Tavares, FL June 28, 2015
Tips for buying new consumer grade "Standard Camcorders" (video cameras)
- updated June 28, 2015 from original Nov. 2013 version
These are all opinions of Vance Jochim.
Copyright by Vance Jochim, 2015
I take many videos of local events and meetings so people ask me what to look for in buying a video camera. You can see the videos I made with this camera HERE at my FiscalRangersFlorida YouTube channel.
I don't like giving specific direct purchase advice because it is a complex decision, and I don't want people coming back, saying "why didn't you tell me the battery will only run 30 minutes..."
So, if you want to understand many cam-corder features before deciding, and not be surprised by a missing feature, read this document or research other sources on the Internet.
And remember, even if you read all this, there may be a feature or issue I left out because I never needed them, so caveat emptor. Note: I may repeat some items in this document, but repetition helps learn it.
Do you really need a video camera? First, determine if your smart-phone or your standard photography camera (with video capabilities) will suffice. You may not need a separate video camera. My Olympus picture camera can take older MP3 videos up to 30 minutes and works well, so I use it as a backup. It does not have the zoom distance or some other features on the standard video camera, but works fine as a backup. I have used it to video the end of speeches when the battery ran out on my Sony video camera. And, the file uploads directly to YouTube, while my Sony video camera MP4 video files have to be manipulated in an editing program (if more than one file for a project). Currently, in June, 2015, I know a person who uses only his smartphone (powered by an external charger) with a zoom to video a speaker at meetings and then uploads the entire, single video MP4 or .MOV video to YouTube. He does not edit it. Since the phone does not have good image stabilization features, he uses a really stout tripod to reduce vibrations. Or, you can use an older simpler use camera like the Flip camera which takes good videos, but the sound is poorer. However, these days, many smart-phones take better videos than the old Flip camera.
Budget: Search a camera store or Amazon website like this one for standard camcorders to get an idea of visual design and prices to set your budget. Consider a bundle that includes numerous accessories. Sometimes vendors are not allowed to price discount the camera, so they give discounts by offering bundles with accessories. Look at what the bundle or kit offers to get an idea of what is an extra cost, such as SD cards (usually not provided) or tripods or battery chargers (instead of a slower USB charging cable). Beware that bundles may have low quality contents, however, like a low speed SD card, short life battery, etc. My suggestion is to get a bundle only if you are happy with the contents at the quality level provided.
Specifications you should understand but may or may not want:
Memory card vs internal memory storage: Some cameras have internal memory, like 8gb+, but very pricy. Instead, just ensure it has a slot for external "UHS-1" SDHC fastest class 10 (not 4 or 6) with high transfer rate to minimize delays in saving video or offloading to a computer. SDHC (max 32gb) or SDXC (over 32gb) cards are best because most computers have a slot for them. Define what maximum memory card can be used, i.e. 32 or 64 gb. I use 32gb and have never run out of space on picture or video projects (for one day events). An SDXC card allows more than 32GB but the camera must be able to work with it. Cards may contain a spec like "300x" which means it costs more but saves data (write or read speed) very fast vs one that says nothing or 60x. Or the card could say 40 MB/s (megabits per second) and up. Now, in 2015, there is a newer, faster SD card spec, but the camera must be checked to see if it will also use the added speed. Always see what spec they list for SD cards.
One positive benefit of internal memory is it may run at faster speeds than an SD card and provide higher resolution video files.
The standard SD physical size is best - if you get any mini cards, you will need a standard SD adapter to fit most slots and they are easier to lose. New SD cards are very low cost, as low as $15-$24 for a 32gb card. Be aware that your camera may use the higher spec cards, but your older PC may not use the faster, latest SD speeds but you might be able to find an external multi-card reader device that uses USB and connects to your computer and may use the faster speeds. Check your PC speed specs for the SD card slot. LOOK at this search list of "SD cards" on Amazon for ranges and specs.
Here is a conversion table from SC card maker Lexar that shows how to understand specs like "200x". So, you can now compare the "x" ratings to MB/s ratings. Faster is more costly and better, but only if your camera or PC can operate at that speed. If not, they will still operate, but at a lower speed reducing the return on investment due to marketing hype. For instance, your newer camera may record videos at the higher speeds (providing better resolution), while the card will be slower on a PC for file transfer without the latests specs.
