Thank you for this. I just dropped my camera on the floor TWICE today and it is making a terrible noise. Now I will take this as an excuse for an upgrade... I am getting the AX43 right now!
I've had the AX53 for 3+ years now, and even with a few of the areas where Sony has crippled it to remove full manual control, it's awesome. The internal gimbal is truly impressive too. The 4K isn't the best ever, but it's one of the very best 1080p video cameras you can get.
The EVF is the most important thing on a video camera for me! if you'r into sports or filming fast jets. I'm waiting for a AX53 replacement which does 50/60p in 4k with that incredible Image stabilization.
that would be cool. Also, now that Sony has made an EVF with the optical quality of the a7SIII, I'm hoping some of the better resolution finders will sneak into the AX series cameras sooner than later!
@@PMRTV Thanks. I guess that screen is similar with AX53 now but wanna see is there anything else changed. I have been thinking buying AX53 but now this AX43A came up with better screen. Hard to decide.
@@PMRTV Also another thing what is hard to find is AX53/43 compared to AX700 in low light with same setting. I would like to see how much difference there is. Since here in north we have long dark winter. If you can provide any material about this it would be really helpful.
the built-in mics on most all small sensor video cameras are simply not that great. You really want to use a shotgun mic for most things you might shoot. This is my opinion... The brand new mic that Sony just released is called the ECM-G1. At $149 USD, I think it is a fantastic mic to use on smaller form factor video cameras. I reviewed this mic in a more recent video- FYI.
Hi I have the AX43 which is a fabulous camara, I use it while I'm working at sea and the built in gimbal is amazing and essential. I would like to upgrade and I'm thinking of buying the AX700. My question is does the AX700 have a gimbal built in? If not what would you suggest?
Sadly, no. AX43/53 are the only cameras Sony makes right now that have the gimbal. Whatever you do, wait till after Oct. 27th to make a decision. FW FWIW ;)
Good question! It does pretty well but it cannot be compared to the 1" sensor of the AX700 and especially to the APS-C and FF cameras that Sony makes. Still, for streaming? No problem!
Patrick Murphy-Racey sooooo so far I got the camera in with the focus ring bent and the record button randomly just.... not working... lol! Completely taken the camera apart twice and checked for shorts, seems to be working again. Fingers crossed. Obviously whoever owned this before me had quite a fall and it shook around a bunch of stuff inside apparently. Otherwise love the camera...
I would love to know why no one seems to update camcorders anymore. I've been waiting for a 4K60 camcorder in the $500-1000 price range for about 6 years now. But every year all anyone seems to do is rebrand their 4K30 again. The Sony AX-53 came out very late 2015 / early 2016, are Sony really saying they have no better sensor and processor to make a new camcorder? So instead they just take something off the AX53 and then charge the same price as what you can already pick up the AX53 for anyway. If sales are down because mobile phones are stealing the market share its only because phones innovate every single year and manufactures haven't touched camcorders for 5 years. The AX53 was a great camcorder, but 5 years ago, come on guys what's going on. I'm not just having a go at Sony because Panasonic, Canon, JVC (did they go under?) all of them have just stopped innovating on camcorders it seems. They wouldn't need to spend that much money, keep the lens and OIS and body and everything else the same but at least update the sensor and processors and give us 4K60 on H.265. Bring it to at least the 2018's.
getting rid of the heat produced by the sensor doing 4k60 is pretty major--also with 6K 30P. Heat is the great enemy of jamming tons of info into a small hose...
PM-R TV But phones have been doing able to do it (and better) for years and they have a much tighter construction, a large camcorder would have much better cooling options available to it.
They really should put better microphone, 4k hdr, built in ND filter and an 1 inch sensor into something that is around $1000, keep the BOSS and night vision for fun. Otherwise people would just buy something like A7iii in stead of AX700, rx100 in stead of AX53.
@@millerfour2071 Yeah a full frame sensor opens up a lot of creative doors but it's not what I was looking for as nothing comes closer to a camcorder then an actual camcorder. In a full frame you will be hunting for focus, not that much zoom range within one lens, limited to 30min recording, manual zoom (which is fine but you won't be able to do it without wobbling the camera all over the place). I bought a RX10iv, it's great for photos, video quality is very good but trying to record a football game it looks awful and it's uncomfortable to hold.
Thanks for the video and comparison. I plan on starting a TH-cam channel dedicated to the filming of trains and I'm debating what camera to get. The trains speed from 20mph to 70mph and I need auto focus. I plan on shooting from sun up to sun down, so during the day with very little low light situations except at sun up and sun down. The camera is going to be on a tri pod, so I won't have an issue with the gimbal. Will the AX43 do the job as far as catching trains at that speed and keeping them in focus and crisp/clear or do I need to look for a more advanced video camera? Thanks in advance.
When you say the AX43 has a gimbal are you referring to the BOSS system or is the gimbal something new in addition to that? I have the AX53, but was thinking of getting the AX700 plus a gimbal.
it's the ECM-B1 which is one of my favorite mics to use!!! tinyurl.com/yuzaztzr This video I just posted recently was shot with the ECM-B1: th-cam.com/video/mDku0YBCloo/w-d-xo.html
I've had the AX33 from almost the day it came out. I've been eyeing the AX700 but it lacks BOSS. I would buy, in a heartbeat, the AX700 with BOSS. I shoot events and reenactments. Often it is run an gun as I follow the action of the reenactors in mock battles. I've seen gimbal rigs with the AX700 but they're awkward to configure properly. I also shoot airshows and the EVF is worth its weight in gold in bring sunny sky shots.
@@roxisarobot Yes, it is different. AX53 is like on a gimbal. AX700 is with an active optical stabilization, which is good. But definitely not like on a gimbal. I own Sony Z90 now (it's a pro version of AX700), and I'm satisfied in general.
