Sony PXW-Z90V 4K Compact Handheld Camcorder
For unobtrusiveness, agility and ubiquitous newsgathering, the PXW-Z90V offers the highest performance Sony has ever built into a palm-sized XDCAM camera. With advances like 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution, Instant HDR, a large 1” (1.0-type) Exmore RS image sensor and Fast Hybrid Auto Focus, you’ll capture images of superlative quality. And with 3G-SDI output, 2.4 / 5 GHz wireless streaming and compatibility with Sony’s XDCAM air production system, you’ll fit right into the broadcast environment.
For unobtrusiveness, agility and ubiquitous newsgathering, the PXW-Z90V offers the highest performance Sony has ever built into a palm-sized XDCAM camera. With advances like 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution, Instant HDR, a large 1” (1.0-type) Exmore RS image sensor and Fast Hybrid Auto Focus, you’ll capture images of superlative quality. And with 3G-SDI output, 2.4 / 5 GHz wireless streaming and compatibility with Sony’s XDCAM air production system, you’ll fit right into the broadcast environment.
For unobtrusiveness, agility and ubiquitous newsgathering, the PXW-Z90V offers the highest performance Sony has ever built into a palm-sized XDCAM camera. With advances like 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution, Instant HDR, a large 1” (1.0-type) Exmore RS image sensor and Fast Hybrid Auto Focus, you’ll capture images of superlative quality. And with 3G-SDI output, 2.4 / 5 GHz wireless streaming and compatibility with Sony’s XDCAM air production system, you’ll fit right into the broadcast environment.
For unobtrusiveness, agility and ubiquitous newsgathering, the PXW-Z90V offers the highest performance Sony has ever built into a palm-sized XDCAM camera. With advances like 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution, Instant HDR, a large 1” (1.0-type) Exmore RS image sensor and Fast Hybrid Auto Focus, you’ll capture images of superlative quality. And with 3G-SDI output, 2.4 / 5 GHz wireless streaming and compatibility with Sony’s XDCAM air production system, you’ll fit right into the broadcast environment.
in 4 offers
The lowest price for Sony PXW-Z90V 4K Compact Handheld Camcorder right now is $4,107.85 at Expandore.sg, compared across 4 retailers.
The all-time low was $3,035.00 on 15 Apr 2026 — today's price is 35% above the lowest ever. It has been notably cheaper before — worth setting a price alert.
Prices last updated 26 June 2026.
Last updated at 26/06/2026 17:05:17
Sony PXW-Z90 Palm camcorder with Broadcast quality 4K (QFHD) and HD
Sony PXW-Z90V Compact Handycam Professional Video Camera
Free delivery between Tue – Wed
Sony PXW-Z90V Pro Camcorder
Delivery $9.95
Sony PXW-Z90V Pro Camcorder
Delivery $9.95
originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
This could have been a great camera and I BADLY wanted it to work well. Instead, I write this review to reiterate strongly that unless you shoot with the correct lighting, you will be terribly disappointed in this camera which produces high amounts of video noise in low light or ambient lit indoor scenes.When I saw the demo video, I thought, "they used it indoors and I don't see any video noise. How bad can it be?" I like others thought, it can't be that bad, I'll try it. Well, it is, in fact its worse than my ten-year old Canon XH-A1 with an HDV codec. Yeah...... that bad.The Z90V arrived last Thursday, I shot video that afternoon - indoors and out, with natural light and LED and then the next morning. The daylight and lit scenes were very nice I must say, but ... MoreThis could have been a great camera and I BADLY wanted it to work well. Instead, I write this review to reiterate strongly that unless you shoot with the correct lighting, you will be terribly disappointed in this camera which produces high amounts of video noise in low light or ambient lit indoor scenes.When I saw the demo video, I thought, "they used it indoors and I don't see any video noise. How bad can it be?" I like others thought, it can't be that bad, I'll try it. Well, it is, in fact its worse than my ten-year old Canon XH-A1 with an HDV codec. Yeah...... that bad.The Z90V arrived last Thursday, I shot video that afternoon - indoors and out, with natural light and LED and then the next morning. The daylight and lit scenes were very nice I must say, but any low lit, evening/ambient indoor scenes were a disappointment. I even produced a short clip with noise reduction. Still not good enough.Other reviews will tout its nice features, its quiet zooming, responsive auto focus, Zeiss glass, ND filters, ease of use (hence my 2 stars). But as soon as get I done with this review, I'm getting an RMA.On the bright side, I hedged my bet and bought a Panasonic DC-GH5S. Now this is a great camera codec. I am buying another in a couple minutes. If Sony could put the GH5's guts in their Z90V this camera would fly off the shelves.
