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Sony (FDR-AX700 Vs. HXR-NX80) 4K Camcorders 2022 | Differences, Best Models, Reviews

April 20, 2022 by  
Filed under Digital Camcorders

Sony HXR-NX80 4K Camcorder

Sony HXR-NX80
4K Camcorder

Sony FDR-AX700 4K Camcorder

Sony FDR-AX700
4K Camcorder

Sony (FDR-AX700 Vs. HXR-NX80) 4K Camcorders (Differences): Sony is a leader in 4K camera and camcorder technology. 4K provides 4x the resolution of HD, the same resolution as 4K TVs and the Sony 4K Projectors that are installed at most movie theaters. By shooting in 4K today, you are future proofing your videos for generations to come.

Both camcorders shoot 4K at 24p and 30p, and have the powerful Bionz-X image processor. The camcorders also have built-in WiFi connectivity, 12x optical zoom, and have the NightShot® Infrared System to see in total darkness. Both models have Optical Steadyshot® (with active mode), and the excellent 1-inch imaging sensor (ideal for lower light situations). Both have a high resolution 3.5-inch touchscreen, AF with phase detection, two memory slots, and S-Log2, S-Log3, S-Gamut. The camcorders shoot in 4K 24fps and 30fps, and 1080p HD up to 120fps. The Stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor provides for better dynamic range.

The main differences between the Sony HXR-NX80 and FDR-AX700 are: The body of the camcorder is identical, as are the main features. The real difference is that the HXR-NX80 is considered the Professional model because it includes a handle that holds a microphone (sold separately). The handle also has dual XLR audio capability which is a professional feature, and Mic preamps. See the comparison chart below to compare both Sony models.

Sony FDR-AX700 Vs. the Sony HXR-NX80
* 4K Camcorder
* 1-inch Sensor
* 4K @ 24p, 30p
* HD @ 24p,30p,60p,120p
* 12x Optical Zoom
* Aperature: F2.8-F4.5
* Focal: 29.0-348.0mm
* Dual card Slots
* 273 Autofocus Points
* Optical Steadyshot
* Hybrid Contrast + Phase Detection AF
* Toggle Control
* ND Filters
* – – –
* – – –
* 2.36m dot EVF
* 3.5-inch Touchscreen
* 14.2M Pixel Pictures
* S-Log2, S-Log3
* S-Gamut & HDR
* Bionz-X Processor
* Built-in Wifi
* NightShot® Infrared

Sony FDR-AX700

* 4K Camcorder
* 1-inch Sensor
* 4K @ 24p, 30p
* HD @ 24p,30p,60p,120p
* 12x Optical Zoom
* Aperature: F2.8-F4.5
* Focal: 29.0-348.0mm
* Dual card Slots
* 273 Autofocus Points
* Optical Steadyshot
* Hybrid Contrast + Phase Detection AF
* Toggle Control
* ND Filters
* XLR Audio & Mic Handle
* 2.36m dot EVF
* 3.5-inch Touchscreen
* 14.2M Pixel Pictures
* S-Log2, S-Log3
* S-Gamut & HDR
* Bionz-X Processor
* Built-in Wifi
* NightShot® Infrared

Sony HXR-NX80



What makes Sony Camcorders Unique – Main Differences: Sony camcorders are known for their excellent imaging sensors. Sony introduced the 1-inch sensor to its camcorder line first, which increased low light performance in camcorders such as the FDR-AX700 & HXR-NX80. Sony is also know for their excellent Optical Steadyshot image stabilization technology . Sony provides its camcorders with high quality Carl Zeiss lenses. Sony is also know for excellent Autofocusing (AF) and these camcorders are the first using Sony’s excellent phase detection AF from its camera line.

Sony AX700 Dual Card Slots

Sony's FDR-AX700 4K Camcorder was upgraded with Dual SD Card Slots

Bottom Line Sony AX700 Vs. HXR-NX80: Both 4K Ultra HD camcorders take excellent video in all lighting conditions and have fast phase detection autofocus. The main difference is the HXR-NX80 is a professional model and includes a handle which has a microphone holder, and XLR audio inputs and controls.

New sensor on the FDR-AX700 & HXR-NX80: The AX700 has a new Stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor for better dynamic range. You can now shoot in 4K HDR.

Toggle Control on the FDR-AX700& HXR-NX80: Sony added a toggle control on the back of the AX700 that allows you to navigate menus while using the EVF. The LCD panel can be closed and you still have access to the menu system.

Dual Card Slots on the FDR-AX700& HXR-NX80: Sony has added a second SD card the SD card slot is Hot-Swappable for relay recording or backup recording.

For the first time, Sony has added phase detection AF to its camcorder line (exactly like Sony’s high end mirrorless cameras). The Hybrid focusing system in both camcorders has 273 phase detection points, and also has contrast detection. Together they will hold the focus on your subject, even track them while they are moving. For those using HD, the FDR-AX700 adds a 120p (120 frames/second) mode. The high resolution LCD touchscreen makes it easier to precisely see subjects. Both models have a 1-inch imaging sensor.



Related Article: Best Rated 4K Ultra HD Camcorders – Comparison & Reviews

Related Article: Sony Handycam Camcorder Model Lineup

Related Article: Smart-Review HD & 4K Camcorcorder Buying Guide

Related Article: Sony FDR-AX700 4K Camcorder | Review


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