Review: Sony AX53 4K camcorder

[@Copaindesmontres]

5 years later this review is still relevant, good job!

[@stevefrankie]

This is the best presented review of ANY camcorder that I've seen and that is down to the fluidity and brilliant style of the presenter......well done and thanks.

[@UKAirscape]

That's an extraordinarily nice thing to say - thank you :-)

[@cb01ttr]

Finally!! A clear, concise, well spoken reviewer, with top quality imagery, no mumbling, no messing about, no boring un-boxing! Thank you very much, promptly subscribed. How good is the time-lapse feature, and what is the picture quality like for screen grabs in 4k?

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you. I do do boring unboxings as well :-) Haven't really used the timelapse much (but it works fine). Screen grabs look OK to me but I'm no pixel-peeping photographer. It can take stills as well if you want albeit not when recording 4K.

[@cb01ttr]

That's good to know, thanks for the quick reply.

[@Brenjdonn]

Very informative, just after purchasing this model of camera. I watched a lot of KZbin videos for information, I have to say this was the best👍

[@UKAirscape]

Good to hear, cheers!

[@craigbaguley3359]

I'm onsidering upgrading from my AX33 to the AX53. Regarding your irritation at the camera always switching on and opening the lens cover when opening the side panel to remove the card, the answer is to remove the battery first - that's what I do and it only takes a moment. I commend you on a very well thought out review delivered exactly as it should be: straight to the point in a calm and informative manner (shame not all reviewers follow your example).

[@UKAirscape]

Yeah, I do that sometimes but I still find that a nuisance! Cheers for the kind words.

[@juhaaavalaakso455]

Always nice to see people who knows what video cameras are. Im full of dslr hype.

[@YapiTVToys]

Can i ask what is the camera shooting at you in this videos?

[@UKAirscape]

I think it was the prior model, the AX33

[@Blisoft]

Bought this camera a year ago partly based on your review, still have it today and very happy with it. The optical stabilisation is brilliant. Thanks for your review!

[@UKAirscape]

Good to hear; cheers!

[@444mrjimmy]

I saw this probably not long after you posted it as I was looking at getting one myself, after watching the review I never gave this video a second though until I came across your other Chanel cruisingthecut and thought, gee this guy looks so familiar and I just couldn’t work it out until I started to look at cameras again, then suddenly, and very loudly, the penny dropped, it was you I watched ages ago, so I went searching and searching looking for this video to prove I was right, but could not find it, until I looked at your equipment list and low and behold this video was linked. I’m so happy I found this again thank you for posting it

[@UKAirscape]

Hahah hello!

[@spah89]

Absolutely the best review on this camera! Thank you sir!

[@Yanisoz]

You are one of the best reviewers so far! Simple and realistic.

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you!

[@ejovadi]

I dislike the Sony because of the bad view finder, bad focus (slow) heavy weight and thick battery. You need big hands to keep it. But the BOS is very nice but better is to use a tripot. Good review, thanks.

[@UKAirscape]

A tripod is not always practical and for this kind of consumer camcorder, most people will want to just tote it around with them and shoot on the go. I didn't find the focus to be slow plus you have the option of manual focus. Not sure what you mean about the battery? But yes, I agree it's not the most lightweight or compact camcorder.

[@saisrinigan]

first timer of your video and already loving it...

[@clicksweden]

I've recently bought this AX53 and being using it since 3 weeks now, I can just agree with your review 100%. It's an amazing thing you will get for the money you spend on it. Thanks for the nice reivew!

[@UKAirscape]

Glad you're enjoying the cam :-)

[@kts68]

Best review I've seen in a very long time. Many thanks

[@UKAirscape]

Good, thank you :-)

[@lightofsophia6971]

Your review has been really helpful, thank you! You have such a wonderful and engaging voice- I could listen to you for hours. 👍

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you! I really appreciate that :-)

[@cfldriven]

Amazing they are still selling this camera in 2022, and it hasn't cheaper.

[@verdunluck1578]

Partly on the basis of your excellent review I bought one of these cameras some time ago and I have never been disappointed with it. I now use three of them, usually in fixed positions to record bands or stage productions. Thank you for the review.

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you; I'm still very pleased with mine and would happily buy it again.

[@tomalexiou9573]

Hello,will a Zoom h6 fit on the cold shoe mount without compromising any of the controls?

[@UKAirscape]

I do not have a Zoom h6 so cannot comment. Depending on where the mount is on the Zoom and how big it is, the rear zoom lens control of the AX53 might be obscured, which would make things awkward.

[@verdunluck1578]

I do use a Zoom H6 recorder, but I would not consider mounting it on a camera. I record the sound on the Zoom H6 independently with the mike on a tripod or such and then sync to the camera sound in post.@@tomalexiou9573

[@RowdyRory]

Frank advice is always appreciated. I'll go with the Rode.

