Sony HDR AS20 Compact POV Action Camera Remote Review

The Sony HDR AS20 Compact POV Action Camera Remote delivers exceptional hands-free control for adventurers seeking seamless, high-quality 1080p video capture. Lightweight and rugged, this palm-sized remote pairs instantly with the camera, enabling easy operation even during intense action—perfect for cyclists, skiers, and vloggers on the move. With extended battery life and intuitive one-button recording, it’s a must-have accessory for maximizing your Sony AS20’s potential.

Key Takeaways

• Compact and lightweight: Ideal for POV shots without bulk.
• Remote control included: Effortlessly capture hands-free footage.
• HD video quality: Delivers crisp, vibrant 1080p recordings.
• Durable build: Withstands rugged use in outdoor adventures.
• Easy sharing: Built-in Wi-Fi for instant media transfer.
• Battery life: Lasts up to 2 hours of continuous use.

Why the Sony HDR AS20 Compact POV Action Camera Remote Deserves Your Attention

Let’s be real—action cameras are everywhere. From mountain bikers capturing death-defying descents to parents recording their toddler’s first bike ride, these tiny devices have become the go-to for immersive, first-person footage. But here’s the thing: not all action cameras are built the same. Some are bulky, some overheat, and others just don’t deliver on their promises. That’s where the Sony HDR AS20 Compact POV Action Camera Remote steps in. I’ve tested this little powerhouse over the past few months, and it’s quickly become my favorite for capturing life’s wildest (and most mundane) moments. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a content creator on the go, this camera has something to offer.

What sets the Sony HDR AS20 apart isn’t just its compact size or rugged design—it’s the thoughtful features that make it a joy to use. From its remote control capabilities to its stunning image quality, this camera feels like a tool designed by people who actually *use* action cameras. I’ve taken it kayaking, mountain biking, and even to a friend’s backyard barbecue, and it’s handled every scenario with ease. In this review, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from its standout features to the quirks you should know before buying. Let’s dive in!

Design and Build Quality: Small but Mighty

Compact and Lightweight

The first thing you’ll notice about the Sony HDR AS20 is how tiny it is. Weighing just 83 grams (without the battery), it’s one of the lightest action cameras I’ve used. This makes it perfect for mounting on helmets, handlebars, or even your dog’s harness (yes, I tried it—my golden retriever was unimpressed, but the footage was hilarious). The camera’s dimensions (24.5 x 47 x 82 mm) mean it won’t weigh you down, whether you’re scaling a mountain or just chasing your kids around the park.

Durable and Weather-Resistant

Sony didn’t skimp on durability. The HDR AS20 is built like a tank—well, a tiny tank. It’s splash-proof (IPX4 rated), so you don’t have to panic if it gets caught in a rainstorm or dunked in a stream. While it’s not *fully* waterproof like some competitors (looking at you, GoPro), it handles splashes and light rain like a champ. I’ve used it in humid jungles and misty waterfalls, and it’s held up perfectly. Just don’t plan on deep-sea diving with it unless you buy a separate housing.

Remote Control: The Game-Changer

The included remote is where this camera truly shines. It’s a small, wrist-worn device that lets you start/stop recording, take photos, and even toggle between modes—all without touching the camera. This is a *huge* deal if you’re mounted on a bike, skiing, or trying to capture candid moments. I’ve used it to film myself hiking (no more awkward selfie angles) and to record my friend’s wedding without being a nuisance. The remote connects via Wi-Fi, with a range of about 30 meters (98 feet), which is more than enough for most scenarios.

Pro Tip: The remote’s battery lasts about 2 hours, so charge it before long shoots. Also, the camera’s Wi-Fi can drain its battery faster, so disable it when not in use.

Image and Video Quality: Sony’s Signature Clarity

1080p Full HD and Beyond

The HDR AS20 shoots 1080p video at 60fps (frames per second), which is the sweet spot for smooth, detailed footage. While it doesn’t offer 4K (a downside for some), the 1080p quality is stunning. Colors pop, shadows aren’t crushed, and the camera handles dynamic lighting—like a sunset or a shaded forest—better than most action cams. I’ve compared it side-by-side with a 4K camera, and unless you’re cropping heavily or need future-proof footage, the difference is negligible.

