Zoom Q8 Review: All-In-One Audio and Video Setup for Streaming?

In this video I review the Zoom Q8 Camcorder. It's a quirky camcorder that clearly puts audio first. But is it any good?

[@thissidetowardscreen4553]

Interesting review! I seen several people using them, recording video and music, I guess there are scenes selections that change some of the internal settings. From what I can see from those using them. The video is less than ideal, but in some cases I see sometimes in certain lighting conditions it is acceptable. Thanks for the review!

[@bigtb1717]

Yeah, the "scene" selection is literally the only camera setting (well, other than "upside down" which just flips the video, and the resolution setting). For scenes there is "auto" as well as some options like concert, jazz club, night, outdoors, garage, etc. To be fair, I thought it only changed the white balance setting, but I was wrong. I just messed with it some more and it does seem to adjust the auto-exposure up or down a bit as well. So I suppose if you wanted the video to be a bit darker or brighter to match the situation you were in you could try adjusting the scene setting. But it changes the white balance too, so you may or may not end up with a look you like. Don't get me wrong, it's not the worst video I've ever seen (although, when running as a USB webcam, it's really bad). And I know that the $400 price gets you excellent audio recording capabilities. But these days a $200 camcorder is SOOOOO much better than this camera for video. I can't help but think that for virtually any use case, a person would be better off with something like a Sony CX-405 camcorder and a separate Zoom H4n audio recorder. The Sony CX-405 has far better image quality, 30x optical zoom, auto focus, excellent image stabilization, manual exposure settings, and lots more. As a video camera, it's in a whole other league compared to the Zoom Q8. The Q8 is VASTLY superior to the CX-405 when it comes to audio. But so is a Zoom H4n audio recorder. And if you watch for sales you can get a CX-405 and H4n both for the price of the Q8. With that pair you would have similar audio capabilities to the Q8, and dramatically better video capability.

[@bigtb1717]

I pinned your comment because I thought it was important to point out that the scene modes do adjust more than just white balance. I'll also say that if someone watches this review and decides it's perfect for them to record concerts or something because they don't need perfect video and don't want to deal with two different devices and syncing audio later, etc. then that's awesome. I know I ended up not recommending the camera, but there's no reason at all that someone can't disagree with my assessment. Hopefully they at least got something from the review that they were able to use to make a more informed decision, one way or another. Either way, thanks for pointing out something I missed. Cheers!

[@officialWWM]

bigtb1717 the problem with the separate camera/audio recorder route is A, the extra cost and B, the extra post production required! I think you're missing the point with this camera. It's designed for musicians and music teachers to sit on a tripod at a reasonably close proximity and capture great audio with watchable video so you can review a performance later. The record button is located where it is so that you can easily hit it from in front of the camera. That being said, it's a shame they didn't include decent video quality but then it would come in at a much higher price point.

[@bigtb1717]

@@officialWWM If that's someone's use case and it works for them, that's awesome. Unfortunately, I have zero musical talent, so I reviewed it from more of a general use camcorder or streaming setup use case.

[@officialWWM]

bigtb1717 yep, you don't fit the target market. That's why these cameras are generally sold in music stores. In fact, the Zoom cameras are probably the only camera you will find in a music store!

[@strapfacts]

No lie, i was just chilling on the grass at San Jose State University, and a random person walked by and said "nice camera". Such a throwaway thing to say that i obviously havent forgotten.

[@jerryrush892]

This camera is not really intended for the use you are trying to apply it to, Zoom even advertises it as a webcam as sort of an after thought. Like oh yeah it can do this too. It reminded you of an action camera because its modeled after one and even uses the same mounting brackets as action cameras do. Anyone wanting to record live music or record themselves performing with audio straight from their DAW this is for you. There's a ton of great uses for this recorder, anyone wanting high video quality wouldn't be looking at this to begin with IMO.

[@sushi_donut]

I see these on the used market from time to time - thanks for the review!! :)

[@harvestersix1252]

Bought it for recording gigs. Sound quality, compact size and budget were higher priorities than video. Hauling around a laptop and audio/video accessories to make an uncontrollable environment look and sound perfect, is like plastic surgery in a triage tent. Even wireless data exchange and remote stop and start would be higher on my list.

