Sony HDR-CX405 still relevant in 2022?

[@tagger38]

Used my GoPro Hero 8 for 1 1/2 year and it broke on me. My Sony CX405 was buried in the closet during that time, got it out and it was still working good. Very reliable budget camcorder.

[@jameshchetwyndjr9739]

GoPro no zoom

[@wardieleppan8443]

Absolutely agree. I use a Canon Vivia R80 to film my standup sets and does the trick. Camcorders are so easy and reliable.

[@Lizerator]

Thanks for covering this handycam. I am a stills shooter but was playing with one that belonged to a relative. Found the CX405 on ebay and decided to take the plunge.

[@Helderhugo]

I still use this camera sometimes. It's not the best image quality for sure but it does awesome things. Speacily big optical zoom that sport cameras and phones don't have. It's very light and small. you flip the screen and we are ready to go. Just press record. And to finish record you could just close the screen. The auto focus is great. Filming close objects is great even with zoom. The sound is a good stereo and not bad in some wind situations. It have otical image stabilization. The sensor is very small. In editing I fix many of the issues this camera had. I put a little more of contrast and sharpness for example and the quality is upscaled to 4k. Wish I had this same camera recording in 4K 60P.

[@rigocornejo6003]

Look amigo I got 3 hdr cx 405 I record at the same time for my tiktoks and shie polish video to get multicam set up, this camera is solid and records betther than phones, I got all 3 for $350.

[@papwilly]

Where did you get all three for $350? That's such a good deal.

[@555mainesmonsters]

Yeah,where did you get 3 when I can’t get one for under $250?

[@canalmacameu]

I'm also a CX405 enthusiast, and I'm using it in 2024 without any problems. I can shoot in 1080 at up to 50fps(p) or 25fps, and the zoom is great, the optical zoom up to 30x is better than the digital zoom at 60x. And it has phenomenal stabilization. Greetings from Spain

[@an10110]

Well reviewed, I definitely bought it for family on the go type stuff.. It loads quick when open @ recording at startup. As a photographer I would definitely use go pro but more for intense minimal time consuming projects. Also not afraid to drop this one 😂👌 with family or minimum stuff.

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Thanks a bunch for the feedback. I agree, for photography, my GoPro is my goto when out and about. Surprising the quality you can get with such a small sensor.

[@pathegartyfilmssongs9487]

Hi, I recently bought it as 2nd cam for B-Roll and 2 cam shoots which it does an excellent job. I find it is over exposing so I've set iris to 5 or 6 and it makes a big difference. My main cam is the Sony PXW-X70 4K.

[@SquizbarDeAlienOfficial]

Great video!!! Out of curiosity what editing software do you use?

[@MiguelitoMiguel12]

Hello. I want this video resolution. What use camera in the video?

[@needmycoffee]

You make some very good points.

[@santoshkiran_u]

You are not alone in being enthusiastic about this camera. Markuspix is also with you. I have a Panasonic HDC - SD9 3ccd but no sony yet

[@ijwilson]

Couple of points. You can't use it as a webcam unless you use a HD video capture dongle and secondly the mic's suffer from terrible wind noise (even using the reduce wind noise setting). Just use a couple of furry stick-on wind noise reducers to solve the problem. Other than that a great little camera the optical zoom makes it much more useful than using an action cam for any use case that requires a lot of zooming in and out (sports for e.g.).

[@DaveThompsonfairlife4all]

I have an AX53 4K camera and want a second one to use with OBS to capture a different angle. I think this would be perfect. XAVC 50-60fps FHD HDMI out, is surely still very useful and relevant, and will be for quite some time. I was going to get another AX53, but they are still a high price.

[@skiptomygroove7009]

What's that Mic you've got clipped on with no wires?

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Hey there! That's a LeWinner wireless lapel microphone for iPhones. No app or phone pairing required. Super easy to use and provides very reliable audio. Check out my Instagram page for a short sample video. Thanks for checking out the channel! @low_def_media (IG)

[@kristelninapornillosa5625]

What size of micro sd card can we exactly use for this camcorder?

[@janjoun7406]

Would like to know this too

[@mySeaPrince_]

64gb they recommend maximum.. See my other comments.. Get a good quality card .. C10 and good Mbps...

[@MegaPlaylist2010]

Thanks for the discussion. Sounds like a very promising camera. Just missing is external mic input. Actually, I did not know it actually was this old like some 5 years or so. But since its still selling. There must be something right about it.

