Is there a big difference in image quality/low light in these cameras? Or is it mainly auto focus and dual cards?

Owning both, I see no big difference in picture quality.

AX 700: Good slo-mo...has Picture Profiles...S-log etc.

But at the end of the day, I can't tell a difference in picture quality.

This is my personal opinion.....

Is the autofocus faster and better on the AX700?

Yes...autofocus is faster....lots of fumbling in the menus to get to the proper focus setting to match the scene.

Worth to upgrade from the AX100 or not?

The AX100 and AX700 will have the same brightness at 33db, but the AX100 will have the grain/noise of the AX100 at 27db when it is at 33db, so basically, same light sensitivity, just 6db cleaner at all gain values.

Paul

Tha AX700 will give you considerably more dynamic range because of its many picture profile options to choose from. You can pick rec709 800%, SLog-2 or HLG. The AX100 is locked only into rec709 with very limited dynamic range and blows highlights easy.

There are more color options too on the 700. This is a pretty big deal over the AX100. The AX100 uses the original generation 1 inch-type sensor. ( the one that started the Sony 1 inch-type craze) The AX700 uses a newer generation that is BSI and stacked. It also has RAM onboard for ultra fast readout.

The AX700 also has a beefier grip with a much better zoom rocker.

The AX700 is a substantially better camcorder in my opinion.

Lou, I would be most grateful if you might comment on the EVF brightness. In bright full sun outdoor beach and ocean scenes in particular and when shooting 4k with the AX100 the EVF is essentially useless in my experience. Other have reported this problem also. Is the AX700 EVF significantly better, really usable, in harsh very bright outdoor light conditions?

Many thanks.

Thanks for the info I am on the fence but I think I will op for the 700

The EVF is about the same. The pull-out monitor is also about the same.

Without getting into what the specs are written, I can't tell a difference between my X-70 and my AX-100 when compared with my new AX-700. However, if you want S-Slog and HDV and a faster auto focus then go for the AX-700. But, there is no WOW factor when side by side. Now, I do see a difference using my AX-53 by virtue of a smaller chip.

Thanks Lou. Looks like I need to look elsewhere...

It’s funny I use the Sony nex ea50 uh I always loved the pictures but was hoping for a replacement. The 700llooks like it has everything I love about the 50 with better pix in a small package. No interchangablr lenses though.