Thanks for the info I think the AX53 is for me Can’t seem to find either of the two mic’s you attached to it. I can’t seem to find info on them. Could you post the model numbers. Thank You
I’m new to video- the background seems blown out and bright. Is this done on purpose? Also, thank you! I’m about to invest in Sony video once my canon stills sell. I plan on launching a video podcast and want to be able to shoot content for my golf startup coming soon. What do you think of the A7C and one AX43 / 53 to start the 2 camera podcast? I want to shoot stills as well and won’t have any still cameras once the canon body’s sell
When you shoot outdoors or with an outdoor background, it takes a lot of power to equal the sun. If you are starting something serious, maybe just get the a7C as full-frame will give you the ability to control the focus of your backgrounds. FWIW
Need some advice, I've been searching all over. I see you have experience with sony cameras and you have experience shooting indoors. I have an AX700 and a AX53 and I will be filming a birthday party indoors. My concern is grain. When you use these camcorders indoors you have to keep the iso or db low in order to reduce noise. How do you do it? When I double my shutter speed based on my frame rate it looks pretty dark. Where do you try to keep your db or iso? I'm kinda afraid to go above 12db. Should I keep it low and brighten in post or maybe go to 15db? Which is better? What are your sony camcorder indoor settings?
@@PMRTV yes I will use the AX700 thanks. Was just wondering how YOU avoid grain. I’ve been doing some testing indoors with the AX700 and it seems to do well around 9-12db but no more than 12db.
Great video! Have had the AX53 for several months and have enjoyed shooting my son’s fast-moving Little League games. Stumbled upon this video tonight and am a newly minted subscriber. Too late tonight, but look forward to watching your basketball tips tomorrow! Kudos from west Texas.
Patrick, we are looking a camera for budget live streaming in Church. Typical traditional setting, high ceilings, traditional wooden decor, reasonably well lit. Based on budget it’s likely to be the ax43 or the a5100. Would you have a recommendation for one or the other, please? Thanks!
because you will be streaming and that is your priority, I'd say ax43 for sure over the a5100. More options for the zoom and you get the built-in gimbal too
Thanks a lot for this wonderful review. I am an avid birder focused on bird calls, movements and fast moving objects. Shall I invest in the AX 43 ? since I see comments of the LCD screen being terrible on bright sunlight and so the viewfinder is a MUST ! Please suggest.
I have been looking a lot mirrorless things but I still come back to camcorders because of hours recording time and easy to use. Started looking AX43A again.
It's tough not to. Long form recording will always be easier with a real video camcorder and an extended life battery. Big cards are also cheap nowadays :)
it really doesn't compare. the ZV-1 is designed to be a pocket camera--super lightweight. it has a tiny battery that when you shoot video, runs out very fast. I think there is also a limit of how much time you can shoot in 4K? I think it's like 12 min. the AX series cameras all share real batteries for real long form video capture without overheating. very different beasts...
@@PMRTV Thanks. I want this cam to be steady most of the time. What about picture quality? I read in the specs "Exmor RS 1.0 CMOS Sensor (13,2mm x 8,8mm)" on ZV-1 side and "Exmor R CMOS Sensor 1/2.5'' (7,20mm)" on the AX43 side. Does that tell anything?
Thank you so much for this review. I have been using my Samsung Note 9 at 1080p 60fps. I did not want to purchase a mirrorless or a DSLR since they are quite big. Aside from the image stabilization I am really curious about the microphone without the extra mounted mic. Thank you for your response.
Hi Patrick. Thanks for the informative video. In your opinion, is there a noticeable difference in picture quality between the AX43 and AX700? I'd prefer the mobility of the AX43 but i'm concerned about sacrificing picture quality. I mainly shoot architecture.
YES!!!!! The sensor size is the biggest difference. The AX700's image area is a full 1" sensor width--this will allow you to capture better low light footage and also enable you to knock out of focus pesky backgrounds too. the added feature of switchable ND internally in the AX700 makes it an obvious choice over the AX43. Last, the AX700 has S-log AND phase detect AF. I admit that the PD AF won't help you with architecture but it will give you ice cold confidence in your AF. Put more simply, the AX43 is a great camera for an amateur who wants pro quality with minimum effort, but the AX700 is really a hybrid camera that lives in the ether in between SONY's pro cinema line and the camcorders they make.
Hey, just come across this video as I’m looking for a new podcasting camera, and something that can live stream, do you have any recommendations and would u recommend the ax43 for this?
Thanks for the reply on the earlier comment. This review is great. Any review on the LCD screen for AX43 in day light? I see reviewers have tagged it as highly glossy. How would you compare the LCD screen with AX53 and AX 700.
Thank you for sharing, my sony ax700 machine when recording a long clip, when I upload that video to my computer, it will be divided into equal files. Please help me to keep my phone from happening again. Thank you very much
this is normal. the camera records blocks of video into 4G clips. One you ingest the clips into the computer for editing, you just simply line them up in the timeline and they will be seamless. No big deal :)
Looking for a camcorder to film my hunts and low light is usually when the magic happens. How much more useable time do you think I would have with the ax700 having the larger sensor. I see advantages there but I also see advantages of how yieldy and the gimble lens with the AX53. Let me know your thoughts!
Hi Patrick First of all, I’m brand new to film and have struggled with concepts and been overwhelmed with camera functionality so much so that I’ve owned the ax700 for 5 years and barely touched it. I have however started to watch a lot of tutorials to get back on track and have since subscribed to your channel. Your content has been very helpful. So thank you. I do have a question for you. That I hope you find the time to reply to. In this video. Where you use the ax43/ax53 to film the main video and The ax700 to film the close ups, the ax700 seems to have a lower quality colour. Is this because the other camera is just better, or is to do with colour grading? I.e did you colour grade the main video and not colour grade the footage from the ax700 close ups. Thank you ahead of time brother in Christ. Benjamin
AX43 would be perfect because it has a slightly wider lens than ax33/ax53 and the built-in gimbal. It's really ideal for that purpose as well as many others too.
Hi Patrick. I watched another video where the reviewer said that they are selling AX43 at the same price as the AX53 while increasing the price on the AX53. Do you experience this where you are?
Hello sir, is the Sony AX43 a good camera for studio live podcasting type streaming? 3h nonstop shows. I plan to use a Shure MV7 usb connection mic. Not sure how the set ups and hook ups would work yet, computer, etc, maybe a Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini HDMI Live Stream Switcher for multiple cameras in the future....I'm between a camcorder and the Sony Alpha ZV-E10....I'd like to shoot the best quality possible on a budget ...4k 120hz doesn't seem possible. I hear people saying any mic would be better hooked up directly onto the camera to avoid sound mismatching with video or post fixes for recordings (for lives, not sure how to deal with it). These camcorders don't seem to take mics other than booms. How would you do it in my situation, please. Budget: camera around $1000, + the Shure mic $250 + all other stuff i have it in the bag already. My only doubt is the camera. After that I will start configuring a computer to handle all that. Thank you.
