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Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 Review | 96 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£160
  • Avg. price in US: ~$120
  • Video resolution: 1080p
  • Battery life: 130 min
  • Waterproof depth: 5 m
  • Electronic image stabilization: yes
  • Maximum 4K frame rate: 0 fps

Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 review. Compare 96 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among action cameras and if it is worth buying.

5.9

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the action camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best action cameras on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

5.8

Technical Score

20.0%

6.5

User score

Good
5.8

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the action camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: video quality, image quality, stabilization, ruggedness, waterproofing, mounting options, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare action cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

30.0%

4.4

Video

22.0%

6.4

Photo

14.0%

5.4

Ruggedness & Storage

13.0%

5.9

Battery

11.0%

6.9

Connectivity & Audio

10.0%

7.7

Display & Design

Good
6.5

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the action camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

7.6

User reviews

30.0%

3.9

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.8
(165)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Good
  • 7.6
    Motorcycle riding

    Score components:

    35.0%

    10

    Electronic image stabilization

    30.0%

    5.4

    Video resolution

    20.0%

    8.2

    Battery life

    15.0%

    5.5

    Waterproof depth

  • 5.7
    Skiing

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Electronic image stabilization

    25.0%

    1.0

    Horizon leveling

    25.0%

    5.5

    Waterproof depth

    20.0%

    5.5

    Minimum operating temperature

  • 4.5
    Low light

    Score components:

    35.0%

    1.0

    HDR mode

    30.0%

    ?

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Color depth

    15.0%

    10

    Electronic image stabilization

  • 6.9
    Long videos

    Score components:

    50.0%

    8.2

    Battery life

    20.0%

    10

    Removable battery

    15.0%

    1.0

    Fast charging

    15.0%

    4.4

    Charging time

  • sony-action-cam-hdr-as20
  • sony-action-cam-hdr-as20
sony-action-cam-hdr-as20
sony-action-cam-hdr-as20

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sony HDR-AS20 is a compact action camera featuring an 11.9-megapixel back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor and an ultra-wide f/2.8 ZEISS Tessar lens with a 170-degree field of view. It records Full HD 1080p video at up to 60fps with a high 28Mbps bit rate and includes built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and SteadyShot electronic image stabilization to reduce motion blur. Its main pros include strong low-light performance, a lightweight 83g design, and an impressive battery life of up to 150 minutes, though it is hindered by cons such as the lack of a built-in display, a muffled internal microphone when used inside its 5m waterproof housing, and the absence of GPS tracking found in higher-end models.

Technical Specifications of Sony Action Cam HDR AS20

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the action camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: video quality, image quality, stabilization, ruggedness, waterproofing, mounting options, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare action cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

30.0%

4.4

Video

22.0%

6.4

Photo

14.0%

5.4

Ruggedness & Storage

13.0%

5.9

Battery

11.0%

6.9

Connectivity & Audio

10.0%

7.7

Display & Design

5.8
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a technical score of 5.79 points, which is lower than 59% of action cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the action camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

7.6

User reviews

30.0%

3.9

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
3.8
(165)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

6.5
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a user score of 6.48 points, which is lower than 79.5% of action cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the action camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which action cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
3.9
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a popularity of 3.9 points, which is lower than 57.8% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the action camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.9

Overall score

40.0%

9.7

Price

7.1
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.1 points, which is lower than 50.6% of products in this category.
Video resolution
What it is: The listed recording format states maximum capture resolution and frame rate.
When it matters: When video quality matters for your footage.

Importance: HIGH

1080p
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 records video at 1080p, which is lower than that of 69.9% of action cameras.
Maximum 4K frame rate
What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 4K resolution.
When it matters: When you want detailed footage and still need enough frame rate for action or mild slow motion.

Importance: HIGH

0 fps
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a maximum 4K frame rate of 0 fps, which is lower than that of 71% of action cameras and equal to that of 29.1% of action cameras.
Maximum 1080p frame rate
What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 1080p resolution.
When it matters: When you want smoother slow motion or fast-action playback while staying at 1080p resolution.

