What To Know
- Two popular contenders in the market are the Canon Legria FS37 and the Panasonic HC-X900, both offering a compelling blend of features and performance.
- The Panasonic HC-X900, on the other hand, offers a 20x optical zoom lens, but it compensates with a powerful 4K UHD i.
- If you prioritize portability, ease of use, and a compact design, the Canon Legria FS37 with its 57x optical zoom and 4K recording at 25p might be the better choice.
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-X900, both offering a compelling blend of features and performance. This in-depth comparison aims to help you make an informed decision by analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to select the camcorder that best suits your needs.
Video 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-X900 offer distinct approaches. The Canon Legria FS37 utilizes a 1/2.84-inch CMOS sensor, while the Panasonic HC-X900 boasts a larger 1/2.3-inch MOS sensor.
The larger sensor in the HC-X900 translates to improved low-light performance, capturing more light and producing less noise in dimly lit environments. This advantage becomes particularly noticeable when shooting indoor events or in evening settings. However, the FS37’s smaller sensor compensates with a slightly higher resolution, offering 4K video recording at 25p, compared to the HC-X900’s 4K recording at 24p.
Lens: Zoom Power and Image Stabilization
Both camcorders offer impressive zoom capabilities, but their approaches differ. The Canon Legria FS37 features a 57x optical zoom lens, providing a wide range of focal lengths. The Panasonic HC-X900, on the other hand, offers a 20x optical zoom lens, but it compensates with a powerful 4K UHD i.ZOOM feature that digitally extends the zoom range to a staggering 90x while maintaining 4K resolution.
In terms of image stabilization, both camcorders employ optical image stabilization (OIS) to minimize camera shake. However, the HC-X900’s Hybrid O.I.S. system combines optical and electronic stabilization for even smoother footage, particularly effective when shooting handheld at high zoom levels.
Audio Quality: Capturing the Soundscape
Audio quality is a crucial element for any video, and both camcorders offer different approaches. The Canon Legria FS37 features a built-in stereo microphone, providing basic audio recording capabilities. The Panasonic HC-X900, on the other hand, takes audio recording to the next level with its 5.1-channel surround sound microphone, capturing a richer and more immersive soundscape. This feature is particularly beneficial for capturing events with multiple sound sources, such as concerts or conferences.
Features and Functionality: A Comparison of Capabilities
Both camcorders offer a suite of features designed to enhance your filmmaking experience. The Canon Legria FS37 boasts a touchscreen LCD, making navigation and menu access intuitive. It also includes a variety of shooting modes, including slow motion and time-lapse, adding creative possibilities to your videos.
The Panasonic HC-X900 takes it a step further with features like its 3D Noise Reduction, which effectively reduces noise and improves image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. It also features a built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, allowing for easy wireless control and sharing of your videos.
Design and Ergonomics: Comfort and Convenience
The Canon Legria FS37 adopts a compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable and easy to handle. It features a comfortable grip and a well-placed zoom lever, allowing for intuitive control during shooting.
The Panasonic HC-X900, while slightly larger and heavier, offers a more robust build with a professional feel. Its ergonomic design incorporates a larger grip, providing a secure hold, especially during extended recording sessions. It also features a detachable handgrip, adding versatility and comfort for different shooting styles.
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder for Your Needs
The choice between the Canon Legria FS37 and the Panasonic HC-X900 ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize portability, ease of use, and a compact design, the Canon Legria FS37 with its 57x optical zoom and 4K recording at 25p might be the better choice.
However, if you prioritize high-quality audio, superior low-light performance, and advanced features like the 90x i.ZOOM and Hybrid O.I.S., the Panasonic HC-X900 with its larger sensor and 5.1-channel surround sound microphone might be the ideal option.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Canon Legria FS37 and Panasonic HC-X900 are excellent camcorders, the market offers a diverse range of alternatives. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider exploring camcorders from brands like Sony, JVC, and Olympus.
If you require professional-grade features, consider high-end camcorders from Canon, Panasonic, and Sony, which offer advanced capabilities like interchangeable lenses, RAW recording, and professional audio inputs.
Common Questions and Answers
Q1: Which camcorder is better for beginners?
Both camcorders offer user-friendly interfaces and intuitive controls, making them suitable for beginners. However, the Canon Legria FS37 might be slightly easier to grasp due to its simpler features and compact design.
Q2: Which camcorder is better for capturing low-light events?
The Panasonic HC-X900, with its larger sensor, offers superior low-light performance, capturing more detail and producing less noise in dimly lit environments.
Q3: Which camcorder offers better zoom capabilities?
The Panasonic HC-X900’s 90x i.ZOOM feature, while digital, provides a significantly wider zoom range than the Canon Legria FS37’s 57x optical zoom.
Q4: Which camcorder is better for recording audio?
The Panasonic HC-X900’s 5.1-channel surround sound microphone captures a richer and more immersive soundscape, making it ideal for events with multiple sound sources.
Q5: Which camcorder is more portable?
The Canon Legria FS37, with its compact and lightweight design, offers greater portability than the slightly larger and heavier Panasonic HC-X900.