5 Best Camcorders 2024 (YES Blurry backgrounds!)

Camcorders are an obsession of mine. Especially the SMALL ones. These are my most favorite camcorders that I use a lot, even though I have tons of full frame cameras, cinema cameras, super 35 cameras, I just love camcorders! They don't even have to be 1" sensors or even 4K. I love 1 2/3" sensors. Did I say I love camcorders? I love camcorders! Especially the small lightweight consumer ones. And yes you can get a blurry background with camcorders. yes even with small sensor camcorders. Which ones are my favorite? Well, Panasonic VX981, Canon Vixia G70, Sony CX405, Sony AX700, SonyZ90V. Most of these are 4K. I explain why in this video and show all kinds of video footage samples. Enjoy!
1:33 Sony AX700 amzn.to/49kBNfq
AX100 amzn.to/3uCV7p5
Sony Z90V amzn.to/3I7Fol2
3:18 Sony AX43 amzn.to/3T3XISm
5:36 Canon Vixia G70 amzn.to/3wrkJG0
7:39 Panasonic VX981 amzn.to/3T1Slmx
9:45 Sony CX405 amzn.to/3T6zWVS
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[@jamsaanich4993]

You are the master of "Cut to The Chase" No wasted time, no wasteful chatter. All information straight ahead covering the relevant points and details efficiently, concisely, and with a personality that keeps it interesting from start to finish. Thank You.

[@RickMentore]

Very nicely said!

[@michaeldstories8714]

I feel the same way unlike the other KZbinrs who always talk about a bunch of nothing at the beginning of each video its always been corny!

[@Bullcutter]

Not like most Americans on YT who ramble on forever!

[@reed7562]

Zip it up when you’re done.

[@HYTTFilms]

100% no stupid 1 min long intros, just right to the point! Love this channel

[@tommyflavio]

I love this channel. Ever since I started this hobby of mine, I'm so happy I found this! Thanks for the insightful content! Happy 2024!

[@vincefilms13]

Appreciate everything you do Markus! I stumbled upon your channel while looking for a cinema style camera and you showed off the JVC LS300, ever since I’ve been on the hunt for one.

[@olsonspeed]

The camcorder has erroneously been passed over as the "soccer mom camera". Truth be told, the camcorder is extremely versatile, rugged and can produce a quality image.

[@yoced1468]

I always think of the kid from rocket power lol

[@drjitters]

Another great video! Always fun to see you on Sundays! Gracias.

[@gregmgm06]

Great video! I love how you just get right to the point. Really looking forward to the next one. Im thinking about my next camera and your comparisons are very helpful!

[@BenHodgeThemeParkEndeavor]

I love how you look at all the different cameras no matter what the specs are, cant wait for your next episode.

[@pictureel5863]

It’s a joy to watch any video you do. Fun and inspirational!

[@RickMentore]

I thought camcorders were obsolete! This was most enlightening, thanks Marcus!

[@mySeaPrince_]

I have the 405 which Markus recommended.. Great for my style of YT channel.

[@GrowingDownUnder]

masters of convenience and beginner friendly

[@kuunami]

Same here.I really underestimated.How the video quality was good.

[@bigboichoi0073]

Omg I can wait for your bridge camera video. I’m not even in the market for one I just love watching your videos.

[@DOFDIFBF]

Always great to see your videos. ❤

[@WoodworkJourney]

I love that you keep your videos easy to understand and like you’re sitting across a table and having a chat with a pal. I use my iPhone on my channel to keep things simple, but I often wonder whether a video camera would let things simple but offer better quality.

[@gadget-guy56]

Camcorders are a lot of fun to use. I really enjoy watching your videos and your enthusiasm for the gear you are presenting. Keep up the great work!

[@zemunboy]

Great video as always Markus, hard to believe how great the audio is on that tiny Sony cx405🎉

[@AlexKim-po5lx]

Hi Marcus, I've never had a video camera. You're the best. The reviews are great. I love watching you with Kara. Good health and good luck!!!

[@louiepatton]

I just bought a CX405 from amazon, i replaced it from my smartphone for recording instant videos, can't be more proud of owning this little cam.

[@Mochipaws22]

Does it allow you to transfer directly to your phone to share?

[@louiepatton]

Nope, only by removing the SD card to an USB dongle to your PC or phone with an OTG.

[@heydyvazquez5364]

⁠@@Mochipaws22the x53 allows you to share to your phone. I’ve used mine for 7 years. Best camera. I record sports

[@SomberCarlo]

Does it have nightvision?

