Sony recently launched their next generation Handycam, the HDR-GWP88. This is probably the most feature-packed handycam they ever built. Perfect for people with an active lifestyle, the said device features enhanced weather durability, a new self-record button for easily capturing self-portrait videos, and even a built-in projector for portable big screen viewing. But, is it worth it?
Weather Durability
The device is waterproof up to 10 meters (or 33 ft.), and can stay soaked in water for 30 minutes. Interestingly, the built-in projector can be used while underwater but its sensitive touch-enabled screen registers water waves as touch inputs. Honestly, I can’t wait to try this out.
The handycam is also shock-proof to five meters, freeze-proof down to 10°C and also dust proof.
Sensor and Lens
Amazingly, Sony has also infused this camera with outstanding features that are perfect for shooting outdoor adventures. Unfortunately, due to its lack of manual focus capabilities, this isn’t something optimized for people who shoot individual subjects. Don’t get me wrong though – its professional grade wide angle 29.8mm Sony G Lens and EXMOR R CMOS image sensor can capture detail in vivid colour even in low light environment.
This device also has 17x extended zoom and Optical SteadyShot with Active mode enable amazingly clear and shake-free telephoto shooting.
What’s even more exciting is that it comes with a VCL-HGE08G Wide End Conversion Lens (for free), which allows for easy shooting of extra-wide scenes without moving the camcorder from side to side, and increases the magnification ratio of 0.8x to 0.9x when used underwater. This is best if you’re taking landscapes; or if you don’t want miss anyone when taking group shots!
Built-In Pico Projector
Perhaps, its most celebrated feature would be its built-in projector. With this, you can conveniently display your photos or view your videos (with sound) with your friends, provided that you have a flat white screen or wall. This is what sets this device far better by a multitude than its predecessor, the HDR-GWP77.
Full Specifications
| Key Features | HDR-GWP88 |
| Imaging Sensor | 1/3.91 type (4.6mm) back-illuminated “Exmor R” CMOS Sensor |
| Video Format | AVCHD format ver.2.0 compatible: MPEG4-AVC/H.264 MPEG2-PS: MPEG-2 (Video) MP4: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 |
| Video Resolution | HD: 1920×1080/60p (PS), 60i (FX,FH), 1440×1080/60i (HQ,LP) STD: 720×480/60i MP4: 1280×720 30p |
| Image Stabilisation | Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilisation with Active mode (Wide to Tele) |
| Still Image Size (Movie Mode, Maximum) | 20.4 megapixels 16:9 (6016×3384),15.3 megapixels 4:3 (4512×3384) |
| Still Image Size (Photo Mode, Maximum) | 20.4 megapixels 16:9 (6016×3384),15.3 megapixels 4:3 (4512×3384) |
| Lens | Sony G™ Lensf = 29.8 – 298.0mm (16:9, 35mm equivalent) / F1.8 – F3.4 |
| Zoom | 10x (Optical)17x (Extended)120x (Digital) |
| LCD | 7.5cm (3.0 type) Clear Photo LCD display (460K) Wide (16:9) |
| Projector | Throw Distance: Approx. 0.5m (1.6feet) or over Battery Life: Approx. 70min (Supplied Battery) |
| Internal Memory | Flash Memory 16GB |
| Memory Card | Memory Stick Micro™ and Micro SD/SDHC/SDXC compatible |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | Approx. 40mm (W) × 108.5mm (H) × 70mm (D) (including supplied battery) |
| Weight | Approx. 210g (excluding battery) |
Specs Table Courtesy of SuperAdrianMe.com
Experience the all new Handycam® HDR-GWP88 today for PhP35,000! Order now from any Sony Designated Shops and get a complementary waterproof Sony Music Player for free! For more details on the promo and the list of Sony Designated Shops, visit https://www.sony.com.ph/microsite/gw88preorder/index.html.
Giancarlo Viterbo is a Filipino Technology Journalist, blogger and Editor of gadgetpilipinas.net, He is also a Geek, Dad and a Husband. He knows a lot about washing the dishes, doing some errands and following instructions from his boss on his day job. Follow him on twitter: @gianviterbo and @gadgetpilipinas.
