Canon Legria HF M56 vs Samsung Gear 360 2017: The Camcorder Battle You Never Knew You Needed!

What To Know

  • It boasts a familiar design with a dedicated viewfinder and a zoom lens, making it comfortable to hold and use.
  • On the other hand, the Samsung Gear 360 2017 offers a unique immersive experience with its 360-degree video capture, allowing you to capture every detail of your surroundings.
  • The Canon Legria HF M56, with its traditional camcorder design, is slightly larger and heavier, but its dedicated viewfinder and zoom lens provide a more comfortable and familiar shooting experience.

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available. Two popular contenders often find themselves in the spotlight: the Canon Legria HF M56 and the Samsung Gear 360 2017. Both devices offer unique features and cater to different needs, making it crucial to understand their strengths and weaknesses before making a decision.
This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the Canon Legria HF M56 and Samsung Gear 360 2017. We’ll explore their key differences, helping you determine which camcorder best suits your specific needs and budget.

Canon Legria HF M56: Traditional Video Recording Excellence

The Canon Legria HF M56 is a traditional camcorder designed for capturing high-quality video footage. It boasts a familiar design with a dedicated viewfinder and a zoom lens, making it comfortable to hold and use. This camcorder is ideal for capturing events, family gatherings, and travel adventures with a professional touch.

Key Features:

  • High-resolution video recording: The Legria HF M56 records stunning 1080p video at 50fps, ensuring smooth and detailed footage.
  • Powerful zoom lens: Its 57x advanced zoom lens allows you to capture subjects from a distance, bringing them closer without sacrificing image quality.
  • Advanced image stabilization: The camcorder’s optical image stabilization technology effectively reduces camera shake, resulting in crisp and stable footage, even when shooting handheld.
  • Built-in microphone: The Legria HF M56 features a built-in stereo microphone, capturing clear and balanced audio for your videos.
  • Long recording time: With its SD card slot, you can record hours of footage without interruption.

Samsung Gear 360 2017: Immersive 360-degree Video Capture

The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is a revolutionary 360-degree camera designed to capture immersive experiences. Its dual fisheye lenses capture everything around you, creating a truly captivating viewing experience. This camera is perfect for capturing breathtaking landscapes, showcasing events from all angles, and creating virtual reality content.

Key Features:

  • 360-degree video capture: The Gear 360 2017 captures stunning 360-degree video, allowing viewers to experience the scene as if they were there.
  • High-resolution video recording: It records 4K video at 30fps, delivering exceptionally detailed and vibrant footage.
  • Compact and portable design: Its small and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and use on the go.
  • Live streaming: You can live stream your 360-degree video content directly to platforms like Facebook and YouTube.
  • Virtual reality compatibility: The Gear 360 2017 is compatible with VR headsets, allowing you to immerse yourself in your captured 360-degree footage.

Comparing the Two Camcorders: A Head-to-Head Analysis

To make an informed decision, let’s compare the Canon Legria HF M56 and Samsung Gear 360 2017 across key aspects:

1. Video Quality: Traditional vs. Immersive

The Canon Legria HF M56 excels in capturing traditional high-quality video with its 1080p resolution and advanced image stabilization. Its zoom lens allows you to frame your shots precisely, providing a cinematic feel. On the other hand, the Samsung Gear 360 2017 offers a unique immersive experience with its 360-degree video capture, allowing you to capture every detail of your surroundings. While its resolution is impressive at 4K, it’s important to note that 360-degree footage can sometimes appear less sharp compared to traditional video.

2. Features and Functionality: Tailored to Specific Needs

The Canon Legria HF M56 offers a range of features designed for traditional video recording, including manual controls, slow-motion recording, and advanced editing options. The Samsung Gear 360 2017, on the other hand, focuses on immersive experiences with its 360-degree video capture, live streaming capabilities, and VR compatibility. The choice between the two depends on your specific needs and the type of content you want to create.

3. Portability and Ease of Use: Compact Design vs. Traditional Form Factor

The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is incredibly compact and portable, making it ideal for travel and on-the-go shooting. Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around and use in various situations. The Canon Legria HF M56, with its traditional camcorder design, is slightly larger and heavier, but its dedicated viewfinder and zoom lens provide a more comfortable and familiar shooting experience.

4. Price and Value: Budget-Friendly vs. Premium Experience

The Canon Legria HF M56 is generally more affordable than the Samsung Gear 360 2017. It offers a great value for traditional video recording, providing high-quality footage at a reasonable price. The Samsung Gear 360 2017, with its unique 360-degree capabilities and VR compatibility, comes at a premium price. However, its immersive features and ability to capture unique perspectives can be worth the investment for those seeking a cutting-edge video experience.

Choosing the Right Camcorder for You

Ultimately, the best camcorder for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

  • Choose the Canon Legria HF M56 if:
  • You need a traditional camcorder for high-quality video recording.
  • You prefer a familiar design with a dedicated viewfinder and zoom lens.
  • You’re on a budget and looking for a value-for-money option.
  • Choose the Samsung Gear 360 2017 if:
  • You want to capture immersive 360-degree video experiences.
  • You’re interested in VR content creation and live streaming.
  • You’re willing to invest in a premium camera with unique capabilities.

The Verdict: A Matter of Perspective

Both the Canon Legria HF M56 and Samsung Gear 360 2017 are excellent camcorders, each catering to different needs and preferences. The Canon Legria HF M56 excels in traditional video recording, offering high-quality footage and a familiar user experience. The Samsung Gear 360 2017, on the other hand, revolutionizes video capture with its immersive 360-degree capabilities, opening up a world of possibilities for creative content creation. The choice ultimately depends on what you want to capture and how you envision sharing your stories with the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I edit 360-degree footage from the Samsung Gear 360 2017?
Yes, you can edit 360-degree footage from the Samsung Gear 360 2017 using specialized software like Samsung Gear 360 ActionDirector or other third-party editing programs that support 360-degree video.
2. Does the Canon Legria HF M56 have any built-in editing features?
Yes, the Canon Legria HF M56 features basic editing capabilities, allowing you to trim clips, add transitions, and apply simple effects directly on the camcorder.
3. Can I use the Samsung Gear 360 2017 for live streaming on social media?
Yes, the Samsung Gear 360 2017 allows you to live stream your 360-degree video content to various platforms, including Facebook and YouTube.
4. What type of accessories are available for the Canon Legria HF M56 and Samsung Gear 360 2017?
Both camcorders offer a range of accessories, including external microphones, tripods, carrying cases, and memory cards. You can find compatible accessories from the respective manufacturers or third-party retailers.
5. What is the battery life of the Canon Legria HF M56 and Samsung Gear 360 2017?
The Canon Legria HF M56 offers a battery life of approximately 2 hours, while the Samsung Gear 360 2017 has a battery life of around 1.5 hours. Battery life can vary depending on usage conditions and settings.