At 5:30 you recommend the AX43/AX53 to people who do "backpacking", "mountain-biking", "active sports"--the optical stabilization in thehe camcorders you are reviewing will be horrible for people with those use-cases I would be recommending a X3000 (if it must be Sony) or a GoPro that have much superior stabilization
except the fact that you are forced down to a tiny sensor with tons of distortion. I still like the AX43 for doing action video and POV work. You give up too much when you go to the action cams--it's find if you are only using AC's in your finished product but it's difficult to make the shoot look right when you are doing multi-cam shoots and you have an AC in the mix. My .02
@@PMRTV why not a RX0 in that case? It has a 1” sensor as well and fastened on a smaller gimbal. The camcorder is not ideal for walking around in nature, IMO
@@MaxMautner the 24mm lens isn't wide enough and I have four batteries for my RX0II and I can easily kill them all trying to use the camera in production. I think the AX43 wider and it give so much better audio. I just prefer real cameras with manual exposure control and the larger sensor. Max, you do you and I'll do me buddy :)
@@PMRTV understood, I don’t own an RX0 and even with a battery pack I understand it overheats relatively quickly-I would just be very surprised to see someone on a mountain bike holding an AX43, trying to get stable footage while riding down a hillside and am getting a little chuckle 😊 I really like my AX43 but its stabilization is nothing compared to action cams-then again, I’m not shooting much that is destined to be watched in 4K or where I am swapping out lenses for different shots. Great videos, I enjoyed it
Sir I would like your take on a MC-88 versus a AX43? I understand one is 1080p but is the MC-88 better in low light and would it be "good enough" for TH-cam or should I go with an AX43 and a Mic. Either way I'd love some coverage on the MC-88. Thanks
Sony describes it as an "Entry-level Full HD professional camcorder suitable for education, corporate and vlogging." It has a 1 inch lens which some people swear by. Thanks for your videos though.
First off, great review. Second, you hit some key points while other review videos tells us stuff we already know and is obvious. Third, you are well versed in the Alpha line. Great video 👍
I appreciate this video a lot! I recently purchased a Sony a6600, but I'm considering a dedicated video device and knew nothing about the Sony camcorder line (what's new, features, etc.). What is the low light performance for the AX43 like? I originally thought about getting a gimbal for my a6600, but I realize that the size of it make it challenging when traveling so I wanted something easy to use that I can still edit on FCP. Also, with the built-in gimbal, is the stability as good as an external gimbal on it?
dedicated camcorders are really easy to use but they lack the image quality of the aps-C and FF cameras. Low light performance is always tied to sensor size, so the ax43 will not perform as well because the sensor is so small. the ax700 has the 1" sensor which would be better than the ax43 but still not as good as the a6600. Hope this helps! patrick :)
HI, how the camera Sony FDR-AX43A stands with Android Wifi. Are there any problems with transfered video. Also, does this camera support remote control. I make sports video and I need tripod and remote control, also wifi... Thanks...
wifi is wifi, so it won't matter what phone you have. you can use a remote with it but it doesn't come with the camera but you can buy a sony remote or off brand too if you like: amzn.to/3MbMMNu
Hello nice vid. I'm a videographer. i have a sonyna7iii and i need 2nd cam for continuously recording, what do you reccoment to me a sony a7s or one camcorder? thanks
That's a tough one. An a7S will give you the eye candy you are used to but when you go to any of the camcorders, everything will be in focus. If you have the money, the FX9 will give you both worlds but you could buy 5- a7III's for the cost of one of those. There is a rumor that Sony will be coming out with an FX6. This is what I'm kind of waiting for...
I purchased an AX43 but wanted something a lot better quality but still be easy to use. Can you recommend something for me? What camera were you shooting video with as your main camera? With the driveway in the background. Thanks for posting this was very informative.
that's a great mic! I would use either an ELX-K2M (or 3M) and then remove the stock mic. and replace it with yours. The mic will get its 48V phantom power from the camera through the XLR unit--these work GREAT. Last, there is a little door on the top of your AX43 that flips open to reveal the MI shoe that the XLR unit slides into and locks
@@PMRTV Thank you for the prompt reply, since I'm not too practice with this terminology, would you mind giving me an example of what is a ELX-K2M (or 3M)? It's all new to me, oh and the mic I have is the NTG4+, Greetings from Italy! Thank you!
@@casatruffle7160 th-cam.com/video/IFi9VliGc6E/w-d-xo.html. go to about 6:30 and start watching and you will see the older XLR-K2M in action :). Ciao!!
@@PMRTV One more question! I do work with truffles and food products, what kind of Camcoder will you recommend in order to make nice cooking videos, overhead and regular "front" kind of videos?
I want the AX700 so much. I heard recently though that 1/2.3 sensor is the sweet spot for good looking skin tones. Not overly detailed but not lacking in detail. The 1 incher might be too detailed(?) hence why people use mist filters these days. Do you have anything to chip in about that? 🤔
It would be much easier for a video camera, especially for long-form recording over 30 minutes. I'd get the AX43 for sure and buy a couple of larger batteries for it. I've made recordings up to three hours in length in one shot--easy!
Hello 😀 thank you for this Video. But I have one question, can the Camera (ax43) film wenn the display is closed. I mean when i only press the rec button. Thank you
Great video! I was about to get the ax53, but I would never us the view finder so the ax43 makes more sense. What memory card would you recommend? if you have an affiliate link shoot it over. I'm going to buy the ax43, the shooting grip gp-vpt1 and the mic ecm-b1m
Excellent review; very helpful. Glad I found your channel. I am looking for a compact camera to mainly shoot my sons' baseball games (high school and travel). When they were younger I would take lots of pictures but now I find myself filming video a lot more. I am currently using either my cell phone or a Nikon D7000, but would like something better than my phone and more compact thank the DSLR . I have been looking at the Sony RX100 and the Sony FDR-AX53, but would love to hear your suggestions.
