Between the FDR-AX700 and PXW-Z200, the FDR-AX700 comes out ahead in several specs, while the PXW-Z200 wins on optical zoom and xlr input. Overall, the FDR-AX700 scores 66.2 and the PXW-Z200 scores 75.7 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The PXW-Z200 is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 9.5 points on the Mars Score. The margin is wide enough that the underdog only makes sense if its individual strengths line up with what you specifically need.
The FDR-AX700 doesn't pull ahead on any single popular-comparison spec — its strengths sit in the spec table groups rather than the headline advantages.
Pick the PXW-Z200 if you care most about optical zoom and xlr input. Its strongest claims are optical zoom, xlr input, max video.
Both ship with comparable sensor size, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the PXW-Z200 is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why Sony - FDR-AX700 wins
- No decisive advantages.
Why Sony - PXW-Z200 wins
- ▲Optical zoom — 66.67% more. 20 vs 12.
- ▲Has XLR input.
- ▲Max video: 4K60 (vs 4K30).
Spec comparison
Video
| Spec | Sony - FDR-AX700 | Sony - PXW-Z200 |
|---|---|---|
| Max video | 4K30 | 4K60lead |
| Optical zoom | 12 | 20lead |
| Sensor sizeⓘ | 1" | 1" |
Audio
| Spec | Sony - FDR-AX700 | Sony - PXW-Z200 |
|---|---|---|
| XLR input | false | truelead |
| Headphone jack | true | true |
Design
| Spec | Sony - FDR-AX700 | Sony - PXW-Z200 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 934 glead | 1810 g |
| Articulating screen | true | true |
Frequently asked
Spec-level deep dives
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