Sony HDR-AS50 Action Camera with Live View Remote – Review

The Sony HDR-AS50 Action Camera with Live View Remote delivers stunning 4K video and impressive image stabilization in a rugged, compact design, making it ideal for adrenaline-fueled adventures. Its included Live View Remote offers real-time framing and control—even when the camera is mounted out of reach—enhancing usability for solo creators and action enthusiasts alike.

Key Takeaways

• Compact and rugged: Ideal for outdoor adventures and extreme conditions.
• Live View Remote: Enables real-time framing and control from a distance.
• SteadyShot stabilization: Delivers smooth video even on bumpy terrain.
• Full HD 60p recording: Captures crisp, detailed footage in any environment.
• Underwater housing included: Ready for diving up to 60 meters deep.
• Quick access buttons: Simplify operation with one-touch controls on the go.

Why the Sony HDR-AS50 Might Just Be Your Perfect Adventure Sidekick

Let’s face it: capturing your adventures used to mean lugging around bulky gear, missing the moment while fiddling with settings, or settling for shaky, low-quality footage. I’ve been there—struggling to frame a shot while biking down a trail or trying to record my kid’s first ski run with a phone that couldn’t handle the cold. That’s why I was genuinely excited to test the Sony HDR-AS50 action camera with live view remote. It promised to solve those pain points with a compact design, pro-level features, and a remote that lets you control the camera from afar. After weeks of testing it in everything from mountain biking to family hikes, I’m ready to share the real deal.

This isn’t just another action cam review. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a travel vlogger, or a parent wanting to freeze-frame life’s messy moments, I’ll walk you through what works, what doesn’t, and whether this camera fits your needs. Spoiler: the Sony HDR-AS50 with live view remote surprised me in ways I didn’t expect—but it’s not without its quirks. Let’s dive in.

Design and Build: Tough, Tiny, and Ready for Anything

First Impressions: A Pocket-Sized Powerhouse

The HDR-AS50 is small—like, *fits-in-your-jacket-pocket* small. At just 83g (2.9 oz), it’s lighter than most smartphones. The matte black body feels rugged, with a textured grip that helps even with gloves on. I accidentally dropped it onto concrete during a bike ride, and it survived with only a tiny scuff. That’s thanks to its IPX4 water resistance rating, which means it handles splashes, rain, and snow like a champ (though it’s not for diving).

The camera comes with a basic frame mount and a waterproof housing (up to 60m/197ft), which is great for snorkeling or kayaking. But here’s a tip: if you’re using the housing, the touchscreen becomes useless. You’ll need to rely on the physical buttons—something to consider if you’re planning on deep dives.

The Live View Remote: A Game-Changer for Framing

The remote is where this camera shines. It’s a 1.5-inch color LCD screen (about the size of a matchbox) with a built-in battery and wrist strap. Pairing it to the camera takes 30 seconds, and once connected, it shows a live feed of what the camera sees. This is *huge* for solo adventurers. I used it to film myself rock climbing by strapping the camera to my helmet and adjusting the angle remotely. No more guessing if the shot’s framed right!

Pro tip: The remote’s screen is bright but not sunlight-readable. In direct sunlight, I had to cup my hands around it to see. Also, the remote’s battery lasts 4-5 hours, so pack a power bank for all-day shoots.

Mounting Options: Flexibility with a Catch

Sony’s mounting system is versatile. The camera uses a proprietary “Multi Interface Shoe” that clicks into various mounts (sold separately). I tested the adhesive mounts on a helmet, handlebars, and a backpack strap. They held up well—even on bumpy trails. But the adhesive pads wear out after 3-4 uses, so keep spares handy.

One gripe: the camera’s lens is fixed, so you can’t swap it for a wide-angle or macro lens. If you’re into creative angles, this might be limiting.