Well the video cameras don't do to well with stills but the still cameras do gret with video... You might want to look at the a6500 and the 18-105mm f/4. This lens is cool as it has the electronic zoom control right on the side of the lens and it's a faster f/4 static aperture lens... This could be a good solution. You should also consider the RX10 series cameras--which are also great at video and will let you shoot at 24 fps for stopping action in stills!!! RX10III, or IV would be prime candidates...
@@PMRTV my sony rx100 v7 overheats after 9 minutes of 4k or 1080p video like all rx100. needs a 2 minute cooldown very 9 minutes for video. sony tech support and many videos all say heat in the small camera is the enemy. using a dummy battery plugged in to ac power is better, but still overheats every 3 to to 4 hours use for utube videos
Any thoughts on the different picture profiles of the AX43? Are there any log profiles you can use which you can edit later in post production? Additionally, can you manually edit the saturation, contrast, brightness etc for the video?
So, there is an inbulit gimbal in ax 700 as well..? I was going to upgrade from ax 53 to ax 700...! But you say the gimbal is not as good.. Please explain.
Finally a camera review vlogger that don´t over act when talking to the camera. Thx for a great review. You made me buy the xa43 :)
Glad I could help!
Thank you for this. I just dropped my camera on the floor TWICE today and it is making a terrible noise. Now I will take this as an excuse for an upgrade... I am getting the AX43 right now!
Is it true that AX43 released later than AX53?
yes, much newer and I think much better but it has hoe evf (eye level viewfinder).
@@PMRTV but most reviews said AX53 is better, I don’t get it
I've had the AX53 for 3+ years now, and even with a few of the areas where Sony has crippled it to remove full manual control, it's awesome. The internal gimbal is truly impressive too. The 4K isn't the best ever, but it's one of the very best 1080p video cameras you can get.
it's tough to beat that image sensor, 4K, and gimbal into such a tiny package... I agree!!!
i have been using the ax53 for 5 years now and i was thinking to get the ax43 :) thank you for this useful comparison!
The EVF is the most important thing on a video camera for me! if you'r into sports or filming fast jets. I'm waiting for a AX53 replacement which does 50/60p in 4k with that incredible Image stabilization.
that would be cool. Also, now that Sony has made an EVF with the optical quality of the a7SIII, I'm hoping some of the better resolution finders will sneak into the AX series cameras sooner than later!
what sony offers in this range is z190 and z280, but they outclass ax53
Can you review AX43A ?
It's a good idea, especially as I just bought one this month. I'll try to get that going.
@@PMRTV Thanks. I guess that screen is similar with AX53 now but wanna see is there anything else changed. I have been thinking buying AX53 but now this AX43A came up with better screen. Hard to decide.
@@PMRTV Also another thing what is hard to find is AX53/43 compared to AX700 in low light with same setting. I would like to see how much difference there is. Since here in north we have long dark winter. If you can provide any material about this it would be really helpful.
Sir Could you be so kind to research what type of directional internal microphone is factory equipped on the Sony ax43 / ax53
the built-in mics on most all small sensor video cameras are simply not that great. You really want to use a shotgun mic for most things you might shoot. This is my opinion... The brand new mic that Sony just released is called the ECM-G1. At $149 USD, I think it is a fantastic mic to use on smaller form factor video cameras. I reviewed this mic in a more recent video- FYI.
@@PMRTVcan you get a 5.1 surround channel external mic for this?
Hi I have the AX43 which is a fabulous camara, I use it while I'm working at sea and the built in gimbal is amazing and essential. I would like to upgrade and I'm thinking of buying the AX700. My question is does the AX700 have a gimbal built in? If not what would you suggest?
Sadly, no. AX43/53 are the only cameras Sony makes right now that have the gimbal. Whatever you do, wait till after Oct. 27th to make a decision. FW
FWIW ;)
@@PMRTV Thank you for your reply, I shall wait. 🙂
Thank you, this is very informative. I am curious to know how ax43 handles in lower light, specifically in a big Catholic Basilica?
Good question! It does pretty well but it cannot be compared to the 1" sensor of the AX700 and especially to the APS-C and FF cameras that Sony makes. Still, for streaming? No problem!
@@PMRTV but does the AX700 have the built-in gimbal?
Just bought a 53 yesterday and I've been doing my research on it. Enjoyed your video very much good sir. Liked and subscribed :0)
Thanks for the sub!
Patrick Murphy-Racey sooooo so far I got the camera in with the focus ring bent and the record button randomly just.... not working... lol! Completely taken the camera apart twice and checked for shorts, seems to be working again. Fingers crossed. Obviously whoever owned this before me had quite a fall and it shook around a bunch of stuff inside apparently. Otherwise love the camera...
Why did you choose the 53?
AX700 vs AX100? what do you think
ax700 every time
can ax43 do slow motion videos?
yes. You can shoot in 1080p at 120 fps.
@@PMRTV ok thank u very much
I would love to know why no one seems to update camcorders anymore. I've been waiting for a 4K60 camcorder in the $500-1000 price range for about 6 years now. But every year all anyone seems to do is rebrand their 4K30 again.
The Sony AX-53 came out very late 2015 / early 2016, are Sony really saying they have no better sensor and processor to make a new camcorder? So instead they just take something off the AX53 and then charge the same price as what you can already pick up the AX53 for anyway.
If sales are down because mobile phones are stealing the market share its only because phones innovate every single year and manufactures haven't touched camcorders for 5 years. The AX53 was a great camcorder, but 5 years ago, come on guys what's going on.
I'm not just having a go at Sony because Panasonic, Canon, JVC (did they go under?) all of them have just stopped innovating on camcorders it seems. They wouldn't need to spend that much money, keep the lens and OIS and body and everything else the same but at least update the sensor and processors and give us 4K60 on H.265. Bring it to at least the 2018's.
getting rid of the heat produced by the sensor doing 4k60 is pretty major--also with 6K 30P. Heat is the great enemy of jamming tons of info into a small hose...
PM-R TV But phones have been doing able to do it (and better) for years and they have a much tighter construction, a large camcorder would have much better cooling options available to it.
