Sony FDR-X3000 4K Action Cam Update!
In a very quiet update last week Sony released a low end action camera to cater to the lower end crowd that wants better performance than the current GoPro options but with a limited budget resource. In comes the Sony FDR-X3000 4K Action Camera that brings 4k and impressive image stabilization to the 399 USD action camera bracket.
The big deal in this camera is the Balanced Optical SteadyShot (or B.O.S.S.) which uses the entire optical lens path to reduce vibration and motion. Previous systems only moved an element inside the lens to alter the light path. The new system is more effective at reducing rolling shutter artifacts and wearer induced motion to produce stable and less jittery video even at 4k.
Sony FDR-X3000 Action Cam 4k Main Specs:
- Supports 4K, 1080p, 720p, and 480p Video
- Optically Stabilized Ultra-Wide Lens
- Wi-Fi for Remote Monitoring and Control
- Included Housing Waterproof to 197′
- 12MP Still Photos
- 120 fps in 1080p and 240 fps in 720p
- XAVC S and MP4 (H.264) Recording
- Built-In Stereo Audio Recording
- AE Compensation and Manual White Balance
Reduced shake demo with Balanced Optical SteadyShot by Sony:
As you see above in the overly exaggerated motion in their simulated video, the B.O.S.S. system is quite good at making pleasant video from even motion prone shooting situations. As to the effectiveness in more demanding situations; it will be a matter of looking at some real world samples. One thing is for certain, it beats a non stabilized GoPro Hero Black competitor or other when it comes to stable footage. The fact that it works at 4k and not only at 1080p or 720p like some other stabilized action cameras makes it even more appealing.
What about Slow Motion Performance?
While there is nothing truly revolutionary in the SonyFDR-X3000 4K Action Cam when it comes to slow motion frame rates in this camera; it is nice to see the same level of performance you expect from the GoPro Hero 4 Black at 120fps 1080p and 240fps 720p recording. The XAVC S codec at 100Mbps 4k 30p is comparable to the Alpha line of cameras and or the Panasonic 4k H.264 codec implementation which is very good. See frame rates below:
4K XAVC S 3840 x 2160 / 30 fps (100 Mbps) / 25 fps (100 Mbps) / 24 fps (100 Mbps) High Definition XAVC S 1920 x 1080p / 60 fps (50 Mbps) / 50 fps (50 Mbps) / 24 fps (60 Mbps) High Definition XAVC S 1920 x 1080p / 30 fps (50 Mbps) / 25 fps (50 Mbps) / 24 fps (50 Mbps) High Definition.Slowmo XAVC S 1920 x 1080p / 120 fps (100 Mbps) / 100 fps (100 Mbps) High Definition- Slowmo XAVC S 1280 x 720p / 240 fps (100 Mbps) / 200 fps (100 Mbps)
The new Live View Remote control makes it easy to monitor and access settings for the camera in a wearable accessory. While cool and useful it will ad 149.99 to the 399.99 camera kit in pricing.
There is a 549.99 kit with the camera, case, common accessories and the Live View Remote as an all included bundle option. This camera can be used as is but it does scream for the Live View remote for ease of use and accessibility.
Sony Europe Full Rundown of features including footage samples:
Sony FDR-X3000 4k Action Cam Unboxing by Richard Sumilang:
Sony ActionCam FDR-X3000/SBS Review Settings Comparison by Snow Renkon
Final Word:
Looking at the kit here, it is clear that Sony has been extremely aggressive in eating GoPro’s camera market share in the last two years. They offer better performance for a comparable price along with stabilization and other innovative features like the new Live Remote. We would be hard pressed to recommend any other action camera at this time other than the Sony FDR-X3000 in the 399-549 price bracket. A GoPro Hero 5 might disrupt things but it is clear Sony is of now the best option out there with this new camera. You really can’t go wrong when it comes to sensor, lens, codec and stabilization performance.
Sony FDR-X3000 Action Cam Review
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The rise of portable action cameras has allowed us to capture virtually every moment of our sporting events. Whether you’re perfectly landing that difficult trick or taking a spill, you’ve got the whole thing on tape. Although GoPro has dominated the market over the last couple years, many reputable manufacturers releasing their own action cams that are competitive in both price and features. With the GoPro Hero5 prepped for launch this month, many consumers are debating if they should upgrade to their latest model, or check out some of the worthy cameras available from other manufacturers.
