A Full Guide to Get Best Sony Camcorder/Sony Handycam

Sony is a popular name in the field of photography and videography devices. The history of Sony Camcorder and Handycam dates back to the year 1983 when the company released its first camcorder called Betacam for professional use. The beta movie BMC-100P was the first consumer camcorder by Sony. Over the next few years, the company kept developing new technologies and camcorders models as per the user's demand and requirements. Finally, in 1995, the first digital MiniDV camcorder called VX1000 was launched by the company. Moving ahead, Sony released its first HDV CMPS camcorder supporting 1080i in mid-2005. Sony HDR-HC5 and Sony HDR-HC7 were further models added to the list. Further, over the years, Sony improved its technology and launched upgraded models from time to time. In the year 2011, the first 3D AVCHD camcorder called TD 10 was released by the company. TD20V and TD30V were other siblings of the range. Next came NX5, which was its first professional AVCHD camcorder. In the year 2014 first consumer UHD camcorder called FDR-AX100 was released. The other model in the range was FDR-AX33. Thus with time, Sony improved its technology and kept adding the latest models with different features to take care of users' requirements and beat its competitors.

This article will give you a top list of Sony camcorders and the general knowledge about Sony cameras. You can also learn about the steps on how to convert Sony Camcorder videos to and other formats on Windows/Mac so that you can playback on any devices smoothly.

• Part 1. Top 6 Sony Camcorders You Should Know in 2017
• Part 2. FAQs of Sony Camcorder
• Part 3. How to Convert Sony Camcorder Videos on Windows/Mac by Yourself

Part 1. Top 6 Sony Camcorders You Should Know in 2017

If you plan to get a Sony Camcorder, the below-given list of the top 6 Sony Camcorders of the year 2017 will be a great help to you.

1. Sony HDR-CX455

This is a full HD Handycam camcorder from Sony that allows shooting impressive and detailed videos. The model features Optical SteadyShot along with the Active mode that reduces the camera shake and thus blurring. Surround sound is recorded using the camera, owing to its new 5.1ch microphone records. Other specifications of the model include a ZEISS lens with a 30x optical range, fast and intelligent AF, time-lapse capture, and 3 inch LCD. Sony HDR-CX455 is available in the market at an approximate price of USD 399.00.

Pros:

• Impressive image stabilization.
• Effective AF.
• Pocket-friendly price.

Cons:

• It cannot record slow-motion videos.
• It does not allow to made time-lapse directly from the camcorder.

2. Sony FDR-AX100/B

If you are new to 4K video recording, then Sony FDR-AX100/B will prove to be a great pick. The device is compact in size, which makes it easy to use and handle. The model features a 29mm wide-angle ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T-Lens for recording detailed 4K videos. This digital camcorder features include 12x optical zoom support, 1.0 type Exmor R CMOS sensor, advanced BIONZ X image processing engine, and versatile manual settings. The model is priced at USD 1599.00.

Pros:

• Easy to use manual mode.
• 12x optical zoom.
• Good sensor with fewer noises.

Cons:

• Bulky.
• The touch screen is not very responsive.

3. Sony FDR AX53/B

If you search for a 4K camcorder that does not burn a hole in your pockets, then Sony FDR AX53/B is an apt choice. This power-packed model features balanced Optical SteadyShot and Fast Intelligent AF that allows recording detailed and clear videos. The camcorder features 5.1 channel Dolby audio capture with mic level control. Additional features include the ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T lens with 20x optical zoom, 3 inch LCD, etc. This Sony camcorder 4k is priced at USD 849.99.

Pros:

• Features slow-motion and time-lapse.
• Improved optical zoom.

Cons:

• Size and sensor chip is a matter of disappointment for some professionals.
• 4K recordings do not support improved optical image stabilization.

4. Sony FDRAX33/B

This is another popular Sony HD camcorder to consider if you are looking for a compact model with all the latest features. The device can record videos that are 4 times better in quality compared to full HD. The image stabilization of the camcorder makes sure that you have blurred free footages. Other specifications knitted to the device include balanced Optical SteadyShot, 29.8mm ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T Lens with 10x optical zoom, and 3 inch Xtra Fine LCD. This Sony digital Handycam is priced at USD 749.99.

Pros:

• Good image stabilization feature.
• Compact, lightweight, and easy to use model.
• Pocket friendly.

Cons:

• In low light conditions, average quality videos are recorded.

5. DCR-TRV110E

This model from Sony is a hi8 camcorder that allows recording good quality videos with ease. The model features a 10x Carl Zeiss optical lens with a 120x digital zoom for having great close-ups. It's Super NightShot comes with a 2-stage slow shutter for capturing in dark conditions. Other specifications include SteadyShot Picture Stabilization, analog recording capabilities, 2.5inch Active Matrix LCD screen, etc. This Sony hi8 camcorder is available for an approximate price of USD 165.

Pros:

• Easy to use lightweight model.
• Good as a first DV camera.

Cons:

• LCD screen size is small.

