Sony Action Video Camera (HDR-AS10) Review

Описание: Review: 4/5
A Lot to Like, Cool SlowMo, One Major Drawback

There a lot to like with this little camera, including really cool slow motion. But it has also has a few drawbacks (one major) that you should be aware of. First, unpacking out of the box I was impressed by this compact little camera. Sony gets an A for effort, as they clearly put a lot of effort into this. The camera is impressively small relative to a normal camcorder, so it isn't a burden. With PS mode (1080 60p) the video is quite respectable (make sure you have the 2.0 firmware to get this mode). The slow motion "sslow" mode is really cool (shown in my video) and impressed me most. The water-tight case it comes with doubles as a carry case too, so it is all you need. The super wide angle lens does catch a lot in frame, more than you might expect, although only slightly more than a good camcorder. The software (Play Memories Home) is decent software that will let you cut and combine videos (of the same mode). The native format is ".mp4", which is sufficiently small & easily plays most places. As this is an "Action Video Camera", not trying to be a normal camcorder, then for its purpose it does a good job and I think you can forgive its faults (maybe except one). But for home movies & vacations, a normal camcorder is the way to go. To capture action in a rough environment, then this does what a camcorder cannot.

There are a number of drawbacks: (also shown in video)
1. The largest drawback by far is the sound quality when you put it int the enclosed water-tight mountable case. It really sounds like you put it in an enclosed case, very muted. Keep in mind that you need to use this case for most mounting brackets. Considering it is an enclosed case, it perhaps does a good job picking up what sound it can (once you think about it) but at first it was disappointing. But remember this is an action video camera, and sound quality might not be a priority. If it is, then you might not forgive this.
2. There is no view-finder or LCD screen to see what is actually in picture, or to make sure you have it straight. You actually end up catching more in frame than you expect, and don't always hold it level. it isn't a big problem, but is something you might miss.
3. The camera cannot stand up on its own with its rounded bottom (without case). So you pretty much have to use the case if you aren't going to hold it or find a mount bracket that doesn't require the case.
4. The picture is distorted by the wide angle lens near the edges of the picture and when you get closer to things. Standing back looks fine.
5. There is some unwanted sound noise (I assume from subtle movements from your hand on the camera). Without case, is perfectly fine for an action camera.
6. The default HQ mode (1080 30p) was unimpressive because it was noticeably jittery compared to my normal camcorder, which was the max mode before the 2.0 firmware was released. Definitely get the firmware update and use the PS mode.
7. The bottom door is a little awkward to hold open to insert the USB/charging cable.

Make sure you get the latest firmware (2.0 on April 26, 2013) if yours was manufactured earlier. Connect & install the Play Memories Home software and check the alerts section which will tell you about an update that you can click through to download and install.


Product Title: Action Video Camera from Sony HDR-AS10 (Black)
Model: HDR-AS10, HDRAS10/B