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Sony FDR-AX53 4K Ultra HD Handycam Camcorder

BH #SOFDRAX53 • MFR #FDRAX53/B
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Sony FDR-AX53 4K Ultra HD Handycam Camcorder
Key Features
  • Open Box Products Have a Limited 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty (90 Days for Labor)
  • 4K Ultra HD 24/30p & 16.6MP Stills
  • Exmor R CMOS Sensor
  • 26.8mm Zeiss Vario Sonnar T* Zoom Lens
The Sony FDR-AX53 is a palm-sized Handycam camcorder that combines a Zeiss 20x optical zoom lens and a high-sensitivity image sensor to produce crisp and high-quality UHD 4K video. The Exmor R CMOS image sensor supports UHD 4K video capture at 24 or 30 fps using Sony's XAVC S codec and features pixels that are approximately 1.6x larger than the previous model for enhanced performance in all conditions, particularly low-light scenarios. The camcorder also features Sony's Balance Optical SteadyShot image stabilization technology to help produce smooth and stable footage throughout the zoom range. Further enhancements include improved autofocus speed and accuracy, a lower-noise built-in microphone, and a high-speed 1080p 120 fps recording mode to create high-resolution slow-motion content.
More Details

Sony FDR-AX53 Overview

By B&H Photo's

The Sony FDR-AX53 is a palm-sized Handycam camcorder that combines a Zeiss 20x optical zoom lens and a high-sensitivity image sensor to produce crisp and high-quality UHD 4K video. The Exmor R CMOS image sensor supports UHD 4K video capture at 24 or 30 fps using Sony's XAVC S codec and features pixels that are approximately 1.6x larger than the previous model for enhanced performance in all conditions, particularly low-light scenarios. The camcorder also features Sony's Balance Optical SteadyShot image stabilization technology to help produce smooth and stable footage throughout the zoom range. Further enhancements include improved autofocus speed and accuracy, a lower-noise built-in microphone, and a high-speed 1080p 120 fps recording mode to create high-resolution slow-motion content.

You can monitor your shots using the camcorder's 3.0" Xtra Fine LCD touchscreen display with 921K dot resolution, or the high-resolution 0.24" 1,555K dot OLED EVF. For large-screen playback, an HDMI output port is also provided for connecting to your HDTV. You can even 'trim' a selected portion of a 4K video or image frame to fill the screen with Full HD quality. For enhanced connectivity and remote control, the FDR-AX53 is Wi-Fi and NFC enabled. This lets you use your smartphone or tablet to control the camcorder, as well as wirelessly transfer files to your mobile device and even stream live to Ustream.

Designed for a wide range of users, the camcorder features a range of automatic image and audio options for easy point-and-shoot operation, as well as enhanced manual controls that give you more creative freedom. An assignable ring on the front of the camcorder can be assigned to control zoom, focus, exposure, iris, shutter speed, exposure, or white balance. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack is included for powering the camcorder, along with an AC adapter, micro-HDMI cable, and micro-USB cable.

Exmor R CMOS Sensor
A newly developed image sensor, with pixels approximately 1.6 times larger than previous models, offers enhanced sensitivity for capturing high-quality images with less noise under dark as well as bright shooting conditions.
Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Lens with 20x Optical Zoom
The FDR-AX53 comes equipped with a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens. It features a wide 35mm-equivalent focal length of 26.8mm (in movie mode) to fit more into your shots and a 20x optical zoom range. Multi-layer Zeiss T* coating further enhances image quality by reducing unwanted reflection, such as ghosting and flare. To get you closer to the action, the zoom range can be extended using Clear Image Zoom of 30x/40x (4K/HD).
Balanced Optical SteadyShot Image Stabilization
Advanced image stabilization suppresses camera shake to stabilize footage as it is being shot and works throughout the zoom range. In HD shooting mode, it further reduces the effect of camera shake even under unstable conditions with 5-axis Intelligent Active mode compensating for vibration in five different directions, so you can shoot stable high-quality movies even while running.
Fast Intelligent AF
Fast Intelligent AF achieves very speedy, accurate contrast-detection autofocus by minimizing lens motion, predicting the AF range, and accelerating lens drive, thereby improving response so you can capture more fleeting moments.
5.1 Channel On-Board Audio Capture
During AVCHD recording, a 5.1 channel built-in microphone captures active sounds coming from five directions so you can experience your home movies the way you experienced them while recording. Level meters on the LCD panel provide visual monitoring of each channel's levels.