6. Sony HDR-CX440

This HD camcorder from Sony features 26.8, Zeiss Lens with 30x optical zoom and 60x clear image zoom. The 2.7 inches of Clear Photo Plus LCD of the model offers clarity and brightness. The Ustream 4 live streaming feature of the camcorder allows LIVE broadcast from the device. Additional specifications include Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, NFC2/WiFi with connecting, control, backup, share option, built-in USB cable, Exmor R CMOS sensor, and face detection XAVC S, AVCHD, and  MP4 recording. Sony HDR-CX440 is available for an approximate price of USD 298.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight model.
• Multi-camera control.
• Good quality 1080p video recording.

Cons:

• Absence of touchscreen.
• Does not support slow-motion video recording.

Part 2. FAQs of Sony Camcorder

Q1. What's the general price of the Sony camcorder?

ANS: The price of the Sony Camcorder varies from range to range and from model to model. The entry-level camcorders with basic features are tagged at the affordable price range, whereas high-end professional models come with exorbitant price tags. Depending on your requirements, you can select a model that fits your budget.

Q2. How to transfer Sony camcorder videos to computer?

ANS: Transferring Sony camcorder videos to the computer not only empties space on the camcorder for further recording but also keeps the videos safe and secure. The simplest way to transfer video is by connecting the camcorder to the PC using a USB cable and then transferring the desired videos to the PC.  Take the USB cable that comes along with Sony Handycam and plug its one end to the Sony camcorder and another end to the PC's USB port. Once the Sony camcorder is connected, a pop-up to “Import Media Files” will appear. Open the folder, select the videos, and transfer the videos to the PC.

Q3. What is the Sony camcorder video format?

ANS: Different models of Sony camcorder supports different formats depending upon their specifications and use. Still, some of the major formats supported by the majority of the device include AVCHD, MP4, DV, XAVC S, XAVC S HD, HDV, MPEG2, MPEG4/.

Q4. What are the main accessories of the Sony Camcorder?

ANS: There is a wide range of accessories available along with different models of Sony camcorders. These accessories make the recording process easy, keep the camcorder safe, and enhance the captured videos' overall quality. Some of the commonly used accessories include the Sony camcorder battery, chargers, flashes & lights, microphones, speakers, tripods, remotes, cases, covers, straps, memory cards, and adapters.

Q5. What are the different types of Sony Camcorders available?

ANS: Sony has introduced a range of camcorders that come knitted with a different set of specifications. Depending upon the features needed, you can select from the available types, including memory camcorders, interchangeable lens camcorders, hard drive camcorders, Sony DVD camcorders, and tape camcorders.

Q6. Images of the Sony camcorder’s LCD screen are displayed upside down?

ANS: The issue may arise due to the problem in the display switch. First of all, turn off your camcorder, take out the battery or remove the connected AC adapter/charger. Wait for a minute and again out back the battery or connect the charger and turn on the camcorder. If the issue persists, the device may need to be repaired.

Part 3. How to Convert Sony Camcorder Videos on Windows/Mac by Yourself

If you wish to play the Sony Camcorder videos over portable media players and other devices, the format in which video is recorded must be compatible with the players. In most situations, there is format incompatibility, and there is a need for conversion software. Wondershare UniConverter is one such professional software that allows converting Sony camcorder videos to MP4 and other formats. The software also allows converting videos to device-specific format to be played seamlessly without any issues. The conversion process using the software is simple and quick.

Wondershare UniConverter - Best Sony Camcorder Video Converter

• Convert Sony camcorder videos to over 1000 formats, like AVI, MKV, MOV, MP4, etc.
• Convert Sony camcorder Video to optimized preset for almost all of the devices.
• 90X faster conversion speed than other common converters.
• Edit Sony camcorder videos with trimming, cutting, merging, adding subtitles, and more others.
• Burn video to playable DVD with attractive free DVD templates.
• Download or record videos from video sharing sites by pasting URL.
• Versatile toolbox includes fixing video metadata, GIF maker, video compressor, and screen recorder.
• Supported OS: Windows 10/8/7/XP/Vista, macOS 11 Big Sur, 10.15 (Catalina), 10.14, 10.13, 10.12, 10.11, 10.10, 10.9, 10.8, 10.7, 10.6.

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Steps to Convert Sony Camcorder Videos to MP4 and Other Formats Easily

Step 1 Add Sony camcorder videos to convert.

Install and launch Wondershare UniConverter on your PC/Mac. Click on the Add Files button to add Sony camcorder videos from the folders where they're saved. You can also connect the camcorder with your devices and click the drop-down icon beside Add Files and choose Add from the camcorder option.

Step 2 Select an output format for Sony camcorder videos.

Click the drop-down icon beside the Output Format option, and go to the Video or Device tab to choose an output format. You can optionally edit videos by clicking the Edit icons under the video thumbnail.

Step 3 Convert Sony camcorder videos.

Finally, click on the Start All button to convert Sony camcorder videos to your desired format. You can find the converted files by opening the output folder icon or the Finished tab after the quick process. You can also Transfer Sony camcorder videos to iOS/Android devices for playing.

Video Tutorial on How to Convert Sony Camcorder Videos on Windows (Similar on Mac)

So, pick any one of the above listed Sony Camcorders and get yourself moments recorded in HD quality. You can get help from Wondershare UniConverter when you're having trouble with playing camcorder videos.