[@raymondrak961]

Excellent and thorough review. Discussion of both the positives and perceived negatives.

[@actthree34]

Very thorough and entertaining review. It's interesting to see Sony introduce some features into their better consumer cameras that were originally seen in their professional camcorders. Your mini-rant about the camera powering on when the LCD screen is opened is so true. My PXW-X70 does the same thing and there's no way to turn it off that I can find.

[@UKAirscape]

I've reviewed an X70 and I don't remember it doing that but it doesn't surprise me! Thanks for the comments.

[@worldwide1376]

Not sure if anyone has mentioned it, but if you don't want the camera to turn on when you open the screen to pull the card out, just remove the battery. Also a hassle, but saves wear and tear on the thing power on. BTW, really enjoy your reviews and humor.

[@UKAirscape]

Thanks. Yes, can do that but it is a hassle and probably wears the battery connectors!!

[@nictheartist]

Superb review, also very entertaining! I'm glad you spoke in detail about HD because not everyone has the option to edit that yet, but it's a way of future proofing it. Most reviewers only go on about 4K.

[@UKAirscape]

Thanks. I mostly use it in HD mode, saving 4K for specific times when I'll use its extra resolution (generally to crop to HD)

[@100lizmike]

I bought this canera mainly because of your review about it. Compared to my Panasonic X920, the B.O.S.S. and 4K have made it a very worthwhile purchase. i have now subscribed to your C.T.C. chanel and am now enjoying seeing canal boating at its best. Thanks. Mike.

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you! Pleased your enjoying the camcorder (and the canals)

[@mikharm]

Hi Michael, I am torn/hesitating between the AX53 and the Panasonic VXF990. Aren't you missing the in-camera video editing functions of your Panasonic camera?

[@landrover4444]

But the BOSS is NOT supported in 4K. That's right, BOSS is deactivated when you film in 4K on this camera.

[@mikharm]

BOSS works perfectly fine with 4K, I've just tested it. If anything is great in this camera, it's gimbal level image stabilization. The AX53 could be regarded as a $1000 gimbal, and I get a decent 4K camera for free.

[@UKAirscape]

It categorically is NOT de-activated in 4K. BOSS works in ALL modes. What you don't get in 4K is an *additional* electronic stabilisation on top of BOSS. This only works in HD.

[@ronaldcollins7839]

Excellent Presentation my friend one of the best I've seen on this Sony Camera Model FRD- AX53 4K

[@random275]

Thank you for a great review. I left you a question on your Panasonic VX870 review before I knew you had reviewed this one. I think I have answered my own question . Although more expensive you seem to like this one a lot more so I'll probably buy 3 of these. Cheers Phil

[@UKAirscape]

I do like this one but that doesn't mean it's better for your application. Not sure what you meant about zooming in the edit (expanding the image so as to create a zoom where there wasn't one when recording?? You know that'll ruin the image unless you shoot in 4K and deliver in HD, I presume). It's hard to say which cam will be better for you but I do certainly like my AX53

[@random275]

@@UKAirscape Thanks for your quick reply. Yes at the moment I expand the images in the editing stage to make the videos more interesting - This is in 1080 but sometimes the image becomes un sharp which is why I want to upgrade to 4k. After reading your reply here and on the VX870 review perhaps the Panasonic is all I need - I would be paying extra for facilities I wouldn't use on the AX53. I appreciate your advice.. Cheers Phil

[@k.m.sinmotionkamosa]

Now I know why my images shook than expected when I put that camcorder on the stand ,thanks a lot good analysis

[@jettschenker]

Does it have a micro USB multi-port on the right hand side?

[@UKAirscape]

Yes

[@PaulHummerman]

A good review of an almost great camcorder. My main additional gripes are (1) repeatedly pulling out the viewfinder to switch on the camera eventually screws up the diopter adjustment ring - now I leave it permanently out and turn the camera off manually and on by briefly opening the LCD viewer. (2) the automatic focus cannot be set to proper spot focussing, and tends to focus on the background not the subject - I have to fool it into focussing correctly by pointing at something that's in front of the subject then quickly pointing to the subject, onto which it will often (but not always) glom rather than the background.

[@UKAirscape]

Agreed on both points. Yeah the auto focusing often never quite gets the point right when you touch to select; really annoying.

[@kennuff2]

A well presented video David as was the one on the menu. The trouble is you have just cost me £685 as I have placed an order for the ax 53. Also with 3 years warranty just in case. Thanks Ken

[@UKAirscape]

Oops 😂 I hope you enjoy the camcorder, I use mine daily.

[@hypnosiscenternyc]

You're like the last youtuber on the internet stilk using a camcorder and despite not having a 4k DSLR, you have the most visually pleasing videos on the internet. Screw brokah.