Image and Video Quality: Crisp, Clear, and Surprisingly Smooth

Resolution and Frame Rates: What You Can Shoot

The HDR-AS50 records up to 1080p at 60fps (full HD) or 720p at 120fps for slow-motion. While it’s not 4K, the 1080p footage is sharp, with accurate colors and minimal noise. Here’s what I loved:

• SteadyShot Image Stabilization: This is the real MVP. I filmed a mountain bike ride on rocky terrain, and the footage looked like it was shot on a gimbal. Sony’s stabilization tech uses gyro sensors to reduce shake—no extra gear needed.
• Low-Light Performance: In dim light (like a sunset hike), the camera boosted exposure without making the footage look grainy. It’s not perfect—shadows get a bit muddy—but it’s better than most action cams at this price.
• Slow-Motion Magic: At 720p/120fps, you get smooth slow-mo. I filmed my dog sprinting through a field, and the motion looked buttery. Just remember: lower resolution means less detail.

Color and Dynamic Range: Vibrant, Not Overprocessed

Sony’s color science is excellent. Footage looks natural, not overly saturated. In mixed lighting (e.g., shade and sunlight), the camera balanced exposure well. For example, I recorded a waterfall scene with dark rocks and bright mist, and both areas retained detail. No blown-out highlights or crushed shadows.

Caveat: The camera lacks manual controls for ISO, shutter speed, or white balance. You’re stuck with auto settings. This works for most scenarios, but if you’re a pro shooter, you’ll miss the flexibility.

Audio Quality: Better Than Expected (But Bring a Mic)

The built-in mic captures clear audio in quiet environments. I used it for voiceovers while hiking, and the sound was crisp. But in windy conditions (like a bike ride at 20mph), the mic picked up a lot of wind noise. Sony’s optional stereo mic (ECM-W1M) fixes this, but it’s an extra $200. For casual use, the built-in mic is fine. For vlogging or interviews, invest in an external mic.

Features and Usability: Smart Tech That Actually Helps

Live View Remote: Beyond Framing

The remote isn’t just for framing. You can start/stop recording, switch modes, and even zoom (digitally) from the remote. I used this to film a group hike—strapping the camera to a tree and controlling it from the trail. The remote has a 30m/100ft range, which worked perfectly in open spaces. In dense forests, it dropped to 10m. Keep that in mind for backcountry use.

Fun tip: The remote’s screen shows battery life, recording time, and mode. No more guessing if the camera’s still rolling!

SteadyShot and Auto Settings: Set It and Forget It

Sony’s SteadyShot is so effective, I rarely had to reframe shots. Even when I forgot to lock focus, the camera adjusted automatically. The “Active” mode (for high-motion) works best for sports; “Standard” is fine for walking or biking.

One quirk: In low light, SteadyShot adds a slight zoom to stabilize the image. This crops your frame by about 10%. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting.

Wi-Fi and App Integration: Simple but Limited

The HDR-AS50 connects to Sony’s PlayMemories Mobile app via Wi-Fi. You can transfer files, control the camera, or use your phone as a live viewfinder. The app is easy to use, but the transfer speed is slow (about 2 minutes for a 1GB video). Also, the app doesn’t support 4K, which isn’t an issue here but might be for future upgrades.

Pro tip: Use the remote for live viewing and the app only for file transfers. It’s faster that way.

Battery Life and Accessories: What You Need to Know

Battery Performance: All-Day (With Caveats)

The included NP-BX1 battery lasts 2-3 hours for continuous 1080p recording. That’s enough for a day of casual use, but if you’re filming a 5-hour hike, you’ll need spares. Sony sells extra batteries for $30, or you can use a USB power bank with the camera (though it won’t charge *while* recording).

Here’s a real-world example: I filmed a 4-hour bike race with two batteries and a power bank. The camera died after 2.5 hours, but the power bank kept it running until the finish line. Just remember to start with a full battery!

Storage: MicroSD Cards and File Management

The camera supports microSD cards up to 128GB (UHS-I). A 64GB card holds about 6 hours of 1080p/60fps footage. I used a SanDisk Extreme 64GB card, which handled high-bitrate recording without hiccups. Avoid cheap cards—they can corrupt files during long recordings.

Tip: Format the card in-camera every few weeks. It keeps the file system clean and reduces the risk of errors.

Accessories: The Good, the Bad, and the Pricey

Sony’s ecosystem has great add-ons, but they’re expensive. The stereo mic ($200) and dive housing ($150) are must-haves for serious shooters. Third-party mounts are cheaper but lack the build quality. I tested a $10 Amazon mount—it worked, but the plastic felt flimsy.

