Dedicated video cameras are nowhere near as prevalent as they once were, but the newly launched 4K Handycam is anything but a throwback. Announced this morning, the FDR-AX43/B is a new breed of Handycam that was created with vloggers in-mind. The camera can shoot in 4K and utilizes a built-in gimbal mechanism for capturing smooth footage while on the move. Here is what else we know about it:
- A ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* zoom lens features 20x optical zoom, plus 30x Clear Image Zoom for 4K footage, 40x zoom for HD footage
- A ½.5-type Exmor R CMOS sensor with BIONZ X image processor, making it great in low light
- High-bitrate shooting
- Directional 3-capsule mic for capturing sound
- 3” Flip-screen makes it good for selfie shooting
- Setting called Highlight Movie Maker automatically creates short clips in-camera for easy sharing to social media
- Battery provides up to 235 minutes of continuous recording time
The camera will be available later this month for $850. Although it may seem odd to invest in a camcorder when so many mirrorless cameras boast incredible video capabilities, there are some perks to having a dedicated Handycam. The increased battery life and that on-camera mic are major selling points here—as is the price point. The built-in image stabilization is also helpful when you are running as a one-man band and means you won’t need to burden yourself with a lot of extra equipment. This 4K Handycam is certainly an interesting option for video shooters.