Hi, I'm sorry for this question.
Are there any compact photo cameras recording good HD 1080i video like a good videocamera (around like Sony nx5u)?
thanks

Sure, if you stay in the sony camp you will find users that claim the current high end sony handicams perform equally good and even better then the nx5 in certain situations, like low light.

I'm sorry but I mean photo cameras.

Read too fast :) In that case the Panasonic gh3 maybe, it does have a higher resolution image and less moire then canon t4i alike camera's.

How compact? Are you talking the kind you can slip in your pocket, or a "bridge" tyep camera? I would say the Nikon P520 (US designation). It shoot full 1080p with stereo sound. Another is the Canon Powershot SX50 HS, it also does 1080p with stereo sound. The nice thing about the Nikon is that it has GPS tagging.

I have the Sony HX30V ( same as the HX20V really) that takes really good video even 60P. http://store.sony.ca/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=100803&storeId=20153&langId=200&productId=8198552921666429167 match to my CX700, NX30 which in lots of instances are better than my NX5U. I shoot 60P all the time with all these 3 small Sony's. The HX30V will fit in your pocket easily. I think there may be a new model coming out too.

Ron Evans

Awfully hard to beat the Panasonic GH3 although it's slightly larger than compact. Mine out shoots my Sony EX1r which I've now sold.

If you're talking "pocketable", Sony makes several fairly good 1080 60p options - the RX100 is very manually controllable, the other cybershot options don't have as much control, but include the (retired) TX100V, TX200V, the HX's Ron mentioned, the HX100, HX200. Current models include the HX300, and the rumour is there is an HX50 coming soon.

Also there's a forum thread on the GW77 - VERY pocketable, and it's a video camera, with "some" still capability. The upper end of the PJ and CX Handycams are also pretty nice, and capable of stills.

If still quality is the priority, the RX100 is actually worth the semi-crazy price, but there are cheaper options that will get you more than acceptable video, from Sony and other brand compacts.

Lots of options in the "compact" department nowadays, so perhaps some idea of your budget and needs/expectations might help!

The Sony Alpha NEX series seems to fit your requirements. The latest versions of the NEX 3.5.6 & 7 all still offer 1080i/60 recording formats. There are plenty of sample clips on the web to assess the camera's (rather than the shooters') abilities.
The current models are available with the short 16-50 lens that makes the whole camera fairly easy to carry in a pocket as a 'vacation' camera. For more specific video applications, other lens can be carried.

I think the OP needs to decide how he will use this camera. If he just needs a compact camera to carry around that will take video that could mix with his NX5U then he may come to the same conclusion I did for the little Sony. I bought my daughters the HX10V which shoots 60i and I wanted the HX20 which never came to Canada so I got the HX30V. I have used with my CX700 in a shoot I cannot tell the difference between them. If anything the HX30V video is better. Weakness is video in really low light compared to a real video camera. Perfectly acceptable though for shooting family around a table in a restaurant at night though. For about $400 the HX30V has 20x optical zoom, Active optical steadyshot, object focus tracking in still and video modes,face detection, GPS, compass and WiFI etc. I take it with me on my ski trips with the GoPro Hero 3. They both go in a small bag in my carry-on complete with chargers and batteries that is smaller than a single Handycam in its bag!!!

If the intent is to have something with different still camera capabilities then moving up the cost curve one has to decide how much money to spend. The closest in cost is likely the NEX3, a little bigger, APS-C sensor and missing a lot of the features I just mentioned for about $100 more.

If you are not a Sony fan then other manufacturers have similar products. If you want to match video colour balance with the NX5U then a Sony may be easier .

I have a NX5U, NX30, CX700, XR500, SR11 and they all match well with the HX30V.

Ron Evans

Dear Ron Evans,
you have confused my ideas instead of clarifying them. ;)
But I'm happy for your words and your suggestions because they are growing my ideas.
My budget is around 1000 euro and now I have two options:
to buy a compact photo camera with its problems in low light and ... I think some focusing problem in daily light too..... or to buy a good handycam like a Sony CX700 or CX730.... or? Is a new handycam coming out?
Are there other options?
Repeat: I'd like to get a video quality a little bit better than a Sony nx5u. With it I will take documentaries around the world.
I thank you again one.

...
to buy a compact photo camera with its problems in low light and ... I think some focusing problem in daily light too..... ...