[@itsalltaken666]

Thank you for the information. Definitely buying from your links. Thank you again

[@vitod7425]

This is the only channel I trust for camera stuff. As a filmmaker, I would love to get your opinion on what camcorder would be good for a filmmaker not wanting to spend a ton and keep equipment light. Thank you Markus!

[@johnsaucerhunter]

Such a fun series Mr. Markus and so glad your doing it 'cause a lot of us (like yourself) just love Camcorders..

[@gooddoor699]

been watching mirrorless dslr videos the past month after finding this video i know ive been in the wrong place. cannot be more excited to be a camcoder guy again thanks markus!!

[@robsretroengineering588]

I went for a second hand Sony VG30 after Marcus recommended it. Interchangable Lens, Dolby microphone. Love it. Also it takes great stills.. and s large choice of Sony Lenses of which I now have four.

[@Kizarat]

Your camcorder videos are always so exciting to watch!

[@zeuak]

Ok but why are you so good bringing us perfect quality content, thank you so much

[@alan4cars]

Great info as always. Thank you sir.

[@volkerarminhafner8530]

Thank you Markus. I can feel your Passion for those Little things ! I Like it. Good Job. Best Wisches from Switzerland.

[@wckoshka8141]

Can’t wait for your next video!!!

[@rcrinsea]

I'm with you. I love camcorders. I grew up with them and they are so much more convenient than other products that can do video, and they have so many more features.

[@Jake12399]

I have checked back the the next video almost daily! I'm so excited!

[@columjevens4612]

Brilliant, really enjoy your camcorder videos👍

[@Dancing_Alone_wRentals]

This was fun as usual. I'm camcorder surprised....you've got me thinking about camcorders now. Many tHanks for all the great videos!

[@FlashDriveFilms]

These are really good product comparison videos. Low jargon, and your enthusiasm really shows throughout.

[@MarkusPix]

Thanks

[@ddelacruz]

As always great info! 👍👍

[@Jake12399]

YES I've been waiting for the bridge camera video !

[@empirejred4457]

Thanks so much! I just got a sony cx405.. love it! I've subscribed because your a cool dude that makes vids that helps peeps like me that just want to record life like me and my pals did in the early 90s.... cheers pal!

[@larrythomas6179]

Excellent, as always!

[@repinanatoly1]

Thank you! Great video!

[@CareyHolzman]

Love these comparison videos!!!

[@swiftsal]

Great video, Thanks for all the tips and advice. Im looking for a low light camcorder to record bands in bars. What do you recommend?

[@fares_of_arabia]

Just the kind f video I was hoping you would make Markus, thanks Budd...happy 2024

[@unigrampa]

I didn't even know how little I knew about what the term "camcorder" meant. You have enlightened me, but not so much that I'm oversaturated. Awesome video, great information.

[@BrianTheCameraGuy]

Love these camcorder videos. I am really digging your channel Markus. I even gave you a shout out in my most recent video. Keep being different. Different is better than better!!

[@UncleanHands1]

I have two Sony Vx405's. I've used them for years. Fantastic little cameras.

[@nunop6606]

As always great video! I am also a camcorder lover. I would like to see one video with best accessories for camcorders. Sometimes I want to upgrade the for a specific job, and it's not easy to find good accessories. Sony 43, Sony 405

[@Reaperman4711]

The CX-405 you recommended a couple years ago is still going strong for me--neat to see it still made the 2024 list. 📹 I don't need a super-cam, but if I happen to outgrow it, I know exactly which video I'm coming back to.

[@mySeaPrince_]

I got the 405 because Markus recommended it. Have you found the second battery compartment.. The plastic bit has hooks so the best way is to remove the little screw below the power cord, open the battery compartment and remove battery.. then the back, which is clipped in lifts from the screw side but try all round, take your time.. once off.. you will see the clips, push them in and slide the plastic out... There is also a external controller to buy that plugs in below the handle.. all I know about it so far is it can keep the shutter open.. I got a 40.5 UV filter which fits into the grove around the lens, ms polymer or possibly silicon is a non permanent way of fixing it which generates a thread for ND filters etc.. I've filmed Jupiter's Moon's.. a little blurry.. need a clear sky.. but fun to do, you will need to play with the settings.. I filmed again 3 or 4 days after only to discover Ganymede was the other side of Jupiter... turns out it goes round in 7 day's, which is quick.. What Galileo saw over 400 years ago.