- 100x = Up to 15MB/s read transfer, write speeds lower
- 200x = Up to 30MB/s read transfer, write speeds lower
- 400x = Up to 60MB/s read transfer, write speeds lower
- 600x = Up to 90MB/s guaranteed minimum sustained write speed
Define included internal memory: i.e. is it 4gb, 8gb, or higher size, thus you may need larger capacity external cards to offset the low internal storage space. A better alternative is not pay for internal memory, but just use 32gb or more SDHC cards inserted into a slot. One problem with relying on internal memory is you must use a cable to transfer the files and the camera maker may require use of proprietary software. So I always rely on just external SD cards. Get more than one card for backup and/or to carry videos you may want to view on the camera. I would rather have two 32gb cards than one 64gb card.
Zoom lens: 20+ optical zoom plus discuss and know digital vs optical zoom capabilities. My Sony has 32x optical zoom (i.e. in the lens itself, not via digital software tricks). Digital zoom is not as good and can be fuzzy. Test the zoom range on a camera to see if it works and resolution is good enough. (When you zoom in, you lose some resolution and also people may look darker due to loss of light levels).
Wide angle lens: To compare lens specs, you usually have to convert it to "35mm" spec to compare. 28mm or less is good, plus "extended" zoom capability like 32x. It is needed to get wide shots, but not important for standard groups, etc. The newer 2015 Sony model has a 26 mm wide angle lens with zoom.
What jacks are supplied: Headphones, hdmi, usb, may be standard, but having a mic output jack allows use of external mics to get better or targeted sound. Mic jacks for some reason are only on the more expensive cameras. Headphone connections are usually used for watching on camera videos or for monitoring sound being recorded. Headphone jacks can also be used to connect to external speakers - not sure if that is needed if you are connecting to a video playback source that has it's own speakers.
Video out playback: How does it playback directly to a TV? HDMI, usb, composite, etc. Composite is for older, normal TV's, monitors or projectors and you don't see it much anymore. HDMI is higher quality but requires HDMI out cable and also HDMI input on TV or monitor or projector. What other alternatives exist and why use them? Right now, HDMI mini jacks seem to be standard, so make sure the output device, like TV, projector or monitor has that connection capability if you want to playback directly from camera. (I never use it, but it is helpful if you want to show a video on a big screen tv or projector with files on the camera without using a laptop)
Filters: Understand any internal filters, features like sepia or black & white options. Most cameras add some filters like sepia, etc. Rarely used for most videos - it is optional.
Still shots vs video: Understand how you can take still shots vs video. What resolution? They won't be as good as a standard photo camera. Can it be done while recording video? (A big question). My Sony takes still shots of smiling people while still recording a video, or I can press a button. But changing from MP4 format to ACHVD format nulls that feature. One camera line only does this with a soft button on the LED screen, which affects stability of shots. My Sony has a physical click button which is better.
HD video standard: Most video cameras now record at higher resolution HD (high definition) but you only need 720p resolution for YouTube. But YouTube will take HD, but takes longer to load. However, most TVs now use 1080p resolution, and most cameras have both. If you shoot for YouTube only, you may only need 720p which takes less storage space and uploads faster.
How many frames per second at what resolution: 30 frames per second is good, 15 is weak. You don't need 60 fps because most video sites and monitors only use around 30 fps. I think TV and digital movies are about 24 fps, so anything higher isn't used by them. Marketing claims of using 60 fps are just to justify higher prices when most people will never use more than 30fps. The only use for higher fps is if you are videoing a fast action sequence like a running animal or NASCAR race. I recommend setting recording resolution at 25-30 fps for most normal video projects.
Digital viewing screen: Size of the digital viewing screen varies and check if the screen is articulated so it swings out, flips over, etc. Size may range from 2-3" or larger. 3" + is better, but it drains the battery faster. You also view the menu system on the screen, so larger screens make them easier to read. Name brand cameras will have better designed formats for on screen setting functions. Some of the screens are touch screens, others require using a physical toggle to move among onscreen menus. I have used both without problems. Most of these screens now rotate so you could be filming yourself and seeing what it looks like by reversing the screen panel to face you. Also, is there a feature that helps to SEE the digital screen in high sunlit or lighted areas. Will sunlight cause glare so screen cannot be viewed?
What file format are videos recorded in?: Are there choices? Will the video format work with your viewers on your computer and for YouTube or vimeo. Mp4 is better than Mp3. AVCHD is for advanced users and should not be considered by consumers.
