Sony PXW-Z90 Professional Camcorder
The Sony PXW-Z90 is a 14.2 MP 1 inch cinema camera — with 4K video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Sony PXW-Z90 Professional Camcorder
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Camera Overview — Sony PXW-Z90
Key Features — Sony PXW-Z90
1-Inch 14.2MP Sensor: Larger than typical camcorder sensors, the 1-inch CMOS delivers improved dynamic range and low-light performance compared to 1/2-inch or smaller formats.
4K XAVC Recording: Records 4K at 3840x2160 in Sony's XAVC codec, delivering broadcast-ready footage for professional production workflows.
High-Speed Slow Motion: Supports high-speed recording in Full HD at up to 120fps and high-speed options at lower resolutions for slow-motion sequences.
HD 10-Bit 4:2:2 Output: Records HD video at 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling, providing significantly more color data for grading and compositing in post-production.
S-Log2, S-Log3 & HLG Profiles: Multiple log and HDR color profiles give colorists broad latitude in post and enable HDR delivery without additional grading passes.
Dual XLR Audio Inputs: Two 3-pin XLR inputs alongside a 3.5mm stereo mic jack allow professional microphones and audio equipment to connect directly to the camera.
Camera Specifications — Sony PXW-Z90
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Documentary |
| Type | Other |
| Sensor | 1 inch |
| Resolution | 14.2 MP |
| Processor | BIONZ X |
| ISO Range | 100 – 12800 |
| AF System | Hybrid (Phase + Contrast), AI-Based Subject Tracking |
| AF Points | 273 points |
| Max Photo Resolution | 14.2 MP (16:9) |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K |
| Max Frame Rate | 1000fps |
| Bit Depth | 4K: 8-bit 4:2:0, HD: 10-bit 4:2:2 |
Description — Sony PXW-Z90
The Sony PXW-Z90 is a professional 4K camcorder centered on a 1-inch, 14.2 MP sensor driven by the BIONZ X image processor. Video recording tops out at 4K (3840 x 2160) with a color bit depth of 8-bit 4:2:0 in 4K and 10-bit 4:2:2 in HD — the latter being particularly useful for post-production workflows. Frame rate flexibility is a standout feature, with support for 24fps through to 1000fps, enabling everything from cinematic capture to extreme slow-motion.
The camera's color science covers Rec.709, HLG, S-Log2, S-Log3, S-Gamut3.Cine, and S-Gamut3. Autofocus uses a 273-point Hybrid Phase + Contrast detection system with AI-Based Subject Tracking. The monitoring setup pairs a 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen at 1,550,000 dots with an OLED EVF at 2,360,000 dots running at 60Hz.
Audio inputs include 2x XLR (3-pin) plus a 3.5mm stereo mini mic jack. Connectivity includes Full HDMI output, Wi-Fi, USB, and a Sony Multi Interface Shoe. The body weighs 1020g and measures 130 x 181.5 x 287 mm, with a polycarbonate/metal composite construction and no weather sealing.
Pros — Sony PXW-Z90
- ✓Supports frame rates up to 1000fps for extreme slow-motion capture
- ✓Wide color profile selection including S-Log2, S-Log3, HLG, S-Gamut3.Cine, and S-Gamut3
- ✓273-point Hybrid (Phase + Contrast) AF system with AI-Based Subject Tracking
Cons — Sony PXW-Z90
- ✗4K recording is limited to 8-bit 4:2:0 rather than 10-bit
- ✗No weather sealing, making it vulnerable in challenging outdoor conditions
- ✗No Bluetooth connectivity
Reviews — Sony PXW-Z90
- Sony PXW-Z90 Review
Newsshooter · 2017-01-31 - Sony Z90 - A good upgrade from the X70?
ProAV - Sony PXW Z90 Review (For YouTubers and Sports Videographers)
Mako Sports - The Sony Z90 | Hands-On Broadcast Field Test
Wex Photo Video - Sony's new 4K HDR PXW-Z90 unboxing and quick feature tour
Sony - Professional Europe - Good And The Bad - First Impressions of the Sony PXW-Z90
TDCatTech
Videos — Sony PXW-Z90
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