
Zoom
Zoom Q8 Handy Video Recorder Stereo Mics 4-Track Audio Recording
★★★★★
2304 x 1296
Zoom's Q8 handy recorder pairs a wide-angle HD camera with interchangeable mics and 4-track audio recording.
$499.99*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 14, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.
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Overview
Key Features
Support for five HD video modes, up to 2304 x 1296 pixels (3M HD), as well as two WVGA modes
Compatible with all Zoom microphone capsules (sold separately). High-High-quality 160° wide-angle lens with selectable viewing angles (F2.0/16.6mm)
Up to four tracks of simultaneous audio recording
Supplied detachable stereo X/Y microphone (XYQ-8)
Full-color rotating LCD touchscreen
Specifications
Brand
Zoom
Model
Q8
Video Resolution
Up to 2304 x 1296 (3M HD)
Video Format
MOV
Lens
160° Wide-Angle, f/2.0, 16.6mm
Image Sensor
CMOS
Audio Tracks
Up to 4 simultaneous
Audio Formats
WAV, AAC
Microphone
Detachable Stereo X/Y (XYQ-8), interchangeable with Zoom capsules
Audio Inputs
Two XLR/TRS Combo
LCD Screen
2.7-inch Rotating Color Touchscreen
Connectivity
USB
Battery
Lithium-Ion
Speaker
1 (Mono)
Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- Four-track simultaneous audio recording lets you capture the stereo X/Y mic and two external inputs independently for flexible post-production mixing.
- Interchangeable mic capsule system accepts the full range of Zoom capsules, adapting the recorder to different recording scenarios.
- 160-degree wide-angle f/2.0 lens with selectable viewing angles captures broad scenes without an external camera.
- Rotating LCD touchscreen simplifies framing and menu navigation, especially when the recorder is mounted in unconventional positions.
- Two XLR/TRS combo inputs provide phantom power-capable connections for professional external microphones.
👎 Cons
- Maximum video resolution of 2304 x 1296 falls short of true 4K, which may limit appeal for high-resolution production workflows.
- Video output is limited to MOV format, requiring conversion if your editing workflow prefers MP4 or other containers.
- The built-in speaker is a single mono unit, providing only basic audio monitoring without stereo playback.
- Lithium-ion battery life may require carrying spares or using USB power during extended recording sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What video resolutions does the Zoom Q8 support?
The Q8 supports five HD video modes up to 2304 x 1296 pixels (3M HD), as well as two WVGA modes, giving you flexibility to balance quality and file size.
Can I use external microphones with the Q8?
Yes, the Q8 has two XLR/TRS combo inputs for external microphones or line-level sources, and the detachable mic capsule can be swapped with other Zoom microphone capsules sold separately.
How many audio tracks can the Q8 record simultaneously?
The Q8 records up to four tracks of audio simultaneously — two from the stereo X/Y mic capsule and two from the XLR/TRS inputs — allowing you to mix sources independently in post-production.
What is the lens angle of view on the Q8?
The built-in lens offers a 160-degree wide-angle field of view at f/2.0, with selectable viewing angles to frame your shot as needed.
Does the Q8 have a built-in screen for monitoring?
Yes, it features a 2.7-inch full-color rotating LCD touchscreen for framing, playback, and navigating menu settings.