[@soundzandwordzandimagez4323]

I also got the 405 two years ago because Markus was over the top excited about it :) I was secretly hoping that he was still keeping it in the list but no...time moves forward. I bought an old school 2011 cinema camera last week out of bordeom for $600 a Canon C300PL without a lens. I wanted the EF mount but had to get the PL mount and then realized I didn't budget for a used Sony $800 lens. So if anyone has a $100 Pl lens even with scratches I would buy it just to see this old girl' working. Ps I love Markus channel but this lockdown thru me into a 2 year funk of procrastination haha

[@mySeaPrince_]

​@@soundzandwordzandimagez4323 It's in the video... Have you found the second battery compartment see my other comments.

[@velvetvideo]

very underrated channel. Subbed. Thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge.

[@kikercreative]

Just ordered the G70 last night, rekindling my love for camcorders after years of hybrid cameras. Even went back and started shooting Mini DV again lol.

[@TheGrandstreeters]

The Sony CX-405 is awesome for a consumer cam. I shoot all my campground reviews on that cam. Thanks again for a great review.

[@yonis8325]

Nice overview of some of the most common choices! Here's how to enable face-detect autofocus on the Sony AX43 (i.e. FDR AX43 or AX43A) so that it doesn't go out of focus like many cameras do when this feature is not enabled: Menu --> Camera/Mic --> Face --> Face Detection --> ON. Keep up your great work!

[@MarkusPix]

It was on, but high contrast backgrounds can mess it up sometimes.

[@yonis8325]

That's frustrating. I have heard of issues when using the HDMI out port but not just with a busy background. Thanks for your testing!@@MarkusPix

[@CGPhotoKandou]

dont know why, but this was fun to watch. from beginning to the end. Good job.

[@user-gi6ni9xu4k]

Thank you, Sir. amazing video.

[@productreviewstv812]

We also love the CX405 and did a review and tips, tricks and modifications for it. Thanks Markus for talking about this Handycam!

[@mySeaPrince_]

See my reply comment to ... "The CX405..." It's about the battery compartment.. also my other comments.

[@janetbishop9713]

​@@mySeaPrince_ How do ya get it?

[@mySeaPrince_]

@@janetbishop9713 Could you explain what you mean?

[@TheChefBlog]

Absolutely love your videos. Thank you for making them.!!!!! 👏🙌

[@MarkusPix]

💖

[@simonpayne7994]

A nice, useful comparison done by somebody with extensive professional experience who really knows what he is talking about. Full marks!

[@PessoasNotaveis-lm2cc]

Recebi a minha Sony CX 405 a dois dias atrás. Fico muito feliz de ter feito uma boa escolha

[@user-hm7cd5qc2m]

Excellent review . Thank you 🙏

[@kennygo8300]

The Panasonic Lumix FZ300, with its 1/2.3 sensor, has been my video camera for 7 years. Still using it today. The features are seemingly endless. I love this camera.

[@diegocarrion8338]

Tank you for the video !!

[@shawtaylor4017]

fantastic information Markrrus - - thank you for sharing all your many years experience in the movie industry

[@MarkusPix]

Glad it was helpful!

[@BornAgainFarmGirl]

I can always rely on you Marcus to tell me what I need to know about photography and I’m trying to dig out my old video cameras because I have a question for you about the format. I could never get my computers to accept the old format that they recorded in I have no idea what I’m doing. I’m trying to find the cameras so I can explain to you what I need to know. Thank you Marcus for this really great video.

[@FreshandFelicia]

THANK YOU. Subbed for life.

[@alphaskwurl]

YEESSSSS. Thanks Markus :) Happy day

[@MarkusPix]

Yerrrrr Welcome

[@kerch-e]

I love your videos. I have no dog in the fight, but it's still absolutely interesting to hear what you have to say about it. It's cool to know what's out there.

[@caverken]

Any MarkusPix video is an easy thumbs up.

[@MarkusPix]

👍

[@MileyonDisney]

i prefer camcorders for video. I had a Sony 4K with a 1-inch sensor. Absolutely loved it.

[@gilbertgan1893]

What model is that?

[@WaynJul]

Thanks for all the good information and reviews. I am going to purchase a CX405.

[@legacybenefits]

I am very happy with my 405. Use the X (rather than A) records in MP4. There's a spare battery compartment, undo screw below power cord, open battery door and remove battery, slowly remove back it clipped in, push in tags and remove plastic.

[@kennethnielsen3864]

Thanks for sharing.

[@RCRoads]

Thanks for sharing these affordable camcorders. The CX405 is amazing for the price. Mainly the optical zoom.