Note: 5.1 channel audio is only available when recording in AVCHD, so it is not available for 4K UHD recording, which uses the XAVC S codec.
Lower Noise Audio Performance
A new structural design enables the microphone to gather clearer sound from five directions than the previous generation camcorder, with approx. 40% less noise and twice as effective 2ch stereo (for XAVC S shooting) and three times as effective Dolby Digital 5.1 channel surround (for AVCHD shooting) sound performance. This makes it possible to faithfully reproduce audio with clearly defined separation.
High-Speed Full HD Recording
Shoot in 1080p at 120 fps and bring it into your editing software to produce high-resolution slow-motion footage. This is useful for reviewing, in greater slow-motion detail, sports and everyday action that can occur too quickly in real time for you to see clearly.
XAVC S, AVCHD, and MP4 Codecs
The FDR-AX53 records 4K and HD movies in the XAVC S format, which uses MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 for video compression and linear PCM for audio compression while saving files in an MP4 wrapper which allows for extensive record times and easy editing. Additionally, you can choose to record HD in AVCHD (ideal for HDTV and Blu-ray disc burning) or MP4 (ideal for sharing over the internet).
Dual Video Recording
Record two movies at the same time - one in the maximum-quality XAVC S or AVCHD format and another in MP4 format. This gives you a small file ready for instant sharing, plus a professional-grade file for further editing.
4K Time-Lapse
Capture 4K still images continuously over an extensive period of time at a selected constant interval from each shot to the next, edit the entire sequence of still images in post-production, and enjoy playback of that series of images as a time-lapse movie.
Super-Sampled Full HD Playback
Enhance your viewing experience even without a 4K television. Using super-sampling, the camera automatically down-converts 4K footage to exceptionally detailed Full HD.
Timecode / User Bit
Time Code and User Bit can be added to movies as data elements. The Time Code function records hours/minutes/seconds/frames on image data for precise advanced video editing. User Bit function records information such as date, time, and scene number in eight-digit arbitrary numbers, and is useful for editing movies using two or more cameras.
0.24" OLED EVF
The high contrast 0.24" OLED Tru-Finder EVF features a 1,555K-dot resolution and reproduces rich color and deep blacks. The optical design uses four dual-surface spherical lenses that provide a wide 33-degree viewing angle for clear images from the center to the edge of the viewfinder.
3.0" Xtra Fine LCD Touchscreen Display
The 3.0" Clear Photo LCD features 921K dot resolution for sharp, bright, vivid images, enabling you to change settings to best represent the scene. Easily scroll through menus and view footage thanks to WhiteMagic technology that dramatically increases visibility in bright daylight.
Simple Connectivity to Smartphones via Wi-Fi/NFC
Built-in Wi-Fi/NFC support enables easy connectivity with smartphones for one-touch sharing and one-touch remote control. NFC (near field communication) provides "touch connection" convenience when transferring images to Android smartphones and tablets. You simply touch your NFC-compatible device to the camcorder to establish a connection.
Live Streaming
Share the adventure as it happens via Ustream live streaming. Now your circle of friends and family can share the excitement in real time by simply logging in to UStream from anywhere. You can also link your favorite social accounts to notify your friends when you start streaming video.
Multicamera Control
Add a different point of view by including other camera angles in your movies. Connect to up to five compatible Sony cameras via Wi-Fi and use the camcorder's LCD to preview what the other cameras are seeing and simultaneously start recording on all synced cameras. After recording, you can use the PlayMemories Home software (available as a free download on Sony's website) to easily edit and create multi-view movies.
Highlight Movie Maker
Highlight Movie Maker produces a short highlight movie clip to share and enjoy instantly. Using an advanced algorithm based on the motion gyro, Highlight Movie Maker automatically selects the best scenes from your videos and creates an MP4 highlight reel of your recorded action.