Sony has stepped up their game recently, launching a very promising looking camera. With a few key features that really put it a step ahead of the competition, the FDR-X3000 is absolutely worth a look. Let’s see if this camera is going to allow Sony to stake their claim in the action cam market.
First Look
The Sony FDR-X3000 Action Cam has a sleek white body, measuring 1.85″ x 1.16″ x 3.27″ and weighs approximately 4.1 ounces. What do you get in the box? You’ll receive the rechargeable battery pack, a micro USB cable, the Underwater Housing case, an attachment buckle, and the Live-View Remote. The remote also includes a wristband, mount adapter and cradle. GoPro charges extra for these accessories, so it’s nice to see them thrown in.
The camera can record using Memory Stick Micro or Micro SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. The small screen on the side of the camera contains a user-friendly menu, and is easy to change settings like zoom.
Sony has added three red indicator lights on the front, back and top of the camera, and the camera beeps to indicate that it is recording. It sounds silly, but is actually a great feature – you never want to find out you haven’t been recording the whole time you’ve been meaning to.
Hardware
Sony’s impressive BIONZ X processor keeps the action cam’s quality reliable regardless of the setting you are shooting in. The body holds a memory card slot, Micro HDMI output, Multi/micro USB terminal and a stereo minijack for an external mic. The camera has a tripod socket on the bottom of the body for when you need ultra-steady capturing.
Durability
Sony claims the FDR-X3000 is dust-proof, shock-proof, rust-proof, freeze-proof and waterproof all the way down to 60m/197ft. Of course, this is only possible with the Underwater Housing case that is included with the camera. The housing adds some size, but it only makes sense to protect your camera and its lens with the case and use it all the time. The case also doesn’t inhibit the view of the menu display or the use of the buttons at all. It ensures that whatever activity you’re doing, and whatever weather you’re doing it in, the camera stays safe, along with your footage.
Battery Life
The FDR-X3000 runs using a NP-BX1 3.6V battery. With a fully charged battery and Wi-Fi switched on, you can get 50 continual minutes of footage shooting at 4K (3840 x 2160 30p 60Mbps), or 125 minutes shooting at MP4 (1920 x 1080 30p HQ). Considering the cameras compact size, this is pretty impressive and competitive with the GoPro.
With Wi-Fi switch off, you can get an extra 10 minutes of footage for either setting. The live-view display has 155 minutes of battery life. The battery is also removable so if you’re going to be out filming all day we’d recommend picking up a spare and bringing it with you.
Connectivity
The Live-View remote connects with the X3000R through Bluetooth V4.1. The camera is Wi-Fi capable though and you can use the camera through a smartphone app. This is especially useful if you’ve got it mounted somewhere that is not particularly easy to access.
Using Sony’s Highlight Movie Maker, you can quickly send footage to your phone and construct a highlight movie and share it right away using your phone. You won’t always have Wi-Fi and the battery life to spare when you’re outside adventuring, but it’s a great feature to have, especially when you’re close to home to avoid cluttered cords.
Capture Modes
The FDR-X3000’s powerful processing allows you to shoot in several different modes. Among these include Loop Recording, Burst Shooting, Motion Shot LE, 4K Time-lapse capture and even Live Streaming. Live streaming, however, does require a Wi-Fi router or a smartphone that is capable of tethering with the cam.
Loop recording has 4 durations ranging from 5 to 120 minutes, and allows you to capture the perfect moment without running out of space on your memory card.
The X3000R can burst shoot up to eight shots of action at a time, which will allow you to ensure you get the absolute perfect frame for your photo.
Motion Shot LE can automatically create a composite image of a subject in motion, at various burst settings.
Time-lapse capture with the X3000R is amazing. The camera captures 4K still pictures at a designated interval, which can be combined into an extremely high quality time-lapse movie.
The Live-streaming using Ustream not a super common feature on an action cam, but opens up a lot of doors for how you can use it. If you’re looking to keep an eye on the kids or set up a little home security system, live streaming is very handy to have.
