What To Know
- The Garmin VIRB, on the other hand, adopts a more rugged and compact design, resembling a small action camera.
- The Canon Legria FS37 generally sits in a mid-range price point, offering excellent value for its video quality and features.
- On the other hand, if you seek a rugged and compact camcorder for action sports, extreme activities, or immersive perspectives, the Garmin VIRB is a compelling option.
Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often come to mind: the Canon Legria FS37 and the Garmin VIRB. Both offer compelling features and capabilities, but their strengths lie in different areas. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each camcorder, helping you determine which one best suits your needs and preferences.
Design and Build
Canon Legria FS37: The Canon Legria FS37 boasts a classic camcorder design with a comfortable grip and intuitive button layout. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to carry and maneuver, particularly for handheld shooting. The rotating LCD screen provides flexibility for various shooting angles.
Garmin VIRB: The Garmin VIRB, on the other hand, adopts a more rugged and compact design, resembling a small action camera. Its durable build with a waterproof and shockproof casing makes it ideal for extreme environments and adventure activities. The VIRB’s design prioritizes portability and adaptability for capturing action-packed moments.
Video Quality and Features
Canon Legria FS37: The Canon Legria FS37 excels in video quality, offering Full HD 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second (fps). Its advanced image processing capabilities provide vibrant colors, sharp details, and excellent low-light performance. The FS37 also incorporates various shooting modes, including slow motion and time-lapse, enhancing creative possibilities.
Garmin VIRB: The Garmin VIRB focuses on capturing high-resolution videos in various formats, including 4K at 30 fps and 1080p at 120 fps. Its wide-angle lens captures immersive perspectives, making it suitable for action sports and extreme activities. The VIRB’s stabilization features help minimize camera shake, ensuring smooth footage even during high-intensity moments.
Audio Quality
Canon Legria FS37: The Canon Legria FS37 features a built-in stereo microphone that delivers clear and balanced audio. It also allows for external microphone connectivity, providing greater audio flexibility for professional-level recordings.
Garmin VIRB: The Garmin VIRB comes equipped with a built-in microphone that captures decent audio quality for most situations. However, for demanding audio scenarios, external microphone options are limited, and the audio quality may not be as crisp as the Canon Legria FS37.
Battery Life
Canon Legria FS37: The Canon Legria FS37 boasts a respectable battery life, allowing for extended recording sessions. Its battery can typically last for about 2 hours of continuous recording, depending on usage patterns.
Garmin VIRB: The Garmin VIRB’s battery life is relatively shorter, averaging around 1.5 hours of recording time. However, its compact size and lightweight design make it easier to carry spare batteries for extended shooting sessions.
Connectivity and Storage
Canon Legria FS37: The Canon Legria FS37 offers various connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and SD card slots. Its built-in Wi-Fi functionality enables wireless transfer of footage to smartphones and tablets.
Garmin VIRB: The Garmin VIRB provides similar connectivity features, including HDMI, USB, and microSD card slots. It also supports Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with smartphones and tablets.
Software and Features
Canon Legria FS37: The Canon Legria FS37 comes with user-friendly software for editing and sharing videos. It offers basic editing tools and features for trimming, adding transitions, and applying effects.
Garmin VIRB: The Garmin VIRB is known for its robust software platform, VIRB Edit, which provides comprehensive editing capabilities. It allows for advanced features like GPS tracking, data overlays, and video stabilization.
Price and Value
Canon Legria FS37: The Canon Legria FS37 generally sits in a mid-range price point, offering excellent value for its video quality and features.
Garmin VIRB: The Garmin VIRB typically falls into the higher price range, reflecting its rugged design, advanced features, and action-centric capabilities.
Choosing the Right Camcorder
Ultimately, the best camcorder for you depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize video quality, ease of use, and versatility, the Canon Legria FS37 is an excellent choice. Its classic design, advanced image processing, and user-friendly interface make it ideal for capturing everyday moments, family events, and even casual filmmaking.
On the other hand, if you seek a rugged and compact camcorder for action sports, extreme activities, or immersive perspectives, the Garmin VIRB is a compelling option. Its durable build, high-resolution video capabilities, and advanced software features cater to adrenaline-fueled adventures and demanding shooting scenarios.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Canon Legria FS37 vs. Garmin VIRB Debate
While the Canon Legria FS37 and Garmin VIRB offer distinct advantages, the camcorder market is vast and diverse. Other compelling options exist depending on your specific requirements. Consider exploring alternatives like action cameras from brands like GoPro and DJI, or dedicated filmmaking camcorders from Sony and Panasonic.
Remember, the best camcorder is the one that aligns with your personal needs, budget, and shooting preferences. Thoroughly research and compare different models before making a final decision.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q1: Can I use the Canon Legria FS37 for vlogging?
A1: Yes, the Canon Legria FS37 is a suitable choice for vlogging, thanks to its compact size, rotating LCD screen, and user-friendly interface. It also offers decent audio quality and various shooting modes for creative content creation.
Q2: Is the Garmin VIRB waterproof?
A2: Yes, the Garmin VIRB is waterproof up to a certain depth, making it ideal for underwater filming and other water-related activities. Check the specific model’s specifications for the exact waterproof rating.
Q3: What is the difference between the Canon Legria FS37 and the Canon Legria HF R80?
A3: The Canon Legria FS37 is a newer model compared to the HF R80. The FS37 offers improved video quality, a more compact design, and enhanced connectivity features. However, the HF R80 may be available at a lower price point.
Q4: Can I use the Garmin VIRB for live streaming?
A4: While the Garmin VIRB does not have built-in live streaming capabilities, you can use external devices or software to stream footage from the VIRB to platforms like YouTube or Facebook.
Q5: What are the best accessories for the Canon Legria FS37 and the Garmin VIRB?
A5: Common accessories for both camcorders include external microphones, tripods, lens filters, and carrying cases. Specific accessories may vary depending on the model and your individual needs.