Canon Legria FS36 vs Canon Legria Mini: Camcorder Comparison for the Win!

Choosing the perfect camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. If you’re considering a Canon camcorder, two popular choices stand out: the Canon Legria FS36 and the Canon Legria Mini. Both boast impressive features and capabilities, but deciding which one fits your needs best requires a closer look. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each model, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Portability

The Canon Legria FS36 and the Canon Legria Mini differ significantly in design and portability. The FS36 adopts a traditional camcorder design, featuring a large, comfortable handgrip and a dedicated zoom lever. Its larger size and weight make it more substantial but might feel less portable for on-the-go shooting.
The Legria Mini, on the other hand, is designed for ultimate portability. Its compact size and lightweight body make it ideal for travel and capturing spontaneous moments. The Mini’s flip-out touchscreen offers a more intuitive user experience, especially for vlogging or shooting from different angles.

Video Quality and Features

Both the FS36 and the Mini deliver exceptional video quality, but they cater to different needs. The FS36 boasts a powerful 57x optical zoom lens, allowing you to capture distant subjects with impressive clarity. It also features a 3.28-megapixel CMOS sensor, ensuring high-resolution video recordings. Advanced features like slow-motion recording and manual controls provide greater creative freedom.
The Legria Mini, despite its smaller size, doesn’t compromise on video quality. It incorporates a 1920×1080 Full HD sensor, capturing crisp and detailed footage. Its wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing expansive landscapes or intimate close-ups. The Mini also offers various shooting modes, including time-lapse and slow-motion, enhancing your storytelling capabilities.

Battery Life and Storage

The Canon Legria FS36 packs a powerful battery that can provide up to 2 hours of continuous recording. This extended battery life is a boon for longer shoots, especially when traveling or filming events. The FS36 also supports SDXC memory cards, offering ample storage for your video footage.
The Canon Legria Mini, due to its smaller size, features a more compact battery with a shorter recording time. However, its compact design allows it to fit easily into a pocket or bag, making it convenient for carrying around. The Mini also supports SDXC memory cards, providing ample storage for your videos.

Connectivity and Accessories

Both the FS36 and the Mini offer a range of connectivity options for transferring footage or connecting to external devices. The FS36 features HDMI output for connecting to a television or monitor, USB for transferring files to a computer, and an optional wireless adapter for remote control and live streaming.
The Legria Mini also offers HDMI output, USB connectivity, and a microphone jack for enhanced audio recording. Its compact design makes it compatible with a variety of accessories, including external microphones, tripods, and stabilizers.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the best camcorder for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Canon Legria FS36 if:

• You prioritize powerful zoom capabilities for capturing distant subjects.
• You need extended battery life for longer shoots.
• You prefer a traditional camcorder design with a comfortable grip.
• You value advanced features like manual controls and slow-motion recording.

Choose the Canon Legria Mini if:

• You prioritize portability and ease of use for on-the-go shooting.
• You want a compact and lightweight camcorder for travel and vlogging.
• You prefer a touchscreen interface for intuitive control.
• You need a versatile camcorder for various shooting scenarios.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring the Canon Legria Ecosystem

Both the Canon Legria FS36 and the Canon Legria Mini are part of a broader ecosystem of Canon camcorders. This means you can access a range of accessories, software, and services designed to enhance your filmmaking experience. Consider exploring the following:

• Canon’s Image Transfer Utility: This software allows you to easily transfer footage from your camcorder to your computer, manage your media files, and even create simple movies.
• Canon Connect Station: This device acts as a central hub for storing and sharing your photos and videos. You can connect your camcorder to the Connect Station, wirelessly transfer your content, and even create slideshows or movies.
• Canon’s Creative Cloud: This subscription-based service offers a suite of editing tools for refining your videos and adding professional touches.

Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Camcorders

The Canon Legria FS36 and the Canon Legria Mini are both exceptional camcorders, each excelling in different areas. The FS36 caters to those seeking advanced features and powerful zoom capabilities, while the Mini prioritizes portability and ease of use. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and shooting style.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use the Canon Legria FS36 and the Canon Legria Mini for vlogging?
A: Yes, both camcorders are suitable for vlogging. The FS36 offers a traditional camcorder design and a larger sensor for better video quality. The Mini’s compact size, flip-out touchscreen, and wide-angle lens make it more convenient for vlogging on the go.
Q: What are the differences in audio quality between the two camcorders?
A: Both camcorders offer built-in microphones, but the FS36 features a dedicated stereo microphone for better sound recording. The Mini also has a microphone jack for connecting an external microphone for enhanced audio.
Q: Which camcorder is better for shooting in low-light conditions?
A: The Canon Legria FS36 generally performs better in low-light conditions due to its larger sensor and more advanced image processing capabilities.
Q: Can I edit the footage from both camcorders on a computer?
A: Yes, you can edit the footage from both camcorders on a computer using video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve.
Q: Are there any additional accessories available for the Canon Legria FS36 and the Canon Legria Mini?
A: Yes, both camcorders have a range of accessories available, including external microphones, tripods, stabilizers, and carrying cases. You can find these accessories at most electronics retailers or online.