4K HDR as a professional video camcorder. Also, many camcorder enthusiasts and video hobbyists are found to utilize this for entertainment purposes as well.
So, here are the key features of the Sony FDR-AX700 4K HDR Camcorder and see if this will fit your needs accordingly:
4K HDR Picture Quality: This camcorder features the high dynamic range HDR technology which allows users to enjoy a bright, vivid, and clear picture quality. And it has been found that the quality is very much reliable in comparison to most 4K camcorder of today.
XVAC S Format High Bitrate Recording: This feature allows the users to record and capture the motion in details without using too much noise compression. Thanks to its high bitrate recording, shooting at 100 Mbps is very much possible for 4K resolution at 120 frames per second and 50 Mbps for full-HD.
Advanced Features: Users can also enjoy numerous advanced features. These largely include S-Gamut, S-Log Shooting, slow motion, super slow motion, face detection, and intellect auto.
The Sony FDR-AX700 4K HDR Camcorder also comes with a fine lcd, 12x optical zoom, nightshot infrared system and 8 different scene selections. Plus, the AF feature is wide, fast hybrid log-gamma hlg, and highly adjustable.
ZEISS Vario Sonnar T Lens: The lens is actually a customized ZEISS optics that is equipped with advanced aspherical and extra-low dispersion features. And having this lens means users can enjoy the 29mm wide-angle visions and 12x optical clear image zoom functions.
iMovie and Final Cut Pro X Compatible: The Sony FDR-AX700 4K HDR Camcorder is compatible with iMovie and Final Cut Pro X which are known video editing application on MAC. Accordingly, this product largely supports Apple products and gadgets.
Dual Slots and Relay Mode: This camcorder features dual slots for either SD Card/memory stick or SD Card/Memory Card. Having this feature allows the users to either have a simultaneous recording or relay recording.
This is very essential when you are recording long motions and videos.
Advantages of the Sony FDR-AX700 Camcorder
Excellent Picture Quality - The resolution rating and image quality of the camera is very much efficient and reliable. According to actual users, this camcorder genuinely provides excellent output.
Ideal for Hobbyists and Starting Videographers - Due to its high-end features and technology, the Sony FDR-AX700 4K HDR is videographer-friendly. It can be actually used in several events and occasions.
Durable and Sturdy - The structure and build of this camcorder are pretty on point. You can actually rely on its durability. Plus, the after-sales support is also reliable which makes it for many users to enjoy the camcorder to the fullest, even for entry-level users!
Compact and Easy to Hold - This camcorder features an easy-to-hold build. In fact, it is made to ensure that any type or size of hands can fit the overall structure of the camcorder. This also allows the users to keep the camcorder secured and safe as they record and shoot videos.
Disadvantages of the Sony FDR-AX700 Camcorder
Not Ideal for Pros - Although the FDR-AX700 camcorder is entirely marketed for professional use, it has been found that the features and functions are not that great for this kind of level. As it happens, it still lacks few features that every professional use in the field.
Expensive - The price of this camcorder is rated below $2000 which is pretty expensive considering its semi-pro features. Although at some point, some of the features could justify the price point, there are professional camcorders that are worth less than this price.
Too Complicated To Use - Most of the users state that the Sony FDR-AX700 4K HDR is very complicated to use. In fact, it takes time to fully grasp all the manual controls, features and functions of the camcorder. Some users have expressed their disappointment with regard to this aspect since they would still carry around the instruction manual even after a few months of usage.
AX700 vs. AX100 Features
Sony has added a few key features to the new AX700 that separate it from the AX100. To start, it has a 273-Point Phase Detection Auto focus system that is much better and faster than previous versions. The new toggle control lets you surf through the menus in the EVF when the LCD screen is closed. The Sony AX700 also has a brand new time lapse feature that is incredible. The LCD touchscreen is now 5.5 inches and has been increased to 1.55M dots. There is also an added SD slot which is almost a must when it comes to recording long clips.
The Verdict: Is It Worth It?
Sony FDR-AX700 4K HDR is truly an impressive camcorder. Its innovative features and functions are very useful and beneficial to users, especially to people who want to improve their skills on shooting videos.
And if you are the type of person who wants to learn the basic skills of professional shooting, this camcorder is highly recommendable. However, if you are a professional and you have a career in this field, this might not be the best 4K camcorder to invest in. We will be adding some of the more expensive Canon cameras in our next sections!
