Sony HDR-CX405: specifications and reviews

The segment of high technologies is characterized by a balanced fusion of professional capabilities and ergonomics of the amateur level. In the best models of technology, manufacturers also combine a wide range of functions and costs that are available to ordinary users. The latest developments cover an increasing space of multimedia devices. They are most clearly manifested in photo and video equipment. Thus, the Flash HD model Sony HDR-CX405 demonstrates with its example a successful symbiosis of a thoughtful option, an easy-to-use design and modern software stuffing.

General information about the model

Recently, Japanese developers have released many interesting proposals from the higher segment of video cameras. For the most part, these are expensive devices that also have separate innovative functions.

Not so willingly the company pays attention to the initial class, but in this direction the Sony HDR-CX405 model provided a significant backdrop, which distinguished itself with optimized capabilities and decent shooting characteristics. The device is advantageous even for competitors of its class with modest size, sufficient photosensitivity and good resolution. We can say that the creators foresaw the possible flaws of a potential budgetary and tried to surprise the fans of the brand by the absence of such shortcomings. In key moments, it turned out, but there was still room for surprises.

The design of the Sony HDR-CX405

Perhaps the main thing that knocks this model out of a common number of similar camcorders is its miniaturization. The case is made in ultra-small sizes, which was reflected in the mass, which was only 215 grams. In general, the form factor has retained a familiar design solution, with the exception that in folded form the device can be stacked in the shirt pocket.

Another unexpected decision, on the advisability of which are disputes. This is almost the complete absence of external controls. The Sony HDR-CX405 side panel , located below the display, hides a niche for the memory card and the Micro-HDMI video input. By the way, you can control the menu only with the five-way joystick located on the display frame. I must say that a small design allowed to provide the camera with a mobile format battery for 1240 mAh.

Specifications

The model has a small design, but it contains a powerful and functional filling. The basic characteristics of Sony HDR-CX405, which are presented below, will make sure of this:

• The zoom is 30 times.
• The shooting format is Full HD 1080p.
• The number of pixels of the matrix is 2.29 MP.
• Supported memory card formats - microSD, SDXC, microSDHC.
• The display is a 2.7 "liquid crystal display.

• The video resolution is 1920x1080 maximum.
• The frame rate is from 25 to 50 depending on the resolution selected.
• Interfaces - HDMI-out (format "mini"), AV-out, USB.
• Dimensions - 128x54x60 mm.
• Weight - 215 g.

The model also received several attractive options, including automatic exposure, night shooting, widescreen mode, etc. However, a lack of viewfinder for many was the lack of a viewfinder, which seriously limits the possibilities for shooting.

Interface

The camcorder does not have a built-in wireless adapter, which is rare for modern models. The HDMI output can both transmit a live image, and provide translation along with the graphic processing - that is, with the filling in the form of information and interactive elements, depicted on top of the recording.

The model settings are standard for amateur-level devices, but there is an important difference. It is in the service menu, returning to which the user is in the place of the last stay. In terms of physical control for the first time, the Sony HDR-CX405 can seem provocatively uncomfortable. But as you use it you can get used to it. The joystick is a small element of mechanical control, but its presence largely saves the ergonomics of the device.

Positive feedback about the model

First of all, many emphasize the functionality of shooting. For example, an optical 30x zoom allows you to shoot at long distances, but most importantly, it retains the relative clarity of the image. The system of stabilization receives even more laudatory responses. This is one of the strengths of the model, which all users unconditionally admit. Even with active walking, setting to the intelligent stabilization mode virtually eliminates the trembling and vibrations of the Sony HDR-CX405.

The reviews also note the characteristics of macro photography, which can remind similar possibilities of budget digital cameras. However, to maximize the disclosure of this ability it is necessary to purchase an appropriate tripod. As for the lack of external controls, as a plus, this decision is recognized by not all users. These include except that lovers of modern approaches to touch control systems with minimal sets of mechanical controls, buttons and selectors.

Negative feedback

Start is with the joystick, which, although it remains the last element of the traditional government, but it has some claims. In particular, he is criticized in cases where it is necessary to make quick manipulations with settings and start shooting. In such situations, the probability of an error increases with the choice of mode, for example. Also, the camera lacks the built-in Wi-Fi module. The manufacturer quite consciously excluded him from the package, adhering to the overall concept of optimal and balanced supply of functionality.

Also, the model does not spoil the stylistic variety - only the conservative version of the Sony HDR-CX405 Black is available on the market, although the design itself looks attractive. As for the design, there are also claims to the memory card slot, since it can be installed with distortions that violate the interaction of contacts. However, this flaw is, rather, the character of the ergonomic flaw, as experienced hands easily bypass structural obstacles in the process of integrating the element into the desired slot.

Conclusion

The camera is small, balanced in characteristics, provides good shooting and convenience in handling. Attractive was the price tag, which is an average of 16-17 thousand rubles. This is an acceptable cost for a representative of the Handycam line, confidently shooting in HD formats. Sony HDR-CX405, rather, suitable for practical users, carefully suited to the selection of optional content. The advantages of the model include moderate energy saving, so the camera can be used in conditions of complete autonomy. This option is also suitable for those who do not want to spend a lot of time on reconfiguring complex parameters - the model in this respect is simple and accessible.