Sony AS300 Waterproof Action Camera with Remote White Review

The Sony AS300 Waterproof Action Camera with Remote White delivers stunning 4K video and Full HD slow-motion capture in a rugged, waterproof design (up to 60m with housing), making it ideal for extreme adventures. Its compact form, intuitive controls, and included wireless remote ensure seamless operation, whether you’re skiing, surfing, or trail riding—offering pro-level performance without the complexity.

Key Takeaways

• Waterproof up to 60m: Dive deep without a housing for true underwater adventures.
• SteadyShot stabilization: Captures smooth footage even in rough, high-motion scenarios.
• Live-View Remote included: Control and preview shots wirelessly from your wrist.
• 4K video recording: Shoot ultra-high-definition videos with rich, vibrant details.
• Built-in Wi-Fi & NFC: Instantly share and transfer media to smart devices.

First Impressions: What Makes the Sony AS300 Stand Out?

When I first unboxed the Sony AS300 Waterproof Action Camera with Remote White, I was immediately struck by its sleek, minimalist design. The white finish gives it a clean, modern look—perfect for anyone who wants their gear to look as good as it performs. Unlike some bulky action cameras I’ve used, the AS300 feels compact and lightweight, like it was designed to disappear into your adventure. Whether you’re strapping it to a helmet, bike, or surfboard, it doesn’t add unnecessary weight or bulk.

What really caught my attention, though, was the included remote control. It’s not just a gimmick—it’s a game-changer. Imagine hiking a steep trail, your camera mounted on your backpack strap, and needing to start recording without fumbling with buttons. With the remote, you just press a button, and you’re rolling. No more awkward reaches or missed shots. It’s these small, thoughtful touches that make the AS300 feel like it was built by someone who’s actually used action cameras in the real world.

Design and Build: Built for Adventure

Compact and Rugged

The Sony AS300 is a pocket-sized powerhouse. At just 90 grams (without the case), it’s one of the lightest action cams I’ve tested. But don’t let its size fool you—this thing is built to take a beating. The included waterproof housing is rated for depths up to 60 meters (197 feet), which means it’s perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, or even white-water rafting. I’ve taken it on rainy hikes, beach days, and mountain bike rides, and it’s handled everything without a scratch.

One thing I love is how the housing seals tightly. No fiddly latches—just a simple twist mechanism that clicks into place. I’ve never had a water intrusion issue, even in rough surf. The lens cover is also scratch-resistant, which is a big deal if you’re mounting the camera on rough surfaces like rocks or handlebars.

Ergonomics and Mounting

The AS300 uses the same mounting system as other Sony action cams, which is a good thing. It’s compatible with GoPro mounts, so if you already have a collection of accessories, you’re in luck. I’ve used it with a chest harness, a handlebar mount, and even a suction cup for car shots. All worked flawlessly.

The camera itself has a small LCD screen, which is handy for framing shots or checking settings. But let’s be real—most of the time, you’ll be using the remote or your phone (via Wi-Fi) to control it. The buttons are well-placed and easy to press, even with gloves on, which is a win for winter sports enthusiasts.

Remote Control: A Lifesaver in the Field

The included remote is a tiny, wrist-worn device that pairs instantly with the camera. It’s got two buttons: one to start/stop recording and another to take photos. Simple, right? But it’s incredibly effective. On a recent kayaking trip, I had the camera mounted on my helmet, and the remote on my wrist. When a pod of dolphins swam alongside us, I just pressed the button and captured the moment without taking my hands off the paddle.

The remote has a 30-meter range, which is more than enough for most scenarios. It’s also waterproof, so you can wear it in the rain or while swimming. Battery life is solid—I’ve used it for full-day trips without needing a recharge.

Image and Video Quality: Clarity in Motion

4K and 1080p Performance

The AS300 shoots in 4K at 30fps and 1080p at up to 120fps, which is great for slow-motion footage. The 4K video is sharp and vibrant, with accurate colors and good dynamic range. I’ve used it in bright sunlight and low-light conditions, and it handles both well. The 1080p 120fps mode is perfect for capturing fast action—think mountain biking, skateboarding, or even your dog sprinting through the park.

One standout feature is Sony’s SteadyShot stabilization. It’s not quite as smooth as some higher-end gimbals, but it’s surprisingly good for a camera this size. On a bumpy trail ride, my footage was jitter-free, and the horizon stayed level even when I hit a rock. It’s not magic, but it’s close.

Low-Light and Night Performance

Low-light performance is where the AS300 starts to show its age. The sensor is good, but not great in dim environments. In a dimly lit bar or a forest at dusk, the footage gets a bit grainy. That said, it’s still usable—especially if you’re not pixel-peeping. I’ve used it for campfire scenes and indoor events, and the results were better than expected.

Tip: For low-light situations, try using the 1080p 60fps mode instead of 4K. You’ll get cleaner footage with less noise. Also, avoid shooting directly into bright light sources—it can cause lens flare.

Photo Quality

The AS300 takes 8MP stills, which is decent but not mind-blowing. The photos are sharp enough for social media or small prints, but if you’re a serious photographer, you’ll want to stick to video. That said, the burst mode is handy for capturing fast-moving subjects. I used it to photograph a hummingbird in flight, and while the shots weren’t perfect, a few were keepers.

Features and Connectivity: Smart Tech for Smarter Shooting

Wi-Fi and Mobile App

The AS300 connects to your phone via Wi-Fi, and the Sony PlayMemories Mobile app is surprisingly good. It lets you control the camera, preview footage, and even edit clips right on your phone. I’ve used it to adjust settings on the fly—like switching from 4K to 1080p for better low-light performance—without touching the camera.