Importance: MEDIUM

60 fps
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a maximum 1080p frame rate of 60 fps, which is higher than that of 24.2% of action cameras and equal to that of 34% of action cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: HIGH

28 Mbps
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a video bitrate of 28 Mbps, which is lower than that of 77% of action cameras and equal to that of 2.4% of action cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 supports the following video codecs: H.264. Its codec support is more advanced than that of 2.4% of action cameras.
Show more
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The resolution of the primary rear camera sensor, measured in millions of pixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want to capture high-resolution images that can be cropped or printed large.

Importance: HIGH

11.9 MP
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a main camera resolution of 11.9 MP, which is lower than that of 76.2% of action cameras and equal to that of 0.8% of action cameras.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

?
Main camera aperture
What it is: The size of the lens opening (f-stop) that controls light entry. A lower f-number indicates a wider aperture, allowing better low-light shots.
When it matters: When you want better low-light performance or a natural background blur effect.

Importance: HIGH

2.8 f
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a main camera aperture of 2.8 f, which is wider than that of 5.3% of action cameras and equal to that of 49.3% of action cameras.
Photo resolution
What it is: The maximum resolution of still photos captured by the camera, measured in megapixels.
When it matters: When you want more detail for cropping, large displays, or prints; higher photo resolution provides more pixels when image quality is otherwise comparable.

Importance: LOW

11.9 MP
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 captures photos at 11.9 MP, which is lower than 76.7% of action cameras and equal to 1% of action cameras.
Field of view
What it is: The field-of-view angle shows how wide the camera can capture in one frame.
When it matters: When you want a wider or tighter look from the camera.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Show more
Built-in display
What it is: Whether the action camera has its own built-in screen for framing, playback, or settings.
When it matters: When you want to frame shots, review clips, or change settings directly on the camera.

Importance: LOW

?
Screen size
What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
When it matters: When you want a bigger on-camera screen for framing, playback, or reading menus more easily.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Touchscreen
What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.
When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not include a touchscreen. 63.1% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
Secondary screen
What it is: Indicates whether the camera includes an additional display separate from the main screen.
When it matters: When you vlog, frame yourself often, or need status info visible without rotating the camera.

Importance: LOW

?
Secondary screen resolution
What it is: States the pixel resolution of the additional display used for status information or framing.
When it matters: When you depend on the front or extra display for framing and want a clearer preview.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Show more
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: The ability to connect to wireless local area networks for internet access and local networking.
When it matters: When you want to save mobile data and connect to home or public networks.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 supports Wi-Fi connectivity. This feature is present on 92.5% of action cameras.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

?
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version the action camera supports for wireless accessories and companion-device pairing.
When it matters: When you want to pair the camera with wireless accessories or a companion device reliably.

Importance: LOW

N/A
GPS
What it is: Support for the Global Positioning System to determine the device's precise location.
When it matters: When you need accurate navigation for driving, walking, or exploring new places.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not support GPS. 13.9% of action cameras include GPS functionality.
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not include USB Type-C. 42.4% of action cameras use USB-C.
Show more
Battery life
What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.
When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: HIGH

130 min
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 runs for 130 min per charge, which is longer than the battery life of 74.4% of action cameras and equal to the battery life of 1.2% of action cameras.
Battery power
What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: MEDIUM

1,240 mAh
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a battery capacity of 1240 mAh, which is higher than that of 58% of action cameras and equal to that of 3.8% of action cameras.
Charging time
What it is: The time the battery needs to recharge fully under supported conditions.
When it matters: When you want shorter breaks between charges.

Importance: MEDIUM

2.92 h
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 charges in 2.92 h, which is longer than the charging time of 71.7% of action cameras and equal to the charging time of 2.6% of action cameras.
About 4.08 h via computer USB.
Fast charging
What it is: Whether the camera supports faster-than-standard charging to reduce downtime between shoots.
When it matters: When you need to recharge quickly between shooting sessions, travel stops, or battery swaps.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not support fast charging. 19.4% of action cameras support fast charging.
Wireless charging
What it is: Whether the camera itself can charge wirelessly on a compatible charging surface or dock.
When it matters: When you want to top up the camera without plugging in a cable every time.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not support wireless charging. 0.6% of action cameras support wireless charging.
Show more
Waterproof depth
What it is: The maximum depth of water the device is certified to withstand for a specific duration.
When it matters: When you film while swimming, snorkeling, or in heavy water exposure and need to know the camera's native underwater limit.