Note: Highlight Move Maker is only available in AVCHD.
Intelligent AUTO Mode
Intelligent AUTO mode goes a step beyond traditional auto modes by analyzing your shot and then automatically selecting the appropriate settings from ten distinct scene modes and wind noise reduction. There are 60 different combinations possible: Portrait, Baby, Tripod, Backlight, Landscape, Spotlight, Twilight, Macro, and Low light.
Multi Interface Accessory Shoe
Expand photographic and movie shooting possibilities by attaching optional accessories via the Multi Interface Shoe. Attach an electronic viewfinder, external flash, stereo microphone, or even a compatible remote control via the Multi Terminal.
Trimming Playback
Connect to your 1080p HDTV via the camcorder's HDMI output and select a specific portion of the 4K picture for playback; you can move the section using the camcorder's menu toggle, and scale it using the zoom lever.
Manual Control Ring
The manual control ring around the lens opening can be assigned to control zoom, focus, exposure, iris, shutter speed, exposure, or white balance.
Additional Features
  • Dual Record (video and still image recording)
  • Photo capture from movie
  • NightShot infrared recording
  • Face Detection and Smile Shutter
  • Motion/Golf Shot
  • BRAVIA Sync (CEC)
  • Lock-on AF
  • My Voice Cancelling
UPC: 027242895638

Sony FDR-AX53 Specs

Key Specs
Image Sensor
1/2.5"-Type CMOS
Image Stabilization
Optical
Zoom
Optical: 20x
Clear Image Zoom: 30x 4K
Clear Image Zoom: 40x (in HD)
Digital: 250x
Built-In Speaker
Yes
Audio I/O
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Microphone Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Headphone Output
Wireless
Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
Built-In Light
Light - No
Imaging
Image Sensor
1/2.5"-Type CMOS
Image Stabilization
Optical
Maximum Aperture
f/2 to 3.8
Zoom
Optical: 20x
Clear Image Zoom: 30x 4K
Clear Image Zoom: 40x (in HD)
Digital: 250x
Recording
Internal Recording Modes
AVCHD
1920 x 1080p at 59.94 fps [28 Mb/s]
1920 x 1080p at 23.98 fps [17 to 24 Mb/s]
1920 x 1080i at 59.94 fps [17 to 24 Mb/s]
1440 x 1080i at 59.94 fps [5 to 9 Mb/s]
MP4
1280 x 720 at 29.97 fps [3 Mb/s]
XAVC S
3840 x 2160 at 23.98/29.97 fps [100 Mb/s]
1920 x 1080p at 23.98/29.97/59.94 fps [60 Mb/s]
Still Image Support
JPEG
16.6 MP (5440 x 3056)
JPEG
12.5 MP (4080 x 3056)
JPEG
8.3 MP (3840 x 2160)
JPEG
6.2 MP (2880 x 2160)
JPEG
2.1 MP (1920 x 1080)
JPEG
.3 MP (640 x 480)
Exposure Control
Shutter Speed
1/10000 to 1/8 Second in Video Mode
Features
Scene Modes
Presets - Yes
Creative Effects
Yes
Built-In Speaker
Yes
Media/Memory Card Slot
Single Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Duo Hybrid
Video I/O
1x Micro-HDMI Output
Audio I/O
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Microphone Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Headphone Output
Other I/O
1x Sony Multi/Micro-USB Control/Video
Wireless
Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
Power Consumption
In LCD Operation: 4.9 W
In Viewfinder Operation: 4.9 W
General
Built-In Light
Light - No
Tripod Mounting Thread
1/4"-20 Female
Dimensions (W x H x D)
2.9 x 3.2 x 6.6" / 7.4 x 8.1 x 16.8 cm
Weight
22.4 oz / 635 g (With Battery)
Packaging Info
Package Weight
2.455 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
8.8 x 5.9 x 5.3"