[@BubBub-yc8qm]

Great insight and commentary.....do you do new car videos too? Lol 😊

[@EKAdventures51]

So glad still rate the 405 as your favorite, I've had mine since they first came out, for mostly wildlife and travel it's the Best

[@MarkusPix]

👍

[@Deminimis2]

Thanks Markus. I have little 405 in storage somewhere. I stopped using it because I burned my hands in a fire and hard time trying to bend my wrist back and it hurt while trying to use it. Now years later maybe I can. I will now have to dig deep to find it.

[@henrykg]

Or maybe a pistol grip will work for you? This inspired me to try and design one for 3D printing...

[@mySeaPrince_]

I bought the 405 on your recommendation.. July 2022 It's Brilliant 😻 1080 mp4 ideal for KZbin. .. & Stereo. Looks like my next camera to work with the 405 is the most expensive of these as the middle ones don't seem to out perform the 405.. Apparently there is a blurry function in 405 settings. I've filmed Jupiter's Moon's, a little blurry.. but amazing to do. Did you find the second battery compartment also there's a plugin controller.. apparently it will keep the shutter open and other things.

[@GeeForceQ17]

Thank you for another great video and what perfect timing, as I'm looking to buy a camcorder for an association I belong to. I have to record our monthly meetings and have decided to go the camcorder route vs mirrorless or DLSR's or whatever they're called.

[@MarkusPix]

Yeah they run a lot longer and are easier to use

[@ZorroDaddy]

My favorite photo guy, Thank you again young man.

[@UncleanHands1]

I love your videos. After watching several of them I opted to buy the Panasonic 4K HC-VX981K, I currently use a Sony cx-405 and love it for what I do with it. I also love the small lightweight camcorders. I will let you know how the Panasonic fares.

[@gregoryeditor6500]

Great video as always 149 likes now. I will be buying my 3nd Sony CX-405 soon

[@govinda6813]

you are awesome thx for making this!

[@crunkycrunker]

I got the HC-VX981 last week to record my son's orchestra concert last night. It came out great, even though I was sitting maybe 300 feet back, even sounded great.

[@MarkusPix]

👍

[@xanderzhu9503]

Hi, Markus, love your passion! And for another interesting camcorder, is the canon HF G60, which is 1 inch sensor with same shell as g70. Hope it can show up in your next 1 inch comparison video!

[@xjet]

My only gripe with most of the 4K camcorders you showed is that they top out at 30FPS in 4K mode. When you're filming action (sports or other fast movement) or if you want to add some extra stabilization in post then shooting at 60FPS with a high shutter speed makes a *world* of difference to the resulting footage. If you're looking for a camcorder that does 4K @ 60FPS then you'll be paying more and it's likely to be bigger/heavier. I opted for the Panasonic HC-X1500 because it was the lightest 4K/60 camcorder I could find at any price and although it's far from perfect I do like the extra functionality you get for the price. I'm surprised that more vloggers aren't using the small VX981 or CX405 though... they're a much better option (IMHO) than the more common (and more expensive) vlogging cameras so often used. Hell, I've even been known to vlog with my HCX1500 but to do that requires that you've got really strong arms and shoulders 🙂

[@martinXY]

I couldn't agree more. In Australia, the Legria/Vixia HF G70 is 4k 25/30p for A$1890 rrp. Heading up the price tree all the way to the top of the handhelds gets us the Canon XA75 for $4350 rrp. And it's still 4K 25/30p 4:2:0 8bit, shooting and output. Sony is the same. Just to show how dire it is, Sony is still selling the HXR-NX5R (HD, not 4k) which was first released in 2016. It is an update of the NX5, which was released in 2010. These things are not updated often. Still love my camcorders, though.

[@michaelbell75]

60fps is overrated and way overused. I know two professional videographers who shoot high school sports and both shoot in 4K30. Anyone doing cinematic video is usually shooting at 24fps. I very rarely use 60fps.

[@martinXY]

@@michaelbell75 It’s more about having the option to use it. I’ll keep doing 25p on my camcorders because I have to, but it bugs me that 60p is everywhere for not-very-much, but no-one is putting into new camcorders. They must still be using the really old processors.

[@xjet]

@@michaelbell75 If you want to do any stabilization of scenes involving movement then you have to use high shutter speeds. If you use high shutter speeds then you have to do high frame rates or you just get a really weird smeary effect. If you're going to shoot in 24/30FPS in daylight conditions then you're also going to need ND filters and remember to set the shutter to 180 degrees or you won't get enough motion blur and then any kind of panning or fast movement looks decidedly unnatural due to the staccato effect this creates. Suddenly you're no longer "point and shoot" with your camcorder. Higher framerates are far more forgiving of automatic shutter settings.