[@UKAirscape]

Bokeh was never a thing in many older films, it's a current fad :-)

[@papotaino1516]

Will be testing this Sony ax53 on vacation to Puerto Rico with my wife along with my old Nikon D500 for pictures , thanks for the video tips.

[@yechielerps845]

"It's wondrous. It is a thing of beauty." ❤️ (With that English accent...)

[@UKAirscape]

:-)

[@DaveThompsonfairlife4all]

Seems this camera is still relevant and you are still replying to people. Here's an interesting question for you: Does it output 4k at 50-60hz through HDMI? If so, one can indeed record at 50-60fps in 4K with a capture device attached to it's HDMI port, correct?

[@UKAirscape]

Offhand I don't know the answer so either someone else might chip in or next time I have the cam and a cable, I'll have a look

[@DaveThompsonfairlife4all]

​@@UKAirscape I don't understand why you don't know, or why no one has demonstrated it in the 100's of KZbin review videos for this camera. This 4K camera plugged into a 4K TV should be well understood. Not owning a 4K TV is my excuse, but that will change in a few days. I suspect it's not too complicated to create 60fps 4K video with this camera, with the help of software of course. Another thing...what is up with the HDMI resolution settings showing "2160p/1080p"?? One reviewer thought that was simply FHD! Did they set out to confuse us? Why wasn't it simply labelled "2160p - Outputs the 2160p signal"?

[@UKAirscape]

I don't know the output because I never plug the camcorder into a TV. I can tell you absolutely it does not provide 50/60p though, the camcorder is 25/30 only.

[@joyetaylor1819]

Fantastic review thanks. You have made up my mind what camcorder to buy. I have subscribed to your channel, keep up the good work !!

[@Frissegast]

Thanks a lot for this helpful review ! I just bought one and am even more convinced having seen your video.

[@UKAirscape]

Cheers. I love my AX53.

[@80Hugoc]

You can use all the manual modes (shutter, iris, exposure etc) simultaneously - what you have to do: as you set manually say exposure, you give a long click/ keep pressed (if you give a short click things are reset indeed) the manual bottom and the exposure will stay fixed so that you can control something else...

[@UKAirscape]

Not the case. Long pressing the manual ring button simply brings up the selection of which control you wish to manipulate. As soon as you select another of the manual exposure settings to change (iris, shutter, exposure), the others switch to auto.

[@ADMIRALSCORNER]

Thank you very much for your informed review. You have made up my mind for me and an order has now been placed!

[@UKAirscape]

Glad it was useful and I hope you enjoy the camcorder as much as I do. Cheers

[@FredWilbury]

hello ADMIRAL..have put up vid with your camcorder....i just purchased a cheapy budget sony hdr-cx240e.....i'll play with this for awhile then for this one ...fred

[@SuperRtrtrtr]

Outstanding review again. I own a CCDTR3400 Hi8 camcorder that I bought in December of 1997 and still can't fully figure it out. For what it is, I was happy with it. Sony makes the most nauseating products IMO. Those manuals are virtually impossible to understand. Boy I could've used KZbin back then. For an innovative company like Sony, for all their achievements, boy I'd like to strangle someone in Japan. Nonetheless, keep up the great work. Very much appreciated.

[@UKAirscape]

I used to love Hi8! Thanks for watching :-)

[@Bushchannel]

You seem to be quite a fan of Sony, but also openly honest about some annoyances with them :)

[@UKAirscape]

I do like Sony gear, yes. I've used a lot of it. But I won't praise it if there's a problem.

[@Bushchannel]

Great review, yes it's quite annoying how it switches on every time you open the screen flap; only alternative would be to pull out the battery beforehand ;)

[@ehsanshahsavandharati9767]

Another GREAT review, covering practical aspects. Many thanks for it.

[@UKAirscape]

Cheers :-)

[@VehicularBrit]

Thoroughly useful review! I've been seriously considering saving up the pennies to get one of these ever since I saw your original video on it. I'm using a Panasonic V770 currently which puts out a great image but lacks a lens ring and the stabilisation is, frankly, a bit pants. I'd happily swap it out for the AX53, even for the BOSS alone and the lens ring... Not to mention the 4K capability. Everything you you've said in this review has made me want it just that little bit more... I can dream! Cheers for the great video as always and sorry I've left such a long comment!

[@UKAirscape]

Don't be sorry, I'm delighted that people want to comment! Cheers

[@robertclark8546]

You are a fantastic reviewer, sir. Great video

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you!

[@devidthapa253]

you speak so clearly, very easy to understand you by non native English speaker

[@UKAirscape]

That is very good to hear, thank you.

[@chrislewis954]

Thank you for an excellent review .. yes, I've had one of these camcorders for a while, but your review is very helpful - I mainly enjoy your excellent English speech, so super, and well recorded. ;) And what a lovely quiet environment! After that introductory burst of techno synth (Aaagh!) we settled to the comfy corner of ... your house boat? Love it! I don't find the camera too bulky, but this is always a really personal thing. I would like a bigger screen!! Thanks again. Chris ... down under in NZ :)

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you!