[@adams4272]

I've been filming with my phone and gopro for my videos. I'm thinking about getting this as another option. I'm not interested in 4k or anything yet and I'm hard on equipment. I'd hate to spend all the money on a dslr to ruin it in a shop environment or in my truck. Looking more for just better zoom and a screen. Would like to stop using my phone as much. I think your video helped solidify the decision. Thanks!

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Happy to hear it! I’ve been very pleased with the results from this camera and hope you will be too. Thanks for checking out the channel!

[@mySeaPrince_]

I have a 405.. Buy it... Then consider getting a 40.5mm lens protector .. with the threaded adapter or use an old ring.. and use MSP rubber (it's like silicon but not) to glue to camera, it will peel off plastic if needed.. that will stop bits getting in the front... Or use a bit if good quality perspex etc... Having the ring then means you can make use of ND or Polar etc..

[@rgbplumbinghilton]

The audio quality is awful on this camcorder and so is the image quality if you zoom

[@knightjester7947]

my only complaint is I am used to using a Canon digital camera where, after taking pictures or video all I do is plug it into the computer, find the files, and easily transfer them from the camera to the computer, leaving the camera blank for more data to be taken. cant do that with the Sony, it will not let me remove the video from the vidcam and transfer them cleanly to the pc, it only lets me copy them meaning I have to go back and individually delete each and every file I dont want taking up space on the card. very frustrating and time consuming

[@landmindssoul4636]

Thxs for the info

[@huntershortrepairs]

Awesome video man! I definitely want to order one now for my channel! another thing I hate about using my phone for recording is, if someone calls me, the recording is over, and there's yet another clip I have to edit and sync in, also the fact that I can't check or use my phone if needed unless I stop recording, take it off the tripod, etc. A handycam would be perfect, I love the articulating screen too, perfect for zooming!

[@fitnesschefen]

This camera or the panasonic 180? Price is the same

[@viralthakker9809]

Hey is it a good purchase for people who have never bought a camera or has no knowledge how to operate one?

[@jorgemolinaherrera4554]

Great video, pal..! Many "ribs breaker" hugs from Chile.🖐😎

[@wubsi1518]

i just picked one up for 80€ used in good condition and i love this camcorder!

[@Vivikocht]

HDR-CX405 how I update the firmware in 2024? please help

[@kevbrix9686]

What did you use to film this video?

[@ARP38]

Is it possible to connect a Rode Go or Boya V10 type microphone to this camera?

[@garykafka5142]

Is this unit good for videoing sporting events?

[@TerenceKearns]

Interesting. does it have clean HDMI live output?

[@jnr2889]

Yes

[@athleticsadventure6850]

Good review! I'm currently pondering between such a camara and a GoPro, my main trade off: either a cam for capturing cool mountain bike and trail running footage or a cam for using the optical zoom to capture wild life on the way... First world problems I know XD.

[@rgbplumbinghilton]

buy a hero4 and a camcorder. The Hero 4 is cheap now and still gives great image quality. You should be able to pick up both for £250

[@MarkoAssi_pokervlogger]

Did you record this video with the Sony handycam?

[@webuser5950]

I am looking to record soccer matches. The idea is to place the camera at the top of bleachers or press box. Would this be good?

[@thebagfather4633]

great vid. very well presented I'm getting this camcorder on Tuesday. looking forward to it

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Good choice! I've been very pleased with mine. Make sure to let me know how you end up liking yours.

[@mySeaPrince_]

I have a 405.. it's perfect for KZbin.. I filmed Jupiter and the 4 moon's the other day.. slightly fuzzy.. still working out the settings.. The 10,000 FPS setting is fun.. At the battery compartment there's another the same shape.. it's actually a place for a spare battery.. there are 2 'hooks' on long bits of plastic, position is at the quarter points, on the side of the black dummy battery Furthest from the lens.. you need the stainless insert from a windscreen wiper, bent in a curve to push the hooks in.. Alternatively if all else fails... drill holes in it so you can remove the base and get at the hooks.. I'm going to use that area to fit mic jack's and a headphone jack. It's a perfect camera.. and without WiFi and other things I don't need etc... Another thing to consider getting.. is a 38mm 'lens protect' and the plastic adapter.. file off the threads that would have gone into the camera and glue with a rubberising goo.. even though it sticks really well... It will peel off if needed..

