Canon Legria HF R36 vs Sony NEX VG20E: The Battle of the Best Camcorders!

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available. If you’re looking for a high-quality camcorder to capture your precious memories, the Canon Legria HF R36 vs Sony NEX-VG20E are two popular contenders that often come up in discussions. Both boast impressive features and capabilities, but which one is the perfect fit for your needs? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two camcorders, helping you make an informed decision.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

The heart of any camcorder lies in its image sensor, and this is where the Canon Legria HF R36 and Sony NEX-VG20E diverge significantly. The Canon Legria HF R36 utilizes a 1/3.2-inch CMOS sensor, delivering decent image quality for everyday recording. However, the Sony NEX-VG20E takes a different approach with its larger APS-C CMOS sensor, renowned for its superior low-light performance and shallow depth of field capabilities. This translates to richer colors, better detail, and a more cinematic look, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Video Recording Capabilities: A Close Race

Both camcorders offer impressive video recording capabilities, but with subtle differences. The Canon Legria HF R36 records in AVCHD format at a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080p at 50 frames per second, providing smooth and detailed footage. On the other hand, the Sony NEX-VG20E goes a step further, recording in AVCHD and H.264 formats, with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080p at 60 frames per second. This allows for even smoother slow-motion playback and a more cinematic look.

Lens: Zooming In on the Differences

The choice of lens is crucial for capturing different types of footage. The Canon Legria HF R36 features a 32x optical zoom lens, providing excellent reach for capturing distant subjects. However, the Sony NEX-VG20E takes a more flexible approach with its interchangeable lens system. This means you can choose from a variety of lenses, including wide-angle, telephoto, and macro options, allowing you to tailor your shooting capabilities to specific needs.

Audio: A Symphony of Sound

Both camcorders offer decent audio recording capabilities. The Canon Legria HF R36 features a built-in stereo microphone, capturing clear and crisp sound for most recording scenarios. The Sony NEX-VG20E, however, takes audio to the next level with its XLR microphone inputs. This allows you to connect professional-grade microphones, providing superior audio quality for professional productions or capturing high-fidelity sound in demanding environments.

Features and Ergonomics: A User-Friendly Experience

Both camcorders offer a range of user-friendly features to enhance your shooting experience. The Canon Legria HF R36 boasts a touch-sensitive LCD screen, making navigating menus and adjusting settings a breeze. It also features various shooting modes, including slow motion and time-lapse, adding creative flexibility to your recordings. The Sony NEX-VG20E, on the other hand, takes a more professional approach with its extensive manual controls and customizable settings. It also offers features like zebra patterns and peaking, aiding in achieving optimal exposure and focus.

Price and Value: Weighing the Options

When it comes to price, the Canon Legria HF R36 is generally more affordable than the Sony NEX-VG20E. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, the Sony NEX-VG20E offers a higher level of image quality, flexibility, and professional features, justifying its higher price tag. Ultimately, the best value for your money will depend on your specific needs and budget.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder for You

So, which camcorder reigns supreme: the Canon Legria HF R36 or the Sony NEX-VG20E? The answer depends entirely on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a compact and affordable camcorder with decent image quality and a wide zoom lens, the Canon Legria HF R36 is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize superior image quality, professional features, and the flexibility of interchangeable lenses, the Sony NEX-VG20E is the clear winner.

Beyond the Verdict: A Look at the Future

While the Canon Legria HF R36 and Sony NEX-VG20E offer compelling features, the world of camcorders is constantly evolving. New models with enhanced capabilities and innovative features are constantly emerging. To stay ahead of the curve, consider exploring the latest offerings from both Canon and Sony, as well as other reputable camcorder manufacturers.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: What is the best camcorder for beginners?
A: For beginners, the Canon Legria HF R36 offers a user-friendly interface, easy-to-use features, and a good balance of image quality and affordability.
Q: Which camcorder is better for professional use?
A: The Sony NEX-VG20E is a more professional-grade camcorder with its interchangeable lens system, manual controls, and XLR microphone inputs. It’s a great option for filmmakers, videographers, and professional content creators.
Q: What is the difference between AVCHD and H.264 formats?
A: AVCHD is a video codec developed by Sony and Panasonic, while H.264 is a more widely adopted codec. Both formats offer high-quality video compression, but H.264 generally offers better compression efficiency, resulting in smaller file sizes.
Q: What is the advantage of a larger sensor?
A: A larger sensor, like the APS-C sensor in the Sony NEX-VG20E, offers several advantages, including better low-light performance, shallower depth of field, and higher image quality with richer detail and color.
Q: Which camcorder is better for shooting in low light?
A: The Sony NEX-VG20E, with its larger APS-C sensor, excels in low-light conditions, producing less noise and capturing more detail compared to the Canon Legria HF R36.