[@Nelwyn]

You sold me on this. After watching this and your stabilization video, I bought this to do a better job than my smartphone. I just got the Galaxy S8+ and while it does a good job for the most part and has optical image stabilization, it is awful in low light due to the small sensor. Being able to zoom and retain detail in almost any lighting situation is really nice. I took it on a trip to Disney World and it only did well on the outside shots. Any videos I tried to take on rides weren't that great other than being stable. I'm hoping this will make a world of difference the next time I go.

[@UKAirscape]

Crikey, I don't know how it would fare on theme park rides, that's quite a test!! It should be better than the smartphone though. Cheers

[@Nelwyn]

I'm also torn between which quality I should use on dark rides, either 4k@30 or 1080p@60. I hear that the lower frame rate should provide more lighting, is that true? I think I should be using manual settings for focus and exposure too since it can vary quite a bit on dark rides.

[@UKAirscape]

In theory it's true but you're also trying to capture more pixels in 4K where the 1080 can average across bigger pixel sites ... probably worth experimenting to see which is best.

[@bryceboyer2469]

Best overview/review I've come across. Thank you! I'm thinking of using this for some professional work. I've worked with high end pro camcorders before but this one, manual controls aside seems to have everything a semi-pro would need.

[@UKAirscape]

Thanks. I have used this occasionally for professional jobs, in circumstances where space was very confined (for example in the cab of a mechanical digger - did I show that in this video? I can't recall) and it was very useful!

[@frankgh1]

Hello David! I want to chronicle my month long Narrowboat holiday and am looking at Camera options. The AX53 is still holding its own in the market 5 years on. Are you still using it or have you moved up to the AX100 or AX700 or something all together different? I would like to book this holiday for the spring of 22 but it is so hard to plan that far out with all that's going on...

[@UKAirscape]

I use the AX53 for general vlogging but also own an NX80 (pro version of the AX700) for my more documentary type films.

[@frankgh1]

@@UKAirscape Great, it looks like the AX53 will fulfill my needs. No reason for me to go to the Pro version. Thanks David!

[@MikesManCave]

Best most informative video on this comparison. Great simple explanation of the differences.

[@UKAirscape]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@oliviermoulin1667]

Wonderfull review. Clear and honest. First think "at people who will look at the video"

[@UKAirscape]

Thanks :-)

[@digimaze]

Excellent review and covered all aspects I was looking for ..thanks greatly ..I'm upgrading and excited about the BOSS due to much of my video work is done travelling on buses etc ..Cheers :)

[@UKAirscape]

When switched to its highest mode (HD only), it's amazingly good. Buses might tax it a bit over some bumps mind... :-)

[@AirgunGearShow]

Very useful video. Thank you. This may have helped me make my mind up.

[@JohnDoeMovieReviews]

Hi from Spain. Great review, i already have It and its amazing. I only hope Sony will fix The tripod problem. Thanks

[@digitalvideoscribe3561]

Excellent review! One thing that was curious about and that is does the AX53 seem to show the pink outlines around objects such as that observed in the video taken of the bubbles in the water at the nature preserve in the AX33 review?

[@UKAirscape]

Good question and I haven't tried it under those same circumstances. I've not noticed anything similar in all the shooting I've done though.

[@rockybalboa500]

Fantastic review. Thumbs up. Now I have a question. I am thinking to make 1080p video with AX53. Is it better to take in 4K then encode into 1080p or is it totally fine shooting in full HD mode at the beginning to get good image quality?

[@UKAirscape]

Good question. Many people advocate 4K and downsample; two reasons: because it can look crisper and because you can choose a 1080 "crop" from the 4K image without losing any resolution (thus gaining you extra zoom or pan or shot-changing without actually lifting a finger eg wide shot / close up just from the one 4K image). The downside is that you will need, in my opinion, to shoot at the 100Mbps mode as the 60Mbps looks less crisp, especially if you crop in as just described. You need a PC that can cope with the massive amount of data and decoding (or software that makes proxies for editing). The last six months or so (at least) of Vlogs on my CruisingTheCut channel (kzbin.info) were all shot at 28Mbps AVCHD on the AX53 and no-one seems to mind!!

[@rockybalboa500]

Thank you so much! It really helps :)

[@UKAirscape]

:-)

[@AirwolfThemes]

Is your URL above missing the UK part as it's 404 error currently without it? I just saw your other link below so I realised it was missing.

[@UKAirscape]

It is; well spotted. Good grief, you'd think I could type my own channel name, wouldn't you? I will amend it now!