[@uncleboyet]

Thank you. This helped me a lot to see through the hype. 👍

[@theelectricsplash7384]

I was seriously thinking about getting one of these to record our band when we play gigs or practice....or when we play an acoustic song in the park. But we already have a ZoomR16 audio recorder (which can be powered with AA batteries if needed) and it might make more sense to record audio with the ZoomR16 and buy a DJI Osmo Action as the wide-angle shot and synch them up in Premiere Pro later. I was kind of hoping the Zoom Q8 would be a cool all-in-one package that would serve as a quick, simple setup -- because setting up my band gear and then setting up audio and video gear gets chaotic faster than you'd think when you have about 10 minutes to changeover between sets. I guess you just can't have it all. If the video on the Q8 rocked as hard as its audio it'd be a no-brainer, even if it cost more. Thanks for sharing your insights!

[@bigtb1717]

Glad to help. I agree, if the video was just a bit better, this would be a killer option. As it is, it may even still work out for you since the audio capabilities are excellent. But the video quality and options are definitely a let-down. If you just need the most basic of video, it could be a simpler option that carrying and setting up two things. It just depends on how important video quality is, I suppose. The video isn't the worst I've seen, I just feel like this camera could have been an amazing option if the video was better.

[@theelectricsplash7384]

@@bigtb1717 we'd be using it in this kind of capacity... kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6PKY3pubtKgsNU Seems like it works ok here. And ya know, I might put a small action camera on the drum kit and setup my cell phone for video on one side of the stage so I can switch up the angles in post production.

[@jerryrush892]

I'd check out other reviews and info. He is not a musician and didn't use the camera like a musician would.

[@theelectricsplash7384]

@@jerryrush892 We ended up getting a Zoom Q2N 4K and it looks like this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5KzlKNnl8-So68

[@chrisbliss7]

I have it it's good this guy hates it I like it Worth the price you pay, sound is great and thats what it is about Yeah if you want something better pay more

[@JMSingh1]

Thanks for the correct information appreciate it .

[@mikeriverajr4447]

do you know of any affordable cameras which does with what the zoom does with audio

[@jankas64]

wrong just got one and you can pleas check the settings:-) it got phoes or real mic input in bac its 2 in one . Its max rec is3mhd/30 24mps the scenes like concert or night ,danceclub +more. you can choose mow, mow+wav, stereo audio or multi. aint that enough for decent camera? though you did this 2 years ago but has it changed that mutch? I dont diss it anyway 🙂

[@Yosser70]

Just bought one of these and this guy is wrong about just about everything lol

[@DeltaJazzUK]

excellent review.

[@glitchnyrmatrix7296]

Thanks for saving me the brain damage from buying a Q-8. The $299.00 Best Buy price was attractive. But mostly, it was the XLR lines-in that I was looking for. (LXR, quarter inch or mini jack would you find as long as I can come out of my studio mixer.) Also, when connecting a line-in, it needs to disconnect any onboard gate, compressor or limeter. Here's what I am needing to do with this camera... I want to create a KZbin channel. I want to run everything through my studio gear and into the camera for live streaming or podcast... No post-production or fancy stuff at this time. So, maybe you can help me by recommending something that... *Has line(s) in from my studio mixer and will record full instrumentation and vocals well. *Will cut off on-board gate-limeter-compressor when lines in are connected. *Has decent video. (Not the greatest but better than you have described zoom q8.) *Under $500. I would really appreciate any help you can give me. Neil,

[@glitchnyrmatrix7296]

Well I haven't seen anything quite like the q8. Maybe the video isn't as great as it could be but it is sound that is most important to me. For me it sounds like the only game in town.

[@strapfacts]

I couldnt get the audio and video to work in Zoom meetings software, it was either only a webcam or a usb microphone. And it the q8 is updated to the latest, 2.5 i think?

[@RobbiRocks]

After filming from this, Is there options in the system to upload content straight onto Social media?

[@fugalibrana]

This cam is designed for musicians, music teachers or singers. Is not an action camera. It is focused on audio + video. So who complains about and comment this is crap, of course you're looking for something else, not for something this cam is designed for.

[@arturoquimico]

You missed the point of the ZoomQ8... the target customer is a musician who needs a camera and video for quality control purposes... i.e. the band wants to review a rehearsal and know what it sounds like to the audience, make a home "demo", prove to an agency that you did play all the special music contracted by the wedding party, etc. Most musicians need something small and indiscreet for public performance these days.

