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Sharp VL-Z500/400 Viewcam Z Digital Camcorder

The Sharp VL-Z500/400 is a 1.33 MP 1/4 inch camcorder — with SD (480p) video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Sharp VL-Z500/400 Viewcam Z Digital Camcorder

Sharp VL-Z500/400 Viewcam Z Digital Camcorder

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Camcorder Overview — Sharp VL-Z500/400

The Sharp VL-Z500/400 Viewcam Z is a consumer-grade digital camcorder built around a 1/4-inch sensor delivering 1.33 MP of resolution. One of its most distinctive physical features is the 2.5-inch LCD display that rotates a full 240 degrees, giving shooters considerable flexibility in framing from unconventional angles. The display also doubles as the primary viewfinder, using an LCD Display configuration.

Video is captured at standard definition resolutions — 720 x 576 in PAL format or 720 x 480 in NTSC — at frame rates of 25fps or 30fps respectively, with 8-bit color depth and Standard color profile. Storage is handled via tape media or SD card, and still images can be recorded at up to 1280 x 960 pixels. The camcorder features Digital Electronic Image Stabilization to help reduce camera shake during handheld use.

Autofocus relies on a contrast detection system with a single focus point. Connectivity includes a USB port and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The body is constructed from plastic, measures 82.9 x 86.2 x 103.3 mm, weighs 508g, and offers no weather sealing.

The VL-Z500 variant adds a built-in LED video light not found on the VL-Z400. Battery type is Li-Ion with approximately 1 to 2 hours of continuous recording.

Key Features — Sharp VL-Z500/400

240° Rotating LCD Display: The 2.5-inch screen rotates a full 240 degrees, allowing flexible framing from low, high, or self-facing angles without an optical viewfinder.

Dual Storage Options: Records to both tape media and SD card, giving users flexibility for video recording and still image storage.

Standard Definition Video: Captures standard definition video compatible with SD playback systems of the era.

1280x960 Still Image Capture: Saves still photos at up to 1280x960 pixels to SD card, usable for basic documentation or snapshot purposes.

Digital Image Stabilization: Electronic IS reduces the appearance of camera shake during handheld recording, useful for run-and-gun shooting without a tripod.

Contrast Detection Autofocus: Single-point contrast detection AF handles focus automatically, suited to typical consumer shooting scenarios.

Camcorder Specifications — Sharp VL-Z500/400

Sharp VL-Z500/400 full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel
TypeOther
Sensor1/4 inch
Resolution1.33 MP
AF SystemContrast Detection
AF Points1 point
Max Photo Resolution1280 x 960 px
Max Video ResolutionSD (480p)
Max Frame Rate30fps
Bit Depth8-bit
Video Color ProfilesStandard
Image StabilizationDigital / Electronic IS

Description — Sharp VL-Z500/400

The Sharp VL-Z500/400 Viewcam Z is a consumer digital camcorder centered on a 1/4-inch sensor with 1.33 MP resolution. Its standout physical feature is the 2.5-inch, 240-degree rotating LCD display, which allows shooters to frame shots from a wide range of positions and angles — the same display also serves as the viewfinder. Video recording is available at 720 x 576 (PAL) or 720 x 480 (NTSC) at up to 30fps with 8-bit color depth.

For still images, the camcorder captures up to 1280 x 960 px and stores them on an SD card, while video is recorded to tape media. Digital Electronic Image Stabilization is on board to assist with handheld shooting. Autofocus uses a contrast detection system with 1 focus point. The plastic body measures 82.9 x 86.2 x 103.3 mm and weighs 508g.

Connectivity includes USB and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The VL-Z500 model adds a built-in LED video light absent from the VL-Z400. Power comes from a Li-Ion battery rated for approximately 1 to 2 hours of continuous recording.

Pros — Sharp VL-Z500/400

  • ✓240-degree rotating 2.5-inch LCD display enables flexible shooting angles
  • ✓Dual storage options — tape media and SD card — for versatile recording and still image capture
  • ✓Still image capture at up to 1280 x 960 px provides usable photo output

Cons — Sharp VL-Z500/400

  • ✗No weather sealing, making it unsuitable for outdoor use in adverse conditions
  • ✗1/4-inch sensor with 1.33 MP resolution limits image quality by modern standards
  • ✗Maximum video output capped at standard definition (720 x 576 PAL / 720 x 480 NTSC)

Videos — Sharp VL-Z500/400

How To Transfer Camcorder Videos to Computer | Camcorder Cassettes to Digital | Camcorder Chronicles — Audrie Storme

Resources & Downloads — Sharp VL-Z500/400

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Sharp VL-Z500/400

What video resolutions does the Sharp VL-Z500/400 support?+
The camcorder supports 720 x 576 pixels in PAL format and 720 x 480 pixels in NTSC format. Maximum frame rate is 30fps, with 25fps also available. Video is recorded at 8-bit color depth.
Can this camcorder take still photos, and at what resolution?+
Yes, the Sharp VL-Z500/400 can capture still images at a maximum resolution of 1280 x 960 pixels. Still images are saved to SD card storage.
What is the difference between the VL-Z500 and VL-Z400 models?+
According to the specifications, the VL-Z500 includes a built-in LED video light that is not present on the VL-Z400. Both models share the same core specifications otherwise.
Does the Sharp VL-Z500/400 have image stabilization?+
Yes, the camcorder features Digital Electronic Image Stabilization. There is no in-body optical stabilization; the system is digital only.
What storage media does this camcorder use?+
The camcorder supports tape media (such as MiniDV/Digital8) as well as SD cards. SD cards are used primarily for still image storage.
What connectivity options are available on this camcorder?+
The camcorder includes a USB port and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It does not have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB-C connectivity.

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