Importance: HIGH

5 m
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 is waterproof to 5 m, which is deeper than the waterproof depth of 57.9% of action cameras and equal to the waterproof depth of 7.9% of action cameras.
5 with housing/case.
IP rating
What it is: A standardized protection code that shows how well the action camera resists dust and water ingress.
When it matters: When you shoot in rain, snow, dust, or around water and want to know how well the camera is sealed.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Maximum operating temperature
What it is: The highest ambient temperature at which the watch is rated to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the watch in heat, cold, or at high altitude.

Importance: LOW

40 °C
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a maximum operating temperature of 40 °C, which is higher than that of 23.4% of action cameras and equal to that of 50.4% of action cameras.
Minimum operating temperature
What it is: The lowest ambient temperature at which the watch is rated to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the watch in heat, cold, or at high altitude.

Importance: LOW

-10 °C
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a minimum operating temperature of -10 °C, which is lower than that of 32.4% of action cameras and equal to that of 44.4% of action cameras.
External memory slot
What it is: A slot for expandable storage such as a memory card, if the watch provides one.
When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 includes an external memory slot. This feature is present on 95.2% of action cameras.
Also supports Memory Stick Micro.
Show more

Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 vs the average action camera

  • Has microphone input
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has microphone input, the average action camera does not. 26.8% of action cameras offer this feature.
    What it is: Whether the action camera supports a wired external microphone for higher-quality recorded audio.
    When it matters: When you want to connect a wired external mic for clearer recording than the built-in mics can provide.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has microphone input, the average action camera does not. 26.8% of action cameras offer this feature.
  • 40 min longer battery life
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has longer battery life than the average action camera (130 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.
    What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has longer battery life than the average action camera (130 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.130 min vs 90 min
  • 4 m deeper waterproof depth
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a higher waterproof depth rating than the average action camera (5 m vs 1 m). The average action camera has a waterproof depth rating of 1 m.
    5 with housing/case.
    What it is: The maximum depth of water the device is certified to withstand for a specific duration.
    When it matters: When you film while swimming, snorkeling, or in heavy water exposure and need to know the camera's native underwater limit.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a higher waterproof depth rating than the average action camera (5 m vs 1 m). The average action camera has a waterproof depth rating of 1 m.5 m vs 1 m
  • Has 3.5 mm jack
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 includes a 3.5 mm audio jack, while the average action camera does not include a 3.5 mm audio jack. 21.3% of action cameras include a 3.5 mm audio jack.
    What it is: Whether the camera includes a 3.5 mm audio jack for direct wired audio accessories.
    When it matters: When you want to connect wired audio accessories directly to the action camera.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 includes a 3.5 mm audio jack, while the average action camera does not include a 3.5 mm audio jack. 21.3% of action cameras include a 3.5 mm audio jack.
  • Has HDMI output
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 supports HDMI output, the average action camera does not. 43.4% of action cameras support video-out features.
    Built-in Micro HDMI port.
    What it is: Whether the camera can output video to an external monitor or recorder over HDMI.
    When it matters: When you want live monitoring, external capture, or a direct feed to another display.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 supports HDMI output, the average action camera does not. 43.4% of action cameras support video-out features.
  • 35.5 mm narrower
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 is narrower than the average action camera (24.5 mm vs 60 mm). The average action camera has a width of 60 mm.
    What it is: The horizontal dimension of the device when held in portrait orientation.
    When it matters: When you want the camera body to fit better in mounts, pockets, or tight spaces.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 is narrower than the average action camera (24.5 mm vs 60 mm). The average action camera has a width of 60 mm.24.5 mm vs 60 mm
  • 27.2% lighter
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 is lighter than the average action camera (83 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the action camera body as carried or mounted in normal use.
    When it matters: When you mount the camera on a helmet, chest rig, bike, or selfie stick and want to keep the setup light.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 is lighter than the average action camera (83 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.83 g vs 114 g
  • 35.5 mm narrower
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 is narrower than the average action camera (24.5 mm vs 60 mm). The average action camera has a width of 60 mm.
  • 27.2% lighter
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 is lighter than the average action camera (83 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.
  • Has microphone input
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has microphone input, the average action camera does not. 26.8% of action cameras offer this feature.
  • Has 3.5 mm jack
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 includes a 3.5 mm audio jack, while the average action camera does not include a 3.5 mm audio jack. 21.3% of action cameras include a 3.5 mm audio jack.
  • Has HDMI output
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 supports HDMI output, the average action camera does not. 43.4% of action cameras support video-out features.
  • 40 min longer battery life
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has longer battery life than the average action camera (130 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.
  • 4 m deeper waterproof depth
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a higher waterproof depth rating than the average action camera (5 m vs 1 m). The average action camera has a waterproof depth rating of 1 m.