[@Mok06]

does it contain night vision? cuz i want that nostalgic feel

[@Shanedmc2]

I’ve got an iPhone 13 mini. I want to get the Sony HDR as a B-cam for times I have to use my iPhone for something else. How does your iPhone 13 mini compare to it in terms of video quality? Can I use to the Sony for sit down videos?

[@hellbryan1299]

iPhone 13 mini it’s better for social media content. But for personal vlogging like with family and friends, Sony cx405 obliterates any smartphone just because of the optical zoom and the nostalgic touch bit gives to recordings.

[@bill-gray]

Great review 👍

[@redbeardsaga724]

Can the beeps and the sound it makes when you open the screen be muted? Looking for something to film hunts with and I can't have all that noise lol.

[@garypicken8403]

I'm with you just bought one may 24 end of the line sale in vest buy for 150 dollars to replace my cx220e which was starting to play up a little after 9: years dirt motor racing use ..got my money worth out of it

[@victoronline5840]

Thanks for the product presentation. I'm considering buying this because its seems easy to use and decent quality. What kind of SD card do you recommend I get with this?

[@AquaXY1]

what setting are you using for video??? because it looks like crap on the computer as a MP4

[@jamesgund007]

Very helpful. Thanks for your review.

[@iancraig]

I’ve had the 405, 450, 675 and ax53 for years. All brilliant in their different ways. The cx405 is great, as you say for quick stuff. You’re videoing in seconds.

[@SimonMas]

thank you. really informative.

[@BrettsCorner92]

The camera is only really good outside. On a sunny day. I notice it's very pixelated indoors are in low light.

[@jurb7549]

Sir, for information. I bought a FDR-AX53 camera. The NP-FV70 1900 MAH 7.3V battery is installed here. From the old Sony HDR-CX305E camera I had an NP-FV70 1960 mAh battery but 7.3v. How do you think, can you use it as a temporary substitute for this new camera?

[@tbdandthings]

I just ordered this camera, fingers crossed! 🤞 I'm excited to try it out over my stinking cell phone

[@goinggiddy]

i have seen reviews of that camcorder that it has Iris of 1.8, but does it achieve a blurry background?

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Yes - on the front of the camera is shows 1.8 - 5.7; while you might see some slight blurring it's not anything as good a good DSLR camera.

[@mySeaPrince_]

It has settings that will give blurry background..

[@WooCash555]

Hello. Does this camera have raw picture output via hdmi? By "raw" I mean those that can be used for a video mix (I have an Atem Mini)

[@askjaytv3675]

Yes. Clean HDMI output via microHDMI

[@KevPez-IS]

I’m looking to start a podcast and I wish to film it, perhaps live stream. I want two cameras and find a way to switch between them. Two of these would do a trick.

[@danielaac3452]

Thank you for this video, this was exactly what I was asking myself. I have an iPhone 13 pro and it's great for photos and videos, but I want something to document my trips in a more continuous way than just random cell phone video clips, so I can watch a whole "movie" at the end of my expierence. I wasn't sure to buy this one because, like you said, it's old, but I think you made a good point. A quick question, at maximum quality settings, how much memory do I need to buy? (micro sd card wise) I'm doing a 2 weeks trip, so I don't have to be worried about it.

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Thanks for the question. I'm currently using a 64G micro sd card and I've always had plenty of room. The file sizes tend to stay pretty small so you can film all day without filling up your card. 🙂

[@mySeaPrince_]

I use the X.. (it's MP4) setting.. I think it uses 20gb an hour... I'm taking a few stills as well.. for YT thumbnails. A 64gb if I remember correctly gives 2 1/2 hours of top quality.. as when I've had 1/2 left I download to computer.. it's about 40gb... Remember it depends on the complexity of what you are filming.. At 10,000fps memory won't last long.. If you manually set it at 25fps should be a while.. If it's on auto anything can happen... 64gb is the maximum size... They are not too expensive for the one for video of decent quality... I think it's class 10.. look for C with a 10 in the middle also check the Mbps..

[@RationallySkeptical]

I bought the CX-380 10 years ago and I'm considering using it for KZbin vids instead of my much newer and more expensive Galaxy S21 Ultra. What's the difference between the 405 and 380?

[@ZiggyWarren]

Does it have HDMI output? I need it for web streaming only and podcasting...

[@curtisthomas2670]

yes

[@velvetvideo]

sony needs to meld this with the fx3000 and make an fx4000. add in stills, slo-mo and weatherproofing. All i want is the perfect camera.

