Sony PXW-X70 Professional Camcorder
The Sony PXW-X70 is a 20MP 1 inch cinema camera — with 4K video. Used copies start from $1,000 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Sony PXW-X70 Professional Camcorder
Used Sony PXW-X70 Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Sony PXW-X70
The Sony PXW-X70 is a professional camcorder built around a 1-inch, 20MP sensor paired with Sony's BIONZ X image processor. It captures video at up to 4K resolution across a range of frame rates — 24fps, 30fps, and 60fps — and records in XAVC, AVCHD, and MP4 formats, giving shooters flexible options depending on their workflow. The camera supports 10-bit video output, which is a significant advantage for colorists working with demanding projects, and offers S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG color profiles for wide dynamic range capture and grading flexibility.
The ISO range runs from 100 to 12800, providing usable sensitivity in a variety of lighting conditions. Image stabilization is handled via Optical IS, with Digital IS also available. The autofocus system uses contrast detection with variable focus points and includes subject tracking.
The body is constructed from magnesium alloy and weighs 1.4kg, with dimensions of 120 x 103 x 274mm. It features a 3.5-inch 1280x720 LCD display and a 1440x900 electronic viewfinder running at 60Hz. Connectivity includes HDMI, USB 2.0, and Wi-Fi.
Storage is handled via SDHC and SDXC cards, and audio inputs include a built-in microphone and a 3.5mm mic input.
Key Features — Sony PXW-X70
1-Inch 20MP Sensor: Larger than typical camcorder sensors, the 1-inch format delivers improved low-light performance and shallower depth of field compared to 1/3-inch or 1/2-inch alternatives.
4K Video via Firmware Upgrade: 4K recording capability is available on the PXW-X70 via a paid firmware upgrade; the base unit records Full HD. Frame rate options include 24fps, 30fps, and 60fps.
10-Bit Video Output: Captures richer color data than 8-bit systems, giving colorists significantly more headroom when grading in post-production.
S-Log2, S-Log3 & HLG: Three professional color profiles allow wide dynamic range capture and flexible grading options to match demanding production workflows.
XAVC, AVCHD & MP4 Recording: Three recording format options let shooters choose between high-quality professional codecs and more universally compatible delivery formats depending on the project.
BIONZ X Image Processor: Sony's professional-grade processor handles fast image processing and supports the camera's noise reduction and color science at higher ISO values.
Optical Image Stabilization: Built-in OIS, supplemented by Digital IS, helps reduce camera shake during handheld and run-and-gun shooting.
3.5mm Mic Input: Accepts external microphones for improved audio quality beyond what the built-in microphone can provide.
Camera Specifications — Sony PXW-X70
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Documentary, Event, Studio, Video / Cinematography |
| Type | Other |
| Sensor | 1 inch |
| Resolution | 20MP |
| Processor | BIONZ X |
| ISO Range | 100 – 12800 |
| AF System | Contrast Detection |
| AF Points | Variable |
| Max Photo Resolution | 5472x3648 |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max Frame Rate | 60fps |
| Bit Depth | 10-bit |
| Video Color Profiles | S-Log2, S-Log3, HLG |
| Image Stabilization | Optical (OIS) |
Description — Sony PXW-X70
The Sony PXW-X70 professional camcorder is equipped with a 1-inch sensor at 20MP resolution, driven by the BIONZ X image processor. It records video at up to 4K resolution in XAVC, AVCHD, and MP4 formats, with frame rate options of 24fps, 30fps, and 60fps. The camera's 10-bit video recording capability works alongside S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG color profiles to support dynamic range-conscious workflows.
The ISO range spans 100 to 12800, and image stabilization is available via Optical IS and Digital IS. The magnesium alloy body measures 120 x 103 x 274mm and weighs 1.4kg. Monitoring is handled by a 3.5-inch 1280x720 LCD and a 1440x900 electronic viewfinder at 60Hz.
Connectivity includes HDMI, USB 2.0, and Wi-Fi, and media is stored on SDHC or SDXC cards. Audio inputs consist of a built-in microphone and a 3.5mm mic input.
Pros — Sony PXW-X70
- ✓10-bit video recording enables richer color data and greater grading headroom
- ✓S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG color profiles available for flexible dynamic range capture
- ✓4K maximum video resolution with frame rate options of 24fps, 30fps, and 60fps
Cons — Sony PXW-X70
- ✗No weather sealing, limiting use in challenging outdoor conditions
- ✗Autofocus relies solely on contrast detection — no phase detection system
- ✗Fixed lens mount removes the ability to swap glass for different shooting scenarios
Reviews — Sony PXW-X70
Videos — Sony PXW-X70
PXW X70 Update Know Before You Buy — CarlAnthonyAdams
Frequently Asked Questions — Sony PXW-X70
What recording formats does the Sony PXW-X70 support?+
The PXW-X70 records in XAVC, AVCHD, and MP4 formats. Storage is handled via SDHC and SDXC cards.
Does the PXW-X70 support log shooting for color grading?+
Yes. The camera offers S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG color profiles, all listed under both the video and photo color profile specifications. These are designed to preserve dynamic range for post-production grading.
What is the bit depth of the video output?+
The PXW-X70 records at 10-bit color depth, as specified in the videoSpecs data. This provides more tonal gradation compared to 8-bit recording and is particularly useful in conjunction with the log color profiles.
Is the PXW-X70 weather sealed?+
No. The bodyDesign specifications list weather sealing as 'None.' The magnesium alloy body offers structural durability, but the camera should not be used in rain or dusty environments without additional protection.
What frame rates can the PXW-X70 shoot at?+
The camera supports 24fps, 30fps, and 60fps, with a maximum frame rate of 60fps as listed in the video specifications.
What audio input options are available on the PXW-X70?+
The PXW-X70 includes a built-in microphone and a 3.5mm microphone input, as listed in the audioInputs specification. There is no XLR input noted in the specifications.