After using this camera for a few months I've come to a realization that we are likely one model generation away from my ideal action camera that can shoot 4K at 60fps wide angle with optical stabilization. I always shoot 1080 60fps now so I can do slo-mo for my RC action, but lust for 4K 60 so I can crop in and keep it crispy and smooth.
Someone just released a video saying that if you upscale 1080p to 4k it will be just as good as shooting in 4k with a consumer grade camera. You have to buy something professional (+$10,000) to have a "better" 4k. Also some of us (me lol) have issues editing 4k. You have to have a beefy machine to edit it and it takes up space. I have a Sony HDR-AS50 that got a major scratch in the lens. I have upgraded to a GoPro Hero 6 which has become a mistake (cant charge and record!). I may jump back to a Sony HDR-AS300. I had tried the X3000 once but it overheated on me in freezing weather (like what you were filming in). Two of them overheated (original and new replacement). Ever hear of the AS300 overheating????
The reason WHY you have an option to turn off image stabilization is when shooting from the tripod where you don't need it. In that case a result is much better since the camera doesn't try to correct the image itself... In the manual also says you should turn it off when shooting from a tripod.
I bought the camera just half an hour right before my flight and departed without a single clue on how does it works .. I've no time to check with the staff and test on all of the functions of the camera.. this is such an informative video and save me from reading all the guidelines of how to get it started! Thank you for making this video!
Awesome, one of the only videos I’ve seen on this camera in English. I live in Japan and have been thinking of getting the x3000(cause my GoPro 7 is a piece of junk) and there are tons of videos on the x3000. I go and check out a local electronic store and see this little guy, I do what every other person would do and immediately jump on TH-cam to get review, and they’re all in Japanese and mostly Russian, I even checked the American amazon and see they don’t offer it. After figuring out the specs and what I want out of the camera, a discreet vlogging camera with 1080p 60fps and slick stabilization... the AS300 might be the way to go.
Thank you! I just bought this camera for my vlog channel (along with a Rode mic) and your video is really helping, as I’m not the most tech savvy person.
you say you never take out the battery out. but that was one of the biggest draws to me was being able to change batteries and film all day or multiple days for much cheaper then a gopro. you can get batteries off amazon for $5 a piece. so for $60 i have enough battery to film 24hrs straight. 4 64gb sd cards saves that much footage too. so i can film multi days trips in the wilderness and never miss a thing.
Hi! I am planing to buy this camera. Do you think it is still worth buying. I want to use it for cycling, trekking and while I am onboard ship. Thank you.
Hello, in your opinion is this cam better for you than the go pro hero 5? I mean I don't care if I cant shoot in 4K since I don't have a 4K tv anyways. I found a good price for it, like 50% off for the R version. Thanks in advance
Right on! Solid review. You and I would get along just fine. RC cars, home theater, and action cams ha ha. I raced radio controlled cars for a good 20 years. I still have my Losi. 👌
Wow, this is amazing and so nice... How i wish i can buy that action cam for my cousin, cuz he is a bike vlogger... He only have a a cheaper action cam, which is not HD.. it's only HQ.. He really need a decent action cam, for his daily vlogs.. cuz he also need a sponsor in his YT Channel.
Nice video Netcruzer! May I ask you some questions? 1) Did you have the camera on the waterproof case when you were shooting in the snow? What about the sound when you have the camera in the waterproof case? Some say the audio is really really bad or even it is absolutely silent. 2) Main differences you picked as regards the AS200V model? I'm thinking of buying one of the two and I absolutely can't decide. My main concerns is the sound (AS200V is quite good while using the 5 meters waterproof case ) and the image stabilization. Camera will be used for snow recording. Any opinions? Thanks in advance Netcruzer, and again nice video!
+DjTinGoS no case was used in snow. Only need case for submersion in water, and when you do use the case it muffles out all audio. AS300 was bought because of Optical stabilization. Only the AS300 and X3000 have that BOSS right now in Sony action cam range.
Hold the tripod at the base just below the camera and you will eliminate any shaking. I use the RODE VideoMicro attached to my FDR-X3000 which comes with a windscreen for outside shots.
Yeah I now have a VideoMic ME with deadcat, and the TRRS to TRS adapter cable. That works, but it's mono and kind of an annoying solution. I will likely get the micover style stick on fur for the front, so I can keep stereo with wind rejection.