They really should put better microphone, 4k hdr, built in ND filter and an 1 inch sensor into something that is around $1000, keep the BOSS and night vision for fun. Otherwise people would just buy something like A7iii in stead of AX700, rx100 in stead of AX53.
@@millerfour2071 Yeah a full frame sensor opens up a lot of creative doors but it's not what I was looking for as nothing comes closer to a camcorder then an actual camcorder. In a full frame you will be hunting for focus, not that much zoom range within one lens, limited to 30min recording, manual zoom (which is fine but you won't be able to do it without wobbling the camera all over the place).
I bought a RX10iv, it's great for photos, video quality is very good but trying to record a football game it looks awful and it's uncomfortable to hold.
Holy fuck, what a great post, off to get a beer to read x
Great review! Do you suggest buy the AX53 (made in 2016) now? I need a not so expensive K4 ultra HD cam. Thanks
no, I think the AX43 is a better camera at this point. Unless you can justify the AX700.
@@PMRTV Hi Patrick! Do you raccomend AX700 for musical videos indoor (I need get fast arm movements of musicians) ?Thanks!
Thanks for the video and comparison. I plan on starting a TH-cam channel dedicated to the filming of trains and I'm debating what camera to get. The trains speed from 20mph to 70mph and I need auto focus. I plan on shooting from sun up to sun down, so during the day with very little low light situations except at sun up and sun down. The camera is going to be on a tri pod, so I won't have an issue with the gimbal. Will the AX43 do the job as far as catching trains at that speed and keeping them in focus and crisp/clear or do I need to look for a more advanced video camera? Thanks in advance.
I'd seriously look at what comes out on Oct. 22, 2021 and decide if you should go that route ;). pm-r
@@PMRTV is something scheduled to come out on that day?
When you say the AX43 has a gimbal are you referring to the BOSS system or is the gimbal something new in addition to that? I have the AX53, but was thinking of getting the AX700 plus a gimbal.
Hi! Do I need some kind of adapter to use the rode stereomic on it or will it work?
should just plug and play. I'm using the Rode Go II with no issues on anything Sony
does the ax700 accept other sony lens? like a teleconverter
no, no interchangeable lenses but you can add wide and telephoto adpators.
What is the microphone that you are showing?
it's the ECM-B1 which is one of my favorite mics to use!!! tinyurl.com/yuzaztzr
This video I just posted recently was shot with the ECM-B1:
th-cam.com/video/mDku0YBCloo/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for fast response.
great review, plus the framing and lighting on your shot is tremendous.
Hey thanks!!! Made my Day, Johnny!
I've had the AX33 from almost the day it came out. I've been eyeing the AX700 but it lacks BOSS. I would buy, in a heartbeat, the AX700 with BOSS. I shoot events and reenactments. Often it is run an gun as I follow the action of the reenactors in mock battles. I've seen gimbal rigs with the AX700 but they're awkward to configure properly. I also shoot airshows and the EVF is worth its weight in gold in bring sunny sky shots.
Plz send me ur ax53 i will pay u
So is the AX700 stabilization so much worse than AX53?
@@takeiteasy13 would also love to know
@@roxisarobot Yes, it is different. AX53 is like on a gimbal. AX700 is with an active optical stabilization, which is good. But definitely not like on a gimbal. I own Sony Z90 now (it's a pro version of AX700), and I'm satisfied in general.
Convinced! Just 1 question: is there a dummy battery to plug it on AC current for longer indoor videos? I hate batteries
AC adapter is the same as the charging cable--included when you buy the camera...
Where do I buy your Sony alpha zipped hoodie?
ahhh... you get them at Kando for free but it's an invite only gig, I'm sorry to say
Thanks for letting me know 😎 I’ll need to wangle and invite….
Gracias por el video amigo, saludos desde México!!!
Gracias!!!
Thanks for the info I think the AX53 is for me Can’t seem to find either of the two mic’s you attached to it. I can’t seem to find info on them. Could you post the model numbers. Thank You
Thanks for the review can you shoot in log on the ax43 can the footage be graded
no, only the AX700 has logs but not the other smaller cameras.
Hey man I have a x53 and love it, wondering which mic I can use on that hotshoe for paranormal investigations? What would you go with.
I'd use the ECM-B1 for sure... Works great on location, even in the dark:) tinyurl.com/yuzaztzr
It's my understanding that the 53 will connect to android phones where as the 43 won't. Is this true?
Great info made me make the right choice going for the ax-43
Great vid. I knew within the first few mins you knew exactly what you were talking about. These were the cameras I've had my eyes on. Thank you.
thanks Erik!
If you read the title, you would have known what he was talking about before watching the video. Very helpful concept that TH-cam created
@@camdenmounts1473 what's your point? We aren't even talking about the same thing. Go troll someone else.
I’m new to video- the background seems blown out and bright. Is this done on purpose? Also, thank you! I’m about to invest in Sony video once my canon stills sell. I plan on launching a video podcast and want to be able to shoot content for my golf startup coming soon. What do you think of the A7C and one AX43 / 53 to start the 2 camera podcast? I want to shoot stills as well and won’t have any still cameras once the canon body’s sell
When you shoot outdoors or with an outdoor background, it takes a lot of power to equal the sun. If you are starting something serious, maybe just get the a7C as full-frame will give you the ability to control the focus of your backgrounds. FWIW
@@PMRTV thanks so much I appreciate that
Need some advice, I've been searching all over. I see you have experience with sony cameras and you have experience shooting indoors. I have an AX700 and a AX53 and I will be filming a birthday party indoors. My concern is grain. When you use these camcorders indoors you have to keep the iso or db low in order to reduce noise. How do you do it? When I double my shutter speed based on my frame rate it looks pretty dark. Where do you try to keep your db or iso? I'm kinda afraid to go above 12db. Should I keep it low and brighten in post or maybe go to 15db? Which is better? What are your sony camcorder indoor settings?
definitely use the ax700--it has a larger 1" sensor and gathers more light for sure!
@@PMRTV yes I will use the AX700 thanks. Was just wondering how YOU avoid grain. I’ve been doing some testing indoors with the AX700 and it seems to do well around 9-12db but no more than 12db.