[@bigtb1717]

I can definitely appreciate that use case. Ultimately, my conclusion was about using this as a general purpose camcorder or for streaming. For the uses you mention it may work just fine and I'm sure some people are happy with it. But I still think it's a shame that Zoom didn't manage to give it at least the same image quality as a modern action camera. Especially considering the fact that I can get both a Zoom audio recorder with similar audio capabilities and an action camera with better video capabilities for the same cost as the Q8.

[@aa1bb2cc3dd4]

Whats the driver needed to add audio with the video, and what cable are you using to connect the Q8 to your laptop? I tried with the included mini hdmi to usb cable. I had a pair of 58s plugged into it and i only got video. Any help appreciated :)

[@bigtb1717]

I connected tot the computer with a USB cable. Just the standard one included, I believe. I got the drivers from Zoom.

[@arnieg65]

I'm a bit taken by how partial this guy is in this one sided review. The Zoom Q8, for the money, is a great camera for streaming on a budget and produces descent video and audio, with multiple options on how to record the audio, as well as different mics that can be used with the camera. You can find a good used one for around $250 and again, for the price, it's a great choice for streaming, teaching, demo's etc. Just youtube the myriad of videos and reviews on the Zoom Q8 and you'll be surprised at what this camera can do. The next model (Zoom Q8N 4K) is even a better option if you can spend about $100 more.

[@johnthibodeaux5189]

It does have a lens hood 🙄 and you sound like someone comparing a production level camera to this. This market segment is for bands to record live stuff and social media. The Q8 was just as good video and better audio than your other camera you used to compare. And then you go on to say but you can add better audio for a better video camera etc etc. the Q8 is all in one.

[@jordancotten3992]

Correct

[@Withcare111]

What size memory card do you recommend for this ? To Be able to capture about 20 minutes of recording ? Also what’s the best setting to capture a band Ina. Rehearsal room ? Thanks

[@bigtb1717]

I think a 32GB would be enough, but I'd probably go with a 64GB for the extra space. Even quality Sandisk cards are fairly inexpensive these days. Just make sure you buy from an reputable retailer/seller. There's a lot of fakes out there these days. As for the settings, it's difficult to say. There really aren't a lot of video adjustments available on the camera, so the best bet would probably be to just quickly cycle through the various options to see what looks the best.

[@DaKILLaGod]

thanks!

[@KitCatStudio]

Important stuff! Was considering this one, but it does seem that the cam quality is just not good enough. Wondering if there is a good solution for the “all in one” device thing. Would love to find a camera that can provide these sound options.

[@bigtb1717]

I have and will soon be testing the new Zoom Q8n 4K. New version of this camera. Still a bit limited on video features, but promises to have much improved video compared to the original. We'll see.

[@KitCatStudio]

@@bigtb1717 yeah I found out about it after watching this review. Unfortunately the local store (where I have some spending coupons) doesn’t have that one yet, I hope they’ll get it soon. Tnx !

[@joa5739]

Great detailed review. I'm looking to buy a webcam and I'm not ruling this webcam out as a possible option. KZbin is such a good resource for this. Question??? I see on someone's else's video about the same Zoom Q8, a lens hood on his. You said it would be better to have a lens hood, so I wonder why you don't have a lens hood on yours? My use would be specifically to record myself on acoustic guitar.

[@bigtb1717]

I apologize, but it's possible I lost the lens hood for mine and didn't realize it came with one, or maybe it was missing from mine. Not sure. But a lens hood could help a bit with contrast when a light source is shinning directly on the lens. But the box contents does list one, so it should come with one. As a web cam, the resolution is REALLY low. But the audio quality is very good.

[@joa5739]

@@bigtb1717 Thanks so much for taking the time to reply and your honesty. I can tell you have heart for others. Yes I can see the low resolution. As someone else posted here I hope they come out with a Version 2 or something, and hopefully they will improve the resolution. I'm intending within a year to buy a webcam and I'm just researching same.

[@bigtb1717]

Looks like Zoom just announced the Q8n. It's the same price that the old Q8 was, $400. I may test it out. The video features still have a lot more in common with an action camera than a camcorder, but it does seem like it has some video improvements.

[@bigtb1717]

By the way, are you in the US?