Budget tip: Buy the camera first, then invest in accessories as needed. The basic kit is enough for most users.

Who Should Buy the Sony HDR-AS50? (And Who Shouldn’t)

The Perfect Fit: Casual Adventurers and Parents

If you want a no-fuss camera that delivers great footage without a learning curve, the HDR-AS50 is ideal. It’s perfect for:

• Filming kids’ sports, family hikes, or vacations
• Casual vloggers who value simplicity over 4K
• Outdoor enthusiasts who need durability and stabilization

I used it to record my nephew’s soccer game—strapping it to the goalpost with the remote in my pocket. The footage was clear, stable, and easy to share.

Where It Falls Short: Pros and 4K Enthusiasts

The HDR-AS50 isn’t for everyone. Skip it if you:

• Need 4K video (Sony’s FDR-X3000 is better for that)
• Want manual controls for exposure or focus
• Plan to dive deeper than 60m (you’ll need a specialized housing)

Also, the lack of GPS might disappoint travelers who want location-tagged videos. Competing cams like the GoPro Hero9 include this.

Data Snapshot: Key Specs and Real-World Performance

Here’s a quick comparison of what the HDR-AS50 delivers in real scenarios:

Feature	Specification	Real-World Performance
Video Resolution	1080p/60fps, 720p/120fps	Sharp 1080p; smooth slow-mo
Image Stabilization	SteadyShot (Active/Standard)	Excellent for biking, skiing, hiking
Battery Life	2-3 hours (1080p)	4-5 hours with power bank
Remote Range	30m/100ft	10m in dense forests
Water Resistance	IPX4 (splash-proof), 60m with housing	Survived rain, snow, kayaking
Storage	MicroSD up to 128GB	64GB card = 6 hours 1080p

Final Verdict: A Solid, No-Frills Adventure Companion

After weeks of testing, the Sony HDR-AS50 action camera with live view remote earns its place as a reliable, user-friendly tool. It’s not the flashiest or most advanced cam out there, but it nails the basics: crisp video, rock-solid stabilization, and a remote that makes solo filming a breeze. The lack of 4K and manual controls might deter pros, but for everyday adventurers, this camera removes the stress of capturing memories.

Would I buy it? Absolutely—if I wanted simplicity and durability. It’s the camera I’d grab for a family trip, a weekend hike, or a spontaneous road trip. But if you’re chasing 4K, GPS, or pro-level controls, look elsewhere. For everyone else? The HDR-AS50 is a smart choice that lets you focus on the adventure, not the gear. And honestly, that’s what matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Sony HDR-AS50 Action Camera with Live View Remote stand out?

The Sony HDR-AS50 combines 1080p full HD video, advanced SteadyShot stabilization, and a wrist-mounted Live View Remote for real-time framing and control—ideal for action enthusiasts who need hands-free operation. Its rugged, splash-proof design ensures durability in outdoor adventures.

Can I use the Live View Remote underwater with the HDR-AS50?

The Live View Remote is splash-resistant but not fully waterproof. For underwater use, pair the camera with the included underwater housing (rated to 60m), while the remote can be used above water or in light rain.

Does the Sony HDR-AS50 support live streaming or real-time video output?

While the HDR-AS50 lacks built-in live streaming, the Live View Remote lets you monitor and control the camera in real time via Wi-Fi up to 5m away. Use HDMI output for direct playback on external displays.

How long does the battery last on the Sony HDR-AS50 with the remote?

The camera’s battery lasts approximately 135 minutes of continuous recording (1080p), while the Live View Remote runs for about 2.5 hours. Carry spare batteries for extended shoots.

Is the Sony HDR-AS50 compatible with GoPro mounts?

Yes, the HDR-AS50 uses a standard 1/4-inch tripod thread and includes an adapter for GoPro-style mounts, making it versatile for helmets, bikes, and other accessories. The compact design fits most third-party mounts.

What’s the best way to transfer videos from the HDR-AS50 to a smartphone?

Use the Sony PlayMemories Mobile app to wirelessly transfer footage via Wi-Fi. Alternatively, remove the microSD card and use a card reader for faster, high-quality transfers without recompression.