Total
Display & Design
Connectivity & Audio
Battery
Ruggedness & Storage
  • Lower video resolution
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 records at 1,080p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).
  • 30 fps lower 4K frame rate
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower 4K frame rate than the average action camera (0 fps vs 30 fps). The average action camera reaches 30 fps at 4K.
  • 53.3% lower video bitrate
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (28 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.
  • No manual exposure control
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not support manual exposure, the average action camera does. 66.1% of action cameras include this feature.
  • No manual ISO control
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not allow manual ISO control, the average action camera does. 84% of action cameras include this feature.
  • 0.1 MP lower main-camera resolution
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower main action camera resolution than the average action camera (11.9 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera has a resolution of 12 MP.
  • 2 MP lower photo resolution
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower photo resolution than the average action camera (11.9 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera captures 12 MP photos.
  • No touchscreen
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not have a touchscreen, the average action camera does. 62.5% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
  • 4 older release date
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 is older than the average action camera (2,014 vs 2,018). The average action camera was released in 2,018.
    Released in August 2014.
  • 0.92 h longer charging time
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a higher charging time than the average action camera (2.9 h vs 2 h). The average action camera takes 2 h to charge.
    About 4.08 h via computer USB.
  • 64 GB smaller microSD limit
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower maximum microSD capacity than the average action camera (64 GB vs 128 GB). The average action camera supports microSD cards up to 128 GB.
  • Lower video resolution
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 records at 1,080p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).
    What it is: The listed recording format states maximum capture resolution and frame rate.
    When it matters: When video quality matters for your footage.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 records at 1,080p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).1080p vs 5.3K
  • 30 fps lower 4K frame rate
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower 4K frame rate than the average action camera (0 fps vs 30 fps). The average action camera reaches 30 fps at 4K.
    What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 4K resolution.
    When it matters: When you want detailed footage and still need enough frame rate for action or mild slow motion.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower 4K frame rate than the average action camera (0 fps vs 30 fps). The average action camera reaches 30 fps at 4K.0 fps vs 30 fps
  • No touchscreen
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not have a touchscreen, the average action camera does. 62.5% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
    What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.
    When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not have a touchscreen, the average action camera does. 62.5% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
  • 53.3% lower video bitrate
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (28 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.
    What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
    When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (28 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.28 Mbps vs 60 Mbps
  • No manual exposure control
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not support manual exposure, the average action camera does. 66.1% of action cameras include this feature.
    What it is: Gives the user control over the overall brightness of the image by adjusting exposure compensation values.
    When it matters: When the automatic settings make the image too bright or too dark for your taste.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not support manual exposure, the average action camera does. 66.1% of action cameras include this feature.
  • 0.92 h longer charging time
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a higher charging time than the average action camera (2.9 h vs 2 h). The average action camera takes 2 h to charge.
    About 4.08 h via computer USB.
    What it is: The time the battery needs to recharge fully under supported conditions.
    When it matters: When you want shorter breaks between charges.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a higher charging time than the average action camera (2.9 h vs 2 h). The average action camera takes 2 h to charge.2.92 h vs 2 h
  • No manual ISO control
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not allow manual ISO control, the average action camera does. 84% of action cameras include this feature.
    What it is: Allows the user to manually set the camera's light sensitivity (ISO) to control exposure and noise levels.
    When it matters: When you want to control the camera's light sensitivity to minimize grain or capture fast motion.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 does not allow manual ISO control, the average action camera does. 84% of action cameras include this feature.
  • 0.1 MP lower main-camera resolution
    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower main action camera resolution than the average action camera (11.9 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera has a resolution of 12 MP.
    What it is: The resolution of the primary rear camera sensor, measured in millions of pixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want to capture high-resolution images that can be cropped or printed large.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 has a lower main action camera resolution than the average action camera (11.9 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera has a resolution of 12 MP.11.9 MP vs 12 MP
Total
Overall
Video
Photo
Display & Design
Battery
Ruggedness & Storage

