What To Know
- The heart of any camcorder lies in its image sensor, and both the Canon Legria FS37 and Panasonic HC-X800 boast impressive capabilities.
- On the other hand, the Panasonic HC-X800 features a more modest 20x optical zoom lens, but it compensates with a 40x intelligent zoom.
- If you prioritize image quality, especially in low-light conditions, the Panasonic HC-X800’s larger sensor and 4K recording capabilities make it a compelling choice.
Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the market are the Canon Legria FS37 and the Panasonic HC-X800. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, making it difficult to decide which one fits your needs best. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each camcorder, helping you make an informed decision.
Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors
The heart of any camcorder lies in its image sensor, and both the Canon Legria FS37 and Panasonic HC-X800 boast impressive capabilities. The FS37 utilizes a 1/2.84-inch CMOS sensor, while the HC-X800 features a slightly larger 1/2.3-inch MOS sensor. This difference in sensor size translates to a noticeable difference in image quality, especially in low-light conditions.
The Panasonic HC-X800’s larger sensor captures more light, resulting in better low-light performance and reduced noise. This is particularly beneficial when filming in dimly lit environments or during evening events. The Canon Legria FS37, despite its smaller sensor, still delivers decent image quality, but it may struggle to match the HC-X800’s clarity in low-light scenarios.
Lens: The Window to Your World
The lens is another crucial element that determines the quality of your footage. Both camcorders offer impressive zoom capabilities, but their lens designs differ significantly. The Canon Legria FS37 boasts a 57x optical zoom lens, allowing you to capture distant subjects with ease. This powerful zoom is further enhanced by a 20x digital zoom, extending the reach even further.
On the other hand, the Panasonic HC-X800 features a more modest 20x optical zoom lens, but it compensates with a 40x intelligent zoom. While the optical zoom may seem less powerful, the intelligent zoom utilizes advanced algorithms to maintain image quality even at higher zoom levels. Both camcorders offer manual controls, allowing you to adjust aperture, shutter speed, and focus for greater creative freedom.
Video Recording Capabilities: Capture the Action
Both the Canon Legria FS37 and Panasonic HC-X800 are capable of recording high-quality video in various formats and resolutions. The FS37 supports AVCHD and MP4 recording, allowing you to choose the best format for your needs. It can record Full HD video at 1920×1080 resolution at up to 50 frames per second, ensuring smooth and detailed footage.
The Panasonic HC-X800 also supports AVCHD and MP4 recording, but it goes a step further by offering 4K recording at 3840×2160 resolution. This higher resolution captures even more detail, making it ideal for large-screen viewing and editing. Both camcorders offer various frame rates, including slow-motion options for capturing fast-paced action.
Audio: Sounding Good
Audio quality is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in creating an immersive viewing experience. The Canon Legria FS37 features a built-in stereo microphone, capable of capturing clear and crisp audio. However, it lacks advanced audio features like wind noise reduction or external microphone input.
The Panasonic HC-X800 takes audio quality to another level with its built-in Dolby Digital 5.1 channel surround sound recording. This feature captures a more immersive and realistic sound experience, especially when filming scenes with multiple sound sources. Additionally, the HC-X800 offers a dedicated external microphone input, allowing you to connect a higher-quality microphone for professional-grade audio.
Design and Features: User Friendliness
The design and features of a camcorder can significantly impact its user experience. The Canon Legria FS37 boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around. It features a swiveling LCD screen and a built-in electronic viewfinder, providing multiple viewing options. The FS37 also includes a variety of shooting modes, including manual controls for more experienced users.
The Panasonic HC-X800, on the other hand, has a slightly larger and heavier design, but it still remains portable. It boasts a larger and brighter LCD screen, providing a more immersive viewing experience. The HC-X800 also features a built-in electronic viewfinder and a variety of shooting modes, including manual controls for advanced users.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder
Ultimately, the choice between the Canon Legria FS37 and the Panasonic HC-X800 depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize image quality, especially in low-light conditions, the Panasonic HC-X800’s larger sensor and 4K recording capabilities make it a compelling choice. Its advanced audio features and external microphone input also make it ideal for capturing high-quality sound.
However, if you value portability and a powerful zoom lens, the Canon Legria FS37 offers a more compact and lightweight design with a 57x optical zoom. It’s a great option for those who need a versatile camcorder for everyday use.
Beyond the Comparison: Unveiling the Winner
While both camcorders offer impressive features, the Panasonic HC-X800 emerges as the winner for its superior image quality, advanced audio capabilities, and 4K recording capabilities. Its larger sensor and intelligent zoom make it a more versatile choice for various filming scenarios, including low-light conditions and capturing distant subjects.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference in battery life between the two camcorders?
The Canon Legria FS37 offers a longer battery life than the Panasonic HC-X800. However, both camcorders can be used with external batteries for extended recording sessions.
2. Which camcorder offers better stability and image stabilization?
Both camcorders feature advanced image stabilization systems, but the Panasonic HC-X800 offers slightly better stability, especially at higher zoom levels.
3. Can both camcorders connect to a smartphone for remote control and live streaming?
Yes, both camcorders offer Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control and live streaming to smartphones.
4. What are the key differences in price between the two camcorders?
The Panasonic HC-X800 is generally priced higher than the Canon Legria FS37 due to its advanced features and 4K recording capabilities.
5. Which camcorder is better for filming weddings and other special events?
The Panasonic HC-X800 is a better choice for filming weddings and other special events due to its superior image quality, advanced audio capabilities, and 4K recording capabilities. Its larger sensor and intelligent zoom make it ideal for capturing important moments in detail.