originally posted on bestbuy.com
I researched this purchase for awhile before diving in. I was committed to buying a camera that could take video and handle sound in a more professional way than my SLR camera might and certainly better than a Smart Phone.All those work fine for vacation videos and family moments, but I wanted something I could use for more detailed work - like adding music, cut and pasting photos over the video, dubbing sounds, and even a clearer style picture, of a professional quality.I recently taped a theatrical play I directed and made a 4 minute training video as well - adding all sorts of things. Overall the system was EASY to use and learn.This is NOT the least expensive, but it by far is not the most expensive either.What is it is a great value for all that it ... MoreI researched this purchase for awhile before diving in. I was committed to buying a camera that could take video and handle sound in a more professional way than my SLR camera might and certainly better than a Smart Phone.All those work fine for vacation videos and family moments, but I wanted something I could use for more detailed work - like adding music, cut and pasting photos over the video, dubbing sounds, and even a clearer style picture, of a professional quality.I recently taped a theatrical play I directed and made a 4 minute training video as well - adding all sorts of things. Overall the system was EASY to use and learn.This is NOT the least expensive, but it by far is not the most expensive either.What is it is a great value for all that it does. I added a Rodes boom mike and a spot light., and also purchased an extra battery, but have not needed it.Look bottom line -- if you want a camcorder you can do some editing work with later and make the video more than just a serious of moving pictures... but don't want to buy a professional priced gear, this is th eunit for you,
originally posted on lensrentals.com
Renting here is superb. Just how the device arrives is amazing. First, it ships in a cardboard box, then an inner hardshell case, then a protective cary case. Opening this, you immediately know that company cares about the equipment and you'll be getting a well functioning device. Renting this Sony for under $200 gave me what I couldn't get anywhere else, professional level video of my son's sporting event. Everything that you need is available from extra batteries to a digital copy (PDF) of the manual online. But the most amazing thing was how early it was shipped to me without extra charge. It had been a while sense I had used this level of equipment and frankly was a bit 'rusty'. I ordered this to arrive and use between WED - SUN, but it arrived MON before. This ... MoreRenting here is superb. Just how the device arrives is amazing. First, it ships in a cardboard box, then an inner hardshell case, then a protective cary case. Opening this, you immediately know that company cares about the equipment and you'll be getting a well functioning device. Renting this Sony for under $200 gave me what I couldn't get anywhere else, professional level video of my son's sporting event. Everything that you need is available from extra batteries to a digital copy (PDF) of the manual online. But the most amazing thing was how early it was shipped to me without extra charge. It had been a while sense I had used this level of equipment and frankly was a bit 'rusty'. I ordered this to arrive and use between WED - SUN, but it arrived MON before. This gave me extra time to practice with the equipment well ahead of my shooting hours. Sending back was super easy, all laid out in a simple insert even including tape to affix to the boxes and return the item. I had it shipped to and from a Fedex location which meant also super safe. I didn't expect this level of customer satisfaction but Lensrentals delivered it, a very pleasant experience all the way around. I'll be using them again.
| Sensor Resolution | Effective: 14.2 Megapixel |
| Sensor Type | 1” CMOS Sensor |
| Image Stabilization | Optical in Integrated Lens |
| Shutter Speed | 1/6 to 1/10,000 sec |
| Gain | -3 to 33 dB |
Sony PXW-Z90 Palm camcorder with Broadcast quality 4K (QFHD) and HD
Sony PXW-Z90V Compact Handycam Professional Video Camera
Free delivery between Tue – Wed
Sony PXW-Z90V Pro Camcorder
Delivery $9.95
Sony PXW-Z90V Pro Camcorder
Delivery $9.95
This could have been a great camera and I BADLY wanted it to work well. Instead, I write this review to reiterate strongly that unless you shoot with the correct lighting, you will be terribly disappointed in this camera which produces high amounts of video noise in low light or ambient lit indoor scenes.When I saw the demo video, I thought, "they used it indoors and I don't see any video noise. How bad can it be?" I like others thought, it can't be that bad, I'll try it. Well, it is, in fact its worse than my ten-year old Canon XH-A1 with an HDV codec. Yeah...... that bad.The Z90V arrived last Thursday, I shot video that afternoon - indoors and out, with natural light and LED and then the next morning. The daylight and lit scenes were very nice I must say, but ... MoreThis could have been a great camera and I BADLY wanted it to work well. Instead, I write this review to reiterate strongly that unless you shoot with the correct lighting, you will be terribly disappointed in this camera which produces high amounts of video noise in low light or ambient lit indoor scenes.When I saw the demo video, I thought, "they used it indoors and I don't see any video noise. How bad can it be?" I like others thought, it can't be that bad, I'll try it. Well, it is, in fact its worse than my ten-year old Canon XH-A1 with an HDV codec. Yeah...... that bad.The Z90V arrived last Thursday, I shot video that afternoon - indoors and out, with natural light and LED and then the next morning. The daylight and lit scenes were very nice I must say, but any low lit, evening/ambient indoor scenes were a disappointment. I even produced a short clip with noise reduction. Still not good enough.Other reviews will tout its nice features, its quiet zooming, responsive auto focus, Zeiss glass, ND filters, ease of use (hence my 2 stars). But as soon as get I done with this review, I'm getting an RMA.On the bright side, I hedged my bet and bought a Panasonic DC-GH5S. Now this is a great camera codec. I am buying another in a couple minutes. If Sony could put the GH5's guts in their Z90V this camera would fly off the shelves.
