High-end performance in a compact, aerodynamic package that sells for just $250 makes this camera both a value and performance leader in this test.
Editor's Note: This article is part of the 2015 RoadBikeReview/Mtbr POV Camera Shootout. We'll also be publishing reviews of the Drift Ghost-S, Garmin Virb Elite, GoPro HERO4 Silver, iON Air Pro 3 Wi-Fi, and the Shimano Sport Camera. These reviews will be followed by our final rankings, plus video samples from all six cameras. Read all POV Camera Shootout articles here. To download full resolution video files from all the tests, go HERE.
The Lowdown: Sony Action Cam Mini
Sony may not be the first name in POV cameras, but they're one of the only serious options if you want professional quality video. What sets Sony (and GoPro) apart is their proprietary high bit-rate mode for video that's more natural, with sharper details, better color, and smoother motion. The Sony Action Cam Mini gives you that high-end performance in a compact, aerodynamic package that sells for just $250, making it both a value and performance leader in this test. The Action Cam Mini further improves video quality with built-in image stabilization for incredibly smooth trail videos (some might even think it's too smooth). It's also weatherproof, so you can use it without wrangling with extra housing; and it has a built-in stereo microphone that yields excellent audio quality. The Action Cam Mini doesn't quite match the specs of the GoPro Hero 4 Silver, but it does hit all the important marks - full HD at 60 FPS, 720p at 120 FPS, solid time lapse controls and 11.9-megapixel still photos at up to 8 FPS. If you want more, Sony's slightly larger AS100 V Action Cam has a better sensor. Still not enough? Sony just announced the AS200 V and a new 4k Action Cam, which should be available soon. It's also worth noting that we tested the Action Cam Mini with Sony's watch-style wireless remote, which made using the camera much easier. It's definitely worth the extra $100.
| Max Resolution: 1920 x 1080 full HD | Waterproof: 15 feet with housing |
| Max Full HD Frame Rate: 60 FPS | Battery Life: Approximately 2.5 hours |
| Max HD Frame Rate: 120 FPS at 720p | Built-in Wi-Fi: Yes |
| Time Lapse Controls: Yes | GPS: With Live View Remote |
| Still Photo Resolution: 11.9 megapixels | Weight: 63g (129g with housing) |
| Max. Still Photo Burst: 8 FPS | MSRP: $250 |
| Image Stabilization: Electronic | Rating:
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Sony Action Cam Mini Video
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKJ2CBvOIq8Sony Action Cam Mini tested on the trail at full HD (1920x1080) at the fastest frame rate.
Specification Comparison Chart
For more information visit store.sony.com.
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