What To Know
- The FS36 features a classic camcorder design with a rotating LCD screen and a built-in handle, while the VG20E adopts a more DSLR-like design with a detachable lens and a separate viewfinder.
- The FS36 has a built-in stereo mic with a wind screen, while the VG20E offers a more advanced setup with two external microphone inputs, enabling the use of external microphones for professional-grade audio recording.
- It also includes a built-in GPS receiver for geotagging footage, a remote control terminal, and a timecode display, making it a more feature-rich option for professional workflows.
Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices often come up in discussions: the Canon Legria FS36 and the **Sony NEX VG20E**. Both offer compelling features and cater to different needs, making it difficult to decide which one is the perfect fit. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each camcorder, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Canon Legria FS36 and the Sony NEX VG20E boast a compact and ergonomic design, making them comfortable to hold and operate. The FS36 features a classic camcorder design with a rotating LCD screen and a built-in handle, while the VG20E adopts a more DSLR-like design with a detachable lens and a separate viewfinder.
The FS36’s compact size and lightweight construction make it highly portable, ideal for travel or capturing events on the go. The VG20E, on the other hand, is slightly larger and heavier, offering a more robust feel and enhanced stability for shooting in challenging conditions.
Image Quality
When it comes to image quality, both camcorders deliver impressive results. The Canon Legria FS36 is equipped with a 32.5mm wide-angle lens and a 1/2.88-inch CMOS sensor, capturing crisp and detailed footage with vibrant colors. The Sony NEX VG20E utilizes a 16.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and an E-mount lens system, offering a larger sensor size that translates to better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field.
While the FS36 excels in daylight shooting, the VG20E’s larger sensor gives it an edge in low-light situations, producing less noise and smoother footage. Both camcorders offer manual controls for adjusting exposure, aperture, and shutter speed, allowing for greater creative control over your footage.
Video Recording Capabilities
The Canon Legria FS36 records video in AVCHD format at a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 (1080p) at 50fps. It also supports various frame rates, including 25fps and 24fps, offering flexibility for different shooting styles. The Sony NEX VG20E, however, surpasses the FS36 in terms of recording capabilities. It can capture video in AVCHD and XAVC S formats, with a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 (1080p) at 60fps.
The VG20E also supports advanced features like slow-motion recording at 120fps and 240fps, allowing for dramatic and cinematic effects. Additionally, the VG20E offers a wider range of bitrates and audio recording options, making it a more versatile choice for professional-grade filmmaking.
Audio Recording
Both the Canon Legria FS36 and the Sony NEX VG20E feature stereo microphones for capturing high-quality audio. The FS36 has a built-in stereo mic with a wind screen, while the VG20E offers a more advanced setup with two external microphone inputs, enabling the use of external microphones for professional-grade audio recording.
The VG20E’s microphone inputs also support XLR connections, providing greater flexibility and compatibility with professional audio equipment.
Connectivity and Features
The Canon Legria FS36 offers standard connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and SD card slot. It also features a built-in speaker and a headphone jack for monitoring audio. The Sony NEX VG20E, on the other hand, boasts a more comprehensive set of features, including HDMI, USB, SD card slot, and a 3.5mm microphone jack.
It also includes a built-in GPS receiver for geotagging footage, a remote control terminal, and a timecode display, making it a more feature-rich option for professional workflows.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important factor to consider, especially for extended shoots. The Canon Legria FS36 boasts a decent battery life, providing approximately 2 hours of continuous recording time. The Sony NEX VG20E, however, offers a shorter battery life, typically lasting around 1.5 hours.
Both camcorders use proprietary battery packs, which can be a drawback if you need to purchase additional batteries for longer shoots.
Price and Value
The Canon Legria FS36 is typically priced lower than the Sony NEX VG20E. This makes the FS36 a more budget-friendly option for those looking for a capable camcorder without breaking the bank. However, the VG20E, despite its higher price, offers a more comprehensive feature set and better performance, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious videographers.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder
Choosing between the Canon Legria FS36 and the Sony NEX VG20E ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a compact and portable camcorder with excellent image quality and a simple interface, the FS36 is a great choice.
However, if you require advanced features like slow-motion recording, professional audio inputs, and a larger sensor for low-light performance, the VG20E is the superior option.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Canon Legria FS36 and the Sony NEX VG20E are excellent choices, there are other camcorders in the market worth considering. If you’re looking for a more compact and affordable option, the Canon Legria HF G20 is a solid contender. For those seeking a professional-grade camcorder with 4K recording capabilities, the Sony PXW-Z150 is a powerful option.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which camcorder is better for beginners?
A: The Canon Legria FS36 is a more user-friendly option for beginners due to its simple interface and intuitive controls.
Q: Which camcorder is better for professional use?
A: The Sony NEX VG20E offers more professional features, including advanced recording settings, manual controls, and professional audio inputs, making it a better choice for professional videographers.
Q: Which camcorder has better low-light performance?
A: The Sony NEX VG20E boasts a larger sensor that delivers superior low-light performance compared to the Canon Legria FS36.
Q: Which camcorder is more portable?
A: The Canon Legria FS36 is more compact and lightweight, making it a more portable option for travel and on-the-go shooting.
Q: Which camcorder is better value for money?
A: The Canon Legria FS36 offers a good balance of features and price, making it a good value for money. However, the Sony NEX VG20E, despite its higher price, provides more advanced features and better performance.