Power supply: Is one provided, and not just a usb cable? How is the battery recharged? While in camera or is an external charger provided (or get price for one). Most cameras only include a battery good for short times like 30 minutes. So decide if you rely mostly on the external 110 volt charger line for power, or need higher rated batteries that last 90+ minutes (expensive). Some cameras put chips on their original batteries, and third party cheaper batteries may lack those, so some features won't work. If the power supply has the power two prong plug on the "brick", get a short extension cord (some ar 6" long) so the brick doesn't block other ports on the wall plug. Always test new batteries right after getting them and if they don't work or only work for short times, return them. If a battery runs out, what happens to a video recording in progress? My Sony will lose the entire in progress file. I now plan most projects to use a charger and extension cord so I can record 3+ hours without worry about battery failure. Otherwise you have to constantly monitor status of batteries. Manufacturer proprietary batteries are 2-4 times the cost of third party batteries. I wish they just allowed you to use rechargeable AA batteries like many cameras do.
Battery capacity: The capacity of the battery in minutes is important as well as the ability to use a larger battery and how long will it record a video (or play one ). My standard on older, larger cameras was at least 4-6 hours without a recharge, but the smaller cameras have less capacity - perhaps 1-3 hours. Include cost of backup battery and external charger for it. (See above warning about batteries). I use the wall cord now for most videos over 30 minutes of inside events due to concerns over lost files or monitoring battery status.
How can files be copied to a PC?: Is there a direct file copy via a cable like usb to a hard drive so you don't have to remove the card? Does it require you to use the camera maker's proprietary software vs using Windows and the cable to view files in a folder on the camera and copy, more or delete them? I always record on SD cards and move them to a PC to transfer files - error free.
Cables: What cables are included and also NOT included. (i.e. hdmi or 1394 playback or transfer). For instance, Sony never provides all the optional cables and uses a "multi" cable for specific functions but does not provide it. So read the manual and order different cables as needed for the features you want. Also, most camera makers seem to make cables proprietary between models, so don't count on using them on future equipment. (same for batteries).
Manuals & spec sheets: You can look up the camera on the maker's website and usually find the user guide and download and read it, with the spec sheet. I do that for every camera I have. However, the manuals are not usually comprehensive and there may be features not discussed. For instance I found in one Amazon reviewer comment that you could use a specific Sony remote control using the "multi" jack, and was able to use an remote control from an older camera and it WORKED.
WIDE angle and zoom: Equivalent to 24 or 28 mm 35mm settings. Verify wide settings. My Sony has a 29.8 equivalent rating which is better than a standard 35mm equivalent. Lower is better, but usually affects cost of lens or zoom capabilities. You may not think you need wide angle, until you try to video 20 people in a room and can't see all of them for a group picture like on a stage. Or you try to video a car from the sidewalk and can't move back further to widen the shot.
Audio input jack from external mic: Add the cost for an external mic if a jack exists and is needed. Lower priced cameras will not have this. It is the one feature I miss from my current Sony cam. Thus if you are taking videos of a speaker at an event and you are in the back of the room, the lack of an external directional mic could result in poor or low sound levels. The in camera mic may pick up the air conditioner or traffic noise outside windows due to lack of better quality filters or directional recording. (One recommendation is to use azden zoom mic ecz-990).
Headphone jack: It can be used to listen to internal or external mic's incoming audio track as well as to listen to playback audio if you watch the video on the camera's screen.
Lens caps: Most photo cameras use external lens caps that can be lost. But most video cameras seem to have an internal lens cover enabled by a button or better yet if it is automatic. External caps get forgotten or lost.
Lens filters: Determine if standard size external filters can be added to lens. Most consumer video cameras don't have any way to attach filters, other than use internal "filter" software functions. An old school photographer might just hold a filter over the lens for a shot.
Viewfinder: Is there one, or is the only way to see the video in progress is in the digital screen? Lower priced cameras only let you use the digital screen which may be hard to see in daylight. That is one reason to use a viewfinder, but now they are only on the much higher priced cameras.
Sensor size: The sensor that "sees" the video light impacts quality of video. How big is it and compare to other technology or alternatives. My old 2002 era Sony has a .5" sensor. The new one I was looking at in 2013 is a 1.5" sensor, thus can capture more light and higher resolution in low light. In 2015, a new Canon Vixia under $300 now has a 3.28 mp "full HD CMOS Sensor" which means more light in and faster for better resolution. Makes a difference in low light conditions, long zoom shots or where high resolution is important.