SteadyShot Image Stabilization

Sony’s SteadyShot technology is a standout. It uses electronic image stabilization (EIS) to smooth out shaky footage, and it works *incredibly* well. I tested it while mountain biking over rocky trails, and the footage was buttery smooth—no nausea-inducing jitters. Even handheld shots (like filming my niece’s birthday party) looked stable. The only caveat? EIS crops the frame slightly, so your field of view narrows a bit. But for most users, the trade-off is worth it.

Low-Light Performance

Action cameras often struggle in low light, but the HDR AS20 holds its own. Its Exmor R CMOS sensor captures clean footage in dim environments, like a dimly lit bar or a dusk hike. It’s not perfect—there’s some noise in very dark scenes—but it’s far better than budget competitors. For example, I filmed a campfire scene at night, and while the shadows were grainy, the faces around the fire were well-lit and detailed.

Example: I used the camera to film a night kayaking trip. The moonlight on the water looked ethereal, and the SteadyShot kept the footage from getting too shaky, even as my kayak rocked in the waves.

Remote Features and Usability: A Seamless Experience

Intuitive Remote Interface

The remote’s design is simple but effective. It has three buttons: one for recording, one for photos, and one to cycle through modes (video, photo, burst, etc.). The buttons are large and tactile, so you can operate them with gloves on—a must for winter sports. The LCD screen on the remote shows battery life, recording status, and mode, so you’re never left guessing.

Wi-Fi and App Integration

The camera pairs with Sony’s PlayMemories Mobile app (iOS/Android), which lets you control it remotely, adjust settings, and transfer footage. The app is… okay. It’s not as polished as GoPro’s, but it gets the job done. I used it to preview shots and adjust exposure while the camera was mounted on my bike. The Wi-Fi connection is reliable, though it occasionally drops if you’re too far from the camera (beyond 30 meters).

Battery Life and Charging

The HDR AS20 uses a removable NP-BX1 battery, which lasts about 1 hour of continuous 1080p recording. That’s not great, but it’s standard for compact action cams. The remote’s battery lasts 2 hours, so you’ll need to charge both frequently. Pro tip: buy extra batteries. I keep two in my camera bag—one in the camera, one in the remote, and a third charging. The camera charges via micro-USB (no USB-C, sadly), which takes about 2.5 hours.

Tip: To save battery, turn off Wi-Fi when not using the remote, and lower the screen brightness (if using a housing with a screen).

Mounting and Accessories: Flexibility for Every Adventure

Universal Mount Compatibility

The HDR AS20 uses a standard 1/4-20 thread, so it works with almost any tripod, clamp, or mount. Sony also sells dedicated accessories, like a chest harness, helmet mount, and even a dog harness (yes, really). I’ve used it with a suction cup mount on my car windshield and a handlebar mount on my bike, and it’s never slipped or vibrated loose.

Waterproof Housing Options

While the camera itself is splash-proof, you’ll need a housing for underwater use. Sony offers a dedicated waterproof case (sold separately) that’s rated to 60 meters (197 feet). I tested it snorkeling in Thailand, and the footage was crisp—no fogging or distortion. The housing is bulky, but it’s a fair trade for deep-water adventures.

Audio and External Mic Support

The built-in mic is decent but not exceptional. It picks up wind noise and muffled sounds if the camera isn’t in an open space. For better audio, Sony offers an external mic adapter (sold separately), which lets you plug in a shotgun mic. I used a Rode VideoMicro with it for a vlog, and the audio was crystal clear.

Example: I filmed a mountain bike ride using the handlebar mount. The camera captured the trail’s twists and turns perfectly, and the SteadyShot kept the footage smooth, even at high speeds.

Comparisons and Alternatives: How Does It Stack Up?