The FDR-X3000 also allows you several manual adjustments to help you get your footage just right. White Balance can be adjusted manually, or shot in auto mode, which allows you to more accurately represent different lighting conditions. Shutter speed varies between 1/30 and 1/10,000 of a second (30fps) which gives the camera versatility for shooting in both low-light conditions and bright daylight.
Video/Picture Quality
The X3000R has superb video quality and resolution. It shoots 4K resolution video at 30fps – and can also be reduced to 24 or 25fps if you want a more cinematic appearance. If you’re looking for shooting slow-motion footage, then you can reduce the quality to 1080p which bumps the frame rate up to 120fps.
The BIONZ X processing engine results in more natural images, greater details, great noise reduction, and richer contrasts. The Exmor R CMOS sensor improves shooting in low-light conditions with less grain and better clarity.
Regardless of the video quality, the Balanced Optical SteadyShot will always be active, allowing for exceptionally high quality and smooth footage even in challenging conditions. Still images are shot at 12.0-megapixels 16:9 (4608 x 2592) making them sharp and clear. They will absolutely be suitable for prints. Sony has also done a great job with lens distortion of the wide-angle lens, reducing the “fisheye” effect you get with most other action cams.
Audio Quality
Audio quality is reasonable with the built in microphone, but you should know what you are getting with an action camera like this one. Hopefully you’ll be editing your action videos with some music afterwards. Thanks to the built in noise reduction, the audio quality is acceptable for online video or for mixing in with your soundtrack. If you do want cinematic quality audio, you can use the built in mic port to connect and external microphone.
Image Stabilization
What we really believe will set the X3000R from other action cams is the image stabilization technology that Sony has integrated into the camera. Sony’s patented Balanced Optical SteadyShot technology has been used in many previous Sony handheld cameras, but they’ve somehow managed to scale it down to fit in a miniature action cam for the first time.
Although the action camera market is still dominated by GoPro, they still seem to be missing any sort of image stabilization. Since you’ll be using this camera in high motion environments, a jittery video can make your recording almost unwatchable. However, with Sony’s SteadyShot you’ll get buttery smooth motion. Unlike other cameras, the image stabilization isn’t downgraded at all. You can still shoot in 4k, which really makes the difference between good and great footage. When filming on a bumpy road or trail, rough water, or even when attached to helmets or handlebars, your video will look like it was professionally produced.
Live-View Remote
Sony’s Live-View remote for the X3000 is a great feature for the camera. Most manufacturers mount the display on the camera. This is completely useless if you’re going to be attaching it somewhere that is awkward to access. By separating the display, you can view your footage without having to remove the camera.
It measures in at 47.8mm x 52.6mm x19.0mm and weighs only 46g. It is 30% smaller than previous Sony Live-View remotes and has tons of mount capabilities. You can mount the remote directly to the camera and hold it with your index finger through a trigger-type loop and shoot directly, or mount the remote on your handlebars where you can keep your eyes on it at all times. You can also wear the remote as a watch for when the camera is mounted somewhere else like on a board or helmet.
GPS
With built-in GPS, the X3000R captures important metadata like location and location tracking for your adventures. This also allows a speedometer to track your speed during filming. The GPS and speed data can then be overlaid on a video, which is a great feature for movie-making.
Экшн-камера SONY FDR X3000 | ПОЛНЫЙ ОБЗОР
So, Should I Get the Sony FDR-X3000?
There is no shortage of great action cameras on the market. At this point in time, we truly believe that the Sony FDR-X3000 is the current king of portable action cams.
Their live view remote demonstrate that Sony is aware of the most frustrating usability issues that plague other action cams, and offers a brilliant solution to this problem. It may not be the cheapest camera on the market, but it’s priced competitively and offers incredibly high quality footage.
What really sets this action camera apart from other handhelds currently available is the Balanced Optical SteadyShot technology. The noise and bump reductions are extremely impressive, and something that other companies like GoPro have not yet been able to perfect.
