News 10 Oct 2014

Reviewed: Sony HDR-AS100VR Action Cam

CycleOnline.com.au reviews Sony's latest Action Cam.

The HDR-AS100V Sony Action Cam features SteadyShot image stabilising to allow for smooth image shooting while the user is in motion. The image stabiliser powerfully compensates for minute rapid vibrations typically caused by bicycle/motorcycle motion.

The HDR-AS100V features an all-new splash proof body allowing for outdoor use even in rainy weather or splash-prone situations. With a universal tripod screw mount on the body of the Action Cam itself, you can also easily attach the camera directly to a tripod.

Pro quality XAVC-S recording with 50Mbps high bit rate data transfer enables HDR-AS100V to capture quick action with smooth image motion. The camera also supports 24p high-speed 120 fps and 240 fps shooting with sound. Additionally, users can shoot the easily shareable MP4 HD video, ideal for web.

A built-in stereo microphone allows you to capture all of the surrounding sounds while the back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor provides increased low-light sensitivity with improved image clarity and drastically reduced grain.

Using an ultra-wide angle Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens, a 170-degree viewing angle is offered to increase your perspective. In still image mode, the Action Cam also captures high quality 13.5MP still images with a single press of the button.

Turn compatible smart phones and tablets in to remote control viewing devices via the wi-fi feature with One Touch Near Field Communication (NFC). Users can now control up to five Action Cams at the same time using the optional Live View Remote.

Positives:
The Sony Action Cam HDR-AS100V is quite a unique piece of equipment. At first glance its shape is very different to a lot of the POV cameras available today, and its white colouring also stands out well.

The overall shape of the Sony Action Cam is really good, and ergonomically this camera is great. The HDR-AS100V fits nicely in your hand if you’re cruising around snapping away, and it also tucks away nicely in your pocket if need be. Without its waterproof case, this camera is super small and lightweight.

Speaking of the waterproof case, unlike some of its competitors, you don’t actually need to use that case at all times. The Sony Action Cam is splash proof, which is super handy when you’re worried about it getting wet, but really don’t want to lug around the case also.

Obviously you’d be silly to jump in the water without the case, that’s not what we’re saying here. But if you’re going riding without the case and there’s a few puddles around, you have no need to worry!

Obviously the Sony Action Cam features the expected 1080p HD video options at varying frame rates, but what really stands out is the slow motion capability. The HDR-AS100V features both 120 and 240fps (frames per second) options for super slow motion.

Navigating the menu on the Sony Action Cam is relatively easy with the use of prev and next buttons. These are a nice addition in comparison to some of its competitors; it really does make menu navigation a much smoother process. Along with that, the one large record button to the rear of the unit ensures we all know which button to press when we want to capture the magic!

The Action Cam also features a wi-fi system that allows you to either connect to the optional wrist-mounted Live View Remote or your smart phone via the free PlayMemories app. Both options work well and the PlayMemories app allows for fast uploads to social media – that’s something we all love, right?

Mounting options vary for the Action Cam, you can use the sticky mounts for your helmet or even use the handlebar mount option. I’m also impressed with the addition of a tripod mount for those who would like to stabilize their Action Cam.

Negatives:
The Sony Action Cam HDR-AS100V ticks almost every box when it comes to a POV camera system, there’s just one thing I’d like to see improved. When using the Action Cam without its waterproof case out on the track, the wind noise was very loud.

Seeing as most people will much rather use the Action Cam without its case when possible, this is basically the only downfall I could find. It’s nothing too major, but it’s definitely noticeable when viewing film with considerable motion involved.

Verdict:
Overall the Sony Action Cam HDR-AS100V is a solid unit packed with impressive features. The ease of use, ergonomically pleasing design and range of mounting options really makes this camera an all-rounder for many applications. Including the Live View Remote, the Sony Action Cam retails for $499.99, be sure to see www.lustyindustries.com.au for stockist listings and www.sony.com.au for more information.

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