I researched this purchase for awhile before diving in. I was committed to buying a camera that could take video and handle sound in a more professional way than my SLR camera might and certainly better than a Smart Phone.All those work fine for vacation videos and family moments, but I wanted something I could use for more detailed work - like adding music, cut and pasting photos over the video, dubbing sounds, and even a clearer style picture, of a professional quality.I recently taped a theatrical play I directed and made a 4 minute training video as well - adding all sorts of things. Overall the system was EASY to use and learn.This is NOT the least expensive, but it by far is not the most expensive either.What is it is a great value for all that it ... MoreI researched this purchase for awhile before diving in. I was committed to buying a camera that could take video and handle sound in a more professional way than my SLR camera might and certainly better than a Smart Phone.All those work fine for vacation videos and family moments, but I wanted something I could use for more detailed work - like adding music, cut and pasting photos over the video, dubbing sounds, and even a clearer style picture, of a professional quality.I recently taped a theatrical play I directed and made a 4 minute training video as well - adding all sorts of things. Overall the system was EASY to use and learn.This is NOT the least expensive, but it by far is not the most expensive either.What is it is a great value for all that it does. I added a Rodes boom mike and a spot light., and also purchased an extra battery, but have not needed it.Look bottom line -- if you want a camcorder you can do some editing work with later and make the video more than just a serious of moving pictures... but don't want to buy a professional priced gear, this is th eunit for you,
Renting here is superb. Just how the device arrives is amazing. First, it ships in a cardboard box, then an inner hardshell case, then a protective cary case. Opening this, you immediately know that company cares about the equipment and you'll be getting a well functioning device. Renting this Sony for under $200 gave me what I couldn't get anywhere else, professional level video of my son's sporting event. Everything that you need is available from extra batteries to a digital copy (PDF) of the manual online. But the most amazing thing was how early it was shipped to me without extra charge. It had been a while sense I had used this level of equipment and frankly was a bit 'rusty'. I ordered this to arrive and use between WED - SUN, but it arrived MON before. This ... MoreRenting here is superb. Just how the device arrives is amazing. First, it ships in a cardboard box, then an inner hardshell case, then a protective cary case. Opening this, you immediately know that company cares about the equipment and you'll be getting a well functioning device. Renting this Sony for under $200 gave me what I couldn't get anywhere else, professional level video of my son's sporting event. Everything that you need is available from extra batteries to a digital copy (PDF) of the manual online. But the most amazing thing was how early it was shipped to me without extra charge. It had been a while sense I had used this level of equipment and frankly was a bit 'rusty'. I ordered this to arrive and use between WED - SUN, but it arrived MON before. This gave me extra time to practice with the equipment well ahead of my shooting hours. Sending back was super easy, all laid out in a simple insert even including tape to affix to the boxes and return the item. I had it shipped to and from a Fedex location which meant also super safe. I didn't expect this level of customer satisfaction but Lensrentals delivered it, a very pleasant experience all the way around. I'll be using them again.
