2 Small Lightweight Amazing Camcorders Sony CX405, Panasonic VX981
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- Опубліковано 28 чер 2024
- I LOVE CAMCORDERS! They're so FUN and EASY to use. Here are 2 of my favorite LIGHTWEIGHT very small camcorders that are great for travel, hiking, backpacking etc. Why camcorders? Because they can run all day without overheating or shutting down, they are the easiest video cameras in the world to use, they automatically figure out everything for you, they are super durable, can handle extreme weather, and they are just so cool to hold in your hand and use. There's something about the shape and ergonomics of camcorders I just love. So much easier to use than a smart phone, I love it.
Anyway, one of the smallest, lightest camcorders in the world that produces nice video quality, has suprisingly nice stabilization and has an excellent stereo built in mics, is the Sony CX405. It only weighs 6.5 oz! And it's cheap!
For a step up in quality and features, I highly recommend the Panasonic VX981. It shoots 4K, has a mic jack, 5 axis hybrid stabilization, high dynamic range and can zoom up to 1500X! Comparable to the Sony AX33, the VX981 costs less and weighs only 12 oz (less than half the weight of comparable cameras). It's sensor is bigger than that of the AX43, AX53 and even the $1,700 Panasonic X-1500! It's a super lightweight feature packed camcorder that is amazingly fun to use. There is a reason both of these cameras sell out fast and are often on backorder!
Sony HDR-CX405 HD Handycam B&H www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...
Sony HDR-CX405 HD Handycam Amazon amzn.to/3I7e0n7
Panasonic HC-VX981K 4K Ultra HD Camcorder amzn.to/3uFAkkC
I bought the CX405 after seeing your first review with about 20 other cameras. I used it to film a high school performance as a side hustle. It was one among 2 other cameras but I used the footage from the CX405 for about 1/3 of the final cut. Easy to use, super cheap and was very good quality. Thanks for another great video confirming it's usefulness! ✌🏼
Great to hear!
The problem with us here in Africa we can't access such gadgets even when you can afford to. The few dealers will hike prices till you can't afford any. We can't even buy from Amazon.
As a news reporter can i use Sony CX405 camera to shoot and have my footages aired on TV without any problem?
@@MarkusPix I found a place selling the sony ax33 and vx981 for same price. Which one would you take?
Can it record as 9x16?
This is a little random but i have to say it: i love how much attention (at least it seems from your videos) you smother your wife with. I'm sure we all have so many examples of marriages that just seem like they've gone stale or are something "you have to make work" and here you are just hanging out with who seems to be your best friend. Personally, I find it inspiring. She seems like a real blast. ❤❤
yes, choose wisely
I have a cx405!! I’m obsessed with small cheap camcorders, great video dude.
Same here!
You know how to have fun. Watching your joy in playing with this stuff is just what a needed today. I am glad you guys are out there having a great time.
"BONUS" for the various AUDIO samples, much appreciated !!!
Your videos give out such an incredible feeling, that I don't really feel time flying by as I go through them
Loved that 405 .It actually lasted without problem for 5 years until it got stolen. It fell down a couple of times but the thing kept on . Love you where ever you are my little camera.
Wow! You have me sold on the Sony CX405. Incredible little camcorder. This brings back my faith in camcorders. Thank you.
I have been a videographer for now since 1965, I have the 405 and take it everywhere, love the simplicity, used to take equipment up ski hills for shows, 1- motorcycle battery for power; 2- 3/4in tape recorder=30lbs, Panasonic 3 tube camera- = 35 lbs, wood tripod with fluid head, 20+ lbs, on a ski lift, now using the 405 which hides in my pocket and better resolution, by far better zoom, thanks for reviewing the 405 again, ( rarely use my Nikon 4k, 950 for video) thanks Markus
I originally got a cx405 after watching some of your videos a while back. It has been fantastic. Just recently got a ax33 so I could start using 4k for my UA-cam stuff. Love your channel and I can always count on you for great tips to make my videos that much better. Thank you.
Great video. I purchased two CX405 camcoders last year because you showed me how good they are. They give an excellent footage for streaming with the correct ligthing.
The master is back at it again, nothing inspires me more to work on my lighting like your videos. Thanks to your content I have a new found appreciation and infatuation with beautiful lighting.
