Unveiling the Ultimate Battle: Canon Legria FS406 vs Samsung Gear 360 2017 for Camcorder Excellence

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the Canon Legria FS406 and the Samsung Gear 360 2017. Both offer unique features and cater to different shooting styles. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two camcorders, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

Understanding the Differences: Canon Legria FS406 vs. Samsung Gear 360 2017

The Canon Legria FS406 is a traditional camcorder designed for capturing high-quality videos in a variety of settings. It features a 32GB internal memory and supports SDXC card storage. The camera boasts a 57x optical zoom lens, providing versatility for capturing distant subjects.
On the other hand, the Samsung Gear 360 2017 is a 360° camera designed for immersive video capture. It utilizes two fisheye lenses to capture a seamless panoramic view. The Gear 360 2017 is ideal for creating virtual reality experiences and showcasing expansive landscapes.

Video Quality: A Head-to-Head Comparison

The Canon Legria FS406 excels in video quality, offering a high-resolution 1080p recording at 60 frames per second. The camera uses a CMOS sensor to capture vivid colors and sharp details, even in low light conditions. The FS406 also features an advanced image stabilization system, ensuring smooth and steady footage.
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 captures 3840 x 1920 resolution videos at 30 frames per second. While the resolution is impressive, the video quality might not be as sharp as the FS406’s due to the fisheye lens design. However, the Gear 360 2017 compensates with its immersive 360° view, creating a captivating viewing experience.

Versatility and Features: Exploring the Options

The Canon Legria FS406 is a versatile camcorder suitable for various scenarios. It features a built-in microphone, allowing for clear audio recordings. The FS406 also supports external microphones, providing greater flexibility for professional-grade sound capture. Additionally, the camera has a built-in LCD screen and a viewfinder, enabling easy framing and monitoring.
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 offers a unique perspective with its 360° capture capability. It’s ideal for capturing panoramic landscapes, showcasing events, and creating virtual reality content. The Gear 360 2017 also features a built-in microphone and supports external microphones for enhanced audio quality. However, it lacks a viewfinder and relies solely on the accompanying smartphone app for framing and monitoring.

Ease of Use and Portability: A User-Friendly Perspective

The Canon Legria FS406 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. Its intuitive controls and straightforward interface make it easy to operate, even for beginners. The FS406 is also relatively compact and lightweight, making it convenient for travel and on-the-go shooting.
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is a compact and portable camera, but its operation requires a smartphone or tablet for control and viewing. While the smartphone app is user-friendly, it adds an extra step to the recording process. The Gear 360 2017 is also slightly heavier than the FS406, making it less ideal for extended shooting sessions.

Price and Value: Weighing the Costs

The Canon Legria FS406 is generally priced lower than the Samsung Gear 360 2017. This makes the FS406 an attractive option for budget-conscious users seeking a high-quality camcorder. However, the Gear 360 2017 offers a unique immersive experience that justifies its higher price for specific use cases.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder for You

Both the Canon Legria FS406 and the Samsung Gear 360 2017 are excellent camcorders with their own strengths and weaknesses. The FS406 is a traditional camcorder that excels in video quality and versatility, while the Gear 360 2017 offers a unique 360° perspective for immersive content creation.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

• Choose the Canon Legria FS406 if:
• You prioritize video quality and sharp details.
• You need a versatile camcorder for various shooting scenarios.
• You prefer a user-friendly interface and straightforward operation.
• You’re on a budget.

• Choose the Samsung Gear 360 2017 if:
• You want to capture immersive 360° videos.
• You’re interested in creating virtual reality content.
• You’re willing to invest in a specialized camera for unique perspectives.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Canon Legria FS406 and Samsung Gear 360 2017 are excellent choices, the camcorder market offers a wide range of options to meet diverse needs. Consider exploring other camcorders that may better suit your specific requirements, such as:

• Action cameras: For capturing high-action footage, consider action cameras like GoPro or DJI Osmo Action.
• Vlogging cameras: Compact and lightweight cameras designed for vlogging, such as Sony ZV-1 or Canon EOS M50 Mark II.
• Professional camcorders: High-end camcorders for professional filmmaking, like Sony PXW-Z90 or Canon XA40.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I edit 360° videos captured by the Samsung Gear 360 2017?
A: Yes, you can edit 360° videos using specialized software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Samsung Gear 360 ActionDirector.
Q: Does the Canon Legria FS406 support slow-motion video recording?
A: Yes, the FS406 supports slow-motion recording at 120 frames per second.
Q: Can I use the Samsung Gear 360 2017 for live streaming?
A: Yes, you can live stream 360° videos using the Gear 360 2017. However, the live streaming functionality might be limited depending on the platform you choose.
Q: What is the battery life of the Canon Legria FS406?
A: The FS406 has a battery life of approximately 1.5 hours.
Q: What are the storage options for the Samsung Gear 360 2017?
A: The Gear 360 2017 does not have internal storage and relies on microSD cards for recording.