[@garypranzo9334]

I started shooting in my mid twenties and at 52 I am not the steady shooter I used to be, I got that old mans hand shake and I started looking for cameras smaller and with Image stabilization. I had good luck with the Vixia G40 but then a girl I was shooting with showed me her AX53 and I held them both side by side and I must say the image stabilization on the AX53 is eons above the G40, To be fair you lose some Manual control with the AX53 but I cannot overstate how amazing the image stabilization is, It is like you have it on a gimble almost . Even at standard stabilizer setting it is amazing but that BOSS stabilizer is magical. In addition I do many 2 camera shoots with my action camera and the AX53 controls my Sony Action camera so I can keep my phone my pocket and control both camera via the AX53. I agree the photo button i location is a pain in ass, Why would I want to take photos with this anyway.

[@ToyHuntingGamers]

I've watched hundreds of Ax53 video reviews, footage and unboxings. This is unequivocally one to watch if you are interesting in the strengths and shortcomings of this camcorder.

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you!

[@kristov1110]

Very good review ! Thanks. What camera did you shoot your review with ?

[@UKAirscape]

I think I shot it with the older AX33 if I remember correctly.

[@kristov1110]

Very sharp too, thanks for your answer.

[@ironmike2732]

Nice Review, I watch your other channel, "CruisingTheCut" and I am always impressed at the quality (Sharpness and colour) of your videos, the AX53 does a great job.

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you

[@geoffcox75]

Re the BOSS switching off on a tripod - is it still possible to zoom in and out without getting the shaking effect?

[@ThisisFlight]

What a great review! Very helpful indeed. I had been looking for a new camcorder to film my online airshow documentaries and this video has convinced me. AX-53 it is!

[@UKAirscape]

Hope you like it. It's a great little camcorder. Cheers!

[@UKAirscape]

Excellent! I'm really delighted you're pleased with the camcorder and that you like CtC :-) I looked at (some of) your video - are you telling me that all the ground-to-air shots were filmed on the AX53??!! Terrific if so.

[@ThisisFlight]

Yep, all of it is with the AX-53 except the cockpit shots (GoPro). It really doesn't look like it was shot by a scruffy teenager on his first attempt with a consumer-grade camcorder, and I've got to put most of that down to the incredible stabalisation. What a brilliant little machine!

[@UKAirscape]

The GoPro stuff was terrific too! Seriously good job, all of it.

[@ThisisFlight]

Thanks! I'm glad it's got the seal of approval from someone in the TV/video business! Now, back to Mooring the Cut...

[@lifeandmore369]

Thanks for this informative review. I just bought one and it is amazing! Better yet: it was also on sale!

[@UKAirscape]

Excellent, on both counts!

[@RowdyRory]

Thanks. Very helpful and thorough review, as usual. And because it's well reasoned, it's persuasive on both the positive and negative points you are concerned to make. I also have enjoyed your "Cruising the Cut" Chanel. One question: what do you think of using the Sony ECM XYST1M stereo microphone with this camcorder? Incidentally, I've seen and enjoyed your Rode microphone reviews. Would you prefer one of those? Have fun on the narrowboat. Love the scenery.

[@UKAirscape]

Unfortunately I've not tried the Sony mic so I can't sensibly comment. I use the little Rode VideoMicro on my AX53. Cheers

[@SoundsandImages]

Not to comment on UKAirscape's behalf, but consider what you will be using the microphone for. for dialogue I would always use a mono microphone. The Rode VideoMicro is excellent and includes the furry windjammer. For stereo options I would look very closely at Rode's Stereo Videomic Pro and possibly get the Rycote furry windjammer for it. With on camera mics having two for different jobs is my recommendation..

[@UKAirscape]

I concur except to say DO get the windjammer. Always get a windjammer. Ideally from Rycote, they're by far the best despite the price.

[@SavageScientist]

I have been using Sony Camcorders for years and notice in the setup menu there is a setting called power on by LCD and I am guessing there should be one called power on by viewfinder.

[@j4nv]

One rare good review that makes me watch from start to finish! Do you have experience with the phone app to remotely control the camcorder? As I have no experience with camcorders, I wonder if it works with the LCD screen closed. Thanks in advance and all the best with the channel!

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you very much; lovely compliment. I must confess though that I have not tried the phone app. I really should give it a go. I expect it will work with the screen closed as long as the viewfinder is out, otherwise (with both closed) the camcorder would switch off.

[@BrianT383]

You said that the video camera senses when its on a tripod. Does it have some kind of sensor in the tripod screw hole? I use a mono-pod that I walk around with and film at the same time. Do you think I will lose stabilization if I use this camera in my current setup?

[@masealwart]

Great Review! How do you like the timelapse feature? does it create a video file or do you have to stitch pictures?

[@UKAirscape]

It's good but yes you have to stitch the individual jpg files together. No problem really though.