That little CX405 is impressive for the cost! Wishing you and Cara much happiness in 2022.
Thanks for the video. Great audio as usual. It drives me crazy how many "creators" leave in blurry scenes and terrible audio. It's literally a relief to watch your videos.
Those zoom-ins were insane!
I bought a refurbished cx 440 because of you...and I love it! Thanks
I’m glad someone is posting videos about camcorders.
I own the vx980 for 5 years now.
It just doesn't get outdated. I recently bought another one second hand. Just to have two.
The audio input, the colors, the lens, the weight, the marvelous image stabilisation, the zoom, the pristine 4k picture and on and on...
Nothing beats this little powermachine.
Its great for run and gun, documentary work, places where you need high production image but not a huge machine on your shoulders. I could go on and on.
It is among the very best affordable prosumer camcorders available.
If you have the chance to get one, buy it. You will not be dissapointed.
Man it's that good? Now I'm looking hard for a well priced one!
Update: I bought one! 😅
@@VinnytotheKHow's the experience?
@@kourvhyndavesumarde2685 It's really amazing! Awesome quality and the zooming ability is great! Couldn't be happier with it for the price I paid.
In that case, is the X1500/X2000/CX10 worth it for all the manual options but bulkier build if you just use for document your life, zoom in for further details and UA-cam since some say the auto is good enough? The build in ND is nice tho, are those midrange with a bit of manual better? But 4K 60fps only on these models, the full HD model can zoom further tho but there is tele, ultrawide and macro adaptor for these models. Will there be successors to these models in the coming CES 2024?
Thanks Markus! Great reviews and perspective. Impressive quality for the money. Audio, image and zoom on both are amazing!
I have the VX981 and it is a great camera. Thanks Markus for opening my eyes to its capabilities. You inspire me and I love your passion about all kinds of things (cameras to cars) and your partner is fabulous and clearly a pro who enjoys doing things that help you demo the equipment. It shows how much of a ball you guys have.
I loved the section at the end with the input mics and that tiny DPA6060 is NUTS. I saw a video of the DPA6060 where a film maker in a humid area fits it in button holes of performers and it seems to be "sweaty actor" resistant. One thing I'd REALLY APPRECIATE more is when you demo if you could include the settings that you use in, on or below the videos. For example, the formats you are shooting in, the lens settings, whether you set your cameras to "film" or "video" mode, frame rate, audio codec info, etc. I am trying to make some videos for different purposes and trying to experiment with what kind of "effects" (as in feel--not as in special) I want. Filmy, video-y, news-y, warm - cool, etc. This is an almost mystic thing for someone like me and so I so often struggle before starting, what format do I want to shoot it in, if I want some slo-mo will that change my overall choice, etc. This is such an early choice and I struggle with it. I stay away from MP4 but I'd love to see a video on different feels and making that first choice as to format etc.
I am a true "prosumer" in some ways and slight pro in others and love learning from you. I have done ENG work with a Pana HMC 150 which I LOVE and am fine with 1080HD. But I also have an AF100 and I have to say that when I bought it, it was overwhelming. I then became ill for MANY years and am now really on the mend and your "Affordable Large Sensor Camcorders JVC LS300 Panasonic AF100" (though I paid full original price) is totally inspiring me to really learn how to use it and play with things I don't need to know to work with the HMC 150. I shot a theatrical comedy piece with it and it was so flexible and better in low light than I expected (though relied on the theatrical lighting). Clearly you are a West Coast guy but if you come to NYC, would love to show you around. Of course, I could just let you loose at B&H. Again thanks for the tips and inspiration. Alan
Can't understand how you don't have more subs. So professional, enthusiastic and humble (positiv way) at the same time. Respect 😊
Thanks for the great review. Bought Panasonic VX981 for my travel videos after watching your reviews 📹📹. I really love the zoom lens 🔎.
👍
Thanks Markus! I always enjoy your youtube videos! Very informative and fun!
I agree. I still use my JVC GZ-EX250EU after all these year (40x zoom, HD only, tiny), especially for simple timelapses (up to 2 hours on battery).