A recent Sony model HDR-CX430 has an advanced sensor called Exmor, and here is what the marketingspeak says: "Experience stunning low-light sensitivity with improved image clarity and drastically reduced grain with Sony's back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor. Designed for compact cameras and camcorders, the ExmorR CMOS sensor relocates the photo diodes above the support circuitry, maximizing the light gathering area per pixel so you can shoot with better results in lower lighting conditions."
Lighting: Understand the capabilities or limits to low light shooting. My Sony has no external light capability. You can just use a handheld external LED for lighting for videos but they are not synched for still shots. Most consumer video cameras seem to rely on good sensors to capture light and have no built in light or jack to connect to external lights. This is an issue with still photos but not with most video cameras. But if you want a light, it should be a battery powered LED light large enough to light up dark rooms to 20+ feet. Get a simple handheld one, or one with a wall cord and bracket to install on a tripod by the camera.
Backlight mode: Cameras may have a backlight mode to adjust for heavy backlighting. This is the area I have the worst problem with - backlighting like bright windows make the speakers face dark and hard to see and the autofocus may lose focus. So always check the lighting and effects on your shots. For instance, some speaker venues in Lake County, FL have ceiling lights that are too bright, causing glare, or they are too low (to save electricity in budget facilities) so the focus and faces are poorly lit. The Lakeside Inn in Mt. Dora is the worst one for low light with backlighting, and the Clermont facility in downtown has massive, non-adjustable, bright ceiling lights that provide excessive glare. An alternative is newer cameras may have zoned lighting that allows you to focus on the speakers face and adjust for high backlighting, so always read the manual and be prepared for backlit conditions.
Image Stabilization: This automatic feature stabilizes your shots from hand shake or long distances. Sony calls it "Steady shot". This seems to be a standard feature and you want it. Taking shots from a moving boat or car will be better and sharper, and long zoom shots of a hawk will stay on the hawk vs shaking from your hands holding the camers.
Focal width in 35mm equiv: Here is what the newest 2015 Sony has: 26.8mm for 16:9 format or diff for 4:3 format; photo mode 26.8-804mm - Thus 26.8 mm is wider than 28mm and it can record either in wide 16:9 format or standard 4:3 format.
Know your file recording capacity on SD cards: Look at a chart, usually in the user guide, to see video recording file sizes based upon different resolutions and size of cards (i.e. HD and 8gb card - how many MINUTES of video will the card hold without changing cards or transferring the file?)
Software provided - what does it do?: My experience is that ALL PC software from camera vendors for editing or file transfer sucks, and don't use it. Sony uses terrible software. For editing, YouTube has editing features, or use the free Windows Movie Maker editing software included in Windows, or for more power (and complexity), use lower cost Adobe Elements Premiere. However, some cameras are now forcing customers to use their proprietary software just to transfer files from the camera to a PC, and then users find the software sucks. The alternative is always use the external SD card and insert it into your PC to move files.
What operating system is supported by file transfer and software? Usually Windows 7, 8 and Mac. Know if it works with XP or others if that is what you have on your computers. XP is no longer supported by Microsoft so you should be using an XP computer anyway.
Wifi or bluetooth capability to transfer files or record audio from external mic: WiFi capability is on more cameras, but may be faulty, but handy if it exists for the right price. However, READ the comments for the camera in Amazon to see if the wifi works. Cameras with Wifi are $100+ more and may not work well so read the comments. Uses are to transfer files wirelessly, to allow use of a remote control app on a smartphone, or for streaming a video to a monitor or YouTube. READ the comments. This tech doesn't seem to work well yet on the lower priced consumer cameras.
Direct copy of video files to external hard drives: This is a new feature where you don't have to use the SD card or connect to a PC to backup or move files. For travelers who take many videos, it is a great way to backup video files without needing a laptop. You have to read the manual, and may find it is an option within the menus.
Marketing ploys: Camera makers may have 3-5 models in a product line and the high priced version may have new features that don't work well, but are marketing ploys. Always research how well the features work on Amazon product comments. For instance, inclusion of wifi and 8-32 gb internal memory cost much more, and many comments explain what doesn't work and those features are not worth it, but the base camera works well.
Action cameras: These are special purpose cameras for underwater use, or action photography like the Go-Pro camera (and knockoffs) used on drones or motorcycle handlebars. Examine them if your video needs are specialized.