[@Droecrest]

Thanks for this brilliant review. l walked into a shop not intending to buy this camera but did because they allowed me to go online to research it. lt was the last day of the sale. This camera checked many boxes l needed. It is frustrating not having all the manual controls l have with my Canon camcorders. l think videoing in 4 k means l can tweak it in post. Thanks again from a Canon dedicated user. l am very impressed with the stability and video quality for the price.

[@UKAirscape]

Glad it was useful! Have fun with the camcorder :-)

[@waynefox897]

Great review. Watching your reviews of the AX53 helped me decide to go out and buy one today. Bought the Panasonic HC-VX870 second-hand a week ago but missed the BOSS stabilisation I had on my previous Sony HDR-CX410. The panasonic stabilisation just couldn't match it

[@UKAirscape]

The Sony's stabilisation is unbeatable for sure. Glad you liked the review :-)

[@waynefox897]

UKAirscape Have you tried the remote function on the AX53. Connecting it to a phone using the Play Memories app? That's my only issue at the moment. The app either connects and doesn't control the camera. Or it connects and then disconnects. Currently awaiting a reply from Sony on this

[@UKAirscape]

I've never tried it so can't really comment, sorry.

[@ExploringAndMe]

Some people say it last 1.5 hour some say 3 hour? Does it depends wich battery?

[@UKAirscape]

Battery will make a difference but also how you use the camcorder. For example if you zoom frequently, this uses a motor which draw power so would use the battery faster than someone who zooms less.

[@Tech1Tv]

Good review, i saw your Sony FDR-AX33 about 2 months ago. I think i will get this one though

[@UKAirscape]

It's definitely better and sometimes cheaper!!

[@Tech1Tv]

+UKAirscape Ok thank you. I will get one to try it out

[@pulmerable]

Very informative review. Thank you. I have just placed an order. My videos are simple holiday travelogues. Would you suggest I shoot 1080p or 4K. My preference at this time is not 4K due to file size and small difference on my playback systems. Secondly should I buy a variable ND filter, UV, CP and lens flower?

[@UKAirscape]

It's entirely up to your preference which you shoot. As you say, 4K is a bit of a pain to store and edit but long term it means you have super quality archive. Also if you shoot 4K but output to HD, you can crop in to HD on the 4K image without losing resolution while editing which means you can effectively gain two shots in one (a wide shot of the whole 4K image scaled down to HD and a "zoomed" shot being an HD crop taken from the 4K, if you see hat I mean. If you do shoot HD I'd recommend the XAVC-S 50Mbps mode for best quality. AVCHD is fine for many casual purposes but not as good at detailed shots with movement in them as XAVC-S. Again, lens filters up to you. A good (expensive!) variable or even non-variable ND will be useful in bright sunlight otherwise the camcorder turns up the shutter speed and can still overexpose a touch on very bright days. I keep meaning to get one myself. Too many filters will result in continuously screwing them on/off which can be a nuisance though.

[@danielbrown8943]

Great review, I was on the fence, thanks for groundng me. BTW what kind of boat are you on?

[@UKAirscape]

56 foot narrowboat. See my other channel kzbin.info

[@snuffel1979]

Totally convinced me! Thanks!

[@BackyardProspector]

Hi there, thanks for the review! What size/speed SD card do you recommend for this camera? Shooting 4K and HD modes, and lots of pictures.

[@UKAirscape]

The biggest you can find, and a UHS-3 Class 10 card, if I recall correctly. The camcorder specs page on Sony's website lists all the requirements.

[@markrussell.]

I really would like to get the AX53 as well but the tripod issue has put this on hold for me.

[@itloon]

I wish all reviews were like this for prospective buyers.

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you.

[@bcnewsvideo]

Very informative, thank you

[@GiuseppeArenaPhoto_Video]

I Have the AX53 from around 2 years but I miss so much that is impossibile to put an external monitor if I record in Full 4K... Waiting for a new model but I think Sony is more interested to push people to buy mirrorless system and is no more interested in semipro camcorder. Thats's why I think that my next camcorder will be Panasonic HX-1500/2000 that offer 4K 60. As Sony specialist what do you think? I used for around 1 years a AX700 also but tecnology is really old now and is really difficult to have a fluid 4K with just 30 fps and a stabilation much less optimized that AX53 with his internal gimball. AX700 offer also log file but only with a 8 bit file.

[@UKAirscape]

Cheers. i'm not a Sony specialist. The technology in the Panasonic is not much newer, if at all, than the AX700 and the AX700 has a much larger sensor so would be better in lower light conditions. But if you want 4K 60 then none of the Sony camcorders will fit the bill (until you go up their professional range)

[@paulallenMacca]

Great Video was it taken with the Sony FDR-AX53 and did you upload from FCPX to KZbin and what settings did you use like H.264 or Prorez 422 as it looks very sharp in deed.