23 thoughts on “Sony FDR-X3000 Action Cam Review”
Though your review of the Sony FDR-X3000 is rather complete (thank you!), I was wondering whether you can bring the Live-View Remote with you while diving? Even Sony doesn´t mention that on their website … Reply
Hello Wilfried, We wouldn’t advise getting the live view remote wet. It’s not meant to be submerged into water. Please let us know if you have any more additional questions – we’d be happy to help! Reply
What I have learned from somewhere else is that Wi-Fi, blutooth and capacitive touchscreen does not work underwater. Water interferes with these signals so Sony did not bother making the LiveView remote waterproof. You’ll need a physical wire attached to the camera if you want to control it underwater. Reply
Sony FDR-X3000 Review: Giving the GoPro A Run For Their Money
Home to a stabilized 4K camera, the Sony FDR-X3000 action camera has taken a slice of the market from its biggest competitors. How does it still stack up against its fierce rivals after almost two years of its release? Hang on tight to your adventure pants while we break it down for you!
Stabilisation
Released in the late September of 2016, the FDR-X3000 turned a lot of heads when it brought Sony’s BOSS (Balanced Optical Steady Shot) stabilisation to the table. This technology allows the EXMOR R CMOS Sensor and the 17mm ZEISS lens (35mm equivalent) to be able to move in sync and compensate for jerky camera movement.
Just as the acronym suggests, the BOSS stabilisation accurately describes the footage shot handheld. Jerkiness is almost non-existent while I was running around chasing the longboarder. A steady grip and controlled pacing can yield deceivingly gimbal-like videos. It seriously handles the inconsistencies of human handling – wait for it – like a boss (pun intended).
Its competitors, such as the GoPro, rely on electronic image stabilisation (EIS), which is an internal software that compensates for shakiness and jitters by cropping in and adjusting rotation. This can result in decreased field of view and a warping “jello” effect. The FDR-X3000 triumphs in this regard with its superior optical image stabilisation. As the technology is completely mechanical, it does not suffer from the drawbacks of EIS. This feature is also enabled when shooting 4K, which is a feature that was not previously available in the FDR-X1000V Action Cam.
Design and Ergonomics
Measuring in at 29.4 x 47 x 83mm, the design of the FDR-X3000 is definitely something of unconventionality, but surprisingly ergonomic. Most action cameras to date have at least taken a nod to the tried and tested GoPro blueprints. Sony, however, has decided to stand out from the herd with an elongated white outer plastic shell, resembling that of handheld camcorders.
This is where I feel the ergonomics helps to frame my subjects better: the GoPro is held as such below:
Most people grip it with their fingers and use their wrist, elbow, and shoulder joints to help them frame their shot.
A natural way of holding the FDR-X3000 is to wrap your fingers around the side, wrist locked, and using your elbow to pan and point towards your subject. a allows the forearm to act as a guideline for where the camera is pointed at, allowing for easier composition that uses your wrist, just like how you would point a flashlight. A high angle shot would require the action cam to be held like a camcorder, however, that does not hinder the handling at all.
Weighing a mere 114g with the battery inserted, complimented by its miniature size, it is easily able and readily deployable when the perfect moment calls for it.
Image Video Quality
So far, it’s all been thumbs up for the little guy, and that’s no different with regards to the images and video I’ve shot. Unfortunately, I did not have a fast micro SD card with the action cam to shoot 4K video. Therefore, the following is judged purely from the 1080p video shot.
The FDR-X3000 excels in daylight and sufficient and is able to deliver vibrant and sharp results, with good dynamic range and contrast. The auto exposure was great and does not suffer from jarring exposure changes when moving through scenes with varied lighting conditions.
Sony has worked hard on minimising the fisheye effect present in most action cameras and the results speak for themselves: footages shot on the FDR-X3000 have little to no distortion among the edges, making the viewing experience very comfortable and less nauseating for people like me. The bit rate of the videos can be improved as upon review on a larger monitor, fast moving objects or quick pans show obvious pixelation that could make the video look amateur.
That goes for its stills as well, with the 4K time-lapses and 13MP photos when you switch to the “Photo” mode. Otherwise, during video mode, you are limited to 8MP images if you happen to come across a moment that does not grant you the time to switch modes. Pictures do sometimes come out soft and slightly washed out.
Unsurprisingly, low-light conditions will introduce noise and grain into the images and video. This is mostly due to the limitations of a small 1/2.5 type (7.20mm) sensor inside the compact housing. However, I shot with it walking on a dimly lit bridge during late evening and found the footage still rather usable, and with some fixing in post, most of the details can be retrieved, albeit making the footage slightly grainier.