[@joa5739]

@@bigtb1717 I live in Edmonton, Alberta. Capital city of Alberta. Where in the US do you live? Thanks for the information on the Q8n. I hope and expect it is an improved version over the Zoom Q8. I'm really glad I did not buy the Q8 yet. That is the value of researching products, which I love to do.

[@nico37]

Thank you!

[@giacomonalli534]

Is zoom q8 powered (without using the battery) while it is connected via usb to the pc?

[@giacomonalli534]

when it is connected like webcam

[@JimboMoody]

Good review! The Q8 really sucks! I was looking into getting one, I need something with great video and audio, and this is not it! Come on Zoom, you know it sucks!

[@kemalista]

Teşekkürler.

[@chrisbliss7]

D*** I just wanted to know how to hook it up and use it as a webcam I didn't know that I was going to stumble upon a hate video

[@bigtb1717]

The camera does make it quite easy. I didn't try on Mac, but when I plugged it into a Windows laptop it was detected as a video and audio device automatically. Unfortunately, I found it to have worse video quality than a basic webcam as the resolution is extremely small. But the audio is good. So as I said in the video, if you are only ever expected to be viewed as a tiny window on the other side, it may be enough. But full or even half screen and it's extremely pixelated. I genuinely got this camera hoping it would make a great streaming setup for video and audio, but was very disappointed by the streaming resolution. Just being honest about my experience.

[@MartinCraneRockbeast]

Did you not get the lens hood?

[@bigtb1717]

Someone else pointed out that it came with one. I found the box, but not the lens hood. Not sure how I lost it, but I apologize for not mentioning that it comes with one.

[@ritmoantiyano1551]

I have the zoom Q4 im very dissapointed to the camera quality,the video quality is terrible no zoom in

[@primobeltran7955]

I have ZOOM Q8. I set it to the highest video HD resolution and the output is not even close to a normal cam. My iphone video camera is way way better. Can someone help me if perhaps something wrong with my ZOOM Q8

[@bigtb1717]

Unfortunately, video quality isn't great on this camera. An iPhone is very likely to be much better, even if there is technically nothing "wrong" with your Q8.

[@RobertSWilson]

Thank you for saving me from buying this thing. It looks atrocious! My phone camera looks better for goodness sakes. Also, thanks for recommending the DJI Osmo. Is that the 4k model? Also, can it be used as a webcam or just a standard video camera only?

[@bigtb1717]

The DJI Osmo Action does have 4K. As far as I know it doesn't work as a web cam, but I'm not positive about that. What will you be using the camera for? Is webcam functionality important?

[@RobertSWilson]

@@bigtb1717 Right on. I'm looking for a good high quality camera to start doing KZbin videos with and I would prefer to have the option of doing live videos with it so I don't have to buy a second camera just yet.

[@bigtb1717]

If whatever camera you get has a clean HDMI out you can get a little HDMI to USB capture device and use that setup as a "web cam." What is your present budget for a camera?

[@abhishekfrancis7281]

Unfortunately i have this cam and it's absolutely useless

[@officialWWM]

They totally missed the mark on this thing.

[@bigtb1717]

It has potential, considering it's a four track audio recorder with two XLR inputs and decent quality built-in mics. But the Zoom H4n Pro is a four track audio recorder with two XLR ports and decent quality built-in mics. And it often goes on sale for half the price of the Q8. Sure, it doesn't record video to go along with the audio, but pair it with a cheap Sony CX-405 camcorder or even a DJI or GoPro action camera and you have FAR better video capability and the same audio capability. That's what I would do if it were me. Granted, there are downsides to carrying and recording to two different devices. That's why this camera could have been great if it just had a bit better video capabilities. Maybe they'll come out with an updated model.

[@officialWWM]

bigtb1717 you just have to remember who it's for. It's designed for the musician or music teacher who cares more about sound than video. The person who wants to record a performance and review the sound. Zoom works in the music industry, not video. As a music teacher, I fall into that category but I want better video quality in 2021. What I don't want though, is a bunch of Messing about with separate recording devices and syncing in post. I need point and shoot. I'm waiting for version 2 in the hope the update is fixed.

[@joa5739]

@@officialWWM Waiting for version two is just what I was thinking about. I've never owned a webcam so I've no experience with it. My only two uses for a webcam when I purchase one will be to record myself on acoustic guitar and to use for Zoom, Messenger, etc. I love researching products online and once you buy that is it.