Brand names: I would only go with major Japanese brand names like Sony, Panasonic, Canon, Olympus, JVC, Nikon or perhaps Kodak or Samsung.
My Examples of Video Camera Usage, Breakage and Failures
I have been using video cameras since the 1970's, so here are some of my experiences to let you know reality:
- My older Sony DCR-TRV460 handheld video camera that cost $600 was purchased in 2005. It recorded both on small video cassettes and on SD cards. I bought it in a PX in Baghdad, Iraq. I mostly recorded on small video cassettes, not realizing I could use the SD card until I came back to the states in 2006. It worked great with SD cards, but the device that holds the SD card in the camera broke about 6 years later and it would not hold the SD card. Amazingly, I was able to insert a piece of cardboard with the SD card in the slot and it worked, so I used that workaround method for several months. This camera had all sorts of features and buttons and was better (and larger) than the small ones used now. I still can use it with special cables to transfer old analog VHS tapes played on a VHS deck to digital format for use on computers, and have converted many older VHS tapes to digital mp3 file formats to view on computers. The batteries are larger than the next generation and provided longer recording times. Copyright by Vance Jochim, 2015
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For advanced feature examples, look below (these product specs are from 2013 however)
Handycam hdr-cx380/b flash memory 8.9mp $399 on sony site3
30x1920x1080 55x extended zoom 3.0 display
hdmi micro and usb
wide angle g lens
mic jack
mem card slots: Mem stick pro duo and SD
avchd or mp4 format
wind noise reduction
direct copy to external hdd
1.5 " sensor
OPTIONAL AV composite video out to watch directly on composite monitor (or use HDMI) (use hd file instead for better)
Focal width in 35mm equiv: 26.8mm for 16:9 format or diff for 4:3 format; photo mode 26.8-804mm
Product Specifications
Limited Warranty
- Software
- Operating System Compatibility : Windows XP SP3/Windows Vista SP2 /Windows7 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not supported. The Windows Image Mastering API (IMAPI) Ver. 2.0 or later is required to use the function for creating discs. Starter (Edition) are not supported. Standard installation is required. Operation is not assured if the above OS has been upgraded or in a multi-boot environment.
- Supplied Software : PC: PlayMemories Home Lite (built-in; for PC only); PlayMemories Home (by download); Music Transfer (by download); MAC: Music Transfer (by download); PlayMemories Online Uploader (by download)
- Advanced Features
- Image Stabilization : Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization w/ Active mode (Wide to Tele)
- Intelligent Auto : Portrait / Baby / Walk / Tripod / Backlight / Landscape / Spotlight / Twilight / Macro / Low light / Auto wind noise reduction
- x.v.Color™ : Yes
- Face Detection : Yes
- Priority Setting (for Face Detection) : Auto / Child Priority / Adult Priority
- Smile Shutter™ technology : Dual Capture / Always On / Off
- Closer Voice : Yes
- Color : Black
- Convenience Features
- Manual / Auto Lens Cover : Auto
- S/S & Zoom button on LCD : Yes (Touch Panel)
- Media/Battery Indicator : Yes (recordable time, free and used media space) / Yes (recordable time, remaining capacity)
- View & Index : Event
- Still Image Playback Options : Slide Show
- Video Playback Options : Highlight Playback (HD Movie Only); Highlight Playback Save and Share (Translate into STD quality); Highlight Scenario (Save/Playback/Erase); Hightlight BGM (Preinstalled 4 music files, Music transfer)
- Power Save Mode : Yes
- Date / Time Stamp : Yes (Rec Date and Time, Camera info)
- Erase/Protect : Yes / Yes
- Built-in USB Cable : Yes (USB Charge Available)
- Self Recording : Yes
- Multiple Language Display : English; Spanish; Brazilian Portugese; Canadian French
- Fader Effect(s) : White / Black
- Drive System
- Shutter Speeds : Shutter Speed (Standard): 1/30 - 1/10,000; Shutter Speed (Auto Control Range)
- Self-timer : Approx. 10sec. (Still Image)