Great video! Have had the AX53 for several months and have enjoyed shooting my son’s fast-moving Little League games. Stumbled upon this video tonight and am a newly minted subscriber. Too late tonight, but look forward to watching your basketball tips tomorrow! Kudos from west Texas.
Patrick, we are looking a camera for budget live streaming in Church. Typical traditional setting, high ceilings, traditional wooden decor, reasonably well lit. Based on budget it’s likely to be the ax43 or the a5100. Would you have a recommendation for one or the other, please? Thanks!
because you will be streaming and that is your priority, I'd say ax43 for sure over the a5100. More options for the zoom and you get the built-in gimbal too
Thanks a lot for help with all information. Whats the difference between Ax40 to Ax43 ?
there is no AX40 that I'm aware of.
Thanks a lot for this wonderful review. I am an avid birder focused on bird calls, movements and fast moving objects. Shall I invest in the AX 43 ? since I see comments of the LCD screen being terrible on bright sunlight and so the viewfinder is a MUST ! Please suggest.
I'd go with the AX700 for sure... The added Phase Detect AF will really help you shooting birds in flight and leaving nests.
I have been looking a lot mirrorless things but I still come back to camcorders because of hours recording time and easy to use. Started looking AX43A again.
It's tough not to. Long form recording will always be easier with a real video camcorder and an extended life battery. Big cards are also cheap nowadays :)
Does the ax700 also has a build in gimbal?
no
Thanks a lot!
Would you recommend this camcorder for Yoga-Videos?
sure, absolutely.
Are you aware of the Sony ZV-1? How does the AX43 compare to it?
it really doesn't compare. the ZV-1 is designed to be a pocket camera--super lightweight. it has a tiny battery that when you shoot video, runs out very fast. I think there is also a limit of how much time you can shoot in 4K? I think it's like 12 min. the AX series cameras all share real batteries for real long form video capture without overheating. very different beasts...
@@PMRTV Thanks. I want this cam to be steady most of the time. What about picture quality? I read in the specs "Exmor RS 1.0 CMOS Sensor (13,2mm x 8,8mm)" on ZV-1 side and "Exmor R CMOS Sensor 1/2.5'' (7,20mm)" on the AX43 side. Does that tell anything?
Thank you so much for this review. I have been using my Samsung Note 9 at 1080p 60fps. I did not want to purchase a mirrorless or a DSLR since they are quite big. Aside from the image stabilization I am really curious about the microphone without the extra mounted mic. Thank you for your response.
I just bought this camera because of your great review, thank you! But for the love of god please put your balls away 🙏🏼
Hi Patrick. Thanks for the informative video. In your opinion, is there a noticeable difference in picture quality between the AX43 and AX700? I'd prefer the mobility of the AX43 but i'm concerned about sacrificing picture quality. I mainly shoot architecture.
YES!!!!! The sensor size is the biggest difference. The AX700's image area is a full 1" sensor width--this will allow you to capture better low light footage and also enable you to knock out of focus pesky backgrounds too. the added feature of switchable ND internally in the AX700 makes it an obvious choice over the AX43. Last, the AX700 has S-log AND phase detect AF. I admit that the PD AF won't help you with architecture but it will give you ice cold confidence in your AF. Put more simply, the AX43 is a great camera for an amateur who wants pro quality with minimum effort, but the AX700 is really a hybrid camera that lives in the ether in between SONY's pro cinema line and the camcorders they make.
Hey, just come across this video as I’m looking for a new podcasting camera, and something that can live stream, do you have any recommendations and would u recommend the ax43 for this?
it would be a very good choice.
My ax53 has broken on me. I film football games on a tripod. Would the ax700 give me fine smooth footage like the 53.
even better as it has a larger sensor, it's better in low light, and offers even S-log and phase detect AF.
@@PMRTV thank y so much. Really stressing out on what to get. Specially as there is no place i can try these out. Ill go for it then
Thanks for the reply on the earlier comment.
This review is great.
Any review on the LCD screen for AX43 in day light? I see reviewers have tagged it as highly glossy. How would you compare the LCD screen with AX53 and AX 700.
seems to me the AX700 screen is more matte as it allows for touch focus... AX53 is more glossy
@@PMRTV thank you buddy
Would you suggest this for shooting soccer matches for college scout tapes of our players?
any of these will work for that purpose but the a7SIII/200-600G combination would be much better--but more $$$ too,
Thank you for sharing, my sony ax700 machine when recording a long clip, when I upload that video to my computer, it will be divided into equal files. Please help me to keep my phone from happening again. Thank you very much
this is normal. the camera records blocks of video into 4G clips. One you ingest the clips into the computer for editing, you just simply line them up in the timeline and they will be seamless. No big deal :)
@@PMRTV is not. Very inconvenient. When posting on youtube channel, having to join those videos is very inconvenient
Hi Patrick! For live streaming conferences and liturgical services, what is better to use: Sony AX43 Camcorder or Sony ZV-1 digital camera?
the ZV-1 is great for a nice wide shot but the AX43's much more powerful zoom is way more versatile...
@@PMRTV Thanks a lot for your advise. I'll go for the AX43!
Hi,
What is better for livestreaming sports
Ax 33 43 or 53
Looking for a camcorder to film my hunts and low light is usually when the magic happens. How much more useable time do you think I would have with the ax700 having the larger sensor. I see advantages there but I also see advantages of how yieldy and the gimble lens with the AX53. Let me know your thoughts!
Any comments on the high reflective LCD monitor screen for AX-43 and AX-700? And do both cameras have gimbal built in?
AX43 and AX53 have the gimbal-- AX700 does not.
Hi Patrick
First of all, I’m brand new to film and have struggled with concepts and been overwhelmed with camera functionality so much so that I’ve owned the ax700 for 5 years and barely touched it. I have however started to watch a lot of tutorials to get back on track and have since subscribed to your channel. Your content has been very helpful. So thank you.
I do have a question for you. That I hope you find the time to reply to.
In this video. Where you use the ax43/ax53 to film the main video and The ax700 to film the close ups, the ax700 seems to have a lower quality colour. Is this because the other camera is just better, or is to do with colour grading? I.e did you colour grade the main video and not colour grade the footage from the ax700 close ups.
Thank you ahead of time brother in Christ.