The only channel where i blast the highest resolution setting just to see what cheap camcorder could do
Looks like you had a great time on vacation. I've grown to like camcorders over the years. The Panasonic was great. Picked up a different model, but similar in specs. The convenience of the form factor is nice. Mahalo for sharing 🤙
I got the CX405 because of this video. Thank you! Also, that lady is such a ham and I love her for it! Thanks for this!
Thanks so much, Markus. Ive watched your other camcorder compare video multiple times and have purchased multiple of the cheaper options. Ive kept my eye out for a used CX405. I'll get one one of these days. Thanks so much for sharing your experience!
Wow! Those are both sweet video options and just as sweet as the couple shooting this video. You both have so much fun and are a head above everyone else in presenting the masses with photography options. Markus thank you for your fun, professional and honest presentations that are always fact filled and spattered with eye candy from the always electrifying Cara. Happy New Year and cheers to many more successful photo shoots in 2022.
Thank you
Great job Markus.
This is some of the best information you have given.
Luv your vibe Markus & great video-Thanks!
Your presentations are excellent! Love your work Markus!
I just ordered a CX405 for capturing up-close video of my scale models. I feel much better about my purchase after seeing those zoomed in shots on the finches! Thanks dude!
WOW!!! I’m sold on the 981! Definitely going to buy this asap!!! Thank you!!!
You guys spend to so much time and effort producing these videos with no motive other than to entertain and inform. Because of one of your previous videos I purchased a Sony CX405. (Plus hundreds of dollars for other gear) The best money I have ever spent on an inexpensive camera. As previously stated, your efforts are most appreciated. ( I can't believe the amount of gear you hauled to Maui for your various videos.lol) Thanks again.
Thank you for appreciating, Alan
Well that comparison left me lusting for the Panasonic, but also convinced that for my price range, The Sony will definitely serve me well with quite decent quality for such a low price. Thanks for the great video! You've helped demystify things, right about when I was starting to feel totally overwhelmed and thinking there were no good options on my very limited budget!
Amazing presentation sir! Since I was a kid I always love camcorders (currently turning 38 this year) thank you for this video. Peace!
Thank you for all your content I appreciate your expertise and your love for cameras, mic's, lights ext. I'm really glad I discovered your channel.
I appreciate that!
Yes!! 😊 Happy New Year, Markus, Cara and all. Much luv
Great introduction of two cheap but great camcorders! Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Thank you Markus, I solely film with camcorders. Awesome picture quality, stabilization second to none the perfect choice for run and gun.
Your bigger comparo video got me to pull the trigger on a CX-405 about 6 months ago. Works great. Before that, I was using a decent M43 still camera for video, but it treated it as a secondary feature (which it is) and most of the quicker lenses had noise issues.
You opened my eyes wide! I have a camcorder that I got in a thrift auction and the moment I pushed the record button, I instantly felt the joy of shooting come back to me, something this old gal wasn't feeling as I tried to trip out my Canon 5dm4 with a bankroll for the accessories it needed. The weight of carrying that around as a one woman show was too much pressure on my bunions! I realized that I had been duped, mabye just a bit -- that cinematic look could be a bit of a stretch, and it's all over youtube. Your approach is so much more refreshing. As for cinematic, I suppose I could continue to geek out my dslr, but as you know this best, Markus, "cinematic" takes a village of people who have expertise in various areas of production. You and your beautiful wife have made filming a joy -- you are the best. I am ready for my next camcorder, and I think it will be the VX981. The sound is a little ify coming out of the camera, but you showed the best ways to handle that. Burn that credit card! It's Christmas and Santa needs to head over to Best Buy if they carry it! I am buying myself a new camera, or should I wait for the sales? LOL -- you helped me figure out what I'd like next.
WOW! 👍 I would be happy to have any of these two. :)) Thank you for your video, Markus, you´re both amazing!
I used the ax53 and I’m so happy to take it on our trips. All day battery, easy to used and it’s not that heavy! Gotta love the zoom too!
battery is amazing, love my AX53
I love ax100 also pretty small and all around versatile camera
Wow, I'm rethinking the whole camcorder thing now. Being able to get background blur AND crazy zoom in an all-in-1 form factor is a game-changer for outdoor work. I'm guessing the stability is pretty decent as well?
I love camcorders. I love that you make these.