[@zleepyjan]

What camera did you use to film yourself in this review? its pretty good!

[@poorhouz5051]

Great video bro... From Your Boy Poorhouzzzzzz SALUTE

[@gigihanmandarin]

I assume you can get 1080p webcam if it has clean HDMI out, and goes into a USB capture card plugged into a computer.

[@lowdefmedia6150]

You can get a clean HDMI out, but unfortunately it's only at 720p. Thanks for watching the video!

[@Jeezybowwow_Entertainment_Inc.]

thank god it still relevant because im getting one this year

[@arreikierra]

I just had a baby and would love to just document her life with home videos. How does storage work with this camera, how long could i have this camera to record videos??

[@janjoun7406]

I'm in a similiar situation. I'm going on a trip abroad in a couple months and just purchased this camera. My only question left is how many sd cards should I take with me, and how many hours of filming will I get out of a 128gb sd card?

[@mySeaPrince_]

Have a look at my other comments... 64gb about 2 1/2 hours on X (MP4) setting .. depends on many factors including frame rate.. at 10,000fps not long! 25fps hours...

[@CarlG2003]

I’m debating between the Panasonic HC-V180K or Sony HDRCX405

[@SpaztasticTV]

How did your debate go?

[@CarlG2003]

I bought the Panasonic HC-V180k and I love it

[@wwoman7673]

@@CarlG2003 how is the audio on the Panasonic?

[@CarlG2003]

@@wwoman7673 the sound is good, some people think that the Sony CX405 sound is better. I bought the Panasonic because it gives you more zoom.

[@janjoun7406]

How many hours of filming (with this camcorder) will I get out of a 128gb sd card

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Hard to put an exact number on it, but trust me, it will be a lot.

[@mySeaPrince_]

As I understand it 64gb is recommended max card size... 2 1/2 hours at top quality... but depending on other settings like frame rate...

[@janjoun7406]

@@lowdefmedia6150 so can the cx405 take a 128gb or is the max 64?

[@lowdefmedia6150]

@@janjoun7406 That's a great question. Unfortunately, I haven't tried using a 128GB card, so I'm not really sure. Sorry!

[@curtisthomas2670]

I've used 128g cards

[@velvetvideo]

MarkusPix agrees with you

[@danieldougan269]

Is the lack of viewfinder an issue? It looks like you took it out in some bright conditions...so did the LCD screen wash out, or was it usable like that? I have seen people selling these used online for good prices, but I am afraid I would miss having a viewfinder. I don't need 60X zoom, that's nuts. But 10-15x would be terrific for my use case, namely event coverage like a wedding. Also, does this have mic and headphone jacks? I would insist on those because audio is so important.

[@ScienceAlliance]

it does not have mic jack

[@rgbplumbinghilton]

The audio is awful too

[@ScienceAlliance]

if the audio wasn't like gopro level bad I would probably be getting it at some point but now I'm unsure. But at the same time it seems great for filming stuff when it's like below freezing and you don't wanna take gloves off. Hopefully they revise the CX405

[@rgbplumbinghilton]

@@ScienceAlliance the audio is thin and crappy. I own one so I know. The better option if audio is key on a budget then the Panasonic HC v380 is king. Better zoom, similar size, 2 hour recording from one charge and very nice rounded audio.

[@williamkterrell]

Look at a lot of camcorders and it is a winner, Thanks

[@travisd7888]

Thank you, Sir! I am going to get this camcorder!

[@mySeaPrince_]

I have a 405... Have a look through the comments.... I have bought a lens protector.. and I say about fitting it.

[@davefink2326]

As you say, it can look a lot better than a 4K action camera in so many situations! Mainly ones where you want to go tighter on the subject and frame it up properly. Its 1080p zoomed in to the subjects' faces will look far better than the 4K action-camera video shot from the same place and zoomed in on an editing program. It's like night and day.

[@artishrestha8183]

Is it better to click photos?? Specially for instagram picture

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Photos with this camera are not great. The 9MP sensor really struggles when taking pictures. I would recommend using your cell phone in just about any situation. If that isn’t an option, be prepared to do some editing before posting to Instagram. Thanks for checking out the channel!

[@dinimedia3710]

Can you do vertical videos? Will it be for Reels?

