Overview
The Sony PXW-Z280 4K 3CMOS 1/2" Sensor XDCAM Camcorder features a 1/2"-type Exmor R 3CMOS sensor capable of capturing UHD 4K60 video with outstanding depth of field, low-light performance, and HDR-ready image quality. Its integrated 17x optical zoom lens includes independent focus, iris, and zoom rings, and the electronic variable ND filter allows seamless exposure control during changing shooting conditions. Supporting modern codecs such as XAVC-Intra and XAVC-Long, as well as legacy MPEG HD and DVCAM formats, the PXW-Z280 is a versatile solution for 4K, HD, or SD production environments.
Core Features
- 1/2" Exmor R 3CMOS sensor
- UHD 4K 60p recording support
- Integrated 17x optical zoom lens
- Electronic variable ND filter
- S-Log3 and HLG HDR workflows
- Dual SxS media slots
HDR & Dual Production Workflows
HDR-Ready Image Capture
The PXW-Z280 supports S-Log3 for maximum dynamic range and grading flexibility. Its HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) capability enables instant HDR workflows suitable for direct delivery without time-consuming color correction.
Footage can be recorded simultaneously in 4K and HD, or output at 4K60p using the built-in 12G-SDI interface.
17x Optical Zoom Lens
Full Manual Control
The integrated 17x zoom lens offers a 30.3 to 515 mm (35mm equivalent) range, with 34x digital zoom available in HD mode. Independent rings for focus, iris, and zoom provide responsive manual operation for professional control.
Fast Autofocus
Face Detection AF
Face Detection AF keeps subjects sharp even when adjusting shooting angles. Select between Face Priority AF or Face Only AF depending on production needs.
Direct Streaming & Connectivity
Built-In Wi-Fi Streaming
Dual-band 2.4/5 GHz Wi-Fi enables RTMP/RTMPS streaming directly to popular platforms. Setup is fast using a smartphone or tablet.
The camcorder supports standard USB cellular dongles for enhanced streaming redundancy in the field.
Interfaces & Audio
Extensive I/O Options
Dual SxS card slots support relay, simultaneous, or backup recording. Two MI shoes allow powering Sony wireless microphones or lighting accessories.
Audio capabilities include dual XLR inputs with independent gain control and up to four audio recording channels.
Imaging
| Image Sensor | 1/2"-type 3-chip CMOS |
| Sensor Resolution | Effective 8.29 MP |
| Image Stabilization | Optical (integrated lens) |
| Minimum Illumination | 0.0013 lux |
| Sensitivity | f/12–f/13 at 2000 lux |
| White Balance Range | 1500–50,000 K |
Lens
| Focal Length | 5.6–95.2 mm (30.3–515 mm equivalent) |
| Maximum Aperture | f/1.9 |
| Minimum Aperture | f/16 |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 5.1 cm (wide) to 80 cm (tele) |
| Filter Size | 77 mm |
| Control Rings | Focus, Zoom, Iris |
ND Filters
| Mechanical ND | Clear, 1/4, 1/16, 1/64 |
| Electronic ND | 2–7 stops |
Recording
| Internal Codecs | DV, MPEG HD420, MPEG HD422, XAVC-I, XAVC-L |
| Max Resolution | 3840 × 2160 |
| Max Frame Rate | 59.94 fps (4K) |
| Slow/Fast Motion | Yes |
Media
| Memory Card Slots | Dual SxS |
Inputs & Outputs
| SDI Outputs | 12G-SDI, Composite |
| HDMI Output | Yes |
| XLR Inputs | 2 × XLR 3-pin |
| Headphone Output | 3.5 mm TRS |
| Timecode | In & Out |
| Genlock | Input |
| Control Port | 2.5 mm LANC |
| USB Ports | USB-A, USB-C, Micro-USB |
| LAN Port | RJ45 |
| GPS | Yes |
Monitoring
| LCD Monitor | 3.5" articulating, 2.36M dots |
| EVF | OLED, 2.36M dots |
Power
| Battery Type | Sony BP-U Series |
Environmental
| Operating Temperature | 0–40°C |
| Storage Temperature | -20–60°C |
Physical
| Dimensions | 178.4 × 202 × 426.3 mm |
| Weight | 3 kg (with battery & media) |
Packaging Info
| Package Weight | 5.41 kg |
| Box Dimensions | 52.8 × 27.9 × 27.7 cm |
What's Included
- Sony PXW-Z280 4K 3CMOS 1/2" Sensor XDCAM Camcorder
- Lens Hood (Pre-Installed)
- EVF Eyecup
- Sony BP-U30 Lithium-Ion Battery
- Sony BC-U1A Battery Charger / AC Adapter
- Power Cord
- USB Cable
- Shoulder Strap
- Barcode: 31012
- UPC Barcode: 4548736086548
- Supplier Code: SZ1023