- Drive Mode : Photo Mode: Single-shot / Self-timer
- Exposure System
- D-Range Optimizer : Yes
- Minimum Illumination : Standard: 6 lux (1/30 Shutter Speed); Low Lux: 3 lux (1/30 Shutter Speed)
- Exposure Settings : Auto; Manual (Menu); Flexible Spot (Touch Panel)
- Scene Mode(s) : Auto / Night Scene / Sunrise & Sunset / Fireworks / Landscape / Portrait / Spotlight / Beach / Snow
- Metering Modes : Multi-segment / Spot
- Noise Reduction : Yes
- White Balance Mode : Auto / Onepush / Outdoor / Indoor
- Auto Iris Control : F1.8 - F10
- LOW LUX Mode : Yes
- Backlight Compensation : Yes (Auto)
- Focus Control
- Focus Features : Tracking Focus
- Focus Area : Full range Focus (All) / Spot Focus
- AF Modes : Auto / Manual (Touch Panel)
- Focus System : Contrast AF
- Imaging Sensor
- Pixel Gross : Approx. 2390K pixels
- Color Filter System : RGB primary color filters
- Effective Picture Resolution : Movie: Approx. 2290K pixels (16:9) Still: Approx. 2290K pixels (16:9)
- Imaging Sensor : 1/5.8'' (3.1mm) back-illuminated Exmor® R CMOS Sensor
- Processor : BIONZ® image processor
- Interface
- HDMI Terminal : Yes (HDMI micro)
- DC IN : Yes
- Memory Card Slot : Memory Stick PRO Duo™ and SD/SDHC/SDXC compatible
- HD Output : HDMI Out (micro)(supplied)
- SD Output : Composite Video Out (AV CABLE (sold separately))
- PhotoTV HD : Yes
- Direct Copy : Yes
- USB Port(s) : TypeA (built-in) / USB2.0 Hi-speed (mass-storage/MTP)
- Multi/Micro USB Terminal : Yes
- BRAVIA® Sync™ : Yes
- Microphone Input : Stereo Minijack
- LCD Display
- LCD Type : 3.0'' (7.5cm) Clear Photo Plus™ LCD (230K) Wide (16:9)
- Coverage : 100%
- Angle Adjustment : Opening Angle: max.90 deg., Turning Angle: max.270 deg.
- Brightness Control : Yes (Menu)
- Grid Display : Grid Line
- Optics/Lens
- Optical Zoom : 30x
- Lens Stabilization : Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization w/ Active mode (Wide to Tele)
- Minimum Focus Distance : Approx. 1cm (Wide), Approx. 80cm (Tele), Approx. 37cm (Tele Macro)
- Lens Type : G™ Lens
- Aperture : F1.8 - F4.0
- Digital Zoom : 350x
- Extended Zoom : 55x
- Focal Distance : f=1.9-57.0mm; f=3/32-2 1/4inch
- Focal Length (35mm equivalent) : Movie Mode: 26.8-804.0mm (16:9), 32.8-984.0mm (4:3); Photo Mode: 26.8-804.0mm (16:9), 32.8-984.0mm (4:3)
- Power
- Battery Type : InfoLITHIUM® with AccuPower™ Meter System (V Series)
- Power Requirements : 6.8V/7.2V (battery pack); 8.4V (AC Adaptor)
- Recording
- Video Resolution : HD: 1920x1080/60p (PS), 60i (FX,FH), 1440x1080/60i (HQ,LP); STD:720x480/60i; MP4: 1280x720 30p
- Movie Recording Rate(Average Bit Rate/VBR) : HD PS: 28Mbps FX:24Mbps / FH:17Mbps / HQ:9Mbps / LP: 5Mbps (Approx)
- Audio Format : Dolby® Digital 2ch Stereo, Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator; MPEG-4 AAC-LC 2ch
- Video Mode : HD: MPEG4-AVC/H.264 AVCHD 2.0 format.compatible; STD: MPEG2-PS; MP4: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
- Still Image Size 16:9 : Movie Mode: 8.9 megapixels 16:9 (3984x2240); Photo Mode: 8.9 megapixels 16:9 (3984x2240)
- Still Image Mode : JPEG
- Media Type : Internal Flash Memory; Memory Stick PRO Duo™ (Mark 2); Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™; Memory Stick XC-HG Duo™; SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card (Class 4 or Higher)
- Still Image Max Effective Resolution : 8.9 megapixels
- Still Image Size 4:3 : Movie Mode: 6.7 megapixels 4:3 (2992x2240); Photo Mode: 6.7 megapixels 4:3 (2992x2240)
- Video Actual (Pixel) : Approx. 2290K pixels (16:9), Approx. 1710K pixels (4:3)
- Recording and Playback Times (in Internal Media)(2ch) : HD PS: 1h15m; HD FX: 1h30m; HD FH: 2h0m; HD HQ: 3h40m; HD LP: 6h25m; STD HQ: 3h50m (Times are approximate; max time); MP4: 5hr25min
- Video Signal : HDTV, NTSC color, EIA standards
- Microphone/Speaker : Built-in Zoom Microphone; Monoral Speaker
- Photo Capture from Movie : 2.1 megapixels 16:9 (1920x1080); 0.3 megapixels 4:3 (640x480); 0.2 megapixels 16:9 (640x360)
- Dual Record : 8.9 megapixels 16:9 (3984x2240); 2.1 megapixels 16:9 (1920x1080)
- Internal Media : Flash Memory 16GB
- Mic Level Control : Yes (2steps)