[@UKAirscape]

Apart from the sample shot, it was filmed on the old AX33 (as I mentioned at the start!). I don't use a Mac. PC using Sony Vegas Pro 13. Exported in XAVC-S at about 60Mbps and a 15GB file! At that point I had intended to recompress in Handbrake (as Vegas's 4K output options are very poor) but it just wouldn't work. Small chunks of the file would recompress file but every time I did the whole thing, the finished output wouldn't play. So I gave up, paid £15 for some extra bandwidth on my mobile data, and uploaded the entire 15GB master file. And that explains why it looks so good!

[@paulallenMacca]

Thanks for the info i usually upload from the Master File through the KZbin Upload button as at the moment a lot of people have a problem where FCPX crashes.

[@UKAirscape]

I've never used anything but the KZbin Upload button; had no idea there were any other ways ;-)

[@paulallenMacca]

In Final Cut Pro X you can share directly from it but at the moment there are a few Bugs and the program keeps crashing.

[@UKAirscape]

Aren't there always?! ;-)

[@spinningreel]

That is a great review, and I like your healthy doses of humour! I'm ordering this camera as we speak. Did you ever review the Sony FRDAX100? I have that camera, it also has stunning XAVC HD along with 4K, but not the stabilisation of this one plus it's bulkier.

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you. I didn't review the AX100 but did look at the CX900 which is identical except that it's only HD. I wasn't a fan despite it having so many features that ought to have made me like it; instead I took a look at Sony's PXW-X70 (see kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqrSin2OjNKAhMk) and concluded this was what the CX900/AX100 should have been (it's much better in terms of operation)

[@pete49327]

Very well done, very informative, easy to watch and listen to, thanks! Main thing holding me back at the moment is a point you highlighted, i.e. can only manually select one option while others enter auto mode, heck with my old iphone I can manually control focus and exposure at same time. Speaking of iphone, the new 7 Plus with two lenses and optical stabilization in 1080 mode makes the choice even harder.

[@UKAirscape]

+pete49327 Hang on, possibly some confusion here. On the AX you *can* set focus and exposure separately, that's not the issue, it's setting iris and shutter separately you can't do. You only set one of them manually, the other goes into auto. Or you can set a single value labelled "exposure" manually but you don't control what the camcorder is doing to achieve that exposure. It's a very different kettle of fish to an iPhone though really, no matter how funky some iPhone footage looks. Better image quality, a real zoom, better stabilisation, better audio.

[@pete49327]

Much thanks for clarification! Cheers from south Alabama.

[@stevehutchesson1321]

Recently bought a Sony AX53 and have been very pleased with the results so far. I come from a SLR background and my 1st video camera was a Nikon B700 Coolpix which was very useful as an entry level video camera. Strong points are the HD 1080 performance which is good enough not to have to shoot in 4k and downsize it to 1080. Shadow detail seems to be fine and not noisy in daylight, lens is very good and the stabilisation is very good, not as good as my Zhiyun Crane with the Nikon on it but close enough with a bit of practice. Only downside I can find is the version I bought in Australia is PAL at 50 frames which does not pan as well as the 60 frame Nikon.

[@UKAirscape]

Indeed, that's the Aus standard (like the UK) being 25/50 and it seems to be applied more strictly to camcorders than it is to video-shooting stills cameras.

[@vstol]

Your excellent presentation and information are greatly appreciated.

[@BryanMiraflor]

oooo to solve the auto-on issue when you just want to take the memory card out, a workaround would be to remove the battery! a bit annoying, but then the lens cover wouldn't open!

[@UKAirscape]

Such a nuisance to do that though!

[@iancruickshank9364]

VG review. I like the power on, otherwise could miss a shot. Is there an I.A. setting to adjust exposure?

[@UKAirscape]

Oh yes, you can put everything into auto. By and large it does a good job.

[@aeromundos]

Thanks for sharing , this was helpful to me , as i look for an upgrade for my channel.

[@UKAirscape]

Glad to hear it. Cheers

[@pofrani]

Hi - has there been no firmware update yet to stop this Powering ON everytime you open the LCD screen? I'm kind of thinking of getting one for Christmas!

[@UKAirscape]

No that I'm aware of. It's not the only Sony camcorder to do it either!

[@ballaclub9393]

Wow nice camera that your using for this video.

[@LeslieKailVillarreal]

hello thanks for this video I have the AX33 and no one who has reviewed it has mentioned the poor zooming function. I work with a tripod recording intricate work with my hands and and move the project closer to the camera. Any time i try to get a close tight shot with the zoom it just blurs out. I have my tripod set about 20" away from my work. My old High 8 cam corders did this beautifully but this one just blurs out unless i stop and add a lens. Any solutions on this?

[@UKAirscape]

Do you mean it blurs while you zoom (but then gets focussed once you stop) or that once you've zoomed it's forever blurry? I presume 20" means inches. It may be trying to focus on the background rather than your hands in the foreground - have you tried adjusting focus manually?

