Canon Legria FS37 vs Panasonic HC V700M: Which Camcorder is Right for You?

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the market are the Canon Legria FS37 and the Panasonic HC-V700M. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each camcorder, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

The heart of any camcorder lies in its image sensor, and both the Canon Legria FS37 and the Panasonic HC-V700M boast impressive capabilities. The Canon Legria FS37 utilizes a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, while the Panasonic HC-V700M features a 1/2.5-inch MOS sensor. While the Canon Legria FS37’s larger sensor generally translates to better low-light performance and potentially higher image quality, the Panasonic HC-V700M compensates with its advanced image processing technology.
The Canon Legria FS37 excels in capturing vibrant and detailed images, producing natural colors and excellent sharpness. Its ability to handle challenging lighting situations is commendable, offering a noticeable advantage in low-light scenarios. On the other hand, the Panasonic HC-V700M leverages its advanced image processing to deliver crisp and clear images, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Its image stabilization technology further enhances video quality, providing smooth and stable footage.
Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. If you prioritize exceptional low-light performance and image detail, the Canon Legria FS37 might be the better option. However, if you value crisp images and advanced image processing, the Panasonic HC-V700M holds its ground.

Video Recording: From Standard to High-Definition

Both the Canon Legria FS37 and the Panasonic HC-V700M offer a range of video recording capabilities, catering to various needs. The Canon Legria FS37 supports Full HD (1920×1080) video recording at 60fps, providing smooth and detailed footage. It also features advanced recording modes, including slow-motion and time-lapse, allowing for creative video storytelling.
The Panasonic HC-V700M goes a step further, offering 4K (3840×2160) video recording at 30fps. This higher resolution captures even more detail, resulting in stunningly sharp and lifelike footage. It also supports Full HD recording at 60fps, ensuring smooth and clear video regardless of the resolution. Both camcorders feature various recording formats, including AVCHD and MP4, offering flexibility for editing and sharing.
For those seeking the highest resolution and detail, the Panasonic HC-V700M’s 4K video recording capability is undoubtedly a compelling feature. However, the Canon Legria FS37’s Full HD recording capabilities are still impressive, offering a balance of quality and file size.

Zoom: Bringing the Action Closer

Both camcorders offer zoom capabilities to capture distant subjects, but their approaches differ. The Canon Legria FS37 boasts a 57x optical zoom, allowing you to get closer to the action without compromising image quality. Its advanced zoom functionality includes a digital zoom that extends the reach even further, although this comes at the cost of reduced image quality.
The Panasonic HC-V700M features a 30x optical zoom, which is still impressive but falls short of the Canon Legria FS37’s reach. However, it compensates with its intelligent zoom technology, which utilizes image processing to enhance the clarity of zoomed-in footage. This technology effectively minimizes the loss of detail associated with digital zoom.
The choice between the two depends on your specific needs. If capturing distant subjects with maximum optical zoom is a priority, the Canon Legria FS37’s 57x optical zoom reigns supreme. However, if you value intelligent zoom technology and prefer a more compact design, the Panasonic HC-V700M’s 30x optical zoom with intelligent zoom might be a better fit.

Lens: Capturing the World Through Different Perspectives

The lens is another crucial aspect of a camcorder, influencing the field of view and overall image quality. The Canon Legria FS37 features a Carl Zeiss lens, renowned for its exceptional optical performance. This lens delivers sharp and detailed images, producing vibrant colors and excellent contrast.
The Panasonic HC-V700M utilizes a Leica Dicomar lens, another respected name in the optics industry. This lens is known for its ability to minimize distortion and produce clear and accurate colors. While both lenses offer impressive performance, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and specific shooting needs.

Design and Ergonomics: Comfort in Your Hands

Both camcorders prioritize user comfort and ease of use. The Canon Legria FS37 features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry and use for extended periods. Its user interface is intuitive and straightforward, allowing for quick and effortless operation.
The Panasonic HC-V700M also boasts a compact and ergonomic design, with a comfortable grip and well-placed buttons. Its user interface is similarly intuitive, making it easy to navigate and access various settings. Both camcorders include a built-in LCD screen for monitoring footage and a viewfinder for shooting in bright environments.

Connectivity: Sharing Your Stories Seamlessly

Both camcorders offer various connectivity options for sharing your videos and photos. The Canon Legria FS37 includes HDMI and USB ports, allowing you to connect to external displays and devices. It also supports Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, enabling wireless sharing and remote control.
The Panasonic HC-V700M similarly features HDMI and USB ports, as well as Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity. It also supports Bluetooth, allowing for wireless audio transmission and remote control. Both camcorders provide various options for transferring your footage, ensuring seamless sharing with friends, family, and social media platforms.

Battery Life: Keeping the Action Going

Battery life is a crucial consideration for any camcorder, especially for those planning extended recording sessions. The Canon Legria FS37 boasts a decent battery life, allowing for several hours of continuous recording. The Panasonic HC-V700M also offers a respectable battery life, lasting for a reasonable duration.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder for You

The choice between the Canon Legria FS37 and the Panasonic HC-V700M ultimately comes down to your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize exceptional low-light performance, a larger zoom range, and a compact design, the Canon Legria FS37 might be the better option. However, if you value advanced image processing, 4K video recording, and intelligent zoom technology, the Panasonic HC-V700M holds its ground.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Which camcorder is better for beginners?
A: Both the Canon Legria FS37 and the Panasonic HC-V700M are user-friendly camcorders suitable for beginners. Their intuitive interfaces and straightforward controls make them easy to operate.
Q: Which camcorder is better for capturing fast-moving action?
A: Both camcorders offer decent performance for capturing fast-moving action, with the Panasonic HC-V700M’s advanced image stabilization technology potentially providing a slight edge.
Q: Which camcorder is better for low-light shooting?
A: The Canon Legria FS37 generally performs better in low-light conditions due to its larger sensor. However, the Panasonic HC-V700M’s advanced image processing technology helps compensate for its smaller sensor.
Q: Which camcorder offers better audio quality?
A: Both camcorders feature built-in microphones, providing decent audio quality. However, for professional-grade audio, external microphones can be connected to both devices.
Q: Which camcorder is more affordable?
A: The Canon Legria FS37 is generally more affordable than the Panasonic HC-V700M. However, prices can fluctuate depending on sales and promotions.