- Still Image File Format : DCF Ver.2.0 compatible, Exif Ver.2.3 compatible, MPF Baseline compatible
- Wind Noise Reduction : Yes (On/Off)
- Service and Warranty Information
- Limited Warranty Term : Limited Warranty --- 1 Year Parts; 90 Days Labor
- Viewfinder
- Touch Panel : Yes
- Weights and Measurements
- Dimensions (Approx.) : Approx. 2 1/8inch x 2 1/4inch x 4 5/8inch (53mm x 57mm x 117mm)
- Weight (Approx.) : Approx. 6.5oz ((185g) Main Unit Only)
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Review on Amazon.com
Great value in a highly portable package, May 21, 2013
By
Ammy_Evaluator
This review is from: Sony HDR-CX380/B High Definition Handycam Camcorder with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Electronics)
Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program (What's this?)
With a typical camcorder, the design trade-off is between portability and cost on the one side, and low light performance on the other.
If you salivate over low light performance - the HDR-PJ790V is the one for you - but it both weighs and costs three times as much. On the other hand, if you desire portable videography on a budget, the HDR-CX380 is the winner. In fact, as you will see in the comparison notes below, the CX380 is probably the best value to be had in Sony's stable of budget camcorders - CX230, CX290, CX380, and CX430.
CX380 Features:
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++ 16 GB of flash memory, sufficient for 1h 15m of highest quality video
++ Clean 3" LCD with touch buttons for recording/zoom
++ Hardware features (Mic input)
++ Software features (Face Detection, Auto Wind Noise reduction, Tracking focus)
++ decent lens (Sony G Quality, 26.8mm/F1.8, 30x optical zoom)
++ compact - surprisingly light, and fits in smaller hands and into most large purses
++ traditional Sony optical steady shot stabilization tech
CX380 performance:
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In good lighting conditions, it captured smooth images, great colors, and decent sound - though the auto wind filter was a bit over-aggressive.
As expected, in low light conditions, the images were noisy - though watchable, and the colors were muted.
CX380 conclusion:
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This is a well designed unit, with small thoughtful touches such as rough grooving along one side for a better grip, and a built-in USB cable.
While there is nothing here that blew my socks off, it did meet my expectations for performance in a highly portable unit at this price point.
Happy videography!
~A_E
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For more details:
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Additional Notes:
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Comparison to the CX290:
#################
Going down one level to the CX290, you lose simply way too much functionality:
<< less flash memory (8GB with only 35m of recording time)
<< a lower quality lens (27x zoom, less wide at 29.8mm, and slower at F1.9)
<< no recording/zoom buttons on the LCD
<< no mic input
<< no software features (Face Detection, Auto Wind Noise reduction, Tracking focus)
<< a slightly smaller LCD (2.7")
Comparison to the CX430:
#################
Going up one level to the CX430 gives you:
>> Balanced optical steady shot - Sony's killer new feature!!!
>> 32GB flash memory (up to 2h 20m recording time at the highest quality)
>> larger video sensor (4.6mm vs 3.1mm)
>> 5.1 ch surround mic for much better audio
>> Misc features (Golf swing analysis mode, accessory shoe etc.)
>> GPS
From personal experience, the balanced optical steady shot is simply spectacular - especially if you shoot without a tripod. To me, the GPS is of questionable value - its interface is unpleasant, it is slow to get started, and its usefulness is limited.
HDR-CX vs HDR-PJ:
#############
Sony camcorders are currently divided into two main camps. The HDR-CX series contains core camcorder functionality, and the HDR-PJ series adds in a built-in projector. I'd recommend avoiding the projector, unless you are going to use it often enough to justify the extra cost.