In the past I alway though camcorders were not up to par with any mirrorless camera but after watching your videos for over a year and half you have made me think about getting the Panasonic VX981. I was always taught that mirrorless cameras were the way to go when shooting video but that isn’t the case. Keep up making great informative videos Mark!
No most dslr are rubbish for video hence why so many people use extra mics etc etc where sith a camcorder you don't I filmed loads of my videos on my channel with a Panasonic w570 and is a great camcorder with 90x optical zoom which you don't get on a 500+ priced camera
Sax, camcorders are the original mirrorless video cameras. They never had mirrors embedded in the optical viewfinder. Mirrorless cameras are just adopting camcorder technology. There's nothing new about mirrorless cameras technologically. They are just a new application of existing older camcorder technology. The only difference is the ability to use interchangeable lenses. You can actually buy camcorders that use interchangeable lenses, but they are expensive.
Oh! Thank you 😊
I want the Panny VX981.
You got me on the external monitor. Mine doesn't work on my current camera, so I'm glad to see this can support it. 👍
Thanks for taking me to Jamaica with y’all now I want a camcorder
Such a great video, thank you for demonstrating these great camcorders. I had no idea they could produce such sharp and colorful videos! 🤩👍
Love that Panasonic. Great show Markus !
Nice! Have had the Ax 53 for years and loved it. When time to replace it may be these two!
Great video Markus. Stunning quality from both cams sound and pics of the birds were very good ,,, TFS. Best wishes from UK England Phil 👍
You are so much fun! You're so knowledgeable about camcorders.
I am following your content.
I too enjoy the camcorder revolution.
Hope they never stop making them. They just keep getting better and better!
As always, great content and great info on alternative but very practical and useful equipment.
Thank you Markus for your wonderful reviews. I found a great deal on a Sony CX405 and was blown away with not only how good this camcorder really is, but how fun it is to use! Always wishing you peace and health.❤
Yes its definitely a joy to use
I have both of these cameras and I LOVE them.
Wow, these little cameras shoot great images!
Excellent. Makes me rethink maybe wanting a camcorder after all.
I've an old Panasonic 300, and it still performs like new. I've always preferred Panasonic to other brands because they have Leica lenses. The sound recording is good too.
I purchased one of these because of your recommendation. I carry it almost everywhere.
Me too!
Simply amazing; I had no idea those camcorders were that handy, useful & versatile! Why are wedding videographers moving away from camcorders? Quality video, Thanks MarkusPix!
Probably the best review of anything that I've seen on UA-cam. Awesome. I might go to the store and grab a CX405 right now.
Wow, thanks!
@@MarkusPix I went to buy one after your review. Can you believe the CX405 has been on backorder in Australia for three months according to the store I use. I'm going to have to look around, maybe try and find used.
@@MarkusPix I finally bought a used CX405 because of this video. Got it for $100 Australian and I love it..now to work out what wired recorder I buy... onto the next MarkusPix gear video lesson.
I love my Sony. Use for B Roll and night shots. We got it mainly for the zoom that is unbelievable.
Holy smokes that Panasonic is incredible!!!!...Along with that female energy!... And always remember it's not the quality of the camera - it's the story that matters!!!
I do find myself watching older movies and dramas from the 90s and 80s. It's the content that matters! Same camera works, low megapixels but captivating! Movies nowadays are unwatchable despite being 4k
Good video clarity is only a bonus, of course everyone wants 4k resolution for their creations.
Thanks Markus this was the video and information I was waiting for!🍺
Glad it was helpful!
My old Sony HDR-CX220 still takes great video. I also like my Sony FDR-AX53. Both of them use the same batteries.
Excellent content as always. Thanks.
Amazing videos as always thank you.
Loved your shots...
Thanks Markus, great video.
got CX405 today. Really good machine!
I’ve been looking at that Panasonic for a while. Thanks.
Great info... just goes to show how little we really need to do GREAT work.
I bought the Sony CX405 after your very 1st review and I love it for traveling because it’s soo compact.
Great to hear!
Well deserved a like. Great video about the cx405.
Your videos are the best most informative. Thank you so much Sir, for sharing your wisdom.
Beautiful, Markus. Always spot on....I am actuallt thinking about buying the Panasonic VX981....will see.....I appreciate you......💯
great review!. thank you!
from Philippines here
Love this video. That panasonic is incredible for the price. Love the intelligent zoom. The detail (that lens) is superb for the price.