Graphic comparison of Sony Action Cam HDR AS20 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
3.8
165 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Sony Action Cam HDR AS20?

  • Affordable pricing compared to rival brands like GoPro
  • Slim, lightweight, and aerodynamic body profile
  • Smooth electronic SteadyShot image stabilization
  • Excellent battery life of up to 150 minutes with Wi-Fi disabled
  • Built-in Wi-Fi allowing clear smartphone live previews with minimal lag
  • Ultra-wide 170-degree field of view using a quality Carl Zeiss lens
  • Included rugged waterproof case that protects the device up to 16 feet underwater

What customers dislike about Sony Action Cam HDR AS20?

  • Disappointing video sharpness and dynamic range on larger screens
  • Muffled audio recording quality when sealed inside the waterproof housing
  • Rounded camera base prevents it from standing upright without a case or mount
  • No built-in tripod mount on the camera body itself, requiring the outer case
  • External microphone jack is completely inaccessible while inside the case
  • Fewer first-party mounting accessories available compared to GoPro ecosystems
  • Glitchy mobile application software that is prone to hanging during use

Expert reviews

C
consumerreports.org
01/01/2015
Sony HDR-AS20 Camcorder Review - Consumer Reports

The Sony HDR-AS20 is a budget-friendly action camera featuring a 170-degree Carl Zeiss Tessar lens, an 11.9MP Exmor R CMOS sensor for decent low-light performance, and effective SteadyShot stabilization. Its built-in Wi-Fi allows for remote monitoring via a smartphone, addressing the lack of an onboard screen. However, the unit has a non-flat bottom that requires its waterproof...Read more

N
nadirspearfishing.com
01/08/2014
Testing the Sony HDR-AS20 Cam - Nadir Spearfishing

The Sony HDR-AS20 is an excellent action camera launched in 2014, but it is ultimately not highly suitable for spearfishing due to specific design limitations. On the positive side, the camera excels at high-quality slow-motion recording by capturing up to 120fps at a 1280x720 resolution. For standard use, its optimal "PS" mode delivers Full HD 1080p video at 60fps. Additionally, it...Read more

E
excesstext.com
05/03/2016
Sony HDR-AS20 - My new Action Cam - ExcessText

The ExcessText review identifies the Sony HDR-AS20 as a user-friendly, cost-effective action camera featuring impressive out-of-the-box accessories, including a GoPro-style mount adapter, and robust storage compatibility with high-speed microSD cards for long recording times. While offering smooth operation and decent real-time preview features, the camera is limited by a less...Read more

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nadirspearfishing.com
[Non daté]
ESSAI ACTION CAM SONY HDR AS20 - Nadir Spearfishing

The Sony HDR-AS20 action camera, initially launched in 2014, offers strong technical specifications for recording action sports, but it falls short for underwater spearfishing (CSM). On the positive side, the camera can capture high-quality slow-motion footage at up to 120 frames per second (fps) with a 1280x720 resolution. For standard recording, the "PS" setting is ideal as it...Read more

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tweakers.net
25/08/2015
Sony HDR-AS20 Zwart - Product reviews - Tweakers

In this review, the user ferry rates the Sony HDR-AS20 action camera 4 out of 5 stars (Good), concluding that it offers great value for money for mountain biking and general outdoor activities. The user praises the camera's excellent image quality and its highly effective digital image stabilization, which reduces shaky mountain biking footage while narrowing the field of view from...Read more

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