Canon XF105 vs Sony NEX VG20EH: Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Camcorder

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with two formidable contenders like the Canon XF105 and the Sony NEX-VG20EH. Both cameras boast impressive features and capabilities, making it difficult to decide which one fits your needs and budget best. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the strengths and weaknesses of each camcorder, helping you make an informed decision.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

The Canon XF105 and the Sony NEX-VG20EH employ different sensor technologies, leading to distinct image characteristics. The XF105 utilizes a 1/2.84-inch CMOS sensor, while the NEX-VG20EH features a larger APS-C CMOS sensor. This size difference significantly impacts image quality, especially in low-light situations.
Canon XF105:

• Pros: The XF105’s smaller sensor offers a shallower depth of field, making it ideal for capturing subjects with a blurred background. Its high frame rate capabilities (up to 120fps) allow for slow-motion footage, adding creative flair to your videos.
• Cons: The smaller sensor size results in lower light sensitivity compared to the NEX-VG20EH. This means you might experience more noise in low-light conditions.

Sony NEX-VG20EH:

• Pros: The NEX-VG20EH’s larger APS-C sensor provides excellent low-light performance, capturing more detail and less noise in dimly lit environments. The sensor also delivers a wider dynamic range, allowing you to capture more detail in both highlights and shadows.
• Cons: The larger sensor leads to a deeper depth of field, making it more challenging to achieve a blurred background. The NEX-VG20EH lacks the high frame rate capabilities of the XF105, limiting your options for slow-motion footage.

Lens Versatility: Zooming In and Out

Both camcorders offer different lens options, catering to specific shooting needs. The XF105 boasts a built-in 20x zoom lens, providing flexibility for various scenarios. The NEX-VG20EH, on the other hand, uses interchangeable lenses, offering greater creative control and the ability to adapt to different shooting styles.
Canon XF105:

• Pros: The XF105’s built-in 20x zoom lens simplifies shooting, eliminating the need for additional lenses. The zoom range is sufficient for capturing distant subjects, making it suitable for wildlife photography or events where you can’t get close.
• Cons: The fixed lens limits your creative options. You’re restricted to the specific focal length offered by the built-in lens, and you can’t experiment with different lenses to achieve different perspectives.

Sony NEX-VG20EH:

• Pros: The NEX-VG20EH’s interchangeable lens system provides unparalleled flexibility. You can choose from a wide array of lenses, ranging from wide-angle to telephoto, allowing you to tailor your shots to specific needs. This versatility is invaluable for filmmakers and photographers who want to experiment with different looks.
• Cons: The interchangeable lens system adds complexity and cost. You’ll need to invest in additional lenses, which can significantly increase your overall budget.

Audio Quality: Capturing Clear Sound

Sound is an essential element of any video, and both camcorders offer decent audio recording capabilities. The XF105 features built-in stereo microphones, while the NEX-VG20EH allows for external microphone connectivity.
Canon XF105:

• Pros: The XF105’s built-in stereo microphones are sufficient for basic audio recording. The microphones are positioned strategically to capture clear sound, making it suitable for interviews or everyday filming.
• Cons: The built-in microphones lack the versatility of external microphones. You’re limited to the audio quality provided by the internal microphones, and you can’t easily adjust the sound direction or use specialized microphones for specific applications.

Sony NEX-VG20EH:

• Pros: The NEX-VG20EH’s external microphone connectivity provides flexibility for audio recording. You can connect high-quality microphones to capture professional-grade sound, enhancing the overall audio quality of your videos.
• Cons: The NEX-VG20EH doesn’t include built-in microphones, so you’ll need to purchase an external microphone separately. This adds to the overall cost and complexity of the setup.

Ergonomics and Design: Comfort and Control

The XF105 and the NEX-VG20EH offer different ergonomic designs, catering to different shooting styles. The XF105 features a traditional camcorder design with a handgrip and a viewfinder, while the NEX-VG20EH adopts a more compact, DSLR-like design.
Canon XF105:

• Pros: The XF105’s traditional camcorder design provides a comfortable grip and easy access to essential controls. The viewfinder allows for precise framing and shooting in bright daylight.
• Cons: The XF105’s larger size and weight can be cumbersome for extended shooting sessions. The design might not be as versatile as the NEX-VG20EH for shooting in tight spaces or from different angles.

Sony NEX-VG20EH:

• Pros: The NEX-VG20EH’s compact and DSLR-like design is more portable and versatile. The interchangeable lens system allows for greater creative control and flexibility in shooting angles.
• Cons: The NEX-VG20EH’s smaller size and lack of a dedicated handgrip might make it less comfortable to hold for extended periods. The viewfinder is optional, and you might need to rely on the LCD screen for framing, which can be less accurate in bright sunlight.

Features and Connectivity: Enhancing Your Workflow

Both camcorders offer a range of features and connectivity options to enhance your workflow and post-production process. The XF105 includes built-in Wi-Fi for wireless control and transfer, while the NEX-VG20EH provides advanced recording options and professional connectivity.
Canon XF105:

• Pros: The XF105’s built-in Wi-Fi allows for remote control and wireless file transfer. You can connect your smartphone or tablet to the camera for live monitoring, adjust settings, and transfer files directly to your device.
• Cons: The Wi-Fi capabilities are basic and might not be as robust as other camcorders. The wireless connection can be unreliable in crowded environments.

Sony NEX-VG20EH:

• Pros: The NEX-VG20EH offers advanced recording options, including professional codecs like AVCHD and XAVC-S. The camcorder also provides professional connectivity options, such as HDMI output and XLR audio inputs, for high-quality recording and post-production workflows.
• Cons: The NEX-VG20EH’s advanced features and connectivity options can be overwhelming for beginners. The camcorder might require a steeper learning curve to master all its functionalities.

Choosing the Right Camcorder: A Final Verdict

The choice between the Canon XF105 and the Sony NEX-VG20EH ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. The XF105 is a solid choice for beginners and those who prioritize ease of use and a built-in zoom lens. It’s well-suited for everyday filming, events, and capturing distant subjects.
The NEX-VG20EH, on the other hand, caters to more experienced users who seek greater creative control and image quality. Its interchangeable lens system, larger sensor, and professional connectivity options make it ideal for filmmakers and photographers who demand the best possible results.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

If you’re still unsure which camcorder is right for you, it’s worth exploring other options in the market. Consider factors like your budget, shooting style, and specific requirements. Researching reviews and comparing features of different camcorders can help you make a more informed decision.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which camcorder is better for low-light shooting?
A: The Sony NEX-VG20EH offers better low-light performance due to its larger APS-C sensor, providing better detail and less noise in dimly lit environments.
Q: Which camcorder is more suitable for shooting fast-paced action?
A: The Canon XF105 excels in capturing fast-paced action thanks to its high frame rate capabilities (up to 120fps), allowing for smooth slow-motion footage.
Q: Which camcorder offers more creative control over the image?
A: The Sony NEX-VG20EH provides greater creative control with its interchangeable lens system, allowing you to choose from a wide range of lenses and achieve different perspectives.
Q: Which camcorder is more budget-friendly?
A: The Canon XF105 is generally more affordable than the Sony NEX-VG20EH, especially when considering the cost of additional lenses for the NEX-VG20EH.
Q: Which camcorder is best for beginners?
A: The Canon XF105 is easier to use and navigate for beginners, thanks to its user-friendly interface and built-in zoom lens. The NEX-VG20EH might be overwhelming for those new to camcorder operation.
Ultimately, the decision of which camcorder to choose rests on your individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering the factors discussed above, you can select the best tool to capture your creative vision and bring your filmmaking dreams to life.