Recording modes:
############
Sony uses video quality abbreviations - PS, FX, FH, HQ, and LP - that I'm clarifying for others who may be as confused as I was:
There are 4 aspects to recording video - bit rate (the number of bits captured per second, in Mbps), the number of pixels in each video frame (full HD 1920x1080, or 1440x1080), frame rate (the number of frames recorded per second), and whether these frames are interlaced or progressive (whether each frame is captured in full, or whether the odd rows and even rows are captured separately.)
For highest quality capture: pick the highest bit rate, the highest number of pixels in each frame, the highest frame rate, and use progressive mode.
For the HDR-CX380 this is [PS] quality - up to 28 Mbps, 1920x1080 resolution, 60 frames per second, progressive.
The downside? All those bits take up a lot of disk space, reducing available recording time. Switching to FX or below, causes more aggressive compression - that can cause compression artifacts in fast moving scenes.
My advice: stay at PS. Why compromise on quality? Just pack a external drive, and clean up space as you go.
Must have accessories:
###############
1] To help out the supplied NP-FV30 battery, consider the NP-FV50 or the NP-FV70.
2] BC-TRV charger - I hate to leave camcorder charging overnight so this travel charger is very handy.
3] VMCUAM2 USB adapter cable - to back up videos to an external drive, without a computer.
############
Additional Notes:
############
Comparison to the CX290:
#################
Going down one level to the CX290, you lose simply way too much functionality:
<< less flash memory (8GB with only 35m of recording time)
<< a lower quality lens (27x zoom, less wide at 29.8mm, and slower at F1.9)
<< no recording/zoom buttons on the LCD
<< no mic input
<< no software features (Face Detection, Auto Wind Noise reduction, Tracking focus)
<< a slightly smaller LCD (2.7")
Comparison to the CX430:
#################
Going up one level to the CX430 gives you:
>> Balanced optical steady shot - Sony's killer new feature!!!
>> 32GB flash memory (up to 2h 20m recording time at the highest quality)
>> larger video sensor (4.6mm vs 3.1mm)
>> 5.1 ch surround mic for much better audio
>> Misc features (Golf swing analysis mode, accessory shoe etc.)
>> GPS
From personal experience, the balanced optical steady shot is simply spectacular - especially if you shoot without a tripod. To me, the GPS is of questionable value - its interface is unpleasant, it is slow to get started, and its usefulness is limited.
HDR-CX vs HDR-PJ:
#############
Sony camcorders are currently divided into two main camps. The HDR-CX series contains core camcorder functionality, and the HDR-PJ series adds in a built-in projector. I'd recommend avoiding the projector, unless you are going to use it often enough to justify the extra cost.
Recording modes:
############
Sony uses video quality abbreviations - PS, FX, FH, HQ, and LP - that I'm clarifying for others who may be as confused as I was:
There are 4 aspects to recording video - bit rate (the number of bits captured per second, in Mbps), the number of pixels in each video frame (full HD 1920x1080, or 1440x1080), frame rate (the number of frames recorded per second), and whether these frames are interlaced or progressive (whether each frame is captured in full, or whether the odd rows and even rows are captured separately.)
For highest quality capture: pick the highest bit rate, the highest number of pixels in each frame, the highest frame rate, and use progressive mode.
For the HDR-CX380 this is [PS] quality - up to 28 Mbps, 1920x1080 resolution, 60 frames per second, progressive.
The downside? All those bits take up a lot of disk space, reducing available recording time. Switching to FX or below, causes more aggressive compression - that can cause compression artifacts in fast moving scenes.
My advice: stay at PS. Why compromise on quality? Just pack a external drive, and clean up space as you go.
Must have accessories:
###############
1] To help out the supplied NP-FV30 battery, consider the NP-FV50 or the NP-FV70.
2] BC-TRV charger - I hate to leave camcorder charging overnight so this travel charger is very handy.
3] VMCUAM2 USB adapter cable - to back up videos to an external drive, without a computer.
=========================================================================
The new HDR line does NOT use a standard LANC remote control. They have a "multi"-terminal.. proprietary. You must purchase a Sony remote called RM-VPR1. $65. Or you can buy the whole Sony tripod with remote for $100. If you are buying this camcorder also purchase the direct copy cable which uses the same port. It's $20 and awesome. VMC-UAM2. Be sure you buy the one with the "2" at the end, not the "1" like I did by accident.
=======================================================================
Vance Jochim
[email protected]
YouTube Channel "FiscalRangersFlorida"
