Zoom H5 Handy Recorder

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$211.00 to $279.99 Price Tier: Standard

5.0 (32)

1 Critic Review

6 Reviews

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7 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated July 3, 2026.

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4.5 (51)

$279.99

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4.5 (16)

$279.99

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4.7 (1118)

$279.99

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5.0 (15)

$221.16 17 available New

$160.00 12 available Used

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4.0 (6)

$279.99

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4.5 (6)

$279.99

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4.7 (240)

$279.99

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4.6 (600)

$211.00

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£190.50

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Average Price: $252

Standard/Professional

$149

$400+

Price Tier

In the Portable Recorders category, Zoom H5 Handy Recorder is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Zoom H5 Handy Recorder". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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The Zoom H5 Handy Recorder is the perfect companion for musicians, sound designers, podcasters, and journalists. This compact device offers a versatile 4-track recording system designed to meet the demands of any recording environment, be it a live performance, an on-location interview, or a bustling newsroom.

The H5 comes with an advanced XYH-5 mic capsule, which features two matched unidirectional microphones for stunning stereo recordings. The shockmount design minimizes vibration, resulting in cleaner, clearer audio. What sets the H5 apart is its interchangeable input capsules, allowing users to choose the best microphone for every recording situation.

The Zoom H5 Handy Recorder can record in 24-bit/96kHz, producing professional-quality recordings. It can handle up to 140dB SPL without distortion, making it an excellent choice for recording in loud environments.

The H5's modular design allows for easy customization and expansion. It can operate as a 4-track recorder, capturing two stereo tracks or four mono tracks. Additionally, it serves as a USB audio interface with zero-latency monitoring, allowing for direct recording to your computer.

Key Features: - Interchangeable input capsules - Advanced XYH-5 microphone capsule with shockmount - 4-track simultaneous recording - Records in 24-bit/96kHz - Can handle up to 140dB SPL without distortion - Extended battery life of over 15 hours on two AA batteries - Functions as a USB audio interface with zero-latency monitoring - Supports WAV and MP3 formats - Onboard effects like compression, limiting, and low-cut filtering - Compact size for maximum portability - 32GB SD card support for extended recording sessions - Doubles as a USB audio interface for your computer or iPad

In summary, the Zoom H5 Handy Recorder is a versatile and portable recording device that offers high-quality audio capture, making it an essential tool for anyone in need of reliable and professional-grade recording capabilities.

Owner's manual

Zoom H5 Handy Recorder User Manual

Product specs

Audio Interface	Yes (via USB)
A/D Resolution	16-bit/44.1 kHz, 24-bit/96kHz
Simultaneous Rec Tracks	4
Simultaneous Play Tracks	4
Built-in Mic(s)	XYH-5 X/Y mic
Analog Inputs	2 x XLR-1/4" combo, 1 x 1/8"
Analog Outputs	1 x 1/8"
Headphones	1 x 1/8"
Built-in Speaker	Yes
Memory (removable)	SD/SDHC Card Slot (up to 32GB)
Effects	Compression, Limiting, Low-cut filter, Metronome, Tuner, Playback Looping, Pitch Change, Variable Playback Speed
USB	Yes
Additional Features	Selectable phantom power
Power Supply	AA battery, AC, USB bus power
Battery Life	Over 15 hours
Stand Mountable	Yes (Mountable to DSLR or camcorder with optional HS-01 Hot Shoe Mount adapter)
Height	1.66"
Width	5.21"
Depth	7.77"
Weight	0.59 lbs.

FAQs

What types of microphones can be used with the Zoom H5 Handy Recorder?: The Zoom H5 supports interchangeable microphone capsules, including the included XYH-5 X/Y mic. It also features two XLR-1/4" combo inputs, allowing you to connect a wide range of external microphones, including those requiring phantom power.
Can the Zoom H5 Handy Recorder be used as an audio interface?: Yes, the Zoom H5 can function as a USB audio interface, allowing you to record directly to your computer with resolutions up to 24-bit/96kHz.
How does the Zoom H5 handle power supply options?: The Zoom H5 can be powered by two AA batteries for over 15 hours of use, or via AC adapter and USB bus power, providing flexibility for different recording environments.
Is the Zoom H5 Handy Recorder suitable for podcasting?: Absolutely, the Zoom H5 is ideal for podcasting due to its high-quality audio capture capabilities, multiple input options, and portability, making it easy to record interviews and discussions on the go.
What storage options are available for the Zoom H5 Handy Recorder?: The Zoom H5 uses SD/SDHC cards for storage, supporting capacities up to 32GB, which allows for extended recording sessions without needing to offload files frequently.

Equipboard's Expert Review

Equipboard tested this

Versatile, Compact, Reliable Recorder

When it comes to portable audio recorders, Zoom has long been a trusted brand. With years of consistent performance, the H5 Handy Recorder continues this legacy. Whether you're a musician, podcaster, or field recordist, this device has a lot to offer.

The H5 feels solid and well-built right out of the box. Its compact design makes it easy to tote around, and it fits comfortably in hand. However, we noticed that the plastic construction can pick up noise if you're holding it during a recording session, something to consider for field work. The protective metal over the gain knobs is a nice touch, ensuring durability.