Built in mic just needs some fur. I'm considering getting these, not bad price for 8 of them. micover.com/products/stickover-mini/micover-stickover-mini-universal-windscreen-for-dslrs-recorders-phones-etc..html
Tired that already and it works in very light winds but anything over 10mph you still pick up a lot of wind noise. That was why I bought the video micro in the first place. Still on the hunt for a reasonably priced stereo mic that I can use with this camera without it being a total eyesore. Even the video micro sticks out a bit with the deadcat so I guess it doesn't matter.
Hey nice useful video… i have read all the reviews of all go pros 5,6 & sony action cams …just wanted 2 clear some doubts …if u may 1. Is there any Image (photo ) quality difference between hero 5 session vs hero 5 black vs hero 6 blk vs sony as50 vs as 300 vs fdrx3000…..yes video n features diff is world apart but what about photos only (image quality)…did not find any review or comments on this. 2. Wts ur take hero 5 session vs Sony hdr as50 .vs Sony hdr as300.again ...1st photo image quality advise then overall
Live mode has a significant delay over wireless. I never tried HDMI. These cameras are almost obsolete now since Hypersmooth came out on GoPro. Also, these Sony cameras lose focus over time their optics and microphones are glued in, and the glue fails. It was good at the time, now I don’t recommend. Get a newer GoPro or DJI Osmo action instead.
Now being 2024 just wondering if the cam is still working if not what have you replaced it with - just looking at using one as a dash cam for when we are on road trips and does it does let you to do live view using the smart phone ?, cheers Glenn v from NZ
I replaced it with GoPro 7, then 8, and now an 11. These Sony cams are good when new, but lose focus and sound quality over time because they just glued the internals in.. I wouldn't recommend a used one.
Thanks for the review! I'm in NZ right now and found one on sale for about $190 usd. temped to get that. Or could just got for the AS50 at a super cheap $130....Using it mainly for cycle tour vlogging. Wonder if the better stabilization and bigger sensor is worth the extra $$ . I already have a x3000 and LOVE it but don't want to spend that much for a secondary camera. (I have a GoPro 5 and the thing is so buggy it drives me nuts...plus I don't think the picture quality can compare w the Zeiss lens). I mainly shoot at 1080 anyway so hmmmm. Thanks again!
Hi, I've never owned an action cam before and about to make a decision for our USA Vacation Trip. I have narrowed down to 3 choices, Hero 6, Sony FDR-X3000 and Sony HDR-AS300. All I want are decent videos and photos to cover our vacation. Please advice, thank you.
AS300 is best bang for buck. 4K photos and 1080p60 video with optical image stabilization. Hard to beat. X3000 is awesome if you want 4K video. If you like over saturated pics and video and the waterproof without a case then GoPro Hero 5 is 6 could be an option. GoPro only uses electronic stab, the Sony is better for in many ways IMO.
Thanks so much for the info.. I have already ordered the HDR-AS300 with the Live View Remote Kit, Extra Battery, Shooting Grip and 128gb Ultra Fast Card. Lucky it was ANZAC sale day and got it all for NZ$670!!! Indeed it was the best bang for the buck!
Hi i just need some help cause i have this camera as well,but when i use it to take video it doesn't have any music/sounds but when i tried to use the video maker while it is connected to my phone there is a sound on the video. Does is really required to use a speaker ?
Not yet AFAIK, but I hope the aftermarket starts making things for this like filters and bumpers. It has grooves for lens accessories like the Sony Multicoat Protector.
Nice video sr ! I had the action cam hdr as200VR , i lost my camera but i still have the remote control , you know if control of the as200 serve for as300 ? I'm sorry for my english
Burak Güneri as300 has GPS too. Creates a gps log every time it's used. Kind of useless and just drains battery faster. It's not very usable data and only Sony software can use the gps log.
Yes the sony remote is waterproof, but it won't work underwater unless you were very close to cam since water absorbs RF. Remember that the AS300/X3000 FoV is 170 degrees, so if you are facing the right direction you'll rec it on camera anyway. Then crop in post for nice framing.
R just means you paid to get the remote display watch with the camera. Settings are all the same. You must have a 64GB or larger SDXC card to enable XAVCHD recording quality BTW. If you are recording in MP4 the quality is significantly worse.
@@thecrowfliescrooked X3000 and AS300 have a good front facing stereo mic. Add a wind muff and it's quite acceptable. Except.. my mic broke on mine a year later.. now it sounds horrible and I have to use external.
