Sony's premium action camera with balanced optical stabilisation and 4K recording in a compact body.
The Sony FDR-X3000 launched in 2016 as Sony's flagship action camera, featuring Balanced Optical SteadyShot (B.O.SS) — Sony's most advanced consumer stabilisation technology. It records 4K 30fps with stabilisation that was class-leading at the time.
Balanced Optical SteadyShot physically moves the entire lens assembly for stabilisation — far more effective than electronic stabilisation. 4K 30fps and 1080p 120fps. 8.2MP Exmor R CMOS sensor. Zeiss Tessar lens. GPS and WiFi. Live View Remote compatible.
Compact action camera form factor with underwater housing included (rated to 60m). 1.5-inch body LCD for settings. WiFi and Bluetooth. GPS. Stereo microphone. USB micro-B. 114g body only. Compatible with Sony's action camera mount system.
Available used at mid-range prices. The B.O.SS stabilisation was genuinely superior to GoPro's EIS of the same era. Sony has since discontinued their action camera line — the X3000 was the last flagship. GoPro Hero 7+ with HyperSmooth closed the gap. For those who prefer Sony's stabilisation.