The low light performance of the HX30V is not that bad, not much worse than a NX5U, just not as good as the CX700 or NX30 and the focusing is definitely easier than the NX5U with an autofocus that actually works very well !!! All these little cameras work best in auto or semi auto mode and that includes the CX700 and NX30. If your focus is on the still performance then an NEX would be the choice. If it is on quality still and video performance 1000 Euro is likely not enough for a new camera to meet you needs and the GH3 would be a choice but a lot more expensive by the time you bought a set of lenses and much bigger to carry around.

Ron Evans

The best small, compact camera for video, including low-light, is the Panasonic LX7. Full manual mode in video, and 1080p. RAW stills, f1.4 lens. See, for example:

Panasonic LX7 HD Video: Morning in an Art Museum on Vimeo

and

Panasonic LX7 Video: Union Square Market on a Winter Morning on Vimeo

If you need a pocketable 20X zoom, the Panasonic ZS30 (TZ40) also has 108060p and fine video:

Panasonic ZS30/TZ40 Test Video: Piano Playing Outdoors in Two NYC Squares on Vimeo

and

Panasonic ZS30(TZ40) HD Video: Bryant Park in Motion on Vimeo

A bigger camera with an extended zoom that is f2.8 all the way (25mm-600mm) , 108060p, mic-in, full manual control of video and RAW stills is the Panasonic FZ200:

Panasonic FZ200 HD Video: A Short Visit to Palm Beach on Vimeo

There are several considerations - low light is one, but also audio, and how good you need the stills function to be vs. the video. How much "support" gear will you need to shoot and get good results...

It's good to see the Panasonic samples, I've used Pannys a few times, and always liked them, they have a different "look" from Sony, but certainly worth considering.

My take would be if handheld video is the MAIN consideration, one of the PJ/CX7xx series with the magic eyeball (NX30 is very similar to the PJ760), is hard to beat - very compact, very stable handheld footage, passable manual control, with excellent "auto" once you learn to operate it and tweak as needed. Not sure I'd rely on it much for stills, but I haven't even tested that function (too many disappointments in the past I guess!).

BUT, as Ron points out, the compact "point and shoot" is smaller, lighter, and more discreet - this would go for either Sony or Panasonics - and while you'll lose a couple stops of sensitivity, these little monsters often do a decent job. Remember they are going to have typically a 1/4" class sensor, wide depth of field, and you can only expect so much from a "pocket" camera!

I mentioned the Sony RX100 previously as it is currently in a class by itself, with a larger "1 inch" sensor, so it's a sort of "P&S on steroids", and it DOES have nearly full manual control on both stills and video - it took me a while to find all the functions, it's a SMALL camera, so getting to controls and figuring out how to work them takes a while to be honest! BUT, it's a surprisingly powerful camera with image quality closer to a SLR on the stills, and once you sort out how to set it, pretty good video. I've seen some "documentary" stuff shot with it, so it's doable.

If you are just documenting your travels for family and friends, a truly pocketable cam may be the best, as it's easier to take everywhere - this is where I'm finding the RX100 to be a nice fit - the image quality is definitely above the "P&S" category, but it's still a "pocket" cam. A little limited in the zoom department, but otherwise worth considering if stills are a larger part of the equation.

It's tough to find a "all in one" solution, but these tiny cameras are getting pretty close to "doing it all" and doing it well enough to get results you won't be ashamed of if you are particular about image quality! A lot has happened in just a few short years, to where the older "pro" cameras start to show their age against the new consumer grade stuff!

Just to add to Dave's comments. The sensors on some of the small P&S cameras are small but the HX30V is a 18Mpixel 1/2.3 ", same as the TZ40, the LX7 is a 10 Mpixel 1/1.7 and as Dave says the RX100 is a 20Mpixel 1" sensor. All large sensors compared to most camcorders. The CX700/NX30 etc for instance is a 1/2.88 6Mpixel sensor. You see the camcorders have less pixels so that the low light performance with higher shutter speeds is better. The still cameras have more pixels for higher resolution still photos. Downside for video is possibility of moire on fine detail etc . Pays your money makes your choice !!! The RX100 and LX7 have about a 3+x zoom the HX30 is 20x . I find that useful. The rumored HX50V is supposed to have a 30x zoom. To have a longer zoom with a large sensor means a bigger lens, costs more and is physically bigger. Need a bigger pocket then !!! The LX7 is a good choice for compromise between video a stills if you do not think you need the zoom range.

Ron Evans

It really depend what you intend to do. I was tempted by the RX100 but the lack of an EVF made me choose the LX7.
Panasonic Lumix LX7 in Isla Mujeres Mexico - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FriQrO2RUd4&feature=youtu.be)

I wanted the HX20 which never came to Canada so I got the HX30V.I enjoy so much with many interesting news. Can you tell me what differences between HX30V and HX20V about video quality?