Hi i have an old HDR AS-15 is the lens same diameter on this camera ? i have done a modification for a lens protector on mine so may help others if its the same size lens, i wont post lnk but its on my channel if anyone interested, great video i have had my Sony for years and have always rated it above gopros.
It’s a fantastic vlogging camera! Many use the X3000 for that this is just the 1080P brother of that cam. Iphonedo and camera conspiracies both vlog with theirs all the time.
@@netcruzer Hey man I'm back for more questions. So I tried to change the format from MP4 to XAVCS HD when i press enter, it makes a sound and shows (!) 06-02 XAVC S with the sd card logo. For some reason it doesn't allow me to record in that format. Is it because my sd card memory is to short? or it could b something else? thanks in advance!.
@@netcruzer Hey man I'm back for more questions. So I tried to change the format from MP4 to XAVCS HD when i press enter, it makes a sound and shows (!) 06-02 XAVC S with the sd card logo. For some reason it doesn't allow me to record in that format. Is it because my sd card memory is to short? or it could b something else? thanks in advance!.
Just bought a Sony HDR-AS300. It lasted three days before the battery stopped charging. It gave me problems from day one. When plugged into power (usb, wall socket, batter pack) it would go directly into USB mode and I couldn't use the camera. Now it just stopped working. This camera is horrible. I guess if you get lucky and get one that works, great. But buyer beware - I know have a $300 plastic piece of crap.
![ปฏิเสธไม่ไหว (Crush on you) - LIPTA feat. No One Else [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/NBw1jF342vw/mqdefault.jpg)
After using this camera for a few months I've come to a realization that we are likely one model generation away from my ideal action camera that can shoot 4K at 60fps wide angle with optical stabilization. I always shoot 1080 60fps now so I can do slo-mo for my RC action, but lust for 4K 60 so I can crop in and keep it crispy and smooth.
Someone just released a video saying that if you upscale 1080p to 4k it will be just as good as shooting in 4k with a consumer grade camera. You have to buy something professional (+$10,000) to have a "better" 4k. Also some of us (me lol) have issues editing 4k. You have to have a beefy machine to edit it and it takes up space. I have a Sony HDR-AS50 that got a major scratch in the lens. I have upgraded to a GoPro Hero 6 which has become a mistake (cant charge and record!). I may jump back to a Sony HDR-AS300. I had tried the X3000 once but it overheated on me in freezing weather (like what you were filming in). Two of them overheated (original and new replacement). Ever hear of the AS300 overheating????
Whats the battery life at 1080p with 60fps?
Would you recommend the FDR-X3000?
The reason WHY you have an option to turn off image stabilization is when shooting from the tripod where you don't need it. In that case a result is much better since the camera doesn't try to correct the image itself... In the manual also says you should turn it off when shooting from a tripod.
Thank you so much for your insight.
I bought the camera just half an hour right before my flight and departed without a single clue on how does it works .. I've no time to check with the staff and test on all of the functions of the camera.. this is such an informative video and save me from reading all the guidelines of how to get it started! Thank you for making this video!
Awesome, one of the only videos I’ve seen on this camera in English. I live in Japan and have been thinking of getting the x3000(cause my GoPro 7 is a piece of junk) and there are tons of videos on the x3000. I go and check out a local electronic store and see this little guy, I do what every other person would do and immediately jump on TH-cam to get review, and they’re all in Japanese and mostly Russian, I even checked the American amazon and see they don’t offer it. After figuring out the specs and what I want out of the camera, a discreet vlogging camera with 1080p 60fps and slick stabilization... the AS300 might be the way to go.
This video saved me a lot of money! I don't need 4k, but I didn't know anything else had the BOSS! Thank you thank you thank you!
Great review. I feel the gopro 7 has a bit better stabilization. It's really just the jitter I'm noticing . Mark
Thank you! I just bought this camera for my vlog channel (along with a Rode mic) and your video is really helping, as I’m not the most tech savvy person.
you say you never take out the battery out. but that was one of the biggest draws to me was being able to change batteries and film all day or multiple days for much cheaper then a gopro. you can get batteries off amazon for $5 a piece. so for $60 i have enough battery to film 24hrs straight. 4 64gb sd cards saves that much footage too. so i can film multi days trips in the wilderness and never miss a thing.