Audio coming from the stereo microphones is surprisingly clear and does not distort even in crowded areas. Voices come across smoothly and clearly, with little sibilance – something that most other action cams on the market cannot brag about.
Accessories
As with any action camera, the FDR-X3000 comes with a slew of accessories to help improve the handling and overall experience. The camera is bundled with a waterproof case, which means that the main unit itself is not subject to the water elements. I was also provided with the Live-View remote, which is a watch with a display that connects to the camera and allows for live monitoring.
The waterproof casing does provide a fair amount of protection with its sturdy plastic construction, however, I cannot help but be reminded that the GoPro Hero5, released around the same date as the FDR-X3000, is completely waterproof on its own.
This is where the FDR-X3000 loses out on this point, as the Hero5’s waterproof functionality really gives the user a peace of mind when it is taken out in the elements. On the other hand, users of the FDR-X3000 will have to worry about remembering to bring the waterproof case along.
The Live-View remote watch is Sony’s answer to not mounting a display on their action cam – a Smart solution indeed. This allows the user to be able to check the framing of their shots with minimal disturbance to whatever activities they are doing, be it having the action cam mounted on their headgear, filming another person doing stunts, or getting the best angles possible without needing a clear view of the action cam itself. A really cool feature of the watch is that when you turn the watch on, the action cam turns on as well, eliminating the hassle of turning both on together, allowing you to start recording instantly.
However, this innovative accessory does have its drawbacks. First of all, it is bulky for something that is meant to be worn for outdoor activities. Measuring in at 47.8 mm × 52.6 mm × 19.0 mm, with a weight of approx 83g, it feels a lot chunkier and heavier than most modern smartwatches I’ve come across. Adding to that, the display is not very visible in bright sunlight and its screen size leaves a lot to be desired when things are in motion. Focusing your eyes on a tiny screen when on the move can be quite the challenge and resolving details in the shot can be hard when it is not HD.
Navigation
The menu offers adequate settings such as video recording format and various resolutions. Navigating the menu, however, is a bit of a hassle due to the lack of a touchscreen on both the Live-View remote watch and the action cam itself. The buttons on the action cam are also a tad mushy with some feedback.
The watch allows camera settings to be navigated directly, which is handy and something I would expect from a remote, but the menu interface is completely different from that of the watch. This was quite a cumbersome experience switching from the action cam to the watch and having to get familiar with two menu systems for a single camera.
Battery Life
The estimated 2 hours 15 mins of recording time in 1080p by Sony holds true. I ran out of juice after nearly 2 hours of 1080p recording, and two 4K time lapses lasting about 10 minutes each, along with some photos here and there. The battery is easily replaceable so carrying a spare would make it last for a day, if not more.
Final Verdict
The Sony FDR-X3000 supersedes its competition with raw video quality, compact size, and incredible features like its 4K optically stabilised video, positioning it as second to none on the market. The engineering team behind this amazing headliner should be credited for their hard work.
Sony’s efforts to make the user experience of the action cam more intuitive is a step in the right direction. However, this iteration has lacked polish and stumbled in its execution. For buyers considering to purchase the Sony FDR-X3000 action camera for their travels or active lifestyle, the steep price (S799) could be a hard pill to swallow.
Nevertheless, the Sony FDR-X3000 excels in what it is marketed for and is a product to give us a glimpse at what more Sony could offer in the foreseeable future.
Sony FDR-X3000R review
This tiny action cam’s nicely image stabilized 4K 30fps footage impresses, but an unreliable live view remote makes this variant of the cheaper FDR-X3000 of dubious value.
Pros
- Waterproof housing included
- B.O.SS image stabilization tech impresses
- Remote monitoring
- Useful 3x digital zoom for close-up shots
- Tripod thread
- Plenty of accessories
Cons
- – High price
- – Live View Remote drop-outs common
- – 3x zoom lacks autofocus
- – Soft still images
- – Short battery life
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All action cameras are now promising 4K at 30fps, from the to the YI 4K Action Camera, but Sony’s effort is about a lot more than just resolution and frame rate. The diminutive FDR-X3000R’s biggest claim is Balanced Optical SteadyShot (B.O.SS) image stabilization, which works across all resolutions and recording modes.