Sony HDR AS20 vs. GoPro Hero9

The GoPro Hero9 offers 4K video and a front-facing screen, but it’s larger, heavier, and pricier. The Sony’s remote control and SteadyShot stabilization give it an edge for hands-free shooting. If you need 4K, go with the GoPro. If you want portability and remote control, the Sony wins.

Sony HDR AS20 vs. DJI Osmo Action

The DJI Osmo Action has a front screen and RockSteady stabilization, but its remote (sold separately) is clunky. The Sony’s remote is simpler and more reliable. Both cameras are similar in size, but the Sony’s image quality is slightly better in low light.

Budget Alternatives

Budget cams like the Akaso Brave 7 or Campark X20 offer 4K at lower prices, but they lack Sony’s stabilization and remote control. If you’re on a tight budget, these are decent options—but the Sony’s build quality and features justify the higher price.

Feature	Sony HDR AS20	GoPro Hero9	DJI Osmo Action
Video Resolution	1080p @ 60fps	4K @ 60fps	4K @ 60fps
Image Stabilization	SteadyShot EIS	HyperSmooth 3.0	RockSteady
Remote Control	Included	Optional (sold separately)	Optional (sold separately)
Battery Life	1 hour (camera), 2 hours (remote)	1.5 hours	1.5 hours
Waterproof	Splash-proof (housing for 60m)	Waterproof to 10m	Waterproof to 11m

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Sony HDR AS20?

The Sony HDR AS20 Compact POV Action Camera Remote isn’t perfect, but it’s one of the most thoughtfully designed action cams I’ve used. Its remote control, compact size, and SteadyShot stabilization make it ideal for adventurers who want hands-free shooting without sacrificing quality. The lack of 4K might be a dealbreaker for some, but if you’re okay with 1080p, this camera delivers where it counts.

Here’s who I’d recommend it to:

• Outdoor enthusiasts: Hikers, bikers, kayakers, and skiers will love the remote control and rugged design.
• Content creators: The SteadyShot and good low-light performance make it great for vlogs and B-roll.
• Pet owners: Yes, seriously. The dog harness mount is a blast (pun intended).
• Budget-conscious buyers: It’s not cheap, but it’s a better value than pricier 4K cams if you don’t need ultra-high resolution.

The downsides? The short battery life, lack of 4K, and occasional Wi-Fi hiccups. But for most users, these are minor trade-offs for the convenience and image quality the Sony HDR AS20 offers. If you’re looking for a reliable, portable action camera with a remote that actually works, this one deserves a spot on your shortlist.

After months of testing, I’m keeping the HDR AS20 in my gear bag. It’s not the flashiest or most advanced camera out there, but it’s the one I reach for when I want to capture life’s moments—without fussing with settings or missing the shot. And really, isn’t that what matters most?

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Sony HDR AS20 Compact POV Action Camera Remote stand out?

The Sony HDR AS20 combines 1080p Full HD video, a rugged waterproof design (up to 60m with housing), and a wireless remote for easy POV control. Its compact size and SteadyShot stabilization make it ideal for action enthusiasts seeking reliable performance.

Can I use the Sony HDR AS20 without the remote?

Yes, the camera can be operated manually via onboard buttons, but the included remote simplifies recording control during activities like biking or skiing. The remote pairs instantly and works within a 10-meter range.

Is the Sony HDR AS20 suitable for low-light filming?

The camera uses Sony’s Exmor R CMOS sensor for improved low-light performance, though it’s best suited for daytime or well-lit environments. For nighttime use, an external light source is recommended to enhance clarity.

Does the HDR AS20 support 4K video?

No, this model records in 1080p Full HD at 60/30fps, not 4K. It focuses on delivering stable, high-quality HD footage with its SteadyShot technology rather than ultra-high resolution.

How long does the battery last on the Sony HDR AS20?

The built-in battery provides approximately 1.5–2 hours of continuous recording. For extended use, carry spare batteries or use an external power bank via USB.

What accessories are compatible with this Sony action camera?

The HDR AS20 works with standard GoPro mounts and Sony’s proprietary accessories, including the RM-LVR2 remote and underwater housing. Its compact design ensures versatility across most third-party mounts.