Hi! I am planing to buy this camera. Do you think it is still worth buying. I want to use it for cycling, trekking and while I am onboard ship. Thank you.
Hello, in your opinion is this cam better for you than the go pro hero 5? I mean I don't care if I cant shoot in 4K since I don't have a 4K tv anyways. I found a good price for it, like 50% off for the R version. Thanks in advance
Right on! Solid review. You and I would get along just fine. RC cars, home theater, and action cams ha ha. I raced radio controlled cars for a good 20 years. I still have my Losi. 👌
Yeah it’s an excellent camera. I use it all the time. The external mic hookup is mint. Just went RC racing tonight. Cheers!
Wow, this is amazing and so nice... How i wish i can buy that action cam for my cousin, cuz he is a bike vlogger... He only have a a cheaper action cam, which is not HD.. it's only HQ.. He really need a decent action cam, for his daily vlogs.. cuz he also need a sponsor in his YT Channel.
you have a super clear camera to review this camera. wow :)
Thanks. it's another Sony. HX50 compact travel zoom. Current equivalent is HX80 amzn.to/2wCfXlP
Nice video Netcruzer! May I ask you some questions?
1) Did you have the camera on the waterproof case when you were shooting in the snow? What about the sound when you have the camera in the waterproof case? Some say the audio is really really bad or even it is absolutely silent.
2) Main differences you picked as regards the AS200V model? I'm thinking of buying one of the two and I absolutely can't decide. My main concerns is the sound (AS200V is quite good while using the 5 meters waterproof case ) and the image stabilization. Camera will be used for snow recording. Any opinions?
Thanks in advance Netcruzer, and again nice video!
+DjTinGoS no case was used in snow. Only need case for submersion in water, and when you do use the case it muffles out all audio. AS300 was bought because of Optical stabilization. Only the AS300 and X3000 have that BOSS right now in Sony action cam range.
Hi Netcruzer, I'm thinking about getting that same camera, whats the best 64gb memory card for it? thanks man, nice review.
Remanutd any bramd of sd card cam be used. But you need to use sd card with high speed capability
Hold the tripod at the base just below the camera and you will eliminate any shaking. I use the RODE VideoMicro attached to my FDR-X3000 which comes with a windscreen for outside shots.
Yeah I now have a VideoMic ME with deadcat, and the TRRS to TRS adapter cable. That works, but it's mono and kind of an annoying solution. I will likely get the micover style stick on fur for the front, so I can keep stereo with wind rejection.
Mono is a downside but overall I'm happy. Which stereo mic are you considering?
Built in mic just needs some fur. I'm considering getting these, not bad price for 8 of them. micover.com/products/stickover-mini/micover-stickover-mini-universal-windscreen-for-dslrs-recorders-phones-etc..html
Tired that already and it works in very light winds but anything over 10mph you still pick up a lot of wind noise. That was why I bought the video micro in the first place. Still on the hunt for a reasonably priced stereo mic that I can use with this camera without it being a total eyesore. Even the video micro sticks out a bit with the deadcat so I guess it doesn't matter.
Hey nice useful video… i have read all the reviews of all go pros 5,6 & sony action cams …just wanted 2 clear some doubts …if u may
1. Is there any Image (photo ) quality difference between hero 5 session vs hero 5 black vs hero 6 blk vs sony as50 vs as 300 vs
fdrx3000…..yes video n features diff is world apart but what about photos only (image quality)…did not find any review or comments on this.
2. Wts ur take hero 5 session vs Sony hdr as50 .vs Sony hdr as300.again ...1st photo image quality advise then overall
Good review. Will it run for a long time without overheating? Some cameras I have looked at will overheat after only ten to twenty minutes.
Mine has never overheated from recording, or flip side it's never shut down from cold exposure yet either.
Thank you very much for replying, much appreciated
Nice review btw but honestly I was hoping you put the camera on those cars and shoot while driving them.
Me too!
Haha the ending had me cracking up! Thanks for the review! 😊
This is a good review.
What is the live mode like? Is their a delay in the feed to the app? what is the HMI cable live feed like and does it have delay?
Live mode has a significant delay over wireless. I never tried HDMI. These cameras are almost obsolete now since Hypersmooth came out on GoPro. Also, these Sony cameras lose focus over time their optics and microphones are glued in, and the glue fails. It was good at the time, now I don’t recommend. Get a newer GoPro or DJI Osmo action instead.
