Sony's latest action cams have something that top-end models like the compact GoPro Hero4 Black don't—optical image stabilization. Balanced Optical SteadyShot (B.O.SS) is the marquee feature in the 4K shooting FDR-X3000R and the 1080p HDR-AS300R, both announced today, which sets Sony's cameras apart in a crowded action cam market.
Adding stabilization necessitates a new lens design, of course. Both models sport a new Zeiss Tessar wide-angle lens, which is married to a BSI Exmor R CMOS image sensor with a native 16:9 ratio. Video is compressed using XAVC S, which delivers excellent quality at high bit rates—100Mbps for 4K and 50Mbps for 1080p. The FDR-X3000R sets itself apart from its sibling by supporting slow-motion 120fps capture at 1080p; the HDR-AS300R is limited to 720p if you want to crank the frame rate that high.
Because the lens is optically stabilized, its field of view isn't limited when SteadyShot is enabled. But you can opt for a medium or narrow setting if the ultra-wide lens is just too wide for a particular shot. Both models also offer zoom, but bear in mind that it is of the digital variety, so expect footage to suffer when using the feature.
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