In this Sony FDR-X3000 Action Camera Review I will go over everything you need to know. I did a ton of testing with the X3000 and I really think you will get what you are looking for after checking out all the videos and reading the commentary.
So the Sony FDR-X3000 is basically the competition to the GoPro at the end of the day. With that being said, the GoPro is clearly a great option as well. Both action cameras will get the job done, but they are significantly different which is why I decided to review this unit to try and highlight those differences for those looking for the information.
What sets apart the Sony Action Camera for the GoPro style action camera in particular is the design. Sony went with a slim narrow design as opposed to the box style design the GoPro has. This slimmer design makes the camera smaller and lighter weight, but also makes it a little harder to use without have a large screen attached directly to the camera. Sony decided to create a seperate monitor for this purpose which I think is a great idea! This allows you to leave the camera mounted wherever, and check your viewing angle and footage remotely. So if the camera is mounted to your helmet for example, you can just check the monitor on your wrist or handlebar, to see what it sees, start recording, review footage, etc… I found this feature great in the field when I had the camera mounted to something where checking an onboard screen would be a pain in the butt, and I discuss this in much more detail in the videos below..
Please check out all the videos below and I believe you will come out at the end understanding what makes the Sony different from the GoPro, and you can then make a informed decision on what action camera is best for you.
Sony FDR-X3000 – Key Features:
- Sensor = 1/2.5″ CMOS
- Supports 4K, 1080p, 720p, and 480p Video
- 12mp Photos
- 17mm Effective Lens
- Balanced Optical Stabilization
- Minimum Focus Distance = 20.0″ / 50.0 cm
- Includes Convenient Live-View Remote
- Included Housing Waterproof to 197′
- 120p slow-mo @ 1080p
- 240p – super slow-mo 720p
- Burts shooting @ 10fps
- Time-lapse feature (images only)
- Loop shooting
- Live Mode
- Wi-fi – High Power Setting which doubles effective range
- Timecode/ user bit data option
- Rugged design and very well engineered
- Exposure Compensation and Manual White Balance options
- Stereo Mics built-in and sound quality is decent in low wind environments
- Has Mic Input jack
- Weight = 4.02 oz / 114 g with battery
- Retail Price = $548 US (kit with Monitor), $398 US (Camera Only)
Sony FDR-X3000 – Photos of the Gear
Sony FDR-X3000 Action Camera Review – Part #1 – Intro to Gear and Accessories
Sony FDR-X3000 Sample Video Testing with VCT-STG1 Shooting Grip @ Appalachian Moto Jam
In this Sony FDR-X3000 Action Camera Sample Video Footage I use the Sony VCT-STG1 Shooting Grip to hold the camera @ Appalachian Moto Jam, and it worked out really well.
Sony FDR-X3000 Sample Video Testing with Suction Cup Mount and Driving My Car
In this Sony FDR-X3000 Action Camera Review Conclusions video, I will give you the low down on this camera from my real world perspective approach. I talk about the features that matter and compare to the GoPro Hero 6. Gear and Support Links Below:
Sony FDR X3000 Action Camera – Stabilization Test – Walking
n this quick video I Test the Sony FDR-X3000 Action Camera Stabilization Modes by walking down some stairs and more….
Sony FDR-X3000 Review – Part #2 – Build Quality and Mtn Bike Fun
In my Sony FDR-X3000 Action Camera Review – Part #2 I will go over the camera body & Housing design details, and show you the handlebar accessory followed by some Mtn bike footage fun…
Sony FDR-X3000 Review – Part #3 – Snowboard Action!
In my Sony FDR-X3000 Action Camera Review – Part #3 I will show you some snowboarding action using both the grip style holder and selfie stick…
Sony FDR-X3000 Review – Part #4 – 4k Video, Quad, Snowboarding, Driving
In my Sony FDR-X3000 Action Camera Review – Part #4 I will show you what the 4k video quality looks like while playing around on my quad testing the motor vibration absorber accessory, and snowboarding with Layla using the grip style holder. I then close with some low light driving home footage sped up to music for effect…
Sony FDR-X3000 Action Camera Review – Conclusions….
Accessories Used In This Review and More…
Sony FDR-X3000 Action Camera Kit: https://bhpho.to/2EiZsPI
Sony VCT-STG1 Shooting Grip for Sony Action Cams: https://bhpho.to/2EizdIX
Killer Extendable Selfie Stick: http://amzn.to/2CV3WcG
Action Cam Suction Cup Mount: https://bhpho.to/2ByIgCE
Sony Handlebar Mount for Action Cam: https://bhpho.to/2EitZwT
Sony Motor Vibration Absorber Action Cameras: https://bhpho.to/2Bzj5A1
Sony MC Protector for Action Cameras: https://bhpho.to/2BB1ebU
SeaLife AquaPod Mini Underwater Monopod: https://bhpho.to/2EfbKIF
Revo Adjustable Selfie Stick: https://bhpho.to/2HYh0C1
Sony Anti-Fog Insert: https://bhpho.to/2CVqSbT
Extra Battery: https://bhpho.to/2ByBcpK
Skeleton Case w/ Lens Protection: https://youtu.be/Xd59XDNYhQ0
Recommended Memory Cards: https://bhpho.to/2Ehx2Wh
Closing Remarks
That is about it for this Sony FDR-X300 Action Camera Review, but please remember the GoPro Hero Action Camera is also an excellent option. I don’t want you to think I am saying the Sony FDR-X3000 is the only option and you are a fool for picking the GoPro. The GoPro has some great features that might absolutely be better for you and your needs as I mention in the videos above, so please keep that in mind.