I would have given a 5 if SONY told the truth about the lousy bokeh.GREAT images including in low light. Super auto focus.I shoot primarily 1080P 60 frames/sec at 35M or 50 Mbps in XAVC.One caveat: forget about getting great bokeh like in the ads. You can do it ONLY in very limited conditions - Its mostly not going to happen. About this I was very disappointed. SONY knew this when they hugely exaggerated this claim. The did not need to do that - the rest of the camera earns its accolades on the tech features. (BAD on you, SONY!)its small and light - great for travel and outdoors and indoors. I've carted this camera all over the world. Carry it in a small shoulder bag with the XLR handle disconnected.
There is a lot to like about this relatively inexpensive camera. Just used this on a show with many types of cameras, from GoPros to Canon 5D, EX-1, Panasonic 4k, etc.Pros:1.Hybrid AF works well. It is not as intuitive as it sounds, but once you get the hang of it, it works.2. Picture quality in good light is very good.3. Audio capabilities (XLR with real switches and phantom power) is a plus for a camera at this size and price point.4. Love the prosumer s-log capability. This is a real benefit for outdoor run and gun situations.5. Range of ND filters is nice.Cons:1. Switching mic sources requires going into the menu. You might think the "auto" switch setting would switch based on what was plugged (or not plugged) into it, but it doesn't seem to have ... MoreThere is a lot to like about this relatively inexpensive camera. Just used this on a show with many types of cameras, from GoPros to Canon 5D, EX-1, Panasonic 4k, etc.Pros:1.Hybrid AF works well. It is not as intuitive as it sounds, but once you get the hang of it, it works.2. Picture quality in good light is very good.3. Audio capabilities (XLR with real switches and phantom power) is a plus for a camera at this size and price point.4. Love the prosumer s-log capability. This is a real benefit for outdoor run and gun situations.5. Range of ND filters is nice.Cons:1. Switching mic sources requires going into the menu. You might think the "auto" switch setting would switch based on what was plugged (or not plugged) into it, but it doesn't seem to have a function. You need to go in and change sources when going from XLR, to mini-plug, to internal mic, although it was nice to have both XLR and mini-plug inputs. There are switches, but they only control the XLR inputs.2. Shotgun mic holder - In typical Sony fashion, the mic holder is too wide for most shotgun mics. I don't know why this is the case with most Sony cameras. Also, and this was a real problem, the mic holder is too far forward. Pulling the mic back so that it was not in the shot put part of the mic front capsule in the holder.3. The biggest factor is low-light capability. It is just not a fast camera and using gain or increasing the ISO can cause image degradation.All-in-all, it has a lot of "professional" features for the cost of a prosumer camera. Definitely on the right track, and the next version might be even better!There are several
As an owner of a Sony FX9, a Sony FX6, and a Sony FX3, it is surprising that the camera I keep with me is my PXW-Z90V. It is compact, powerful, and equipped with all of the features and benefits I need to make a documentaries. I am sad because it took me so long to recognize the powerful ability of quality camcorders again. I appreciate the benefits and quality of the higher quality cameras, however, they come with the need to carry more gear, extra batteries, and additional equipment in order to retrieve those benefits. I love my PXW-Z 90V. It makes my job much easier as a documentary filmmaker.
Just take note, this camcorder is great but if you have others that use the camcorder and want to view their files, .xml or .mxf, and have not purchased video editing software that is required to edit and work with these types of files, they will not be able to view their tapped video. Sony shares that the camcorder can save to .mpeg but you have to purchase a $400 unlock key license for the camcorder to save to that file type. And then it is a .mpeg with a .mxf wrapper so it will not open as a .mpeg in several of the Mircosoft tools. You have to find the tools that will allow the file to be open. B&H Pro Video Department was great and shared that VLC media player will open the file and now many of our staff members can view the files and then send to our ... MoreJust take note, this camcorder is great but if you have others that use the camcorder and want to view their files, .xml or .mxf, and have not purchased video editing software that is required to edit and work with these types of files, they will not be able to view their tapped video. Sony shares that the camcorder can save to .mpeg but you have to purchase a $400 unlock key license for the camcorder to save to that file type. And then it is a .mpeg with a .mxf wrapper so it will not open as a .mpeg in several of the Mircosoft tools. You have to find the tools that will allow the file to be open. B&H Pro Video Department was great and shared that VLC media player will open the file and now many of our staff members can view the files and then send to our videographer with notes for editing. Thank you B&H! Why Sony does not have a .mp4 file option is mind boggling. The industry is going away from .mpeg and moving to .mp4.