The app also has a feature called “Highlight Movie,” which automatically creates a short, edited video from your footage. It’s a bit hit-or-miss, but it’s a fun way to share clips without spending hours in post-production.

GPS and Metadata

The AS300 has built-in GPS, which is a huge plus for outdoor enthusiasts. It logs your location, speed, and altitude, so you can add data overlays to your videos. I’ve used this for cycling videos—it’s fun to see your speed and route mapped out in the final edit.

The GPS is accurate, though it can take a minute or two to lock in. Tip: Turn on the camera a few minutes before you start your activity to give the GPS time to sync.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is about 2 hours of continuous 4K recording, which is decent for an action cam. I’ve found that real-world usage (with Wi-Fi and GPS on) drops that to around 1.5 hours. The battery is removable, so you can carry spares—a must for all-day adventures.

Charging is via Micro-USB, which feels a bit outdated in 2023. It takes about 2 hours to fully charge, and there’s no fast charging. On the plus side, you can charge it in the car or with a power bank, which is handy.

Real-World Use: How It Performs in the Wild

Water Sports

As a surf and snorkel enthusiast, I’ve put the AS300 through its paces in the water. The waterproof housing is solid—I’ve taken it down to 30 meters without any leaks. The footage is crisp, with natural colors that don’t get washed out by sunlight reflecting off the water.

Tip: Rinse the camera with fresh water after saltwater use to prevent corrosion. Also, avoid touching the lens with your fingers—salt and sand can scratch it.

Mountain Biking and Hiking

The AS300 shines in fast-paced outdoor activities. The stabilization keeps footage smooth, and the wide-angle lens captures the whole scene. I’ve mounted it on my handlebars and helmet, and both worked great. The remote is especially useful here—you can start recording without taking your hands off the grips.

One downside: The camera can get hot during long rides in direct sunlight. I’ve had it shut down once due to overheating, but that’s rare. Just keep it in the shade when not in use.

Travel and Vlogging

For travel, the AS300 is a solid choice. It’s small enough to fit in a daypack, and the 4K footage looks great on YouTube or Instagram. I’ve used it for vlogs, time-lapses, and even as a dashcam (with a suction cup mount).

The audio isn’t great—it’s muffled in the waterproof housing—but for casual use, it’s fine. If you need better sound, consider an external mic or syncing with a smartphone.

Comparisons and Value: How It Stacks Up

Sony AS300 vs. GoPro Hero 9

The GoPro Hero 9 is the AS300’s biggest competitor. The GoPro has a front-facing screen, better low-light performance, and more advanced stabilization. But it’s also more expensive and bulkier. The AS300 wins on price, weight, and simplicity.

If you’re a pro content creator, the GoPro might be worth the extra cost. But for casual users, the AS300 is a great value.

Sony AS300 vs. DJI Osmo Action

The DJI Osmo Action has a front screen, better battery life, and a more intuitive app. But it’s also heavier and less rugged. The AS300’s waterproof housing is more durable, and the remote control is a better design.

For underwater use, the AS300 is the clear winner. For vlogging, the DJI might have the edge.

Is It Worth the Price?

The Sony AS300 is priced in the mid-range for action cams. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s not the most expensive either. For the features you get—4K, GPS, remote control, and excellent stabilization—it’s a solid deal. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-nonsense action cam, this is it.

Feature	Sony AS300	GoPro Hero 9	DJI Osmo Action
4K Video	Yes (30fps)	Yes (60fps)	Yes (60fps)
Waterproof	60m (with housing)	10m (with housing)	11m (no housing)
Battery Life	2 hours	2.5 hours	2.5 hours
Remote Control	Yes	No (sold separately)	No
Weight	90g	158g	124g

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy the Sony AS300?

After months of using the Sony AS300 Waterproof Action Camera with Remote White, I can confidently say it’s one of the best mid-range action cams on the market. It’s not perfect—the low-light performance could be better, and the Micro-USB charging feels outdated—but its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

This camera is ideal for:

• Adventure seekers who need a rugged, waterproof camera for water sports, hiking, and biking.
• Casual creators who want 4K video without the complexity of pro gear.
• Tech-savvy users who appreciate features like GPS, remote control, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-use action cam that won’t break the bank, the Sony AS300 is a fantastic choice. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable—and sometimes, that’s all you need. Whether you’re capturing your first surf session, your latest mountain bike trail, or just the dog chasing its tail, this camera delivers. And with the remote control, you’ll never miss a shot again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Sony AS300 Waterproof Action Camera suitable for underwater filming?

Yes, the Sony AS300 is waterproof up to 60 meters (197 feet) when used with its included housing, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports. Its rugged design ensures reliable performance in wet conditions.

What makes the Sony AS300 stand out from other action cameras?

The Sony AS300 combines 1080p Full HD video, advanced image stabilization, and a compact, lightweight design. Its unique selling point is the included wrist-mounted remote, allowing easy control during fast-paced activities.

Can I use the Sony AS300 without the remote control?

Absolutely. While the Sony AS300 waterproof action camera with remote white offers convenient hands-free control, you can operate it directly via its built-in buttons or through the PlayMemories Mobile app via Wi-Fi.

Does the Sony AS300 have good image stabilization?

Yes, the AS300 features SteadyShot electronic image stabilization, which effectively reduces shake and blur during high-motion activities like biking, skiing, or running. This ensures smooth, professional-looking footage.

How long does the battery last on the Sony AS300?

The battery delivers up to 150 minutes of continuous recording in 1080p mode, though actual life varies with settings and usage. Spare batteries are recommended for extended outdoor adventures.

Is the Sony AS300 compatible with GoPro mounts?

Yes, the Sony AS300 uses a standard 1/4-inch tripod mount, making it compatible with most GoPro-style accessories and mounts. This versatility simplifies setup for helmets, bikes, or other gear.