[@zzaynr]

You can just rotate when editing the video

[@gregoryeditor6500]

I have it and I am very happy with it and may buy another. one. I USE IT TO RECORD ALL OF THE BIRDS AND SQUIRRELS THAT VIST MY FEEDERS! I record in AVCHD 1080 P 60

[@nuruzma3383]

How do you transfer the avchd files to your phone?

[@linkzellda]

The only issue with this camera is it doesn't have a Mic Jack Port.

[@AISPACE_ZA]

Thank You... Simple informative review

[@Motourserye]

VERY GOODREVIEW NEW SUBSCRIBER, MORE REVIEW APPRCIATED MEN

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Thanks for the sub!

[@bpthegreatt]

Thank you

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Welcome!

[@yakadayakalum]

thanks

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Welcome

[@oklahomaokie]

Does the cx405 have capability to use an external microphone? I don't want to have the wind noise and would like a way to reduce that. 2 👍 👍 on the video.

[@MegaPlaylist2010]

Sadly, but no. I do think though the build in microphone is pretty solid from what I have seen on other reviews of this camera. Just don´t take my word for it. I am though considering buying this one myself.

[@oklahomaokie]

@@MegaPlaylist2010 I do own one and like the video quality. I use my GoPro while also filming with the Sony. I use the GoPro audio most of the time. The Sony audio picks up so much wind noise is the only problem I have found. Most of my audio used with it is reduced to 10-15% to help reduce wind noise. Thanks

[@MegaPlaylist2010]

@@oklahomaokie Ahh ok. Thanks for info about the sound. Really would have been great with external mic input then.

[@jameshchetwyndjr9739]

This provide a video I like yes 1080p but $225 and 60x zoom. Not want 4K file too big

[@Old-School-Liberal]

How did this video get 30k views with this thumbnail?

[@joncarlos716]

Tired of moving to iCloud. Might as well just move it to a computer ssd

[@yoshyusmc]

Great point and topic! Action cams are horrible at low light so that is one of the main reasons I bought this, in addition to ease of use over action cams/phone. Plus I rather not use my phone as a dedicated video recorder, this camcorder is a great addition.

[@pinkieswear6611]

The design flaws with Sony CX405 are:1) there is no way to have the date and time displayed on your video. Date and Time are critical for documenting home movie moments. And 2) the memory cards create a separate file for each "shot". But (LOL) as a tech at Best Buy told me, "you can buy the software to splice all the separate files together". Truly one of the stupidest comments I've ever heard. This camera is not worth the headache. Go old school and use tape.

[@tomhoward8304]

I still have mine, and I use it all the time.

[@Semoga_Selamat]

Keren

[@indianrailsafari308]

🙏

[@productreviewstv812]

I made a video on this camera showing tips, tricks & modifications. Check it out.

[@gigihanmandarin]

Graphic quality definitely looks dated in 2022 and have that typical small sensor handycam look. My comment is that, AX43 would be a better buy for 4k quality with similar but improved functionalities.

[@artemt1987ify]

You wouldn't believe it but ordinary people think that this camera has very detailed and professional look image. Only camera geeks can see how many dynamic range stops in the camera, bokeh and etc. But for simple people this camera makes amazing quality image

[@lowdefmedia6150]

Thanks for the comment. I did look at that camera and was very close to buying it. Fortunately for me I was able to buy the CX405 instead. It has a MUCH better price point and does exactly what I need it to do. If I need a 4k image, I'll use my GoPro 10 or Fuji X-S10.

[@mySeaPrince_]

@@lowdefmedia6150 If uploading to YT.. 1080 and a clear wide image is fine.. Also with 4k etc... You get into a minefield of problems as you then need a better computer etc.. and storage becomes a real issue.. It's like people say about using Davinci Resolve.. you need at least 16gb Virtual Memory.. and CPU and RAM etc....

[@danbilotto7785]

worst camcorder i ever had. panasonic hc-v180 is 100 times better althrough being crappy itself. that foggy blurry 1080p today is total crap quality.

[@kishascape]

Nice NPC consoomer fad title. Either way though it never was even when new. Too scrawny and cheap built. The cx180 series is where it’s at.

[@ASgfjyhgyi]

Sony cx405 stuck at logo how to fix?

[@curtisthomas2670]

Pros: can snap photos while recording video; can connect via hdmi cable to a tv or monitor for playback or as a big af viewscreen; can record whilst charging; spare battery compartment; dual mode recording - record hd video and webload grade video at same time; built in usb cable for file transfer and charging; accepts 256g cards, zzzzzoooommmm!!!!