[@michaelbell75]

@@xjet Right. Filmmakers everywhere have been shooting in 24fps for many decades and doing it quite well. There is not a single film you watch shot at 60fps, even action films. 60fps looks awkward unless its slowed down and I dont know anyone who slows all their footage down. It's maybe like 10% of what most people shoot. Im sure Markus would have some useful info on this subject.

[@jordansimpson5163]

I absolutely love the camcorder vids my favorites from your channel all your videos are great though.

[@MarkusPix]

😊

[@scootercowboy]

Thanks for this video!

[@Nialism2]

I knew the VX981 would be in there 😄

[@Goomer]

Love when you do Camcorders. I have a Sony AX33, which was a step up from my JVC Everio. It was what I can afford and it is pretty decent. I would love to hear you discuss Optical Zoom, comparisons etc.

[@garybarhydtJr]

Thanks for your informative videos

[@360.Outdoors.Videos]

Thanks so much dear Marcus . My camcorder (Panasonic HC X 2000) I ordered 3 days back has arrived . Thanks so much for your kindness . I needed a 600 mm optical lens equivalent as i also will do wildlife videos . I am very much grateful for all your advises . Have a nice day . Stephan

[@alphaskwurl]

I think I'm finally gonna grab one of those 405s. You've talked about it since your very first camcorder video I think, so it's time.

[@MiaHessMusic]

I got a Panasonic camcorder for Christmas! I think it's the v785. It's not 4K but who cares. It's 1080p. It does have a mic jack which for me was essential. Great video, Markus!

[@LAARENATV]

Great video againg 👌🏼💥👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼💯🍊

[@neobluepill6051]

Sunday's best youtube notification !

[@DavidGriffin]

I could've beat you... I'm halfway through the video

[@MarkusPix]

💖

[@danielcolon225]

Hello Markus hello from Las vegas ! So I have a question I need your help. Ok so I am trying to buy a Panasonic video camera at affordable price now between the Panasonic Hc- vx981 vs Panasonic vx991 which one delivers best video quality in 4k during the day and best night vision function let's say which one is the best all around?

[@unpaid_review]

Absolutely! Panasonic x1500 is awesome too

[@shahedhasnat]

Good to see some nice positive reviews of camcorders

[@MarkusPix]

💖

[@adliberate]

I’m still using an Canon HV20 in a film at the moment. When converted to BW it looks great. It has HDMI out as well for easy transfer.

[@tptrsn]

Good stuff Markus! And by the way, I found out recently that I could use a 58mm 1/8th Black ProMist filter on my Canon XA70 with the factory flippy lens cover deal on over it. It appears to be the same filter thread and lens cover on that G70, so I'm guessing you could use a filter in there too if you wanted to.

[@Steger13]

Awesome, i was looking for the Best bridge camera 😊 i already have the Sony ax700 libe it.

[@robertmilkstore6680]

Your Channel is awesome! Dude, it is friggin' awesome. Finally another person on the planet that loves camcorders. I love camcorders so much. They never miss and they always treat you soooo good. this video is perfect. i still shoot on THE king of camcorders, the canon elura 2mc. yup mini dv tapes and firewire. yeah baby! my friends always laugh when i mention the word camcorder. they are never getting invited back to another thanksgiving. do you have an all time favorite camcorder? please make more videos. you are rippin it up man!!! CAMCORDERS!

[@francisgeorge7639]

That was such an enjoyable video I don’t know what to say :D

[@francisgeorge7639]

Thanks markus!!!

[@agentbey]

Geektastic review. Thanks Markus😊

[@MarkusPix]

Glad you liked it!

[@The_LaughingHyena]

I think im sold on a camcorder. I like my mirrorless cameras, but I've been doing more virtual video production. Having one lens, one body, and natively tetherable to a computer is awesome.

[@bingcheng8419]

I got the vx985m non-NA version of the vx981k, 5 years ago. Didn't use a lot. Now with a HDMI capture card as webcam on my desk.

[@UpliftChristianMinistries]

This was an awesome teaching! We are having trouble filming since we added a LED video wall to our stage. Once the presenter gets close to the Video wall, the brightness of the wall makes the camera darken the area beside the wall where the person is standing. Do you sugest we go with the VX 981 or CX 405m for this issue?