Canon XF305 Professional Camcorder
The Canon XF305 is a 2.07 MP (effective per sensor, 3 sensors) 1/3 inch cinema camera — with 1920 x 1080 video. Used copies start from $693.26 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Canon XF305 Professional Camcorder
Used Canon XF305 Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Canon XF305
Key Features — Canon XF305
3-Chip 1/3" CMOS Design: Three dedicated CMOS sensors handle separate color channels, delivering cleaner color separation than single-sensor designs of comparable size.
DIGIC DV III Processor: Canon's professional-grade image processor manages noise reduction, color rendering, and real-time processing across all three sensors simultaneously.
Full HD 1080 Recording: Records at up to 1920x1080 across five frame rates — 24, 25, 30, 50, and 60fps — covering both PAL and NTSC broadcast standards.
Dual XLR Audio Inputs: Two XLR inputs alongside a 3.5mm mic jack and 3.5mm headphone output support professional audio workflows with balanced microphones and direct monitoring.
Optical Image Stabilization: Built-in OIS compensates for camera shake during handheld shooting without the resolution trade-offs associated with digital stabilization.
High-Resolution EVF: The 0.52-inch color widescreen EVF resolves 1,555,000 dots for precise focus and exposure evaluation in bright outdoor conditions.
Camera Specifications — Canon XF305
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Documentary |
| Type | Other |
| Sensor | 1/3 inch |
| Resolution | 2.07 MP (effective per sensor, 3 sensors) |
| Processor | DIGIC DV III |
| AF System | Other |
| AF Points | Not specified |
| Max Video Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
| Max Frame Rate | 60fps |
| Bit Depth | 8-bit |
| Video Color Profiles | Custom Picture, Cine V, Cine F, Standard, Neutral |
| Image Stabilization | Optical (OIS) |
Description — Canon XF305
The Canon XF305 professional HD camcorder uses a three-sensor configuration, with three 1/3-inch CMOS sensors each delivering 2.07 MP effective resolution, driven by the DIGIC DV III image processor. Maximum video resolution is 1920 x 1080, recorded at your choice of 24fps, 25fps, 30fps, 50fps, or 60fps to cover international broadcast needs. Color rendering is handled with 8-bit depth, and the camera includes a meaningful set of color profiles — Cine V, Cine F, Standard, Neutral, and Custom Picture — for creative flexibility. Optical image stabilization (OIS) is built in, and autofocus includes Face Detection AF and subject tracking.
The monitoring setup pairs a 4.0-inch LCD at 1,230,000 dots with a 0.52-inch EVF at 1,555,000 dots. For audio, the XF305 provides dual XLR inputs, a 3.5mm microphone jack, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Storage supports both CF and SD media formats.
The body, built from magnesium alloy and polycarbonate, measures 178 x 189 x 346 mm and weighs 2.7 kg. A standard ISO hot shoe is included for accessory mounting.
Pros — Canon XF305
- ✓Three-sensor design with three dedicated 1/3-inch CMOS sensors, each at 2.07 MP effective, for dedicated color separation
- ✓Wide frame rate coverage — 24fps, 25fps, 30fps, 50fps, and 60fps — supports both NTSC and PAL broadcast requirements
- ✓High-resolution EVF at 1,555,000 dots on a 0.52-inch color widescreen panel for accurate outdoor monitoring
Cons — Canon XF305
- ✗No weather sealing, making the camera unsuitable for use in rain or dusty environments without additional protection
- ✗8-bit video color depth limits latitude in post-production color grading compared to higher bit-depth alternatives
- ✗No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, restricting remote control and wireless file transfer capabilities
Reviews — Canon XF305
Videos — Canon XF305
Canon's XF305 and XF300 professional camcorders — RedPXL Magazine