Shocking Results: Canon Legria HF M506 vs Sony Nex Vg20eh Camcorder Comparison Test!

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 HF M506 and the Sony NEX VG20EH. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, but each caters to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both camcorders, helping you make an informed decision for your filming endeavors.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon Legria HF M506 boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it incredibly portable. Its ergonomic grip and intuitive button layout enhance user comfort and ease of operation. On the other hand, the Sony NEX VG20EH adopts a more professional look with a larger body and interchangeable lenses. This design offers greater versatility but sacrifices portability.

Image Quality and Video Recording

Canon Legria HF M506: This camcorder utilizes a 32.5mm CMOS sensor with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It supports AVCHD and H.264 video codecs, providing high-quality recordings. The M506 also features Canon’s advanced image processing engine, ensuring vibrant colors, sharp details, and excellent low-light performance.
Sony NEX VG20EH: The VG20EH utilizes a larger APS-C sensor, offering superior image quality and shallower depth of field compared to the M506. It records in AVCHD and XAVC S formats, delivering professional-grade video with exceptional detail and dynamic range. The VG20EH also boasts a wider dynamic range, resulting in more nuanced highlights and shadows.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities

Canon Legria HF M506: The M506 comes equipped with a 32x optical zoom lens, providing ample reach for capturing distant subjects. Its wide-angle capability allows for capturing expansive scenes, while the zoom function facilitates close-up shots.
Sony NEX VG20EH: The VG20EH utilizes a Sony E-mount lens system, offering a wide range of interchangeable lenses. This allows for greater flexibility and customization, enabling you to adapt your lens choice to specific shooting scenarios. However, the base lens included with the VG20EH only offers a 16-50mm equivalent focal length, requiring additional lens purchases for extended zoom capabilities.

Audio Features

Canon Legria HF M506: The M506 includes built-in stereo microphones that capture decent audio quality for general use. However, it lacks external microphone inputs, limiting audio recording options for more professional applications.
Sony NEX VG20EH: The VG20EH features a built-in stereo microphone and offers a dedicated external microphone input, allowing for the use of high-quality external microphones for professional audio recording. This feature is particularly beneficial for filmmakers and videographers who prioritize high-fidelity sound.

Connectivity and Features

Canon Legria HF M506: The M506 offers a variety of connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and SD card slots. It also features built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for wireless streaming and remote control. The M506 also incorporates a built-in GPS receiver, enabling location tagging of your recordings.
Sony NEX VG20EH: The VG20EH provides similar connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and SD card slots. It also features Wi-Fi and NFC for seamless wireless connectivity. Additionally, the VG20EH includes a built-in headphone jack for real-time audio monitoring and a hot shoe for mounting accessories.

Battery Life and Power

Canon Legria HF M506: The M506 boasts a decent battery life, allowing for extended recording sessions. However, it utilizes proprietary batteries, which can be inconvenient if you need to replace them on the go.
Sony NEX VG20EH: The VG20EH utilizes standard NP-FV batteries, offering greater flexibility and availability. However, its battery life can be shorter compared to the M506, especially when using power-hungry accessories.

Price and Value

Canon Legria HF M506: The M506 is generally more affordable than the VG20EH, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
Sony NEX VG20EH: The VG20EH comes at a higher price point due to its professional features and interchangeable lens system. However, its superior image quality and versatility may justify the higher cost for professionals and serious enthusiasts.

Which Camcorder Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the best camcorder for you depends on your individual needs and budget.
Canon Legria HF M506:

• Ideal for: Home videographers, travel vloggers, and those seeking a compact and affordable option.
• Pros: Compact design, excellent image quality, affordable price, built-in Wi-Fi and GPS.
• Cons: Limited audio options, no interchangeable lenses.

Sony NEX VG20EH:

• Ideal for: Professional videographers, filmmakers, and those seeking high-quality image and audio with interchangeable lenses.
• Pros: Superior image quality, interchangeable lenses, professional audio features, robust build quality.
• Cons: Higher price point, shorter battery life compared to the M506.

Final Verdict: Beyond the Comparison

While both the Canon Legria HF M506 and Sony NEX VG20EH are excellent camcorders, the choice ultimately boils down to your priorities and budget. The M506 offers a user-friendly and affordable option with impressive image quality, while the VG20EH caters to professionals with its superior image and audio capabilities, interchangeable lenses, and robust design.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Is the Sony NEX VG20EH compatible with other lenses besides the kit lens?
A: Yes, the Sony NEX VG20EH utilizes the Sony E-mount lens system, allowing for a wide range of compatible lenses. You can choose from various manufacturers, including Sony, Sigma, and Tamron, to find lenses that meet your specific needs.
Q: Can I record in 4K with the Canon Legria HF M506?
A: No, the Canon Legria HF M506 only supports 1080p video recording. If you require 4K resolution, you would need to consider a different camcorder model.
Q: Does the Sony NEX VG20EH have any manual controls?
A: Yes, the Sony NEX VG20EH offers a comprehensive set of manual controls, including aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and focus settings. This allows for greater creative control over your recordings.
Q: Can I use external microphones with the Canon Legria HF M506?
A: No, the Canon Legria HF M506 does not have an external microphone input. You are limited to using the built-in stereo microphones.
Q: What are the main differences between the AVCHD and XAVC S video codecs?
A: AVCHD is a widely used video codec known for its good balance between quality and file size. XAVC S, on the other hand, offers higher bitrates and improved quality, resulting in larger file sizes but better detail and dynamic range.