The Hx20 and Hx30 are identical in video and stills quality. The Hx30 has wifi. Both cameras are now discontinued by Sony. There is no successor, yet.

The best small, compact camera for video, including low-light, is the Panasonic LX7. Full manual mode in video, and 1080p. RAW stills, f1.4 lens. See, for example:

If you need a pocketable 20X zoom, the Panasonic ZS30 (TZ40) also has 108060p and fine video
I'm sorry but I don't understand the difference between Panasonic ZS30 and TZ40.
About TZ40 can you tell me something about battery? Is it true you can recharge the battery only inside the camera? It is bad.

I'm sorry but I don't understand the difference between Panasonic ZS30 and TZ40.
About TZ40 can you tell me something about battery? Is it true you can recharge the battery only inside the camera? It is bad.

The TZ40 is the European (PAL video) version of the ZS30 (NTSC video). Otherwise the same.

Yes. You can charge the battery inside the camera. If you purchase a charger, you can also charge the battery outside the camera. Few other Panasonic cameras allow you to charge the battery inside the camera - in-camera charging is a feature, not a deficiency. The new Panasonic TS5 (FT5) uses the same battery as the ZS30 (TZ40). It comes with a charger, but you cannot charge the battery in the camera.

What a pity!
I have just seen many samples on the net and the video I like more is that recorded by Lumix DMC LX7 but it has a so little zoom ... therefore I'm considering to purchase Panasonic Lumix TZ40 or Sony HX20v (now discontinued... mmmm ) with less video quality but with more zoom. I need zoom for my travels.

>Mark Rosenzweig
Why is Lumix TZ40 better than Sony HX20v?

PS: Are there some compact cameras with rotating LCD Display like Sony Alpha NEX-5N?

HX50V video just posted from Sony on Youtube

Sony CyberShot HX50V - YouTube

Ron Evans

very interesting camera and the video show and EVF, even if it is adding cost this would make it a fantastic little package for travel (let's hope they also added a mic input).

It seems better than every other compact.

If you don't mind waiting till this July (or later, if they miss their delivery date): Blackmagic Design: Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera (http://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/blackmagicpocketcinemacamera)

What is the zoom lens of basic Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera?

very interesting camera and the video show and EVF, even if it is adding cost this would make it a fantastic little package for travel (let's hope they also added a mic input).

The mic attachment was also shown on the video if you missed it.

Ron Evans

What is the zoom lens of basic Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera?

It doesn't come with a lens you have to buy them separately. It will only shoot progressive up to 30P so for me not useful for other than the film look that I do not like. Much prefer higher frame rates to capture smooth motion. That means 60P for me now. Of no interest to me.

Ron Evans

The soon to be announced HX50v - yes indeed, as you said Robert, a very interesting camera, a fantastic little package for sure. The EVF looks like the EVF I purchased for my NEX 5n which is orders of magnitude better than the EVF on the HX200v and the HX300 so that’s a huge plus. Improved image stabilization...

I want one.

Many thanks for posting the video Ron.

Ron, I watch it again and saw the mic.
Wabadabadou!!!!

I have viewed and viewed it again and it seems recorded by a professional videocamera. It seems incredible. I cannot scarcely believe my eyes. But that video will be made by Sony HX50V really?

I am sure not all the video was shot with the HX50v but would not be surprised if a lot was. I will try and find something from my HX30v that I can post.

Ron Evans

I'd like to see even one some seconds clip but without compression.
Thanks

OUT OF CURIOSITY: In your opinion how much important is a Flip-Out Screen for video?

Here is a short clip shot with the HX20v and uploaded as is off the camera without any editing. Hand held with auto everything in order that you get an idea of the basic performance of the cam. A very warm and dry summer’s day in mid-Canterbury, New Zealand; skin cancer central due to the excessive solar radiation the area receives, in other words lots of natural light.

Clearly the internal microphone is somewhat capable also although I have to say that little motor was making one hell of a racket.

Suggestion: download the original to view.

00263 on Vimeo

Here is a short clip shot with the HX20v and uploaded as is off the camera without any editing.Good! I thank you!

Here is a short clip shot with the HX20v and uploaded as is off the camera without any editing.This is my opinion and it is subjective. I see a good image even if there aren't many colours. Unfortunately maroon is dominant. What I don't like is its sharpness. It is very far from a semi-pro videocamera. But I reapeat: I don't like the environment in which the video was recorded. Then I'd like to seee the environment in wide angle.
Thanks

HX50V announced. Sony High Zoom Camera | Cyber-shot Digital Camera HX50V | DSC-HX50V/B | Sony USA (http://store.sony.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921666557527)

Ron Evans

Imaging Sensor of HX50V is 1/2.3" Exmor R® CMOS. Is RX100 better than HX50V for video?

