Canon Legria FS36 vs Samsung H300: Which Camcorder Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile camcorder for capturing life’s precious moments, the Canon Legria FS36 and the Samsung H300 are two popular contenders. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, but deciding which one suits your needs best requires a closer look. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each camcorder, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon Legria FS36 and the Samsung H300 both boast compact and lightweight designs, making them easy to carry around. However, their aesthetic appeal and build quality differ slightly. The Canon Legria FS36 features a sleek and modern design with a black and silver color scheme, while the Samsung H300 opts for a more traditional camcorder look with a predominantly black exterior.
In terms of build quality, both camcorders feel sturdy and durable. The Canon Legria FS36 has a slightly more premium feel thanks to its metal body, while the Samsung H300 relies on a combination of plastic and metal. Ultimately, both camcorders offer a comfortable grip and are well-suited for handheld shooting.

Image Quality and Video Recording

Canon Legria FS36: This camcorder boasts a 32.5mm wide-angle lens and a 1/2.88-inch CMOS sensor, capable of capturing Full HD 1080p video at 50fps. The Canon Legria FS36 also features a powerful image processor that delivers sharp and detailed footage with accurate colors and good low-light performance.
Samsung H300: The Samsung H300 is equipped with a 29.8mm wide-angle lens and a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor. While it also records Full HD 1080p video at 50fps, the image quality isn’t as impressive as the Canon Legria FS36. The Samsung H300 tends to produce slightly softer images with less detail, especially in low-light conditions.
Verdict: The Canon Legria FS36 edges out the Samsung H300 in terms of image quality, offering sharper and more detailed footage with better low-light performance.

Features and Functionality

Both camcorders offer a range of features designed to enhance your video recording experience.
Canon Legria FS36: This camcorder comes with advanced features like face detection, scene recognition, and a built-in microphone for capturing clear audio. It also offers various shooting modes, including slow motion and time-lapse. The Canon Legria FS36 has a dedicated zoom lever for smooth and precise zooming.
Samsung H300: The Samsung H300 includes features like scene modes, a built-in microphone, and a digital zoom function. However, it lacks some of the advanced features found in the Canon Legria FS36, such as face detection and slow motion recording.
Verdict: The Canon Legria FS36 offers a wider range of features and functionalities, making it a more versatile option for capturing diverse content.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Canon Legria FS36: The Canon Legria FS36 comes with a battery that provides approximately 2.5 hours of continuous recording time. It also features a USB port for charging and transferring files to your computer.
Samsung H300: The Samsung H300 boasts a slightly longer battery life, offering around 3 hours of continuous recording. It also comes with a USB port for charging and data transfer.
Verdict: The Samsung H300 has a slight edge in battery life, but both camcorders offer decent battery performance and convenient connectivity options.

Price and Value

Canon Legria FS36: The Canon Legria FS36 is priced at a slightly higher price point compared to the Samsung H300. However, the superior image quality, advanced features, and build quality justify the price difference.
Samsung H300: The Samsung H300 offers a more budget-friendly option, providing a decent video recording experience at a lower cost.
Verdict: The choice between the two depends on your budget and priorities. The Canon Legria FS36 offers better value for money if you’re looking for a high-quality camcorder with advanced features, while the Samsung H300 is a good option for those seeking a budget-friendly solution.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder

Both the Canon Legria FS36 and the Samsung H300 are capable camcorders, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The Canon Legria FS36 excels in image quality, features, and build quality, making it a better choice for those prioritizing high-quality video recording. However, the Samsung H300 offers a more affordable option with a decent performance and longer battery life.
Ultimately, the best camcorder for you depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a high-quality camcorder with advanced features, the Canon Legria FS36 is a solid choice. However, if you’re on a tight budget and need a reliable camcorder for basic video recording, the Samsung H300 is a good option.

What You Need to Know

Q: Which camcorder is better for low-light shooting?
A: The Canon Legria FS36 offers better low-light performance thanks to its larger sensor and powerful image processor.
Q: Which camcorder has better audio quality?
A: Both camcorders have built-in microphones, but the Canon Legria FS36 is generally considered to have better audio quality.
Q: Which camcorder is more user-friendly?
A: Both camcorders are relatively easy to use, but the Canon Legria FS36 has a more intuitive interface and a dedicated zoom lever, making it slightly more user-friendly.
Q: Which camcorder is better for capturing fast-paced action?
A: The Canon Legria FS36 has a higher frame rate and more advanced features like slow motion recording, making it a better choice for capturing fast-paced action.
Q: Can I connect either camcorder to a TV?
A: Yes, both camcorders have HDMI ports for connecting to a TV.