Now being 2024 just wondering if the cam is still working if not what have you replaced it with - just looking at using one as a dash cam for when we are on road trips and does it does let you to do live view using the smart phone ?, cheers Glenn v from NZ
I replaced it with GoPro 7, then 8, and now an 11. These Sony cams are good when new, but lose focus and sound quality over time because they just glued the internals in.. I wouldn't recommend a used one.
Don't get an action cam for dashcam use. Get a dashcam. I've had good luck with VanTrue models, they use good sony sensors.
Hello what's the ideal micro sd for this camera? thank you
"Ahhh much better" lmao. Great video!
Thanks for the review! I'm in NZ right now and found one on sale for about $190 usd. temped to get that. Or could just got for the AS50 at a super cheap $130....Using it mainly for cycle tour vlogging. Wonder if the better stabilization and bigger sensor is worth the extra $$ . I already have a x3000 and LOVE it but don't want to spend that much for a secondary camera. (I have a GoPro 5 and the thing is so buggy it drives me nuts...plus I don't think the picture quality can compare w the Zeiss lens). I mainly shoot at 1080 anyway so hmmmm. Thanks again!
Avoid the as50 and definitely get as300. Its worth the cost for the boss stabilization.
Netcruzer RC TECH CARS okay awesome I think I will go for the AS300!
What is the main difference between as300 and x3000
You can use this for twitch streaming outdoors with a hotspot right?
Hi, I've never owned an action cam before and about to make a decision for our USA Vacation Trip. I have narrowed down to 3 choices, Hero 6, Sony FDR-X3000 and Sony HDR-AS300. All I want are decent videos and photos to cover our vacation. Please advice, thank you.
AS300 is best bang for buck. 4K photos and 1080p60 video with optical image stabilization. Hard to beat. X3000 is awesome if you want 4K video. If you like over saturated pics and video and the waterproof without a case then GoPro Hero 5 is 6 could be an option. GoPro only uses electronic stab, the Sony is better for in many ways IMO.
Thanks so much for the info.. I have already ordered the HDR-AS300 with the Live View Remote Kit, Extra Battery, Shooting Grip and 128gb Ultra Fast Card. Lucky it was ANZAC sale day and got it all for NZ$670!!! Indeed it was the best bang for the buck!
Good detalied video . I like it...
is this worth it over the Sony HDR-AS50 model, both of them are on sale over here down under but still about $157 difference
Yes don’t get the AS50 it’s very old and has no BOSS stabilization.
@@netcruzer yeah after watching some stabilization videos, i've upgraded the order to an as300. Thanks for your input.
thank you for the review
Hi i just need some help cause i have this camera as well,but when i use it to take video it doesn't have any music/sounds but when i tried to use the video maker while it is connected to my phone there is a sound on the video. Does is really required to use a speaker ?
Hello, I have 2 questions:
1- what si loop recording?
2- Are both bluetooth and wifi needed to connect the camera to the viewer or a phone?
+Ignacio Sepúlveda wifi only for app connection. Loop is when card fills is overwrites oldest clip to keep recording.
hey... is it possible to put a lcd screen grip. which was possible on some of the older cameras!!?!?
so it turns into sought of a camcorder
+DoItForLolz yes. Get the remote version and the remote grip.
Netcruzer thanks so much.. really appreciate it man
Can anyone recommend which one should I buy for my TH-cam vlog fDRx3000 4K or HDR as-300 ?
i just bought mine... Why does the bluetooth symbol look like the pixels are dying on it.. thought mine was broken but yours looks the same
Do you know if there will be a polarizing filter lens for this? Looking forward to getting one.
Not yet AFAIK, but I hope the aftermarket starts making things for this like filters and bumpers. It has grooves for lens accessories like the Sony Multicoat Protector.
Nice video sr !
I had the action cam hdr as200VR , i lost my camera but i still have the remote control , you know if control of the as200 serve for as300 ? I'm sorry for my english
Yes
What camera did you use the record this video?
The close up are nice and clear!
Hmm this was a few years ago so likely the Sony NEX5R or Sony HX50
Does it comes with the helmet mounting accessories??
x3000R has a GPS module, so as300R has it?
and what do you think diffrences x3000R and as300R
Burak Güneri as300 has GPS too. Creates a gps log every time it's used. Kind of useless and just drains battery faster. It's not very usable data and only Sony software can use the gps log.
