Pro Camcorders Aren’t Dead and Sony is Here to Prove It – PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800

OpinionCamera News

by Omri Keren LapidotAugust 26^th, 2024

Sony just launched a new professional camcorder duo—the PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800. Quite similar inside and out, these 1″ sensor video cameras are aimed at various creative use cases and scenarios. Though it seems like a large sensor, interchangeable systems are all the rage these days, and there are still some projects and workflows in which the all-inclusive Sony camcorder design is immensely valuable. Let’s take a deep breath and see what this duo is all about.

The raw spec list on both Sony camcorders is quite impressive. Oversampled 4K60P capture, cropped 4K120P (Pixel: Pixel capture), 20x zoom 24-480mm equivalent f/2.8-4.5 lens, Sony’s current AI-based hybrid autofocus system, an internal electronic ND filter ranging from 1/4 to 1/128 with Sony’s signature smooth ND racking, multiple codecs and recording options in camera, and if you opt for the PXW-Z200, you’ll also get 12G-SDI in/out, timecode, and future MXF wrapper support (available in 2025), and that’s just the headlines.

But isn’t the sensor too small?

The short answer is “No.” The longer, more interesting answer is “It depends.” To figure this out, we’ll have to weigh the advantages and compromises associated with a 1″ sensor. Let’s start by saying that a 1″ sensor may be small compared to S35 or full-frame sensors. Still, it’s actually quite large compared with what camcorders usually use. This will mostly affect light-gathering capabilities such as dynamic range and high ISO shooting. Another meaningful field is the depth-of-field, or “Bokeh.” While the PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800 offer some background separation, it’s nowhere near the creamy smoothness associated with larger sensor cameras.

Bigger is better?

It depends on how you use it. To better understand the advantages stemming from the use of a smaller sensor, let’s close our eyes and try to imagine the following system: An S35/full-frame video camera with an internal ND system, dual XLR inputs, a large BP-U battery, various control points, buttons, dials, audio mixer, etc. Now, let’s add zoom lenses from 24 to 400mm with electronic zoom control, optical stabilizer, and decent optical performance. Now imagine carrying it.

With a 1″ sensor inside, the lens can significantly shrink while maintaining optical quality. The smaller sensor generates less heat and requires less processing power. This, combined with the video-centric design, provides a lot of room for a plethora of dedicated dials, buttons, and knobs, streamlining every aspect of camera control. All are neatly encased in a relatively compact package that can be easily hauled around all day.

One-stop shop

The key selling point of the camcorders stems from the all-in-one design. This is a camera built for extremely quick setup. Just pull it out of the bag, turn it on, and go. The Sony PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800’s predecessors are the bread and butter of on-location ENG teams, local TV networks, medium-small broadcasters, and some forms of documentary filmmaking. Robust and reliable, professional camcorders have been trusted by countless video creators for decades. (Yours truly operated such cameras in the late 90s. I’m getting old).

Sony camcorders – 2024 ready

Sony has updated the Sony PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800 for the current age and market. The duo can record footage compatible with both Sony’s professional broadcast cameras as well as their FX cine line. The cameras are compatible with a vast array of wired and wireless connections. This allows for quite extensive multi-camera operation via available apps, ethernet connection, HDMI, or SDI (for the PXW-Z200).

Are Sony camcorders for you?

As versatile as it is, the current market structure has pushed the professional camcorder segment into a rather niche corner. The exponential rise of large sensor system cameras, starting with the Canon 5D Mk II, ushering a new age for motion capture (and for one special website).

This trend pushed some filmmakers into the bokeh-licious arms of those systems. On the other hand, smartphones pushed handy cams, professional camcorders little siblings, away from their family and hobbyist clientele, adopting more professional features and encroaching on the semi-professional video segment. All this pressure had some disruptive effects. Yet, professional camcorders still offer a unique set of features. If you are an avid ENG creator, if you run a medium broadcast studio or local TV, or maybe a wildlife documentarist wanting a compact telescopic solution, this Sony PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800 duo may suit your needs. For $4,000 / $3,300, respectively, it may also prove affordable.

Price and availability

Sony PXW-Z200 and HXR-NX800 are available for preorder with estimated arrival in mid-September. Sony PXW-Z200 and the HXR-NX800 will cost $3299. The PXW-Z200, with its added 12G-SDI connectivity and other features, will set you back $3,999.

Will you use professional camcorders in 2024, or has this train already left? Let us know in the comments!