Unleashing the Power: Canon Legria HF R36 vs Canon XH A1S – Which Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular models that often come up in discussions are the Canon Legria HF R36 and the Canon XA1S. Both camcorders boast impressive features, but their strengths lie in different areas. This comprehensive comparison aims to help you decide which one best suits your needs and budget.

A Quick Overview:

The Canon Legria HF R36 is a compact and user-friendly camcorder designed for everyday recording. It offers excellent image quality, easy-to-use controls, and a long battery life. On the other hand, the Canon XA1S is a more professional-grade camcorder with advanced features like manual controls, interchangeable lenses, and professional-quality recording capabilities.

Design and Build Quality:

Canon Legria HF R36:

• Compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around.
• Durable plastic construction with a comfortable grip.
• Features a built-in zoom lens with a 32x optical zoom.
• Offers a flip-out LCD screen and an electronic viewfinder.

Canon XA1S:

• Larger and heavier than the HF R36, reflecting its professional nature.
• Constructed with a magnesium alloy body for enhanced durability.
• Features a detachable lens mount that allows for interchangeable lenses.
• Offers a larger, high-resolution LCD screen and a professional-grade viewfinder.

Image Quality:

Canon Legria HF R36:

• Captures high-quality Full HD video at 1920×1080 resolution.
• Utilizes a 1/2.84-inch CMOS sensor, providing a good balance of sensitivity and noise performance.
• Offers a variety of recording formats, including AVCHD and MP4.

Canon XA1S:

• Records stunning Full HD video at 1920×1080 resolution with a high frame rate of 60p.
• Utilizes a 1/3-inch CMOS sensor with a larger surface area, resulting in better low-light performance.
• Offers a wider range of recording formats, including AVCHD, MP4, and MXF.

Features and Functionality:

Canon Legria HF R36:

• Offers a wide range of shooting modes, including manual and automatic settings.
• Features a built-in microphone and speaker for easy recording and playback.
• Includes a variety of creative effects and filters.
• Offers slow motion and time-lapse recording.

Canon XA1S:

• Provides professional-grade manual controls for precise adjustments.
• Features a professional-quality microphone input for external audio recording.
• Includes advanced features like zebra pattern, focus peaking, and histogram displays.
• Offers a wide range of recording options, including high-quality codecs and frame rates.

Connectivity and Storage:

Canon Legria HF R36:

• Offers HDMI and USB connectivity for easy transfer of footage.
• Supports SDXC memory cards for ample storage space.
• Features a built-in speaker for playback.

Canon XA1S:

• Provides a wider range of connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and XLR inputs.
• Supports SDXC memory cards and can also record to internal memory.
• Includes a professional-quality headphone jack for monitoring audio.

Battery Life:

Canon Legria HF R36:

• Offers a long battery life, typically lasting around 2.5 hours of continuous recording.
• Supports optional battery packs for extended recording times.

Canon XA1S:

• Features a shorter battery life compared to the HF R36, lasting around 1.5 hours of continuous recording.
• Supports optional battery packs and external power sources for extended recording.

Price and Value:

Canon Legria HF R36:

• Offers a more affordable price point compared to the XA1S.
• Provides excellent value for money, especially for casual users and hobbyists.

Canon XA1S:

• Priced at a higher price point, reflecting its professional features and capabilities.
• Offers excellent value for professionals and serious videographers.

Who Should Choose the Canon Legria HF R36?

The Canon Legria HF R36 is an ideal choice for:

• Casual users and hobbyists: Its user-friendly design and compact size make it easy to use and carry around.
• Families and individuals looking for a camcorder for everyday recording: Its long battery life and ease of use are perfect for capturing family events and everyday moments.
• Budget-conscious videographers: Its affordable price point makes it a great option for those on a tight budget.

Who Should Choose the Canon XA1S?

The Canon XA1S is an excellent choice for:

• Professional videographers and filmmakers: Its advanced features and professional-grade recording capabilities make it suitable for high-quality video production.
• Individuals who require manual controls and interchangeable lenses: Its flexibility and advanced settings allow for creative control and customization.
• Those who need high-quality audio recording: Its professional microphone input and headphone jack ensure pristine audio capture.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder

Ultimately, the best camcorder for you depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a compact and user-friendly camcorder for everyday recording, the Canon Legria HF R36 is an excellent choice. However, if you need professional-grade features and capabilities, the Canon XA1S is the way to go.

Final Thoughts: A Tale of Two Camcorders

Both the Canon Legria HF R36 and the Canon XA1S offer impressive features and capabilities. The HF R36 excels in its user-friendliness, affordability, and compact design, making it ideal for casual users and those on a budget. The XA1S, on the other hand, caters to professionals with its advanced features, professional-grade recording capabilities, and interchangeable lens system.
Choosing between these two camcorders ultimately boils down to your specific needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a simple and reliable camcorder for everyday recording, the HF R36 is a great option. However, if you require professional-level features and capabilities, the XA1S is a worthy investment.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: What is the difference in video quality between the HF R36 and the XA1S?
A: The XA1S offers slightly better video quality thanks to its larger sensor and advanced recording capabilities. However, the HF R36 still produces excellent Full HD video, especially for everyday recording.
Q: Can I use external microphones with both camcorders?
A: Yes, both camcorders support external microphones. However, the XA1S offers professional-quality microphone inputs with XLR connectors, while the HF R36 has a standard microphone input.
Q: Which camcorder is better for low-light recording?
A: The XA1S performs better in low-light conditions due to its larger sensor. However, both camcorders offer decent low-light performance, especially when using the built-in low-light modes.
Q: Which camcorder is more versatile?
A: The XA1S is more versatile due to its interchangeable lens system and advanced features. However, the HF R36 is still a versatile camcorder for everyday use.
Q: Which camcorder is better for beginners?
A: The HF R36 is more beginner-friendly due to its intuitive controls and user-friendly interface. However, the XA1S is not overly complex and can be learned by beginners with a bit of effort.