Sony FDR-AX100 and HDR-AS100V camcorders go live at CES 2014

Sony’s CES 2014 affairs continue with the launch of numerous camcorders, such as the first compact 4K Handycam FDR-AX100, aimed at videography enthusiasts.

The past few editions of the Consumer Electronics Show have been used by Sony as opportunities to launch multiple cameras for photographers. However, it seems like the tides have turned, as the PlayStation maker has launched barely two cameras this year, while the numbers of camcorders launched in 2014 is almost incredible.

At CES 2014, Sony has officially revealed nine (yes, 9) camcorders. Most of them are not very important, but there are a few which are pretty amazing when taking their prices and features into consideration.

Among them we can find its first compact 4K-ready Handycam, which will go by the name of Sony FDR-AX100. Another camcorder worth a special mention is the HDR-AS100V, a waterproof device in the Action Cam series.

Sony FDR-AX100 is a new cheap 4K video camcorder, but smaller and lighter than the AX1

Sony FDR-AX100 is the first compact 4K Handycam that also costs less than $2,000. It records videos at 3840 x 2160 resolution and it is coming to the market this March.

Sony admits that the FDR-AX1 is a bulky 4K video recording Handycam. Its sibling, the new FDR-AX100, is here to provide a compact solution that does not compromise video quality. In fact, it is precisely 66% lighter and 74% tinier than the FDR-AX1, which is nothing short of impressive considering its specs.

As a result, it features a 14.2-megapixel 1-inch-type BSI CMOS Exmor R image sensor that shoots movies at 4K Ultra HD resolution or 3840 x 2160 pixels. The frame rate reaches a maximum of 30fps, but users can cut down the resolution to capture videos at 120fps for stunning slow-motion effects.

It sports a fairly large aperture, the company says, so that it will provide amazing bokeh while performing greatly in low-light environments. The resulting content can be transferred instantly to a mobile device via WiFi or NFC.

Videos are processed by the BIONZ X engine found in the A7 and A7R full frame E-mount cameras, while the 12x zoom lens is supplied by Zeiss.

The XAVC S format is supported by the FDR-AX100, which also features a 3.5-inch LCD screen and a 0.39-inch OLED Tru-Finder.

This 4K Handycam will be released by the end of March for a price of $1999.99, although it is already available for pre-order, courtesy of Amazon.

Sony HDR-AS100V Splashproof Action Cam records your sporty adventures in full HD for under $300

Sony HDR-AS100V is a camcorder aimed at action videographers who want to capture their adventures in full HD quality at affordable rates.

If you are more of an action videographer, then you will certainly be looking to find out more about the Sony HDR-AS100V. This is the company’s latest addition to the Action Cam series.

The new HDR-AS100V is a splashproof camcorder that captures full HD videos at 24fps, a cinematic-like frame rate. However, if slow-motion is your thing, then you will be able to capture videos at 720p resolution and 240fps.

Everything is possible thanks to an 18-megapixel ExmoR R sensor. Beside videography, this Action Cam takes images at 13.5-megapixel quality, while a time-lapse feature allows photographers to record shots of a 2-megapixel quality at user-determined intervals.

The Sony HDR-AS100V camcorder features both WiFi and NFC to share its videos (stabilized using Optical SteadyShot technology) to a smartphone or tablet in a matter of seconds.

The Action Cam is scheduled to become available for purchase in March 2014 for $299.99. Nevertheless, Amazon claims that it will surprise “early birds” with a February launch and a $298 price tag.

The other seven “dwarfs” revealed by Sony at CES 2014

Sony has launched a camcorder for each budget in Las Vegas, Nevada. Entry-level users can opt for the HDR-CX240, a 9.2-megapixel shooter with 54x Clear Image Zoom and full HD video recording for only $230.

Add WiFi and NFC, while upping the stakes to 60x Clear Image Zoom and you will get the HDR-CX330 for $330.

Want something with a built-in projector, Zeiss lens, and 8GB internal memory? Then the HDR-PJ275 is perfect for you and it costs only $400.

Moving to a higher category takes us to the middle-entry area where the HDR-PJ340 has WiFi, NFC, 16GB memory, 60x Clear Image Zoom, and OSS technology for $480.

Another step further takes us to the HDR-PJ450 which features a 5.1-channel microphone, an improved projector, 32GB storage, and a 3-inch touchscreen. It can be all yours for $700.

The high-end camcorder market is kind as it consists of the HDR-PJ810, a 24.5-megapixel shooter with an impressive touchscreen and integrated projector. The price is higher, as it reaches $1,100, but the device also offers improved manual controls.

Prosumers have not been forgotten and the Sony HDR-CX900 is the “chosen one” for them. Its 1-inch-type BSI CMOS sensor captures 50Mbps XAVC S movies via a 20-megapixel sensor and 29mm Zeiss lens. It will set you back roughly $1,500.

All these seven camcorders are said to be released in late February across the world. Please note that prices will vary depending on region and retailers.