Biggest difference is 3000 can shoot 1440p and 4K and slowmo 1080p. Beyond that they are the same.
How do yoy activate the BOSS steady??? I know just to activate the normal steady
Scary end shot!! Lol good video
is the 1080p 60s on this camera not as good as the 1080p 120 on the x3000? I bought the as300 thinking it was the x1000 on amazon.
+C Torres not as good? 120 and 60 is frame rate, so you can slow 1080p down x4 on x3000 vs x2 on as300 for slow motion when playback is 30fps.
is that live view remote is also water proof? How it be used under water when wifi connectivity dsnt work there?
Yes the sony remote is waterproof, but it won't work underwater unless you were very close to cam since water absorbs RF. Remember that the AS300/X3000 FoV is 170 degrees, so if you are facing the right direction you'll rec it on camera anyway. Then crop in post for nice framing.
I wonder what low light in a room would be like
What setting did u have ur camcorder on, bc I'm not getting that same quality recording outside???? Thanks!
Boss on, highest quality xavc 1080p 60fps recording, wide angle.
I have the 2017 HDR-AS300R, if that matters?
R just means you paid to get the remote display watch with the camera. Settings are all the same. You must have a 64GB or larger SDXC card to enable XAVCHD recording quality BTW. If you are recording in MP4 the quality is significantly worse.
Ok, great
i see no point getting the 4k version. considering most people are not able to see 4k anyways and just use 1080 max anyways.
One benefit of X3000 is it allows 1080p 120fps. But I agree the AS300 is good enough for most.
Nice cam!
yeah it is Harald's camera
Can anyone recommend a good microphone to connect to the AS300?
Rode video micro
@@netcruzer how good is the on board mic? I use a Ghost X but the on board sucks.
@@thecrowfliescrooked X3000 and AS300 have a good front facing stereo mic. Add a wind muff and it's quite acceptable. Except.. my mic broke on mine a year later.. now it sounds horrible and I have to use external.
Hi i have an old HDR AS-15 is the lens same diameter on this camera ? i have done a modification for a lens protector on mine so may help others if its the same size lens, i wont post lnk but its on my channel if anyone interested, great video i have had my Sony for years and have always rated it above gopros.
Hey is it possible to vlog with this? I bought it with my rbc rewards points and idk if I took an L or not. THanks
It’s a fantastic vlogging camera! Many use the X3000 for that this is just the 1080P brother of that cam. Iphonedo and camera conspiracies both vlog with theirs all the time.
@@netcruzer Hey man I'm back for more questions. So I tried to change the format from MP4 to XAVCS HD when i press enter, it makes a sound and shows (!) 06-02 XAVC S with the sd card logo. For some reason it doesn't allow me to record in that format. Is it because my sd card memory is to short? or it could b something else?
thanks in advance!.
@@netcruzer Hey man I'm back for more questions. So I tried to change the format from MP4 to XAVCS HD when i press enter, it makes a sound and shows (!) 06-02 XAVC S with the sd card logo. For some reason it doesn't allow me to record in that format. Is it because my sd card memory is to short? or it could b something else?
thanks in advance!.
Better than Gimmick Pro 7.
So the camera don't need microphone
It sounded great at first but quickly degraded. Lots of things on this camera are glued in. Focus and sound degrade over time sadly.
@@netcruzer so do u think it's great option to do vlogs on it?
mount it on the rc ?
can you attach it directly to a mini tripod? without having to put the camera into that water box? thanks
Marta Mutti yes you can. Camera has a tripod hole on bottom.
I burst into laugh when you stick at your nose!
LOL yeah get up too close and the wide angle distortion looks pretty extreme
nice stuff
Do this camera has an NFC?
Johnady Kurniawan yes
It jitters because it's freezing..
Super-puper camera! I love it. I shoot this camera on my channel. Don't use stupid digital zoom :-(
why does every video review have to zoom so damn close to the product they are reviewing ? Christ
Just bought a Sony HDR-AS300. It lasted three days before the battery stopped charging. It gave me problems from day one. When plugged into power (usb, wall socket, batter pack) it would go directly into USB mode and I couldn't use the camera. Now it just stopped working. This camera is horrible. I guess if you get lucky and get one that works, great. But buyer beware - I know have a $300 plastic piece of crap.
I it was new return or exchange it. If used, sorry you got scammed into buying a broken cam. 😫
Return it if bought new.