I read reviews showing that low light was a problem but my definition of low light has been influenced by using FX3 and A7s3. What I would expect to be medium light levels still looks markedly worse in this camera than most other cameras and cameraphones. It's disappointing because I wanted to benefit from the form factor and convenience of this camera for documentary purposes. It's fine outdoors but most of my subjects are in offices. I bought the Z90v to save time and speed workflow but it takes extra time to edit and I don't like the results. Wish the camera had an updated sensor and 4k codecs. I can push the image a little bit with the 4k setting on max bit rate but not enough to make it a viable option.Saw a reviewer stating this was the go-to for much of ... MoreI read reviews showing that low light was a problem but my definition of low light has been influenced by using FX3 and A7s3. What I would expect to be medium light levels still looks markedly worse in this camera than most other cameras and cameraphones. It's disappointing because I wanted to benefit from the form factor and convenience of this camera for documentary purposes. It's fine outdoors but most of my subjects are in offices. I bought the Z90v to save time and speed workflow but it takes extra time to edit and I don't like the results. Wish the camera had an updated sensor and 4k codecs. I can push the image a little bit with the 4k setting on max bit rate but not enough to make it a viable option.Saw a reviewer stating this was the go-to for much of their footage despite having FX3/FX6/FX9 at their disposal. I don't know what they are shooting. Maybe they have light control at a level my application (setup window) doesn't afford, or maybe they are amazing in post. I wish this worked for me but couldn't get the results I need.Hopeful B&H will fill my order for FX9 soon. It's an awkward time to be a Sony doc shooter due to lack of available materials leading to supply chain issues. FX6 is on a 7-month backorder estimate from Sony, for example. I hoped this would get me there.
Purchased this as a companion camera for my Sony PXW Z-190. My cameras are mostly used for live productions so SDI out was a priority as well as color matching to my camera and the Sony BRC X-1000 robos we use. My larger camera is used more for operating, but the zoom on the small Z-90 is smooth and works well with a remote controller. Removeable handle with XLR is a plus and a lot of picture settings. The only thing I miss is the wide angle of my Z-190's lens for handheld, but unless shooting in 4k, the digital zoom on the Z-90 is enough for most situations. Great solution for a second camera or to have a small handycam to take more places.
I got the SONY Z90 as a companion to my FS7. I wanted to shoot and export REC.2020 compliant video. Eventually produce and deliver HDR content (when Adobe updates it’s encoder to produce HDR/HLG video that is ST.2100/ST.2084 compliant.) The Z90 is amazing in low light. It reproduces very accurate color that is nuanced in slight shades and gradation. In HLG, reproduces an amazing latitude of dynamic range. HLG playback to my HDR monitor is stunning! Operation and menus are excellent. The focus is near perfect. Well balanced, love the handle and XLR inputs. I see no compression artifacts or color banding (4K). The Z90 does not reproduce the full DCI color gamut that the FS7 can, you can see colors flatten out from man-made color sources (neon, high-end LED’s). ... MoreI got the SONY Z90 as a companion to my FS7. I wanted to shoot and export REC.2020 compliant video. Eventually produce and deliver HDR content (when Adobe updates it’s encoder to produce HDR/HLG video that is ST.2100/ST.2084 compliant.) The Z90 is amazing in low light. It reproduces very accurate color that is nuanced in slight shades and gradation. In HLG, reproduces an amazing latitude of dynamic range. HLG playback to my HDR monitor is stunning! Operation and menus are excellent. The focus is near perfect. Well balanced, love the handle and XLR inputs. I see no compression artifacts or color banding (4K). The Z90 does not reproduce the full DCI color gamut that the FS7 can, you can see colors flatten out from man-made color sources (neon, high-end LED’s). SLOG3 is barely usable due to noise and robust exposure system like the CineEi on the FS7.Like all new SONY video cameras, out of the box - the sensor produces a large amount of color noise. I recommend hooking the camera to power, point it at a white wall, defocus, and leave on for a couple days. This will burn the sensor and camera in nicely, try it! I’ve attached some raw video I shot in various lighting conditions. I graded the gamma curve to 709 but left the color gamut in REC.2020 (the colors may not look exact on a 709 monitor. In HLG/HDR, the firework does not blow-out, the candles and lights appear as light sources. This is an excellent camera, it reminds me of my PDX10 in 2003.Sample video:youtube.com/watch?v=J-qqWTkfIuA&feature=youtu.be
| Sensor Resolution | Effective: 14.2 Megapixel |
| Sensor Type | 1” CMOS Sensor |
| Image Stabilization | Optical in Integrated Lens |
| Shutter Speed | 1/6 to 1/10,000 sec |
| Gain | -3 to 33 dB |