[@LeslieKailVillarreal]

Yes when I zoom it stays blurry I have tried adjusting focus manually But I still can’t get a detailed cause up unless I add a distancing lens It’s a total nuisance

[@LeslieKailVillarreal]

Leslie Kail Villarreal 1 day ago Yes when I zoom it stays blurry I have tried adjusting focus manually But I still can’t get a detailed cause up unless I add a distancing lens It’s a total nuisance @@UKAirscape

[@UKAirscape]

Once you zoom in past a certain point, the camcorder can't focus on objects that are too close because the zoom is expected to be used for objects that are far away. If you need to see something *really* close up, you have to physically bring it right in front of the camera lens, leave focus on auto, and it should go into "macro" mode and focus on it. The object you're showing needs to fill much of the frame though, else the camcorder will still try to focus on the background.

[@AlexisLopez]

Thanks for the Review! May I ask what you used for your audio? I appreciate how great it sounds!

[@UKAirscape]

I used the Rode Filmmaker wireless lavalier kit plugged into a Sony AX33 camcorder. Cheers

[@AlexisLopez]

Thanks for the info, I appreciate it!

[@jonfletcher147]

I'm considering this between the Panny VXF1 and even the 1500e.....I shoot aircraft and the 20 plus X optical zooms are imperative. What's your opinion please?

[@UKAirscape]

I've not tried that Panasonic so can't give you a fair comparison, sorry. If you will be using a tripod and long zoom, the Sony has a notorious bug where it disables the stabilisation if you put it on a tripod which makes for very wobbly telephoto footage, especially if you try to adjust anything using the screen (prodding it wobbles the camera). I'm not sure if that has been fixed with newer firmware than mine has.

[@cammeron2]

Really like your review very professonal , you really help me to decide which camcorder to buy. Keep up the great work , thanks again

[@UKAirscape]

Thank you, glad it was useful.

[@democritus37]

fantastically informative review, thanks very much

[@UKAirscape]

Great; thank you.

[@fielding68]

Excellent tutorial. Thank you.

[@chrislauterbach8856]

It is June 2017 as i watch this. I purchased the AX33 before the AX53 was introduced. I am still thrilled with the 33's capabilities, and wasn't about to sell one to purchase the other in under a year's time span. If the 53 has a successor, then we'll see. However, I find the audio on the 33 to be good but do agree about the wind noise. 1) I am told on the 33 that the auto volume control does not work with an external mike. Is this the case too with the 53? 2) if you were to purchase an external mike compatible with either Sony model, do you have any reco's ( i.e shotgun, stereo, whatever the "wind fur" is called, brand/model)?

[@UKAirscape]

I never use auto volume (it's terrible on camcorders, too loud then compresses everything) but I'm 99% sure that's not true. My fav mic is the Rode VideoMicro, a tiny shotgun which comes with a furry windjammer.

[@chrislauterbach8856]

Thanks for the prompt response. I was looking at getting the Rode VideoMicro since it is now around $60. But the Sony ECMXYST1M has suddenly come down around $105 and works off the hot shoe. I tend to shoot outdoor military encampments and reenactments, with lots of walking, and wind noise potential everywhere. So I find myself looking for comparative recos.

[@UKAirscape]

I've never tried the Sony mic so can't advise, sorry.

[@Fludded]

Now were in July 2021 would you still recommend this camera or has anything else caught your eye?

[@UKAirscape]

If you want a genuine camcorder then yes it's still the best on the market (as none of the manufacturers are releasing new models - I think they assume everyone's using their phone or mirrorless cameras now, unfortunately). However, I also own Sony's ZV-1 camera which, if you need ultimate portability and excellent video quality, has much to comment it (but a short zoom and fiddly controls)

[@WideWorldofTrains]

Great review, you do an excellent job. I subscribed also. Im looking for a new camcorder for my KZbin Train videos and this looks like the one I sould get

[@UKAirscape]

I really like it and use it for all the filming I do on my narrowboats channel.

[@stevehutchesson1321]

Just a few tidbits, first, thanks for a sensible useful review, many aren't. Just about solved the problem panning with it, dropped the shutter speed to 60 and it produces a slightly soft motion blur that looks fine with faster movement. Best result so far with OZ summer time sunlight has been with a Hoya professional circular polarising filter that knocks off most of the burnt out highlights. I bought a cheapie "fotga" variable ND filter and apart from a brown cast, you can see when you darken the input but the camera automatically adjusts so the result looks much the same. I can set the exposure manually then twiddle the filter but its a pain to do. Maybe there is a setting in the camera but the downloaded PDF manual is a Japanese / Chinese shocker that is just about useless. Thanks again for the excellent revue.

[@UKAirscape]

Glad you liked it, thanks. It's a great little camera although as you say, better still with an ND filter on the front in bright sunlight. Cheers

[@Allottedaaron]

Excellent review. Many thanks.

[@UKAirscape]

Thanks Aaron