Also claiming 8.2-megapixel stills that can be used to create 4K time-lapse videos, the FDR-X3000R uses a new Zeiss Tessar wide-angle lens and the same BIONZ X processor found in Sony’s A7 cameras, but it’s actually two design features that really help the FDR-X3000R stand out.
First is an included underwater housing – a rarity in the action camera market – and second is its wearable, mountable live view remote, a smartwatch-sized contraption that allows the FDR-X3000R to be operated from afar, and its images previewed in real time.
However, all this comes at a cost, with the FDR-X3000R coming in at 520 / £500 / AUS650; the same camera without the live view remote, the FDR-X3000, is available for around 400 / £410 / AU550. Can it really justify that high price?
Features
The only real difference between the FDR-X3000R and FDR-X3000 packages is that the former includes a live view remote – the RM-LVR3 – which allows remote control of the cam, and supplies a live preview. It connects to its mothership via Bluetooth.
The FDR-X3000R also creates a Wi-Fi Direct network for a phone to join, which brings into play Sony’s similarly remote operation/preview-capable app, PlayMemories Mobile. The app also indulges in live streaming, and links to some editing software.
The FDR-X3000R shoots in two video formats, XAVC S and MP4. The former can reach 4K at 30fps at 60mbps and 100mbps, while the latter maxes out at Full HD at 30fps in HQ mode.
Design and accessories
A surprisingly small, sleek product that measures just 29 x 47 x 83mm, the splash-proof FDR-X3000R weighs a mere 114g with the battery inserted. On the top is the power button and the record button, on the side are the 22 x 12mm screen and controls, and on the back are an HDMI output, micro USB slot and a microphone jack.
Under the lens on the front are two microphones, while on the undercarriage is a standard tripod thread and a microSD slot. Sony recommends a SDXC/SDHC Class 10 card for XAVC S recording, and a SDXC/SDHC U3-class for 4K 100Mbps recording. Indeed, you can’t even make 4K recordings or take photos without one inside.
The Live View remote (RM-LVR3) in the box (and not available separately – so the major selling point) automatically senses, and connects to, the FDR-X3000R when it’s switched on, though during our tests it often lost connection even when close by, taking a good 30 seconds to re-link and re-awaken a live view. We couldn’t find any explanation or fix for its continual unreliability; the phone app is so much better.
That’s a shame because the camera itself promises genuine usability, and comes with a bunch of accessories, from a wristband, a mount adapter and a cradle for recharging (all in the box), and add-ons including a novel finger grip (AKA-FGP1) and handlebar mount (VCT-HM2). That finger grip impresses, enabling stable one-fingered monitoring and operation of the FDR-X3000R.
Installed on the top, the live view remote tilts, though there is a downside to this mini-rig setup; every button press on the remote introduces a noticeable judder in the video. So attaching the remote to the cam thus misses the point of having them separate in the first place, though the finger grip itself does allow smoother pans. Sadly, the finger grip’s transparent plastic housing carelessly covers the tripod mount, which is annoying if you want to quickly swap to a stationary shot.
However, also in the box with the finger grip is a small rubber lens cap, which is massively appreciated (we always wonder why action cams never include one as standard). You can go accessory-mad here – Sony even makes a motor vibration absorber (AKA-MVA) for using the FDR-X3000R while on a motorbike (or anything with a vibrating engine).
Sony FDR-X3000R – Sony’s new flagship Action Cam
S ony released a new Action camera today, the Sony FDR-X3000R is their new top-of-the-range product, which comes with optical image stabilisation! They adopted their Balanced Optical SteadyShot technology (BOSS), found in some of Sony’s handicam models, which works by moving the entire optical path rather than individual elements. It is supposed to achieve better anti shake results.
Sony FDR-X3000R Specs
Sensor: The camera features a 8,2 MP Sony sensor – 1/2.5 type (7.20mm) back-illuminated “Exmor R” CMOS Sensor. Don’t get irritated by the small sensor, compared to other Action Cameras. 8,2 MP equals 4K resolution, therefore the image doesn’t have to be binned (scaled down), which allows for a full pixel readout. Another plus of this sensor is its great low light sensitivity.