Benjamin
Super good review..awesome
Thank you so much 🙂
What would you suggest for interior real estate video shooting.
AX43 would be perfect because it has a slightly wider lens than ax33/ax53 and the built-in gimbal. It's really ideal for that purpose as well as many others too.
@@PMRTV I think, AX53 has 5-axis gimbal, while AX43 has 3-axis...
Beautiful video/Review....Definitely on my shopping list..Respect from Germany 🇩🇪.
Awesome! Thank you!
Hi Patrick. I watched another video where the reviewer said that they are selling AX43 at the same price as the AX53 while increasing the price on the AX53. Do you experience this where you are?
At 3:54 he says “it’s in manual exposure”. Does the AX43 have more manual exposure options than the AX53?
good question, bcs ax53 is limmited to 1 manual option
Quick question- does this camera have a remote or is there a app that can control it by WiFi?
yes to both questions :)
Thank you. helpful..
Does the AX700 have the internal gimbal in it as well? Also wondering what the depth of field options are for the Ax43 Thanks for the great video
no.
Hello sir, is the Sony AX43 a good camera for studio live podcasting type streaming? 3h nonstop shows. I plan to use a Shure MV7 usb connection mic. Not sure how the set ups and hook ups would work yet, computer, etc, maybe a Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini HDMI Live Stream Switcher for multiple cameras in the future....I'm between a camcorder and the Sony Alpha ZV-E10....I'd like to shoot the best quality possible on a budget ...4k 120hz doesn't seem possible. I hear people saying any mic would be better hooked up directly onto the camera to avoid sound mismatching with video or post fixes for recordings (for lives, not sure how to deal with it). These camcorders don't seem to take mics other than booms. How would you do it in my situation, please. Budget: camera around $1000, + the Shure mic $250 + all other stuff i have it in the bag already. My only doubt is the camera. After that I will start configuring a computer to handle all that. Thank you.
Are you using the sony lav right now?
I was using the XLRK3M with a Shure microphone that is wired to the XLR unit. works like a charm!
Does the AX43 still have the annoying "feature" of the AX53 where you can not manually set the shutter speed and the apature at the same time?
Can you add a fish eye lenses to this camera?
amzn.to/2ICA3XL
Sir I want to make video of nature in which camera will be the best among all the three cameras
Sony fdr Ax 43 and Ax 53 and Ax 700 wich is best Sir ?
AX700
What does it mean for the Ax700/b vs Ax700 without the b, is there a difference? A model difference?
I'm not really sure but it is likely a country code for Sony... a way to combat grey market is my guess.
Sony FDR-AX43A is new model ? Better than Sony FDR-AX43 ?
same camera
How come you didn't include the AX100, it's a nice fit in between the 53 and the 700
true, I just don't have one anymore. It was a great camera though... :)
Did they take away the nightshot on the az43 since they took away the button?
Which one do prefer for recording wildlife?
At 5:30 you recommend the AX43/AX53 to people who do "backpacking", "mountain-biking", "active sports"--the optical stabilization in thehe camcorders you are reviewing will be horrible for people with those use-cases
I would be recommending a X3000 (if it must be Sony) or a GoPro that have much superior stabilization
except the fact that you are forced down to a tiny sensor with tons of distortion. I still like the AX43 for doing action video and POV work. You give up too much when you go to the action cams--it's find if you are only using AC's in your finished product but it's difficult to make the shoot look right when you are doing multi-cam shoots and you have an AC in the mix. My .02
@@PMRTV why not a RX0 in that case? It has a 1” sensor as well and fastened on a smaller gimbal. The camcorder is not ideal for walking around in nature, IMO
@@MaxMautner the 24mm lens isn't wide enough and I have four batteries for my RX0II and I can easily kill them all trying to use the camera in production. I think the AX43 wider and it give so much better audio. I just prefer real cameras with manual exposure control and the larger sensor. Max, you do you and I'll do me buddy :)
@@PMRTV understood, I don’t own an RX0 and even with a battery pack I understand it overheats relatively quickly-I would just be very surprised to see someone on a mountain bike holding an AX43, trying to get stable footage while riding down a hillside and am getting a little chuckle 😊 I really like my AX43 but its stabilization is nothing compared to action cams-then again, I’m not shooting much that is destined to be watched in 4K or where I am swapping out lenses for different shots. Great videos, I enjoyed it
Sir I would like your take on a MC-88 versus a AX43? I understand one is 1080p but is the MC-88 better in low light and would it be "good enough" for TH-cam or should I go with an AX43 and a Mic. Either way I'd love some coverage on the MC-88. Thanks
I don't have an MC-88. I'm assuming it's a less expensive Sony camcorder?
Sony describes it as an "Entry-level Full HD professional camcorder suitable for education, corporate and vlogging." It has a 1 inch lens which some people swear by. Thanks for your videos though.
First off, great review. Second, you hit some key points while other review videos tells us stuff we already know and is obvious. Third, you are well versed in the Alpha line. Great video 👍
Can you please tell us about stabilization when the AX53 is on a tripod. It seems to disable itself after about 30 seconds.
It should. You are supposed to turn it off when using a tripod.
I appreciate this video a lot! I recently purchased a Sony a6600, but I'm considering a dedicated video device and knew nothing about the Sony camcorder line (what's new, features, etc.). What is the low light performance for the AX43 like? I originally thought about getting a gimbal for my a6600, but I realize that the size of it make it challenging when traveling so I wanted something easy to use that I can still edit on FCP.
Also, with the built-in gimbal, is the stability as good as an external gimbal on it?
dedicated camcorders are really easy to use but they lack the image quality of the aps-C and FF cameras. Low light performance is always tied to sensor size, so the ax43 will not perform as well because the sensor is so small. the ax700 has the 1" sensor which would be better than the ax43 but still not as good as the a6600. Hope this helps! patrick :)
@@PMRTV Thank you very much! I appreciate your honest assessment, and I think I'll keep looking at alternatives for video.
ax43? without viewfinder? With the bright Texas sun I can't see the screen.
Would you recommend the AX43 over the Sony ZV-1?
Great video! But where can i find the new, smaller, microphone, seems pretty good
It's the ECM-B1M on Sony's site. It's $350
HI, how the camera Sony FDR-AX43A stands with Android Wifi. Are there any problems with transfered video. Also, does this camera support remote control. I make sports video and I need tripod and remote control, also wifi... Thanks...
wifi is wifi, so it won't matter what phone you have. you can use a remote with it but it doesn't come with the camera but you can buy a sony remote or off brand too if you like: amzn.to/3MbMMNu
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
Hello nice vid. I'm a videographer. i have a sonyna7iii and i need 2nd cam for continuously recording, what do you reccoment to me a sony a7s or one camcorder? thanks
That's a tough one. An a7S will give you the eye candy you are used to but when you go to any of the camcorders, everything will be in focus. If you have the money, the FX9 will give you both worlds but you could buy 5- a7III's for the cost of one of those. There is a rumor that Sony will be coming out with an FX6. This is what I'm kind of waiting for...
@@PMRTV i will go for the ax53.
Fx... cameras are very expensive .
ax53 can keep in focus like 70 persons in focus? No face but generally
Hello, great review! what kind of mic would you recommend for ax43? And where to buy? Thanks
The XLRK2M comes with a great shotgun microphone that I use for all of my interviews...
Patrick Murphy-Racey will look into it. Thank you for your recommendation.
I purchased an AX43 but wanted something a lot better quality but still be easy to use. Can you recommend something for me? What camera were you shooting video with as your main camera? With the driveway in the background. Thanks for posting this was very informative.
that was an a7RIV with an FE35mm f/1.8 lens I'm pretty sure... Full frame will virtually always look better than a crop sensor camera...
Those cameras are really fragile right, there its any kind cover to protect them meanwhile you using it? kinda like cover phones?
Thank you for sharing, great video! Could you tell me please how can I use my Rode NTG4 on this Sony AX43 camera? Thank you!
that's a great mic! I would use either an ELX-K2M (or 3M) and then remove the stock mic. and replace it with yours. The mic will get its 48V phantom power from the camera through the XLR unit--these work GREAT. Last, there is a little door on the top of your AX43 that flips open to reveal the MI shoe that the XLR unit slides into and locks
@@PMRTV Thank you for the prompt reply, since I'm not too practice with this terminology, would you mind giving me an example of what is a ELX-K2M (or 3M)? It's all new to me, oh and the mic I have is the NTG4+,
Greetings from Italy!
Thank you!
@@casatruffle7160 th-cam.com/video/IFi9VliGc6E/w-d-xo.html. go to about 6:30 and start watching and you will see the older XLR-K2M in action :). Ciao!!
@@PMRTV Thank you very much! very kind.
@@PMRTV One more question! I do work with truffles and food products, what kind of Camcoder will you recommend in order to make nice cooking videos, overhead and regular "front" kind of videos?
Great overview, is it possible to attach some sun hood to the AX43 similar to the one of the AX700 to get that "pro look" thanks!
Did you use those cameras for the mass you've just uploaded?
I did. I used all three but this is the link: th-cam.com/video/64mrahRnCsc/w-d-xo.html
I used the AX700 as the main one, the AX53 on the left side of the altar, and the AX43 on the right side.
I want the AX700 so much. I heard recently though that 1/2.3 sensor is the sweet spot for good looking skin tones. Not overly detailed but not lacking in detail. The 1 incher might be too detailed(?) hence why people use mist filters these days. Do you have anything to chip in about that? 🤔
i need something to shoot basic conference speaches would you reccomend this or say a sony 6300?
It would be much easier for a video camera, especially for long-form recording over 30 minutes. I'd get the AX43 for sure and buy a couple of larger batteries for it. I've made recordings up to three hours in length in one shot--easy!
Thanks for the videos. Just one question, is it possible to record 4k 100 mb with the ax43?
Hello 😀 thank you for this Video. But I have one question, can the Camera (ax43) film wenn the display is closed. I mean when i only press the rec button.
Thank you
helpguide.sony.net/cam/1720/v1/en/contents/TP0000933190.html
yes
@@PMRTV Thank you, do you know maybee nearly the Standby time with the Classic full battery? 2 hours?
Great video! I was about to get the ax53, but I would never us the view finder so the ax43 makes more sense. What memory card would you recommend? if you have an affiliate link shoot it over. I'm going to buy the ax43, the shooting grip gp-vpt1 and the mic ecm-b1m
Can you remotely trigger the AX43? Im a photographer and would like to set it up and shoot video from a single location while I move around.
Excellent review; very helpful. Glad I found your channel. I am looking for a compact camera to mainly shoot my sons' baseball games (high school and travel). When they were younger I would take lots of pictures but now I find myself filming video a lot more. I am currently using either my cell phone or a Nikon D7000, but would like something better than my phone and more compact thank the DSLR . I have been looking at the Sony RX100 and the Sony FDR-AX53, but would love to hear your suggestions.
Well the video cameras don't do to well with stills but the still cameras do gret with video... You might want to look at the a6500 and the 18-105mm f/4. This lens is cool as it has the electronic zoom control right on the side of the lens and it's a faster f/4 static aperture lens... This could be a good solution. You should also consider the RX10 series cameras--which are also great at video and will let you shoot at 24 fps for stopping action in stills!!! RX10III, or IV would be prime candidates...
@@PMRTV my sony rx100 v7 overheats after 9 minutes of 4k or 1080p video like all rx100. needs a 2 minute cooldown very 9 minutes for video. sony tech support and many videos all say heat in the small camera is the enemy. using a dummy battery plugged in to ac power is better, but still overheats every 3 to to 4 hours use for utube videos
Any thoughts on the different picture profiles of the AX43? Are there any log profiles you can use which you can edit later in post production? Additionally, can you manually edit the saturation, contrast, brightness etc for the video?
there are no picture profile, so you have only rec709; that's rubbish imo; no paint menu either; also, no manual control
U made me buy 43 !!!
thanks for the information sir. God bless you. just want to know which cameras are you shooting this video with
this was shot with the a7RIV and a 35mm f/1.8
I own the SONY FDR-AX700. The steady shot is unfortunately not the best. I think the gimbal from the AX53 is much better.
So, there is an inbulit gimbal in ax 700 as well..?
I was going to upgrade from ax 53 to ax 700...!
But you say the gimbal is not as good.. Please explain.