Skip to main content

Sony’s new PXW-Z280 uses three sensors for 4K at 60 frames per second

Sony’s production-level video cameras just gained three new options designed to marry the detail of 4K with the colors and range of HDR. During the National Association of Broadcasters Show 2018, Sony launched the XDCAM PXW-Z280, PXW-Z190 and FS5 II. The PXW-Z280, Sony says, is the first-ever 4K camcorder with three half-inch chips.

Recommended Videos

The Sony PXW-Z280 uses three half-inch COMS sensors. The three sensors work together to enhance the camera’s light sensitivity, resulting in a better color gradation, Sony says. The video camera can record 4K at 50p or 60p, with a 4:2:2 10-bit format. That sensor trio is paired with a 17x zoom lens.

For broadcast capabilities, Sony integrated the same tech behind the could-based XDCAM Air, with Quality of Service and Dual Link for using two cellular networks. Data transfers for live recording is also possible through Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

Also integrating three sensors, the Sony PXW-Z190 uses smaller 1/3 type sensors that allow the model to both sit at a lower price point an integrate a longer 25x optical zoom lens. Like the Z280, the Z190 records 4K at 50p or 60p and also records 4:2:2 10-bit. Compatibility with Sony’s Instant HDR workflow allows for faster color grading, while the video camera also uses the XDCAM Air, but requires purchasing a license for the cloud service.

Both PXW models use an upgraded Advanced Face Detection Autofocus. Sony says the addition of a “Face Only AF” allows the focus to remain on a specific person, even inside of a group. Both cameras also use a built-in electronic neutral density filter, allowing videographers more control over the exposure and depth-of-field.

The new PXW cameras come alongside Sony’s second rendition of the Super 35mm FS5. The FS5 II captures cinema 4K (4096 x 2160) in HDR and can even shoot that high resolution as fast as 120 fps (though only for four seconds at that blend of high resolution and high frame rates). RAW format is also included. Sony says the second generation also offers a more refined toning for better highlights and skin tones.

Like the predecessor, the FS5 II is an E-mount video camera with interchangeable lenses and a modular frame that allows the camera to be adapted for different shoots from movies to even a drone mount.

The trio of new cameras comes inside a longer list of broadcast gear, including a new camera control unit, the HDCU-3100, and a new live production switcher, the XVS-9000. The new tech — and some existing tech — will be on display during this week’s NAB 2018 show.

The FS5 II will be the first to hit the market with an expected June arrival and a $4,750 body-only price point or $5,250 with a lens. The PXW-Z280 follows in July for $6,950 and the PXW-Z190 in September with pricing expected to be under $4,000. 

Updated on April 11, 2018: This article has been updated with a correction. The Z280 supports 4K at 60 frames per second, not 120 fps.

Hillary K. Grigonis
Hillary never planned on becoming a photographer—and then she was handed a camera at her first writing job and she's been…
An ace photographer is about to leave the ISS. Here are his best shots
The moon and Earth as seen from the ISS.

NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick is preparing to return to Earth after spending seven months living and working aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

After arriving at the orbital outpost, Dominick -- who is on his first mission to space -- quickly earned a reputation for being an ace photographer. He's been using the facility’s plethora of high-end cameras and lenses to capture amazing shots from his unique vantage point some 250 miles above Earth. Sharing his content on social media, the American astronaut has always been happy to reveal how he captured the imagery and offer extra insight for folks interested to know more.

Read more
Filter-free and fun, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera is on sale Right Now for Prime Day
fujifilm instax mini 11 camera prime big deal days

It's 2024, and you’re considering a point-and-shoot camera. Zero judgment here. I miss the good ol’ days of flipping through actual photo albums instead of doom-scrolling on Instagram. You can get back to those days by snagging a (in the ice white color), and it’s the perfect time because it’s on sale. Get it for 24% off during Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days, but hurry while inventory is going strong.
There’s something magical about having a physical photo right in your hand seconds after snapping the shot, and it adds a fun, retro vibe to moments you want to capture and keep. Plus, having an actual picture to hold and display can be so much more satisfying than just another digital file on your phone. I picked one up two years ago for my eight-year-old daughter, and it’s been an instant hit in our household. And now, at its $59 sale price, I'm definitely going to be stocking up on a few to gift ahead of the holiday season.

How the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 works
The delightful throwback comes with a FUJINON 60mm lens and an automatic exposure feature that adjusts the shutter speed for the best shot, even in low light. While the picture quality won’t be as crisp as what your smartphone can capture, it’ll still produce a quality image worthy of slapping on a refrigerator.
If selfies are your thing, this camera has a dedicated Selfie Mode (with a mirror). We set up a DIY photo booth for my daughter's birthday party with sticker frames so each kid could go home with a photo souvenir, and it was a total hit.
You can opt to make it a set with a range of accessories to buy separately, like a carrying case, a handy strap, those sticker borders I mentioned, and photo albums to hold the memories.

Read more
The Canon EOS R100 mirrorless is ideal for beginners — $170 off today
Canon EOS R100 mirrorless camera with lens attached

If you don't want to spend the money on a high-end DSLR camera, mirrorless cameras are an excellent alternative. But they, too, can be expensive, at least normally. Right now, thanks to a bevy of Prime Big Deal Days discounts, the best camera deals, in general, and super great Prime Day camera deals there are a ton of offers available. So, it's a great time to shop if you've been on the fence. However, we wanted to call out a great deal for novice photographers on the Canon EOS R100 mirrorless camera. Normally $600, it's just $429 right now as part of the event, saving you over $170. The bundle includes the RF-S18-45mm lens. Again, a great starting point for casual or novice photographers.

 
Why shop this Canon EOS R100 mirrorless camera deal for Prime Big Deal Days?

Read more