Sony has announced two new professional 4K camcorders, the Sony HXR-NX800 and the Sony PXW-Z200. The two cameras have largely similar specifications, but the PXW-Z200 also includes SDI and timecode.
Compact design
The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 share the same compact design. The HXR-NX800 weighs around 4 pounds 4 ounces (1.93 kg), while the PXW-Z200 is slightly heavier at four pounds five ounces (1.96 kg). Both cameras also feature a newly designed foldable viewfinder, a removable microphone holder and a foldable 3.5-inch LCD monitor. In addition, the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 can be folded up for storage and added portability.
Video shooting
The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 use the same one-inch-type Exmor RS CMOS stacked sensor. Sony says this delivers high-sensitivity and low-noise capability. The cameras are also powered by Sony’s BIONZ XR image processing engine. In addition, they feature a specialized AI-processing unit for highly accurate, real-time recognition, tracking and framing of subjects.
The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 can record at up to 60 fps in UHD 4K. You can also shoot slow motion with high frame rates of up to 120 fps in UHD 4K and 24 0fps in 1080p HD. The new cameras support a range of recording formats, including XAVC HS, XAVC S, XAVC SI and XAVC HS Proxy. Both cameras also support proxy recording for an easier post-production workflow. In addition, the PXW-Z200 will support XAVC (MXF) recording through a future firmware update expected in the summer of 2025.
20x optical zoom
The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 are equipped with a Sony G Lens with a 20x optical power zoom. This lens covers a zoom range equivalent to 24 mm to 480 mm with a maximum aperture of F2.8-F4.5. You can also use Sony’s Clear Image Zoom technology to extend the zoom range to 30x in 4K and 40x in HD. In addition, the cameras feature AI subject recognition for more accurate autofocus. Along with optical image stabilization, the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 offer an active mode that combines electronic correction for even more stable footage.
S-Cinetone
Sony designed the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 to integrate with its Cinema Line and Alpha cameras. As a result, the new cameras feature image presets such as S-Cinetone, ITU709, 709tone, HLG Live, HLG Mild and HLG Natural. This means it should be easier to match video from the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 with footage from other Sony cameras.
Electronic variable ND
The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 feature Sony’s electronic variable ND (neutral density) filter. You can move seamlessly between settings of 1/4 to 1/128 density to control your exposure. There’s also an Auto ND option which maintains an optimized exposure automatically. This is great for run-and-gun work where you might be moving between indoor and exterior locations.
Controls
The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 have separate rings for controlling focus and zoom. There are also two dials located side-by-side for iris control and for adjusting the variable ND. In addition, the cameras have twelve assignable buttons so you can customize your camera’s setup and control.
Inputs and outputs
The HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 have all the inputs and outputs you need. These include HDMI Type A, USB Type-C, LAN and REMOTE terminals. The PXW-Z200 also supports 12G, 6G, 3G [Level A/B] and HD SDI input and output, as well as timecode input and output.
Network connectivity
Sony says that the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 offer an all-in-one recording and streaming solution. You can connect the cameras to a Wi-Fi network for live streaming of recorded footage to streaming services and video sites via RTMP/RTMPS or SRT. The cameras also support file transfer options, including HEVC (H.265) and AVC (H.264) codecs as well as automatic upload to the cloud or an FTP server.
Accessibility and sustainability
You can operate the menus on the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 using voice reading. The cameras also offer a screen enlargement function for magnifying screens. In addition, the text-to-speech feature can read on-screen copy and information. The body of the two new cameras uses a resin that incorporates SORPLAS. This is a flame-retardant recycled plastic that is made from up to 99% recycled material. Sony says that over the past 12 years, it has replaced around 426 tons of virgin plastic in digital cameras and camcorders with recycled plastic.
What we think
Many video shooters have moved from camcorders to DSLRs or mirrorless cameras. However, there are still lots of shooting scenarios where a dedicated camcorder is a better option. Sony’s new HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 are ideal for broadcast and new gathering work. The cameras are also suited for corporate, faith and education usage. With high-quality images and a full range of manual controls, the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 seem to have a lot to offer videographers looking for a high-specification professional camcorder.
Pring and availability
Sony says that the HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 are scheduled to be available starting September 2024. The new cameras will retail at $3,299 and $3,999, respectively.
