Unveiling the Battle: Sony Bloggie Live vs Sony HDR-GW55VE Camcorder Showdown

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices from Sony, the Bloggie Live and the HDR-GW55VE, often leave users puzzled. Both offer unique features and cater to different needs. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of each camcorder, helping you make an informed decision.

Sony Bloggie Live: The Compact Champion

The Sony Bloggie Live is a pocket-sized camcorder designed for simplicity and convenience. It boasts a sleek, compact design, making it ideal for capturing impromptu moments on the go. Its key features include:

• Compact and Lightweight Design: The Bloggie Live weighs a mere 3.5 ounces, making it incredibly portable. Its small size allows it to fit easily in your pocket or purse, ensuring you’re always ready to capture the action.
• Built-in Wi-Fi: Share your videos instantly with friends and family via Wi-Fi. The Bloggie Live allows you to upload directly to social media platforms or send them to your smartphone or tablet.
• Live Streaming: The “Live” in its name isn’t just for show. This camcorder allows you to stream live video directly to YouTube or Ustream, making it perfect for vlogging or sharing special events with a wider audience.
• HD Video Recording: Capture your memories in stunning 720p HD quality. The Bloggie Live provides clear and vibrant footage, ensuring your videos look their best.
• Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens captures more of the scene, making it ideal for filming landscapes or group shots.

Sony HDR-GW55VE: The Waterproof Wonder

The Sony HDR-GW55VE is a more robust camcorder built for adventure and underwater filming. Its waterproof and shockproof design allows it to withstand the elements, making it perfect for capturing action-packed moments. Its key features include:

• Waterproof and Shockproof: With an IP68 rating, the HDR-GW55VE can withstand depths of up to 197 feet and withstand drops from up to 5 feet. This makes it ideal for capturing underwater adventures or activities in harsh environments.
• Full HD Video Recording: Capture your memories in crisp 1080p Full HD quality. The HDR-GW55VE delivers detailed and vibrant footage, ensuring your videos look their best.
• Built-in GPS: Track your location and add GPS data to your videos. The HDR-GW55VE allows you to see where your footage was captured, making it ideal for travel videos or documenting your adventures.
• Carl Zeiss Lens: The HDR-GW55VE boasts a Carl Zeiss lens, known for its exceptional image quality and sharpness. This lens ensures your videos are clear and vibrant, capturing every detail.
• Built-in LED Light: Capture clear footage even in low-light conditions. The HDR-GW55VE’s built-in LED light illuminates the scene, ensuring your videos are well-lit and detailed.

Comparing the Features: A Head-to-Head Showdown

Now that we’ve explored the key features of each camcorder, let’s compare them head-to-head to see which one comes out on top:
Feature | Sony Bloggie Live | Sony HDR-GW55VE
——- | ——– | ——–
Video Resolution | 720p HD | 1080p Full HD
Waterproof | No | Yes (IP68 rating)
Shockproof | No | Yes (up to 5 feet)
Live Streaming | Yes | No
Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes
GPS | No | Yes
Lens | Wide-angle | Carl Zeiss
Built-in LED Light | No | Yes
As you can see, the HDR-GW55VE offers superior video quality and a range of features that make it ideal for action-packed adventures. The Bloggie Live, on the other hand, excels in portability, live streaming capabilities, and its compact design.

Choosing the Right Camcorder: Your Needs Matter

The best camcorder for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Sony Bloggie Live if:

• Portability is paramount: Its compact size makes it easy to carry around.
• You want to live stream: Its live streaming capabilities are perfect for vlogging or sharing events.
• Simplicity is key: Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to use.

Choose the Sony HDR-GW55VE if:

• You need a waterproof and shockproof camcorder: Its rugged design allows it to withstand the elements.
• You want the highest video quality: Its Full HD resolution captures stunning footage.
• You want to track your location: Its built-in GPS adds location data to your videos.

The Verdict: A Matter of Perspective

Ultimately, the choice between the Sony Bloggie Live and the Sony HDR-GW55VE comes down to your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a compact and portable camcorder with live streaming capabilities, the Bloggie Live is an excellent choice. If you need a rugged and waterproof camcorder with superior video quality and GPS tracking, the HDR-GW55VE is the way to go.

Beyond the Camcorders: Exploring Alternatives

While the Bloggie Live and HDR-GW55VE are excellent options, the world of camcorders offers a diverse range of choices. Consider exploring other Sony camcorders or models from different brands to find the perfect fit for your needs.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use the Sony Bloggie Live for underwater filming?
A: No, the Sony Bloggie Live is not waterproof and should not be used underwater.
Q: Does the Sony HDR-GW55VE have an external microphone input?
A: Yes, the Sony HDR-GW55VE has an external microphone input, allowing you to connect a higher-quality microphone for improved audio recording.
Q: What is the battery life of the Sony Bloggie Live?
A: The Sony Bloggie Live has a battery life of approximately 2 hours of continuous recording.
Q: Can I use the Sony HDR-GW55VE for vlogging?
A: While the HDR-GW55VE is a great camcorder for capturing action and underwater footage, it lacks the live streaming capabilities of the Bloggie Live, which would be more suitable for vlogging.
Q: What are the differences between the Sony HDR-GW55VE and the Sony HDR-GW66VE?
A: The Sony HDR-GW66VE is a newer model that offers improved video quality, a wider lens, and a longer battery life compared to the HDR-GW55VE. However, it also comes at a higher price point.