Chip: The BIONZ X image processor enables 4K recording up to 100 Mbps. According to Sony BIONZ X enables more natural details, more realistic images, richer tonal gradations and lower noise whether you’re shooting photos or movies.
Lens: Zeiss Tessar f/2.8 lens is adjustable in-camera to f=17 mm, f=23 mm and f=32 mm for Wide, Medium and Narrow settings respectively.
Sony FDR-X3000R – Sensor – Chip – Lens
Video Resolution Frame Rate: 4K – (3840 x 2160) – at 30p/25p/24p (100Mbps). 1080p – (1920 x 1080) – 120 / 100 / 60 / 50 / 30 / 25 / 24 fps 720p – (1280 x 720) – 240 /200 fps 480p – (848 x 480) – 240 / 200 fps
Video Format: Recordings up to 1080p 60fps in.mp4, above in XAVC S.
Photo: It offers 12 MP resolution, so I guess the photos will be upscaled. Time-lapse photos burst mode offer 8,2 MP.
Display ( Remote Control)
In the camera itself holds just a small data display, similar to their previous flagship camera (FDR-X1000) there is a live view remote, which is wearable on a hand wrist, or can be attached to the back of the camera. The remote control works with up to 5 cameras simultaneously! The Live-View Remote is included!
I tried the Sony FDR-X3000 at IFA in Berlin
Battery: The removable NP-BX1 battery has a capacity of 1240 mAh.
Storage: Memory Stick Micro and Micro SD/SDHC/SDXC compatible.
Sony FDR-X3000. обзор самой лучшей экшн-камеры
Connectivity Ports: Sony FDR-3000R is equipped with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Not sure if the remote works with NFC, like the FDR-X1000R, it’s not on the list. You can of course connect with a smartphone app (iOS Android). Ports The camera features a micro HDMI port, for HD video output, micro USB port for charging, and a Stereo jack for mic input!
Special Features:
- Optical image stabilization: As mentioned in the beginning, the entire optical path is moving rather than individual elements. Not electronic stabilization like most other action cameras, which will show much better results. The image stabilization also works in 4K recording, compared to other cameras which don’t.
- Live View Remote Control (included!) which controls up to 5 cameras simultaneously.
- Stereo microphone recording mic jack
- Action Cam body alone is splashproof and freeze proof (underwater case is included as well)
- Adjustable field of view (FOV) “Wide”, “Medium” or “Narrow” and additionally seamlessly adjustable zoom mode which enables you to change zooming while shooting.
- GPS recording.
- Live streaming.
Dimensions Weight: Weight: 114 g (including supplied battery), 4.1 oz. Dimensions: 29.4 x 47.0 x 83.0 mm (1 3/16 x 1 7/8 x 3 3/8 in)
Sony FDR-X3000R – Dimensions
Accessories:
In contrast to the previous model the underwater case is now included, as well as the live view remote control including wrist Band. Mounts are sold separately; the camera has a 1/4″ standard photo thread at the bottom.
Sony FDR-X3000R – the camera itself is splash proof, underwater case is included
Conclusion
The Sony FDR-X3000R is not just the best Sony Action Camera to date, it probably is the best action camera available. It might be a bit larger than comparable cameras, but holds everything needed for a professional production. Take the 3,5mm mic jack or standard tripod mount for example. They are not highlighted features, but help so convenient in every situation. The professional aspect is of course 100 Mbps video recording, optical image stabilization and the live view remote. No need to connect with your phone all the time, it can be attached to the camera, tripod, simply everywhere to check the current framing. And you can control up to 5 cameras with one remote.
Great to see that you don’t have to purchase all accessories you need separately. Not only the underwater case, but also the live view remote are included. Mounts can be purchased separately, but you can always use the 1/4″ screw found on other photo and video gear.
Sure the Sony FDR-X3000R sets new standards. The quality and brand has its price, but think about the included gear. Let’s see which answer from GoPro will follow in the next weeks. Some specs already leaked, read my GoPro Hero 5 post.
Retailer / Price
Sony FDR-X3000R will be available in November and is already available for pre-order:
