Best Cheap Vlogging Camera: Camcorders Review and Comparison | @LocalAdventurer

[@productreviewstv812]

Even 3 years later this video is still very relevant. Not only did I buy a CX405 because of this video, I have done a review and a tips, tricks & modifications video on it on my channel. Thanks Jacob! 😀

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

awesome!!

[@bloodyroot86]

How much does the battery is alive before finish its charge !? How much time you can non-stop shooting recording before the battery finish !?

[@brianr8372]

It's the Panasonic for me. Seems to be the best in most of these tests.

[@bobroma]

I have to agree. Especially the mic which sounded more warm and natural. And the zoom by far.

[@cewl304]

This is a new benchmark you have set for reviewers trying to compare multiple products! Great video !

[@quandoomniflunkusmoritati9359]

Years later I am looking for a "less expensive" camcorder for kids sports and travel and something priced (now 3 years older) where if it falls off the stands I am not going to sweat it. I was already looking at the Panasonic and Sony and this allowed me to look at the Canon option (in this bracket). The Canon seems to have held it's value a bit more as far as "amazon renewed" and NOS is concerned. However, I wanted to say this was a WONDERFUL review. You covered the unboxing, the basic features, pros/cons, etc. However your technic of comparison shots all on the same screen at full resolution simultaneously and cycling the camera audio (and telling us exactly what audio source was in use) was wonderfully helpful. So far the most useful review I have found online. I agree with you summation and will be picking up the Sony. Again, first time to see your channel and I'll look at other vids, however your methodology was EXTREMELY helpful. Thank you!

[@AndresFnt]

Since the 1990s I have trusted Panasonic with video to bring me back to a memory how i remembered it. Look at the awful cropping/morphing in the Sony and Canon...The color can be corrected in post production

[@MrKbtor2]

I just unboxed the Sony and then I stumbled on this video and thought I might regret it. But now I'm reassured.

[@kml7735]

so judging from the video panasonic v180: best in image processing and stability, mic canon r800 : best in auto focus and focal range sony cx405: best in overall accuracy

[@Garedot]

And on Zoom is the king as well, Panasonic has huge 50x Optical, 90x Intelligent.

[@stoneyrunva]

I've used video cameras professionally for several decades. Everything from Red Ones to cell phones. The Sony outperformed both of the more expensive models in this comparison in terms of color reproduction, image stabilization, and resolution. The drastic tint and crushing of black levels of the Canon was particularly annoying and would be much tougher to fix in post. The clever usb cable for charging the sony and transferring footage is also an added convenience. For anyone who wants to get into vlogging production, the lack of a mic input physically on the camera isn't a negative. Most people doing decent vlogs will record audio with an external lapel mic anyway for better quality and freedom. Just plug it into your cell phone and record it there. Then, automatically sync it in a software editing program(Davinci Resolve 17 is free and amazing!). Not being tethered to your camera offers the freedom to do way more than being tied with a short cable to a camera just to record audio. Not being able to zoom out wide enough at arms length on the Canon and Panasonic would be a deal breaker for many vloggers. The detail in the video on the sony is amazing considering this is a sub $200 camcorder. The Panasonic held up decent when it comes to lower light situations outdoors. But, again, once you took your rig indoors the sony won again. I'm curious if you recorded this footage with the sony set to XAVCS format. If not, the difference of image quality would be even more clear. Interesting comparison. All of these cameras are decent and any choice would not be bad. It's a great time to be making videos when a sub $200 camera can perform as well, or better, than a camera that cost many times that a only few years ago.

[@wiillthebarbertv9415]

Great info

[@Jason31256]

The Panasonic is the cheapest of the three. The Cannon has a slight red tint, the Sony has a slight blue/green tint (cooler colors) and the Panasonic is in between. I'd go with the Panasonic. The stabilization and zoom are better, and the sony only takes micro sd. The sony might have a small advantage indoors but with some proper lighting, it might not. I've seen some nice footage of the moon with the Panasonic, surely it can't be too bad in low light

[@baileyconway6890]

Tests start at 11:04

[@DobermannJeff]

Thx

[@stefanradev4585]

Thank you, sir.

[@elmegapeluco]

Thx

[@sackyboy03]

This was a great video! Super informative and paced very well! Personally, I prefer the Canon because of its video quality, image stabilization, inclusion of a mic and headphone port, and its UI. However, it's definitely not perfect, and because of that, I would like to mention what cameras I thought performed the best in the scenarios OP provided in this video. Canon has the best video quality. Canon has the best image stabilization. Canon has the best anti-aliasing. Panasonic has the best mic. Panasonic has the best quality retained while zoomed in. Sony has the best wide angle. Sony has the best video quality in low light.

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

Thanks for the thoughts - it's nice to see the points written out!

[@BeyondBaito]

Canon has the best image quality and ironically its the only one discontinued

[@rgbplumbinghilton]

Sony has the worst sound quality by a mile. If recording concerts or music your thing, the Sony isn't for you!!

[@Sunshine23628]

Hi, I have all three cameras and panasonic is the worst for me, in second place I would put sony for blacks, low light conditions. But I put Canon first because of the colors that are vivid and more cheerful. Also because it has a microphone and headphone jack, which Sony does not have. But for me the colors are very important and the Canon in color is the most beautiful.

[@OEverettC]

I have the Canon. You need to go into the settings to widen the view of the lens. The view gets much wider than what you show in this video. You should read the manual before reviewing the cameras. 🤷‍♂️🤦‍♂️. There's also different scene profiles you can change. There's one for low light. It's disappointing when people rely on these review vids when picking a camera, but you don't even know how to use the camera🤷‍♂️

[@KoGameStudio]

Lol I know I'm late as hell, but how do you widen the fov? Because I know one way, but it removes image stabilization which is terrible for vlogging.

[@MiaHessMusic]

Wow, this was a really good video! Super helpful as I'm thinking of getting a camcorder and I don't want to break the bank.

[@SerenaCalls]

I wanted a small light weight inexpensive camcorder to take on my work trips and I just bought the Sony 405. I really like the color on the Sony 405 camcorder compared to my Canon camcorder. The Panasonic color on your comparison review is also nice. You did a Great job on this review! 👏🏼👍👏🏼 I also, just bought the Sony ZV 1 and I can use the same battery for the Sony camcorder and for the ZV1 camera.

[@ANTHONYSR3]

im user sony cx 405, this handycam have good stability and for low light👍 and can charge use power bank.

[@josh-to4em]

how long does the battery life last?

[@ANTHONYSR3]

@@josh-to4em 1.5 hours

[@joejtunes]

Incredible video! I was stuck between the Canon and Sony, and based on this review I think I’m going with the Canon! Thanks a lot

[@oceanluvr30]

Nice video....just the type of comparison I was looking for. Good job!

[@jwgmarine4314]

AWESOME thank you great review and very clever and helpful to see them all at once and as well as comparing the audio. of each of the cameras. Thank you!

[@mariaangueirabarrio8312]

You have done an incredible work here, thank you so much. Very helpful.

[@bennettcheryll]

Great video, thanks for the variety of testing. One thing I would like to see but usually don't, is where they are manufactured.

[@kaykay-pg4ee]

You did such a great job on this video. Very detailed. I came into this video ready to get the Panasonic but you got me leaning toward the Sony. But the SD card situation is annoying.

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

Glad we could be of help! Yeeeah, it's hard to find a camera with everything perfect

[@Garedot]

Panasonic is the winner of the Zoom test, although you cut the test. Panasonic has 50x Optical 90 Intelligent.

[@keithbrown454]

Good video on those 3 camcorders. I have 2 of the 3 you reviewed. The Sony appears to be sharper and the better one of the bunch.

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

Thanks! Yeah, agree!

[@jasonism123]

I love my Sony Cx405. The stabilization and audio is amazing. Thank you for this video. Awesome job!

[@ASgfjyhgyi]

Really love? And how about overexposed images? Love them too? Unfortunately all this cameras have this bug.

[@jasonism123]

@@ASgfjyhgyi no problem with exposure. In low light, don't expect the best. They have tiny sensors. In bright daylight, it's very good.

[@SBF_tv]

Subbed and Liked just because of all the effort into this first video that I saw from you! Thank you very much, very informative, actually made me decide on the Sony CX405 because of this!

[@izzyshootsiphone]

I own the Sony, I made love to it

[@sinotej]

That was a surprise that you picked the Sony one :)). I thought that the sound on it (outside) was bad... the wind muffled your voice and also the out of focus on low light. But other then that it did performed good. It is clear that they are made to film so no doubts on that. I would have gone with the Panasonic as is a bit cheaper then the Canon one (cheap me :)) ). Thank you again for the time you put in this videos.

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

I still liked the picture quality and everything better on the Sony. Sound wasn't ideal but if I were to use any of these I wouldn't use the built-in mic anyways.

[@sinotej]

I see what you mean.

[@kaykay-pg4ee]

@@LocalAdventurerTravel which do you suggest with no mic?

[@startube2788]

@@LocalAdventurerTravel why? in action sequences, sony image looks pixelated, with noise on it. Canon image looks better

[@kayberry6292]

Thank you! For me the Sony was the best on video quality - but you nearly lost me with the railings sequence where the garden in the background looked awfully muddy and blocky on the Sony.

[@naukafit]

Best video BY Far! Thank you for the work!

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

Wow, thanks!

[@JimiMack77]

Excellent comparative video, thanks for going to the trouble! Good, helpful info.

[@JenKLee]

Thank you so much for this video! I am considering two of these and reading spec comparisons are of limited value to me because I don’t know what they mean in terms of practical performance. This is the best - incredibly helpful!!! 🙏🏼

[@filipb3839]

I have bought the Sony HDR-CX405 almost 5 years ago! At that time it was very cheap and the cheapest among these camcorders. I still was not sure about my choice, but now I would definitely go again with the Sony. More natural image quality, better low light performance, better zoom, stabilization and better sound. The overall design looks better too. The only downside is no on/off button. Once you open up the screen to remove the sd card, you cannot turn it off. Need to remove the battery first!

[@vincentpath]

Did you film in 1080i oder 1080p with the Panasonic? There is a lot of ghosting in the image. I have an older Panasonic camcorder that can only record in 1080i and has the same ghosting. I am uncertain if it's due to the interlacing, but if you recorded in 1080p it's rather a Panasonic thing. Would be great to here from you on this! Cheers!

[@sinik.7152]

I noticed that in the end of the video you chose the Sony camcorder but in the description it says you chose Panasonic..?

[@skubidu1883]

What would be better for filming holidays, trips with one of these cameras or better to buy a dji pocket 2?

[@professionalidiot07]

One of these cameras definitely

[@filipinophreak]

i just want something that i can capture family gatherings and when we go on vacay..something under 1000.00 dollars..new sub here

[@LEVENINZWEDEN]

I bought the Sony and vlogged with it for about a month. Than the micro SD-card suddenly didn't get accepted every time (as if there was too much space for it in the slot) and the recordbutton on the back became a little loose. It wasn't always possible therefore to start recording. Only when with my other hand pushing exactly in the middle of the button, it was possible to record. It went back for repairs (bought it at Amazon), but nothing got repaired. It went back again and I'll get my money back. Does other people have the same experiences after about a month daily use?

[@ellielopez1615]

This one is so tricky. I currently own the sony but I probably would’ve picked the panasonic if I would’ve given more time to research lol.

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

haha, such a struggle!

[@Steinerecliner]

Just came across this video as Ive been trying to compare camera on a budget as starting up a youtube channel. Trying to compare Camcorders to DLSRs. Since the channel plan is going to have long and short videos. Most DLSRs that are would be called budget don't go beyond 30 mins per sessions but the options and quality. Seeing these. All have pro and cons. Sony was better in low light. Panasonic won is zoom. Canon did the best when you walked by the fence. My only reason I leaning away from Sony is unable to add a mic to boast the sound. Since I want something that does have that because I want to be sure that I have quality audio along with quality video. But a lot of great info.

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

thanks, hopefully it could help with your decision! let us know what you end up getting!

[@jamiesimms192]

Please please please, what mount are you using for the three cams, i have been searching for months, cannot find!

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

I frankensteined a few things together I had at home - haha!

[@rogaken]

why does the panasonic say "our choice" but in the video you chose the sony?

[@furulevi]

Vegas Pro was used to edit this video? At 13:58 lines are doubled (disable resampling!)

[@zeromod1]

i thought it was my eye.

[@mkteku]

The sony, can we record only mp4? Also, can you charge from a powerbank WHILE recording? Cheers

[@Astrolavista]

The audio and the colour science on the Canon seemed the best to me, shame it was so cropped at the wide end else I'd pick one up :(

[@dizzcorn1000]

I recently bought an external mic kit for the sony and am shopping around to see if it would make sense to buy a new camera with a mic-in port or just sync the external audio in post... and I gotta say I never realized just how awful the audio quality on the Sony actually was compared to Canon and Panasonic. Overall though I've been very happy with the Sony and the image stabilization. The bad audio nearly ruins the camera though. If I had to do it over again I might have just bought the Panasonic and not bought the $50 microphone.

[@franinthesky]

Thank you !! I am choosing sony vs panasonic in a camcorder and i dont know wich ine is better haha😅

[@mamamegss]

this was extremely helpful! thank you 🙏🏽

[@callmebackfriday2]

Based on my review, the Panasonic has the best lens in specification (in paper) but based on your test video, it was just ok. I like the Canon and Sony and have owned both Canon (FS10) and Sony (FX series/handycam) before and the Canon is more reliable but I like the lens on Sony CX405. I guess I just have to want for whichever on sales first. Thanks for the video. Update: What comes with the Sony CX440, does it comes with a MicroSD card? Also, what MircoSDHC or XC card you recommend for Sony's camera? Thanks

[@davefink2326]

Awesome survey! I grabbed three Sony cx-405s to hand off to my techs to film field equipment repairs. I'd like to mount one of them on a 3-axis portable gimbal but can't find anything that fits. They all seem to be made for GoPros shape cameras. Have you come across any yourself?

[@kakamondol1322]

Panasonic is best in these 3, i use v385 and very happy with it Plus point for sony is it's charging with powerbank , love sony mirror less , but for video definitely panasonic

[@TheER11]

How long is the battery life of v385?

[@kakamondol1322]

@@TheER11 you can record upto 3 to 4 hour with full battery

[@ooileongseng7591]

I like Canon

[@rxgtv]

I use the Sony, the USB cable is very handy, but short. my desktop works fine with it, but if you know the Surface Pro, the ports are on the screen. I end up using a USB extender cable for the laptop

[@aesarawolf]

The Canon hands down on audio quality! Video colors more vibrant! With mic and headphone jack then hands down for recording a LIVE music!

[@iadigital633]

This was a Super and very helpful Video, Thanks Man Good Work👍❤️

[@badmoonryzin7251]

Great comparison video. Well done 👍

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

thank you!

[@fobiedgar]

Zoom test is incomplete, Panasonic would win that with 90x. I have all 3 cameras. 3 of them are great.

[@edtrevino2560]

You forgot to mention Canon dont support AVCHD recording, just MP4. The Panasonic and Sony have both

[@reneotter]

you need an external mic. and how to stream directly?

[@ibapa888]

Canon is nice. Color, sound, low light. Down side is its not the widest at its lowest zoom.

[@Lance_Thorpe_Esq.]

Good Job. Thorough, Thoughtful.

[@LucasCrossleyGuitar]

Great comparison. I was really hoping to see the portrait function on the Canon. I have an older version and it does crate some bokeh effect when shooting for youtube. I wondered if it would be improved on the new model. Did you try that? I think that's something that a lot of people would like to know. Cheers!

[@cricknofficial]

Panasonic HC-V180 i need it. Where can i buy from.

[@ButchNews]

Thanks. I am looking at a cheap Panasonic camcorder because I want an HDMI output. Not sure if it's a clean signal but Panasonic is known for being video connectable. 60FPS is really 30FPS. What is happening is, to get a better sample using the same pixels, one pass does, like old fashioned TV, EVERY OTHER LINE then the next pass fills in the missing lines... so your eyes see it at 30FPS. Most humans can't see faster than 10FPS except some young kids and some professional athletes who's brains are operating slightly faster than most of we mortals... making them react faster. Why animation is done at, at least, 12FPS, and with film at 24FPS, you get two images the same, every 1/12th second. You lose the ability to see faster than 10FPS with age... why athletes decline. Anyhow, it's really 30FPS but done in two passes. The advantage is it is better at stopping fast moving objects with less blurring in the final image on screen. Still trying to find out if the hdmi signal is clean but the camera is so cheap I may buy it and just take a chance. The Q2n camera makes a neat webcam. Has both USB and clean HDMI output so you can use the livepro L1 cheapo switcher. The Q2n also acts as a backup, self-contained, full fledged video cam... or microphone one may carry around like a little sports cam.

[@yuurioholland8243]

Nice review! I pick Sony, thank you

[@VideoAssociates]

Is it easy for file transfers to my Ipad from the Sony 405 thanks Sir

[@SolidSableye]

I am definitely the biggest fan of the Panasonic. The zoom, colors, image stabilization, everything about it is fantastic.

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

Good choice!

[@SolidSableye]

@@LocalAdventurerTravel I will say, I think one of the reasons I went for the Panasonic instead of the Canon is because I looked at the footage and realized that the lens has a purple-ish tint, causing the colors to look a little odd, and purple glare when zooming in on things.

[@southernexposure123]

Thanks for the review. I wore out 2 Canons (HFR40 and HFR800) then bought a Sony. I'd have got another Canon but for their price increase and Sony won on that account. The Sony does acceptable audio and video and the Sony has a little more zoom than the canon (on paper) but on screen it's not a major thing. I'm just not a fan of the Sony file handling menu and I really dislike the need to keep up with the Sony charger cord. Now I'm looking to get another camcorder. The Canon has increased the price again and I just won't give $350.00 for what I consider a $200.00 camera. I'll do more research on the Panasonic to see how Panasonic handles their menu and file transfer into my computer. Maybe I got spoiled on file handling by the Canons, but for me the Sony is not user friendly with the file handling. Sony lovers might disagree with me on that count. That's OK with me. I don't need to argue that point. Your video has me sold on how well Panasonic does outdoors, it's 90X zoom and the Panasonic image stabilization beats both the Canon and Sony cameras I have. Thanks again for your review.

[@cheptabkiriswo6593]

I prefer the canon its ability to have quality lighting is amazing an zooming too and clarity

[@billking7923]

THANK YOU! I'm not really interested in vlogging although I suppose I'll occasionally post a short video on Facebook. I'm in the market for an simple, easy to use video/photo camera on a budget. The Sony and Canon names come up a lot and sometimes the Panasonic but not as often.

[@drfrankm]

I am looking for one with a external mic input

[@hangang870]

Thank you so much! Super helpful

[@LEDSOUL]

for the people who didn't understand what fps are, you can have the example of the videogames= 60fps are 60 pictures that appear on the screen in 1 second

[@spidey3759]

Really enjoy your videos!

[@imdapanda7877]

If I want to blog haunted stuff like Sam and Colby so seancees and anime on house should I use camcorder or compact my budget is like 500$ USD

[@Bryort]

Nice Video and thanks, but the sound coming out of the Sony was awful man, plus Canon always have a better tint to a image (just preference), coming from a guy who makes professional videos with Sony, jejeje, anyway thanks for the efforts to make a awesome comparison, I know it's not an easy task! You rock!

[@oneguerrero]

This convinced me to buy the Canon. 🤷🏽‍♂️ Only one with mic jack and the Sony sounded horrible

[@DR2PA]

I was thinking the same thing but I can’t decide since the video quality seems better in the Sony and the canon cropped more than what I would like.

[@oneguerrero]

@@DR2PA I also wish Canon wasn't so cropped, but I believe you could get a wide angle adapter for it.

[@startube2788]

@@DR2PA sony video quality better? you're funny. Look again at the video, it's the worst of the three

[@Giorginho]

Can I connect Rode Wirelles GO 2 to Panasonic camcorder?

[@Dennisgehtraus]

Hi! Thank you very much for the Video! With the canon you get a larger angle of view if you set the zoom type to extended. Then you have a wide angle. Greetings

[@BobDiaz123]

When you were walking with the cameras (13:57 - 14:09), on a freeze frame, the Panasonic had the interlace line doubling, but the Sony and Canon did NOT show the line doubling. It's as if the Panasonic's chip shot in interlace, but it laid it down in progressive in the video file. I can't believe Panasonic would do something like that. I just can't go with a camera that does that.

[@javalava33]

Thanks, buddy...will go for Sony! 😀

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

Good choice!

[@maiklingpangaral]

which do you recommend? The sony?

[@islandstore4243]

Any Idea which has the best battery life?

[@kendallwatson8561]

Excellent video. I was eyeing the Canon Vixia, but after watching the video I'm more in the Sony cx405. I may still get the Vixia. Do you have any recommendations for tripods?

[@UPdan]

I too may still get the Vixia even though it may be help with lighting and audio. When it hit its correct lighting I liked the colors way better but I suppose it’s the same with the Sony. Did you buy yet?

[@kendallwatson8561]

@@UPdan No, not yet. But, I will be buying it soon. The bundle I'm looking at is on backorder right now. Once it is back in stock I will purchase it. I feel that it is a great choice for my first camcorder.

[@rosariolalaine]

What is your real choice? Is it sony (video) or panasonic (in description)?

[@hat-trickrecordingsllc2585]

Great comparison and review video!

[@hamzaharis4087]

hi i went through all your 6 videos. it helps. i end up with Canon Powershot G7X Mark2. brother thanks a lot for your effort. i really appreciate it

[@LocalAdventurerTravel]

Glad I could help!

[@ooileongseng7591]

Is this camcorder waterproof and / or water resistant. 10Q

[@howdydo7320]

My pick is sony. Looking at buying that exact sony camcorder.

[@zaidibasri1]

can these camcorders mount a tripod

[@SSModi852]

Wasn't panasonic have more zoom?

[@peichmen]

HI.I need a camera with clean HDMI out. The Panasonic has that option???

[@MrRondonmon]

The Sony is under 200 now, so its the Cheapest lads. I wanted the Lumix FC 300 but they were on backorder for 397, so I just saved some cash and ordered a Cheap 99 dollar Camcorder with all 5-star ratings and like one 4 stars (over 100 ratings) on Amazon where I can send stuff back. And I ordered a DSCH 300/B Sony Camera for like 69 bucks which says LIKE NEW, it has no strap or cover in the box so I got like 150 off. It's brand new, but they can't sell it as new, lol. I love getting deals like that. I may send my Cam back and get this 198 dollar Sony, it looked really good compared to the other 2. But it was centered and on a higher perch than the other 2.

[@neuszod5489]

Hi! For me to make a short film(s) but i'm a beginner. What camcorder of theese three you suggest ?

[@TrainTableRailroad]

What settings did you use for the Panasonic?

[@pagpapaitim]

looks like the sony has an hdmi port where you put in the micro sd. hmmm. i think i'll go with sony also.

[@cardbored_]

Do you know if I use this with the Elgato Cam Link for streaming if the HDMI output allows for disabling/turning off the HUD?

[@JaneMomlifeDiary]

Sony for me Wide angle+stabilisation one thing I dont like is the audi.

[@Loooppp]

One thing is "real effect" when you film your foots with canon, image is not better, but something is nice when moving

[@raquelrara9057]

Thank you

[@Gadgetdad007]

Which out of the first three cameras is your favourite and why ?

[@garrettblaster]

I was debating the Sony cx405 and seems it has a good wide lense and best video quality, but the canon has really nice color