H5 : Surprisingly Easy To Use

I read manuals before using a product, but I was slightly confused by the multi or stereo recording functionality - however, following the instructions fixed this immediately. Overall I'm finding it easier to work with than the H4N - press the record button and it records! Guessing that was something Zoom listened to customers on. The onboard mic isn't that great but is definitely workable.

PROS (compared to H4N): Lightweight; Very quick start; Menu navigation much quicker; I like the protected potentiometers on the front - much easier to adjust than the side dial; Easy card access - instead of going through battery pack, dedicated slot.

CONS: It's plastic, so does pick up noise if handheld - would seriously recommend getting the microphone stand converter as that will reduce 90% of your handling noise (can also be used with all Zoom recorders, so worthwhile); If you're not familiar with Zoom recorders could be tricky to learn everything; The stereo mic that it comes with seems focused at a slightly odd angle - the pickup angle is definitely not a perfect arc.

I've been surprised by how good this is - and the quick start (32GB card, about 5 seconds compared to around 40 seconds for H4) makes it a no-brainer for me.