Sony PXW-Z200 – 4K HDR camcorder with 20× optical zoom

1.0-type Exmor RS sensor

Image quality otherwise out of reach for a compact camcorder comes from the large 1.0-type Exmor RS CMOS sensor with approx. 14.0 million effective pixels. Its stacked structure – back-illuminated pixels layered over integrated signal-processing circuits – enables faster readout and lets more light reach the pixels, improving low-light results.

BIONZ XR image processing

The latest-generation BIONZ XR image processor enables higher frame rates, faster autofocus, more accurate Auto Tracing White Balance (ATW) and more effective noise reduction. It draws the finest textures and details from the high-resolution sensor: 5K oversampling with full-pixel readout produces 4K (3840 × 2160) 60p video.

AI Processing Unit for next-generation AF

A dedicated AI Processing Unit works with BIONZ XR and uses deep learning based on human form and posture data to recognise people with high precision. Fast Hybrid AF covers approx. 81% of the frame, so Subject Recognition AF and Real-time Tracking hold focus almost anywhere in the picture.

Auto Framing*

With Auto Framing engaged, the camera tracks a recognised person and adjusts the crop so the subject stays prominently in frame. The result looks as though an operator was reframing throughout the shoot – even though the camera never moved. Solo operators can concentrate on the interview instead of constantly checking the camera.

From firmware 2.0, the crop and framing position can be adjusted manually in Monitor & Control 2.3, and up to 10 presets** can be stored.

* 4K footage is cropped, resulting in a narrower angle of view. This image was shot on the HXR-NX800.

** Paid version only; 2 presets are available free of charge.

4K at 120 fps* for slow motion

The fast readout of the Exmor RS sensor enables high-frame-rate 4K recording at up to 120 fps and Full HD at up to 240 fps. That gives 4× slow motion in 4K at 30p or 5× at 24p, while fast autofocus keeps the subject sharp. Slow & Quick Motion** is supported up to 4K 120p and Full HD 240p.

* With approx. 23% crop. 100/200 fps in PAL mode. See the operating instructions for minimum memory card requirements.

** Audio is not recorded in Slow & Quick Motion.

Advanced image stabilisation

Built-in stabilisation minimises camera shake. In Active Mode* optical and electronic stabilisation work together, so handheld shots stay smooth and steady.

* Slight image crop in Active Mode. Active Mode is not available at 120 (100) fps or higher, including S&Q.

Built-in electronic variable ND filter

The electronic variable ND filter adjusts smoothly to different light levels. Set it from 1/4 to 1/128 with a dial, or let the Auto ND function maintain optimum exposure – especially useful when moving quickly between indoors and outdoors.

Accurate LCD monitor and OLED viewfinder

The new 3.5-type LCD monitor with approx. 2.76 million dots offers high brightness and clarity, making monitoring and focusing easy. It swings up, down and backwards. The supplied LCD hood slides into grooves at the top and bottom edges of the monitor, and the monitor folds away even with the hood attached.

The high-contrast 0.39-type OLED viewfinder with approx. 2.36 million dots shuts out ambient light for a clear, undistracted view.

Compact design and easy storage

The viewfinder and LCD monitor fold away, so the lightweight camera stores easily. The PXW-Z200 body alone weighs approx. 1.96 kg and measures 175.6 × 201.3 × 371.1 mm (W × H × D); folded, just 175.6 × 175.4 × 285.1 mm*. The microphone holder detaches for even easier carrying.

* Without the lens hood, microphone holder and large eyecup.

AUTO/MANUAL switch

If shooting conditions change suddenly, a single switch adjusts the settings to keep brightness and white balance right. Set to AUTO, it engages Auto ND filter, auto iris, auto gain control, auto shutter and auto white balance.

Cinematic and broadcast looks

Achieving the look of professional broadcast or film productions is easy. Use the S-Cinetone, ITU709, 709tone, HLG Live, HLG Mild and HLG Natural presets, then adjust black level, colour matrix and other parameters as needed. Your footage colour-matches easily with material from other Sony broadcast and Cinema Line cameras.

From firmware 2.0 the scene file is stored as a single file including the Base Look, and in Custom mode it can be exported to a card and loaded into both the PXW-Z200 and the HXR-NX800.

Multiple recording formats

The PXW-Z200 offers a range of recording formats for different project needs. XAVC (MXF) provides compatibility with MXF-based broadcast workflows. XAVC S-I delivers the highest quality – 10-bit 4:2:2 4K (QFHD) recording in post-production-friendly Intra-Frame H.264. XAVC HS-L (H.265) and XAVC S-L (H.264) offer 4:2:2 or 4:2:0 with Long GOP recording for longer recording times and smaller files. XAVC HS Proxy at up to 16 Mbps records alongside the main recording, and the smaller files are ideal for editing and previews before final delivery. From firmware 2.0 the PXW-Z200 also supports MPEG HD422*.

* Requires the MPEG HD Upgrade licence (CBKZ-SLMP).

Comprehensive connectivity

SDI output (12G, 6G, 3G Level A and B, and HD) and timecode input and output support proxy recording and multi-camera productions. Connect external equipment via HDMI Type A, USB-C, LAN, REMOTE and other terminals.

Wireless monitoring and remote control

Thanks to built-in 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz* Wi-Fi, you can check framing remotely before shooting, then monitor and control the camera. The free Monitor & Control** app lets you start recording, touch focus, adjust iris and more.

* 5 GHz may be restricted in some regions.

** Monitor & Control is available from Google Play and the App Store.

4-channel audio

Record up to four audio channels by combining the XLR inputs and the Multi Interface (MI) Shoe. Adjust the level of two channels with dials, without entering the menu. With the SMAD-P5 adaptor and the UWP-D series wireless systems you capture clean sound quickly and reliably.

Simple file transfers

Upload proxy and original clips from the memory card to the cloud or an FTP server. Once the destination server is registered in the camera, recordings transfer automatically whenever recording stops. Proxy clips can even be recorded in segments and transferred sequentially during recording.

The Creator's Cloud for enterprise C3 Portal app (paid)* makes cloud transfers easy, so files are ready for editing and sharing sooner.

* Availability limited to specific regions.

Accessibility

A screen reader function* reads menu items aloud at a user-selected volume and speed. A screen magnifier enlarges the recording, playback and menu screens at a selected ratio.

* Availability varies by region and language.

Dual memory card slots

Record to two cards simultaneously or use relay recording to back up your content. Both slots accept CFexpress Type A and SDXC cards.

Dependable battery power

Quickly charge BP-U35, BP-U70 or BP-U100 lithium-ion batteries with the BC-U1A or BC-U2A charger. With a BP-U35 battery, continuous operating time is approx. 90 minutes. The batteries are shared with other Sony cameras, including the PXW-Z280 and PXW-Z190 camcorders and the FX9 and FX6 Cinema Line cameras.

Internal fan and vents

A built-in cooling fan and carefully designed vents maintain optimum operating temperature.