I FREAKING LOVE THIS VIDEO. That cx405 is impressive and the Panasonic for 800 bucks too is great
Sony cx450 same sensor as the 405, but with bigger touch screen and 5.1 microphone jack for all most the same money. Some times Sony makes good discounts in amazon so you can buy it for the same money if you catch it in offer!
Love all your videos. A cool camcorder Panasonic VX981 with the mic set up you can shoot a run and gun feature film. And the price is nothing compared to what I paid over the years for high end equipment, Red One MX, SONY F35, that just sits there waiting for the next project with a small army. Looking forward to your next vid.....
ffs Sony's cx405 looked like it costs more untill it zoomed in & looked into the picture details, it's giving this vintage aesthetic vibes you will mostly found on Sofia Coppola's movies, def copping that one for me. you've done a great video once again, sir!
Thank you for this video, Markus!
You are the no.1 defender of small cheap camcorders. I think I gotta try one out.
I was trying to find u back for the whole week
Thanks for the information. Now , I know what I need and what I want. ☺️ This video is very helpful for me. Thanks a lot for honest review.
I have 2 Canon HF R-800 camcorders i use to record plays for a school. I use them in places where they can just run and capture "B" roll clips I can go to when the main camcorder isn't getting a good clip. I love them and they just keep going and going and they were cheap on Ebay
Thanks so much!! on my list.. liking that Panasonic!! Out of stock. Also, sound checks on mics. Thanks!!
I like the mic input because the camcoder itself makes some kind of creaking sound, and built in mics pick it.
60x zoon and even 1500x digital zoom(!?) is amazing along with the image stabilization.
It's amazing how nowadays camcoders can take such clear vivid beautiful images just like Markus demonstrated. I just love them.
Thank you so much for this great video!
Hi Markus, you're right (of course!) they are amazing especially considering the price. The old adage about the best camera being the one you have with you must also come into play. Easy to carry, almost pocket sized and I personally think more ergonomic than a mobile phone.
4th! Lol
The Sony CX405, I film my whole channel with this tiny camcorder, thanks to you for your recommendation to buy this! That review video was hilarious! The zoom is damn great for filming my stuff, for closeup shots without a camera getting in my way.
I feel that, despite its lack of megapixels compared to my Samsung A50s smartphone, the video results are better... The only cons of CX405 is the grainy texture in poor lighting... I always believe a skilled artist can do well with basic tools.
I love my Olympus EM-1 MK II for simple, decent quality stabilized video, but I have to admit that Sony is way smaller and more versatile with that zoom range for a simple family trip than getting out my Sigma primes for close shots and zooms for action shots. There might just be a role for Camcorders in my life after all.
I just had the same idea... I have an old cx I use for skateboarding, and hell is it way lighter and smaller than the EM-1 MK2... time to get a newer version
Amazing quality from those camcorders. It sounded to me that the Panasonic did a better job of isolating the audio. The Sony’s audio sounded like the gain was turned up and the background noise was more prevalent.
Video quality on both was amazing. Maybe I’ll pick up one of these for my wife to use on our vlogging adventures. 😁
Love your videos, thanks
I'm currently using cx 405's (3) for my streaming productions. They all work wonderfully and the audio as mentioned is amazing for such a lightweight consumer camera.
When streaming can you get audio through the HDMI cable? I ask because I have the CX240, which is very similar to the 405, and cannot get audio to come through to my computer.
@@crosswhite17 I do but also use a encoder that has audio mics and depending on situation use Rhode wireless mics as inputs. Sometimes you have to try a different brand of hdmi . I’ve heard that sometimes is the problem .
@@ArmstrongMedia My hdmi cable is the Sony that came with the camera. If I play a recorded video through the cable I get sound, but if I just use the camera to stream I get no audio. Very frustrating.
Bought a cx900 and a PJ-790VE, which are HD versions of the ax100 and the ax53, for $200 each during the pandemic! These have become my live streaming cameras, and could definitely use these as an extra camera on multi-cam productions that require many cameras rolling at a time. Camcorders still have a place, along with big-sensor cameras, and we're lucky we live in a time where we have all these tools at the price of one accessory back in the 90s and 00s.