What To Know
- Its ability to shoot in 1080p at 60fps provides smooth and cinematic visuals, making it a popular choice for action sports and adventure filmmaking.
- Battery life is a significant consideration for any camcorder, and both the Contour 2 and Sony NEX VG900E offer respectable performance in this regard.
- The Contour 2’s compact design allows for a smaller battery, resulting in a shorter recording time compared to the VG900E.
Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Contour 2 and the Sony NEX VG900E. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each camcorder, helping you determine which one best suits your filming requirements.
Design and Build Quality
The Contour 2 and Sony NEX VG900E take distinct approaches to design and build quality. The Contour 2, known for its ruggedness, boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it ideal for capturing action-packed moments. Its waterproof and shockproof construction ensures durability even in demanding environments.
On the other hand, the Sony NEX VG900E adopts a more professional look and feel. It features a larger body with a robust build, emphasizing stability and control. The VG900E’s design prioritizes ergonomics, providing a comfortable grip and access to essential controls.
Image Quality and Features
Both camcorders deliver excellent image quality, but their strengths lie in different areas. The Contour 2 excels in capturing vibrant and detailed footage, thanks to its wide-angle lens and high-resolution sensor. Its ability to shoot in 1080p at 60fps provides smooth and cinematic visuals, making it a popular choice for action sports and adventure filmmaking.
The Sony NEX VG900E, on the other hand, offers a more cinematic approach to image capture. Its interchangeable lens system provides flexibility in choosing the right lens for various shooting scenarios. The VG900E’s advanced image processing capabilities allow for professional-grade color grading and post-production adjustments.
Audio Recording
Audio quality is crucial for any video production, and both camcorders offer decent audio recording capabilities. The Contour 2 features a built-in microphone that captures clear and crisp audio, sufficient for most action-oriented videos. However, for more sophisticated audio recording, external microphones can be connected via the 3.5mm jack.
The Sony NEX VG900E takes audio recording to a higher level. It features a built-in stereo microphone with excellent sound quality, capturing nuanced audio even in challenging environments. The VG900E also supports external microphones, offering professional-grade audio recording options for filmmakers.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery life is a significant consideration for any camcorder, and both the Contour 2 and Sony NEX VG900E offer respectable performance in this regard. The Contour 2’s compact design allows for a smaller battery, resulting in a shorter recording time compared to the VG900E. However, its battery life is sufficient for most action-packed shoots.
The Sony NEX VG900E boasts a longer battery life, allowing for extended recording sessions. Its larger body accommodates a more substantial battery, ensuring uninterrupted filming. Both camcorders offer various connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and SD card slots, for easy data transfer and external device integration.
Price and Value
The Contour 2 and Sony NEX VG900E fall into different price brackets, reflecting their target audience and feature sets. The Contour 2, being a more compact and action-oriented camcorder, is priced more affordably. Its rugged design and user-friendly interface make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious filmmakers and action sports enthusiasts.
The Sony NEX VG900E, with its professional-grade features and interchangeable lens system, commands a higher price tag. It caters to filmmakers and videographers who demand high-quality image capture and advanced recording capabilities.
Choosing the Right Camcorder: Contour 2 vs Sony NEX VG900E
The choice between the Contour 2 and Sony NEX VG900E ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a rugged and compact camcorder for capturing action-packed moments, the Contour 2 is an excellent option. Its wide-angle lens, high-resolution sensor, and waterproof design make it ideal for adventure filmmaking and outdoor activities.
However, if you prioritize cinematic image quality, professional-grade audio recording, and the flexibility of interchangeable lenses, the Sony NEX VG900E is a more suitable choice. Its advanced features and ergonomic design cater to experienced filmmakers and videographers who demand high-quality results.
The Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Camcorders
Both the Contour 2 and Sony NEX VG900E are exceptional camcorders that excel in their respective niches. The Contour 2 stands out for its ruggedness, user-friendliness, and affordability, making it a great choice for action sports and adventure filmmaking. The Sony NEX VG900E, on the other hand, offers professional-grade features, cinematic image quality, and a flexible lens system, catering to experienced filmmakers and videographers.
Ultimately, the best camcorder for you will depend on your individual needs, filming style, and budget. Carefully consider the pros and cons of each camcorder before making your decision, and choose the one that best aligns with your filmmaking aspirations.
Questions You May Have
Q: What are the main differences between the Contour 2 and Sony NEX VG900E?
A: The main differences lie in their design, features, and target audience. The Contour 2 is rugged, compact, and affordable, ideal for action sports and adventure filmmaking. The Sony NEX VG900E is more professional, offering cinematic image quality, interchangeable lenses, and advanced recording capabilities.
Q: Which camcorder is better for beginners?
A: The Contour 2 is generally considered more beginner-friendly due to its user-friendly interface and straightforward operation. However, both camcorders have learning curves, and the best choice depends on your individual learning style and preferences.
Q: Can I use external microphones with both camcorders?
A: Yes, both the Contour 2 and Sony NEX VG900E offer external microphone connectivity options via 3.5mm jacks.
Q: What kind of editing software is recommended for these camcorders?
A: Both camcorders produce high-quality footage that can be edited using popular video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve.
Q: Which camcorder is better for capturing underwater footage?
A: The Contour 2 is specifically designed for underwater filming, as it is waterproof and shockproof. The Sony NEX VG900E, however, requires an underwater housing to capture footage beneath the surface.