Sony PMW-EX1 Professional Camcorder
The Sony PMW-EX1 is a 1920x1080 1/2 inch cinema camera — with 1080p video. Used copies start from $55 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Sony PMW-EX1 Professional Camcorder
Used Sony PMW-EX1 Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Sony PMW-EX1
Key Features — Sony PMW-EX1
Three 1/2-Inch Exmor Sensors: The PMW-EX1 uses a 3-chip 1/2-inch CMOS sensor arrangement, with dedicated sensors for each color channel to deliver clean, accurate color reproduction.
XDCAM EX Recording: Records in Sony's XDCAM EX (MPEG-2) format, a well-established codec widely supported in broadcast and post-production workflows.
SxS Card Media: Uses Sony SxS ExpressCard media for fast, reliable recording with straightforward file-based ingest in professional environments.
Optical Image Stabilization: In-lens OIS stabilizes footage without digital processing, preserving image quality during handheld or run-and-gun shooting.
Dual XLR Audio Inputs: Two XLR inputs with phantom power support professional microphones and audio equipment directly on camera.
1080p Up to 60fps: Supports 1080p recording at 24fps, 30fps, and 60fps, covering broadcast, cinematic, and slow-motion production needs.
Camera Specifications — Sony PMW-EX1
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Video / Cinematography, Documentary, Event |
| Type | Other |
| Sensor | 1/2 inch |
| Resolution | 1920x1080 |
| ISO Range | 100 – 6400 |
| AF System | Contrast Detection |
| AF Points | Variable |
| Max Video Resolution | 1080p |
| Max Frame Rate | 60fps |
| Bit Depth | 8-bit |
| Video Color Profiles | Standard, CineGamma |
| Image Stabilization | Optical (OIS) |
Description — Sony PMW-EX1
The Sony PMW-EX1 professional camcorder records at up to 1920x1080 resolution using XDCAM EX and MPEG-2 recording formats onto SxS (Sony ExpressCard) media. The 1/2-inch sensor outputs video at 8-bit color depth, with selectable color profiles including Standard and CineGamma. Frame rate options cover 24fps, 30fps, and 60fps at up to 1080p, giving shooters flexibility across a range of production contexts.
The fixed lens is equipped with optical image stabilization (OIS) for stabilized handheld or run-and-gun shooting. Audio is well-served by both XLR and 3.5mm mic inputs, with a 3.5mm headphone jack for monitoring. Output options include Mini HDMI and USB.
Monitoring is supported by a 3.5-inch LCD at 1920x480 resolution and a 1920x1080 electronic viewfinder running at 60Hz. The magnesium alloy body measures 179 x 189 x 395 mm and weighs 2.4 kg. It is powered by BP-U30 or BP-U60 batteries rated at approximately 4 hours of use.
A cold shoe mount is available for attaching accessories.
Pros — Sony PMW-EX1
- ✓Optical image stabilization (OIS) provides in-lens stabilization without digital quality trade-offs
- ✓Dual audio inputs — XLR and 3.5mm mic input — plus 3.5mm headphone monitoring for versatile on-set audio
- ✓High-resolution electronic viewfinder at 1920x1080 with a 60Hz refresh rate aids accurate monitoring
Cons — Sony PMW-EX1
- ✗No weather sealing, limiting use in outdoor or challenging environmental conditions
- ✗Fixed lens design removes the flexibility of interchangeable optics
- ✗8-bit color depth may be a limiting factor for high-end color grading workflows
Videos — Sony PMW-EX1
Sony PMW-EX1R and PMW-350 review with sample footage. — ingenioustv by Alister Chapman