This model is identical to the FDR-AX100 aside the possibility of generating an image in 4K / UHD even Exmor R CMOS sensor 1 inch, even optical 29mm (equiv. 24x36) x12, same processor 'Bionz X', last state of the art for this manufacturer who manufactures his own processor. The comments on this  best sports camera which follow a trial over a week, apply also to the AX100 model apart from the aspect 4K

1 inch sensor

The sensor 1 inch (new size initiated by Nikon Nikon 1 and the recovery in the famous compact RX100) represents real progress (relative to the sensors smaller the more common before, 1/4 ", 1/3", 1.233 ", 1/2") in terms of creativity to play with the field and off pdcprofondeur a subject from its background since the maximum aperture is sufficient.

Recall here to summarize this is an interesting compromise between the advantage of playing on the depth of field and the disadvantage of the greater difficulty to take stock.

If the goal is bright enough (here is not dirty at all for a zoom: F2.8 at wide angle and 4.5 in telephoto) can actually play on the depth of field and especially about his second a background. Here that legitimate self alone the possibilities of release of the automation of the exhibition become the essential blow.

The large sensor is also believed to increase sensitivity compared to best camcorder with smaller sensors previous ranges even if at first glance this aspect does not seem overwhelming. We will establish precisely the actual sensitivity with test box construction Haunt within weeks.

Optical

The optical zoom is an open Zeiss F2.8 at wide angle (29mm equivalent 24x36) and 4.5 (depending on manufacturer specifications even if the camera displays at F4.0 telephoto position) (350mm equiv. 24x36)

The electric zoom allows a zoom gesture without acoup start or stopped, which can sometimes be useful to correct a frame being shot in pan for example.

The optical quality is very good, it is calculated to a very high resolution, well beyond full HD, and further has no chromatic aberration, which is remarkable when one remembers optical HD cameras d 'few years ago.

Ergonomics

Walkouts galore

The ergonomics of the disengagement basic settings (auto focus or manual choice, diaph, gain, shutter speed) is a real success, and it's probably one of the strongest argument for this camera. The buttons (hard) are where we expect and the principle of selection by setting button and setting itself the dial is easy to remember. It became the remains now standard on all devices where you have to save room. The release appears clearly in the viewfinder and makes operation intuitive enough. It makes all the difference with a more mainstream model of mid-range and delight the most demanding videographers. Total control of these parameters is the essential effect of what distinguishes the beginning of true love with the beautiful image.

The sensation of finding power over everything became totally automatic and uncontrollable on amateur compact camera is great and have passed this on such a small model is a good performance to be welcomed. Moreover, we reached a sort of hard limit to overcome if we want to keep "control" over all these settings without loss of time to rummage through the menus.

Screen 3.5 "touchscreen

The menus are set with your finger on the LCD. The tactile aspect seemed a bit difficult and it often misses a validation due to average tactile sensitivity (we will console into thinking that we would creep too untimely moan as much ...)

OLED Viewfinder 0.39 "Swivel

The viewfinder is not that the numbers, it can aim properly even in bright sunlight. It also serves to switch since we closed the LCD. Its contrast is good and the point is evaluated properly, including through assistance to the development (and magnifying glass

Buttons configurable characters on the LCD

3 areas of the viewfinder are dedicated to personalized settings buttons which can affect very many settings to avoid having to seek besogneusement menus. (Eg peaking and zebra) Still, the validation of these settings often still requires a click too much for my taste.

Autofocus a little slow

Based on the contrast detection, autofocus does its job quite calmly (ie rather slowly actually). If we make a change of rapid development it is better to use the manual setting. We naturally take this automatic default if the contrasts in the image are very low. One can quite easily live with that and plan to switch to manual when it arises.

Manual point setting

The good news is that the manual focus is surprisingly effective combined with the peaking (and magnifying glass if needed). The big ring of focusing is sufficiently precise and the indication of the distance on the screen is in relief to get back on the right path if we chose the wrong direction from the outset to address the point. One of the strengths of this camera.