Sony Electronics launches 4K 3-CMOS sensor XDCAM flagship camcorder

Sony Electronics Inc. announced the launch of the PXW-Z300, a flagship handheld XDCAM camcorder featuring 1/2-inch 4K 3-CMOS Exmor R sensors, the latest BIONZ XR image processing engine, and a dedicated AI-processing unit. This model comes equipped with a professional lens system that includes three independent manual control rings. The new camcorder, available in fall 2025, is suited for news, sports, corporate, faith, events, documentary, live programming, and reality programming.

The PXW-Z300 has a 17x optical zoom lens, and Electronic Variable ND filter, with versatile operational capabilities. In addition to high-quality 4K 60p recording, it features AI-powered subject recognition for precise autofocus performance. The camera introduces a new articulating Flexible LCD Arm for adaptable capturing styles and a Side V-Mount that allows smartphones or data transmitters to be securely attached.

The PXW-Z300 is the first camcorder to embed digital signatures directly into video files, enabling content authentication. The PXW-Z300’s network functionality has been enhanced through improved communication device integration, which supports modern production workflows that utilize 5G and cloud technologies. This enables live streaming from shooting locations and efficient file transfer over networks.

“This latest camcorder has new enhancements, including content authenticity capabilities, that will be very beneficial for those in the news and production industry, whether they’re capturing action-packed content, breaking stories, or producing educational documentaries,” said Kento Sayama, Deputy Head, Media Segment, Imaging Solutions at Sony Electronics.

The camcorder features 1/2-inch back-illuminated 4K 3-CMOS Exmor R sensors and the BIONZ XR image processing engine, enabling excellent color separation, F12 sensitivity, and 4K 60p recording. It incorporates a 17x optical zoom lens with F1.9 constant maximum aperture and three independent manual control rings for traditional camera operation.

By utilizing the digital extender function, individuals can achieve 1.5x zoom in 4K mode and up to 4x zoom in HD mode with minimal resolution degradation, making the camera suitable for a wide range of capturing scenarios, including news gathering and event documentation.

Additionally, the camera is equipped with an Electronic Variable ND filter that seamlessly adjusts transmission from 1/4 to 1/128, along with optical image stabilization. This allows for smooth brightness adjustment and stable capture when moving between locations with varying light conditions, such as from bright outdoor areas to dim interior spaces.

The PXW-Z300 incorporates a dedicated AI-processing unit in addition to its image processing engine. This enables high-precision subject (human) recognition based on face, eye, skeletal structure, and posture information. The system can maintain autofocus on subjects even when they are facing away from the camera or wearing facial coverings. It also features an auto-framing function that automatically adjusts composition to keep human subjects centered in the frame. 

The camera also features a 3.5-inch high-brightness LCD monitor with approximately 2.76 million dots. It provides excellent visibility even in bright conditions and is significantly brighter than its predecessor, the PXW-Z280. Additionally, this camcorder will be offered as an all-in-one solution (VTK-Z300) that also includes wireless digital audio and accessories, such as a tripod and transport bag for capturing great video and audio on the go.