One of the standout features of the H5 is its interchangeable microphone heads. This allows for versatile use in different recording scenarios, from capturing live music to conducting interviews. The controls are intuitive for the most part, but there's a bit of a learning curve, particularly when navigating through some of the more advanced settings. Quick startup time and easy menu navigation help mitigate this to an extent.

In terms of functionality, the H5 offers a lot. It's not just a recorder; it doubles as an audio interface, which is a huge plus for podcasters and musicians working on a budget. Phantom power capability is another boon, facilitating the use of a wide range of microphones. The ability to record multiple tracks and overdub adds another layer of flexibility, although we found the multi-track recording capabilities somewhat limited compared to the H4n Pro.

When it comes to sound quality, the H5 does not disappoint. The shock-mounted mics do a commendable job of minimizing handling noise, and the overall sound quality is impressive for a recorder in this price range. However, the internal mics can introduce some hiss at higher gains, and the self-noise of the preamps becomes noticeable when the gain dial is pushed past 6-7. Despite these minor issues, the H5 captures vocals and instruments with good clarity and low noise.

For file management, the H5's use of SD cards makes transferring files straightforward, although the lack of internal memory is a drawback. The recorder's digital limiter is functional but not as effective as it could be.

The Zoom H5 Handy Recorder offers excellent value for money. It's reliable, versatile, and compact, making it a great choice for musicians, podcasters, and field recordists. However, those needing more advanced multi-track recording capabilities or higher internal mic quality might want to consider other options.

Rated 5

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Reviews

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PROS

Quick and easy setup, minimal learning curve
Interchangeable microphone capsules offer versatility
Can be used as an audio interface
Records up to 4 tracks simultaneously
High-quality preamps and low noise floor
Durable design with good build quality
Phantom power for external mics
Portability ideal for field recordings
Backup recording feature at lower volume
Supports large capacity SD cards for extended recording sessions

CONS

Multi-track recording less intuitive compared to competitors
Included XY microphone quality could be better
Handling noise apparent without additional accessories
Limited multichannel capability compared to H6 model
Preamps exhibit self-noise at higher gain settings
Plastic construction may feel less sturdy
Battery life decreases significantly with phantom power use
Gain knob placement can interfere with windscreen use
Learning curve for accessing advanced features

Critic Reviews

Zoom H5

soundonsound.com

The Zoom H5 Handy Recorder earns high marks for its rugged build and flexibility. Its physical level controls and innovative interchangeable heads make it a standout for live and location recording. While not as feature-rich as the H6, the H5 offers essential upgrades over the H4, including improved line-level handling and a shock-mounted mic design. Handling noise is minimized, though wind noise protection could be better. Overall, it's a practical choice for musicians and sound engineers seeking a reliable, versatile recorder at a reasonable price.

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Full Review

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 6 Reviews and 32 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

roland22

162

about 7 years ago

REALLY GREAT RECORDER

Much more than a just a handheld recorder. Pros -48 volt phantom power for 2 mics -can record these at the same time as the stereo mics on the top of unit -ability to overdub tracks; can record multiple takes as well (like additional tracks) -ability to edit track (trim, mix-down 2 separate tracks into one stereo track) in the unit -built in compressor and limiter -build quality is very good -mics can be swapped with different H6 zoom mics Cons -interface could be much more intuitive; there definitely is a learning curve.For most users they will have to spend more time to take advantage of the additional functions the unit offers ! Yes, you can jut pick up and press the record button, but it take more than that to set it up. -Interface kind of small - no ability to change what is displayed on screen, or change screen appearance -Built in compressors/limiters are for a live situation/when you want to get your own ideas down; but I would save that for your DAW software.

BOTTOM LINE - once learning curve is out of the way (it will take a while), this unit really can do tons of stuff, AND do it WELL. It can even work as an audio interface (!). If I lost this I would probably buy again, or the H6. I've owned this for a year, and have never regretted the purchase.

xaqary

5455

almost 9 years ago

A+

I've had a Zoom model of one kind or another for almost 2 decades. They just kick ass. This model & similar models from the past are a favorite.

One of my favorite recordings I ever did was with just a model like this placed well in the room. Sure, it was the song but it's also the zero barrier to entry, the spontaneity that these create that make them such a must have for me.

If you wanna go further it's a 4 track as well. "Only" 24 bit but who could care. Does a great job.

The ultimate sample collector. The best electronic friend.

100% recommend.

denpat

over 4 years ago

Неплохой ручной рекордер

Использую его для быстрой записи дорожек или для записи вне дома и на концертах с линии пульта

Roles:

Singer Guitarist Bassist

Genres:

Electronic Techno Electronica

From Gear Setup

ianbarcelos_

209

almost 4 years ago

Damn Good!

Extremely useful indeed. Just get one for your studio. It will be useful for something along the way for sure.

Roles:

Singer Guitarist

Genres:

Rock Pop

mikefiction

1264

almost 7 years ago

Great Field Recorder

I bought this to get samples for my Akai samplers. I spent an hour in my basement tapping, scraping and banging on stuff and with those recordings created several very nice drum kits. I'm pleased with the results so far.

Roles:

Guitarist Keyboardist Audio Engineer

Genres:

Electronic Rock Electro-industrial