Sony Action Camera Mini (HDR- AZ1) review

The main feature of the Sony ActionCam Mini is the really small design. And what is truly remarkable is how they have fit inside the bigger Sony AS100VR video specs. This and the top recording button makes me prefer it over the AS100VR model. It is also cheaper at $298 for Camera+Remote or $198 for just camera.

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The Sony HDR-AZ1 really is a great little camera. If you find all the other cams to be a bit on the big side, you’ll love how small the Mini cam is. It still takes decent video at 1080p, and is a relatively easy to use point and shoot camera. We’d like to see a bit better battery life, and maybe a larger side screen, although that may be hard to do without compromising overall size.

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Overall we like the smaller design of the AZ1 over many action cams, but the downgrade in performance that comes with it isn't worth the cut in size. Even simply as an action cam, the fact that it only goes 16 feet underwater—compared to 131 feet with any GoPro—is off-putting. We hope this is remedied in future case designs, as divers are a significant part of the action cam market.

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If you want an action camera that’s simple to use and delivers great image quality, the AZ1 is a no brainer. It isn’t overly complicated, and it performs better than budget models. GoPro offers a cheaper Hero model that costs only $130, but the AZ1 has better resolution and Wi-Fi/NFC. If you want a stronger action cam that lets you fine-tune settings, you’re better off with GoPro’s pricier Hero4 models. Otherwise, the AZ1 should satisfy the majority of consumers looking to get into action-cam videography.

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A decent action camera. The small and light body is particularly impressive and the included remote control is extremely convenient and easy to use. We had no issues with the companion apps either. However, it’s just slightly let down by average image quality.

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The AZ1VR is a well thought out and easy to use action camera that lets you capture the action without having to worry about settings or fiddling around with miniature buttons. It's the partnership between the camera and remote that really makes this a great action camera and with the enhanced video capture format and SteadyShot features it's a good choice for any enthusiast.

Sony has been in this market for a few years with its AS range of action cameras there are already a good variety of mounts out there, so what ever the sport or activity you want to film then there's sure to be a mount to help you do it.

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The compromises around settings, battery life, 4K and HDMI-out may put you off, but operating the camera via the app or Live-View remote is pretty straightforward, and if you tend to stick to one shooting mode for the majority of filming and/or photos, the removal of superfluous settings and buttons may make little difference to you. The final clincher though, may be the price, with the bundled camera and remote kit we tested costing considerably less than other rival products, making it a good budget alternative.

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The first couple Action Cams from Sony gave the impression it was coasting on its brand recognition. The Action Cam AS100V and the Action Cam Mini HDR-AZ1, on the other hand, are serious entries that deserve consideration. Thanks to its size, weight and performance, the AZ1 might just have you saying goodbye to GoPro.

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It’s a rugged, high-tech mini camcorder that’s ready to be put through the wringer of any action sport you’d like. Super, smooth imaging thanks to the SteadyShot technology. It records a still image even when it experiences bumping or blurring – perfect for mountain biking, motorsports, and other high-movement activities.

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Take off the housing, and it feels impressively small and since the new body is splash proof you can run it without the housing. What does splash proof mean? We’re told normal mountain bike conditions should be fine, even if you were to briefly drop it in a puddle or stream. Just don’t go surfing without the waterproof housing.

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