Canon Legria HF G50 vs JVC Everio GZ EX355: Which Camcorder Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the perfect camcorder can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available. Two popular contenders in the market are the Canon Legria HF G50 and the JVC Everio GZ-EX355. Both camcorders offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each model, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon Legria HF G50 boasts a sleek and compact design, making it easy to carry around. Its lightweight construction and ergonomic grip enhance user comfort during extended recording sessions. On the other hand, the JVC Everio GZ-EX355 features a more traditional camcorder design with a larger body and a rotating LCD screen.
Key Differences:

• Size and Weight: The Canon Legria HF G50 is smaller and lighter than the JVC Everio GZ-EX355.
• Grip and Ergonomics: The Canon Legria HF G50 has a better grip and more ergonomic design, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods.
• Screen Rotation: The JVC Everio GZ-EX355 has a rotating LCD screen, which provides more flexibility for shooting from different angles.

Image Quality and Video Recording

Both camcorders offer excellent image quality, but there are subtle differences in their video recording capabilities. The Canon Legria HF G50 features a 32.5mm wide-angle lens and a 1/2.84-inch CMOS sensor, capturing high-resolution videos with vibrant colors and sharp details. The JVC Everio GZ-EX355 boasts a 29.8mm wide-angle lens and a 1/4.7-inch CMOS sensor, delivering exceptional image clarity and low-light performance.
Key Differences:

• Lens: The Canon Legria HF G50 has a wider lens, allowing for a wider field of view.
• Sensor Size: The JVC Everio GZ-EX355 has a smaller sensor, which can result in better low-light performance.
• Video Resolution: Both camcorders can record in 1080p resolution, but the Canon Legria HF G50 offers higher frame rates for smoother slow-motion playback.

Features and Functionality

Both camcorders are packed with features to enhance your video recording experience. The Canon Legria HF G50 includes a built-in microphone, a 3.5-inch touchscreen LCD, and advanced recording modes such as slow motion and time-lapse. The JVC Everio GZ-EX355 offers a similar set of features, including a built-in microphone, a 3-inch LCD, and advanced recording modes.
Key Differences:

• Touchscreen LCD: The Canon Legria HF G50 has a touchscreen LCD, which provides more intuitive control over the camera settings.
• Advanced Recording Modes: Both camcorders offer a range of advanced recording modes, but the Canon Legria HF G50 has a slightly wider selection.
• Connectivity: The JVC Everio GZ-EX355 has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, making it easier to share your videos wirelessly.

Battery Life and Storage

Both camcorders offer decent battery life, but the JVC Everio GZ-EX355 has a slight edge. The Canon Legria HF G50 can record for up to 2 hours on a single charge, while the JVC Everio GZ-EX355 can record for up to 3 hours. Both camcorders support SD card storage, allowing for ample recording time.
Key Differences:

• Battery Life: The JVC Everio GZ-EX355 has a longer battery life than the Canon Legria HF G50.
• Storage: Both camcorders support SD card storage, but the JVC Everio GZ-EX355 has a higher maximum storage capacity.

Audio Recording

Both camcorders feature built-in microphones for capturing audio, but the JVC Everio GZ-EX355 has a slight advantage in audio quality. The JVC Everio GZ-EX355 uses a stereo microphone, which provides better sound separation and clarity. The Canon Legria HF G50 also offers a built-in microphone, but its audio quality is not as impressive as the JVC Everio GZ-EX355.
Key Differences:

• Microphone Type: The JVC Everio GZ-EX355 has a stereo microphone, while the Canon Legria HF G50 has a mono microphone.
• Audio Quality: The JVC Everio GZ-EX355 offers better audio quality than the Canon Legria HF G50.

Price and Value

Both camcorders are priced competitively, but the Canon Legria HF G50 is slightly more affordable. The Canon Legria HF G50 offers a good balance of features and performance at a reasonable price. The JVC Everio GZ-EX355, on the other hand, is slightly more expensive, but it offers a few key advantages, such as better audio quality and a longer battery life.
Key Differences:

• Price: The Canon Legria HF G50 is more affordable than the JVC Everio GZ-EX355.
• Value: Both camcorders offer good value for money, but the Canon Legria HF G50 might be a better choice for budget-conscious buyers.

The Verdict: Which Camcorder Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Canon Legria HF G50 and the JVC Everio GZ-EX355 depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Choose the Canon Legria HF G50 if:

• You prioritize a compact and lightweight design.
• You want a touchscreen LCD for intuitive control.
• You are on a tight budget.

Choose the JVC Everio GZ-EX355 if:

• You need a camcorder with excellent audio quality.
• You require a longer battery life.
• You want a camcorder with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity.

Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations

While this comparison has covered the key aspects of both camcorders, it is important to consider other factors that might influence your decision:

• Shooting Style: Are you planning to shoot handheld or on a tripod? The Canon Legria HF G50’s compact design might be more suitable for handheld shooting, while the JVC Everio GZ-EX355’s larger body might be better for tripod use.
• Advanced Features: Do you need specific features like slow motion, time-lapse, or manual controls? Both camcorders offer a range of advanced features, so carefully consider your needs.
• User Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews from other users to gain insights into the real-world performance of each camcorder.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

The Canon Legria HF G50 and the JVC Everio GZ-EX355 are both capable camcorders that offer excellent image quality and a range of features. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs, priorities, and budget. Take the time to carefully consider all the factors discussed in this comparison and make an informed decision that aligns with your video recording goals.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q1: Which camcorder is better for beginners?
A: Both the Canon Legria HF G50 and the JVC Everio GZ-EX355 are user-friendly and suitable for beginners. However, the Canon Legria HF G50 might be slightly easier to use due to its touchscreen LCD and intuitive controls.
Q2: Can I use these camcorders for professional video production?
A: While these camcorders offer excellent image quality, they are primarily designed for consumer use. If you need professional-grade features and capabilities, you might want to consider a more advanced camcorder.
Q3: Which camcorder is better for vlogging?
A: Both camcorders can be used for vlogging, but the Canon Legria HF G50’s compact design and touchscreen LCD might be more convenient for handheld shooting.
Q4: Can I connect these camcorders to a computer?
A: Yes, both camcorders can be connected to a computer via USB for transferring videos and charging the battery.
Q5: What are the warranty terms for these camcorders?
A: The warranty terms vary depending on the retailer and the specific model. It is recommended to check the warranty information provided by the manufacturer or retailer before purchasing.