Sony FDR-AX53 Reviews

See any errors on this page? Let us know

question

hi, sony ax53 is its real 4k image.
Asked by: Jasim U.
The Sony FDR-AX53 4K Ultra HD Handycam Camcorder can shoot in 4K UHD 3840 x 2160p. While this is not DCI 4K, this is still considered 4K on the consumer end.
Answered by: Naftoli
Date published: 2023-10-23

Does it have night vision

Does it have night vision
Asked by: Devil
Yes. I gives "light" for about fifteen feet, past that it doesn't do much on its own, but still helps when videoing something from afar, if there is some light in that area. It will have a greenish tint. (Similar to black and white)
Answered by: benjamin
Date published: 2024-02-11

question

Can you pull focus with the AX53 in 4K?
Asked by: The-Observer
I don't now about in 4K (others mentioned about it), but in regular HD you can. There are two ways. The simple way is by tapping on a subject on the touchscreen; it will focus on that object. So if you are focused close by, and tap on something further from you, you will see it change. Obviously It will make a difference regarding the distance you are from the two subjects, and the difference between them themselves, to notice the change (such as if you want to do this on purpose for fancy effect, like in professional videos). Another way is manually with the manual ring (press and hold 'manual' on the left side, then use ring around lens to move selector, then use button to enter. You can press the button again to go back to auto. I find you have to turn the ring a lot; I would suggest they make it change focus with less turning. You use the ring basically when the camera doesn't understand what you want - such as when you want to focus on something outside from a window with raindrops on it. Similarly with exposure such as when a light or bright window is behind subject, and you want to make subject brighter. It will wash out window, but you will see subject clearly.)
Answered by: benjamin
Date published: 2021-08-03

question

Playmemories mobile connect to iphone/ipad does not work. I keep scanning the QR code and setting up but then after rebooting the app like it says it still will not connect to camera. It asks me to rescan QR code... it's an endless loop. Anybody have a solution?
Asked by: O A.
This sounds like a Sony Service question. I would suggest contacting the Sony Product Operation Support Center (POSC) at 800-883-6817. 8:00 am to 8:00 pm ET, excluding weekends and holidays.
Answered by: Dennis A L.
Date published: 2018-08-26

question

Can a lens hood be added?
Asked by: Anonymous
A 55mm wide-angle lens hood may be added.
Answered by: Mark S.
Date published: 2018-08-26

question

Will the Rode VMGO Video Mic GO Lightweight On-Camera Microphone work on the Sony AX53?(134)Rode VideoMic GO Lightweight On-Camera Microphone
Asked by: Kenneth Q.
Plug-in power is provided by the camera, so it will power the RODE VideoMic GO
Answered by: Mark S.
Date published: 2018-08-26

Does the optical steady shot provide leveling ...

Does the optical steady shot provide leveling too? It seems to constantly get off balance. (It works for general steadiness.)
Asked by: Nesanel
No, optical stabilization in the Sony FDR-AX53 4K Ultra HD Handycam Camcorder (or any camera with optical stabilization) will not level the shot, it is only intended as a tool to help with camera shakes.
Answered by: Paige K
Date published: 2024-01-02

Is there a special mode to record in Bl.& Wh. ?

Is there a special mode to record in Bl.& Wh. ?
Asked by: karen
Yes, the unit does have a Picture Effect feature to record in black and white.
Answered by: SonyListens
Date published: 2020-09-23
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