Too early to tell - the HX50 appears to use the same 20MPix sensor as the HX300, but Sony often tweaks things as they release newer cameras.

I may be able to do some test footage of the RX100 vs. the HX300 in a few days. I would expect there to be at a minimum differences in DoF and low light sensitivity, and I would expect manual control to be more limited on an HX camera.

There is also the possibility that a successor to the RX100 will be announced soon - it's been a VERY sucessful cam for Sony, and they might well want to build upon its success, adding the MIShoe, maybe additional lens range, perhaps a body redesign to add a grip... again though, this is a "speculation", if you need a camera, you have to go with something you can actually buy...

Based on the specs the HX50v appeals to me I must say. Similar reach as the HX200v - a tad wider and a tad shorter - half the weight, much smaller, possibly superior image stabilization and a high quality EVF (costing as much as the camera). I have a similar EVF (if not identical other than the connectors) on my NEX 5n and it is a joy to use. I regret purchasing the HX20v as in bright sunlight I find it virtually unusable. I returned the HX300 as I didn’t consider it a remarkable upgrade on the HX200v. The HX50v, especially with the EVF, looks more promising. I expect the same, if not superior, very good video performance as all the small Sony cams.

I may be able to do some test footage of the RX100 vs. the HX300 in a few days. I would expect there to be at a minimum differences in DoF and low light sensitivity, and I would expect manual control to be more limited on an HX camera.I have viewed some shots on the net of SONY HX300 and I like them very much. I think is hard to find a camera better than SONY HX300. I wil be very very happy to view some comparison shots of SONY HX300 and RX100.
Thanks in advance.

PS: Is there one battery type? That is 1240mAh only?

I think the HX50 and the HX300 are fundamentally the same with the larger zoom lens assembly on the HX300 and missing a few features like GPS etc from the HX50. HX300 has the advantage of being able to attach filters but lacks GPS, the new Mi hot shoe, WiFi connection and will not fit in your pocket !!! Having looked on Youtube there are lots on both the HX300 and HX30 nothing on the HX50 yet. I expect video quality will be about the same for them since the sensor and processor will be the same. So I think the choice will be convenience of putting the camera in your pocket, GPS, WiFi etc or having a 50x zoom and looking like a DSLR. There is only $50 difference so price will not be the deciding factor.

Ron Evans

Why don't you take into account the point that a better circuit might be in a larger camera than in a very small camera This one could result in a better outcome, that is better video.

I've tried the 1 inch sensor for video of fast sports and even with good lighting focus is a big problem for big sensors
If you have the luxury of retakes or your scene remains fairly static then a sensor the size of the one in the RX100 will do. However video of fast moving objects especially people requires large depth of field such as that provided by sensors under 1/2" (so that the camera focus is usually in the ball park focal length wise so hunting gets a head start
My hx300 arrives from Hong Kong tomorrow or Friday and I haven't been this excited since... (I can't remember when)
I'm thinking this might be like the day they introduced the cx 550v only better

Why don't you take into account the point that a better circuit might be in a larger camera than in a very small camera This one could result in a better outcome, that is better video.

I think the price difference between the HX300 and the HX30 is in the size of the body /lens balanced off with the removal of the GPS etc that the HX30 has. Typical Sony, I am sure the internals are the same. Different market, different product form factor. Same Bionz processor, same sensor, same codec, different feature set. At the same focal length I expect it will be very difficult to tell them apart for still or video.

To get a real difference in image quality one would expect to pay more than twice as much, not just $50. The $50 implies the same thing in a different package.

Ron Evans

I am feeling very attracted by Lumix GF6 too. I like tilting display a lot. I think it is very useful. What is your opinion about tilting display? Do you think Lumix GF6 is a good camera like HX50?

tilting display is very important for video

GF6 is only 30P max. No smooth motion and have to buy lenses.

Ron Evans

Adriano, have you considered a real video camera like the new Canon XA20 plus a HX50 or a Panasonic equivalent for your pocket. None of the still cameras will compare to the Canon for video quality I am sure and when your are out for the evening you can have the small camera in your pocket.

Ron Evans

Adriano, have you considered a real video camera like the new Canon XA20 plus a HX50 or a Panasonic equivalent for your pocket. None of the still cameras will compare to the Canon for video quality I am sure and when your are out for the evening you can have the small camera in your pocket. I already have a Sony NX5 big like Canon XA20. ;)