What To Know
- While the M56 delivers solid image quality, the VG20E’s larger sensor gives it a clear advantage in low-light scenarios and provides greater creative control over depth of field.
- The VG20E adopts a more professional look and feel, with a larger body and a detachable handle.
- It also features a microphone input, a headphone jack, and a remote control terminal.
Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two contenders that often come up in discussions are the Canon Legria HF M56 and the Sony NEX VG20E. Both boast impressive features and capabilities, making it hard to decide which one reigns supreme. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each camcorder, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors
Canon Legria HF M56: This camcorder utilizes a 1/3.2-inch CMOS sensor with a 2.07 megapixel resolution. Canon’s proprietary DIGIC DV 4 image processor enhances image quality and provides clear, vibrant footage. The M56 offers a 32x optical zoom, allowing you to capture subjects from a distance without compromising quality.
Sony NEX VG20E: The VG20E stands out with its APS-C sized CMOS sensor, significantly larger than the M56’s. This translates to superior low-light performance, better depth of field control, and exceptional image quality, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. The VG20E also boasts a 16x optical zoom lens, providing a good balance between reach and image quality.
Verdict: While the M56 delivers solid image quality, the VG20E’s larger sensor gives it a clear advantage in low-light scenarios and provides greater creative control over depth of field.
Video Recording Features: A Symphony of Options
Canon Legria HF M56: The M56 supports AVCHD recording at resolutions up to 1920×1080 (1080p) at 50fps. It also offers various recording modes, including slow motion and a “Cinema” mode for a more cinematic look.
Sony NEX VG20E: The VG20E is a versatile recording powerhouse, offering a range of formats including AVCHD, H.264, and even uncompressed 1080p video. It features a 50 Mbps bitrate for high-quality video and supports frame rates up to 60fps. The VG20E also allows manual control over aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, providing greater creative freedom.
Verdict: The VG20E emerges as the winner in this category, offering a wider range of recording options, higher bitrates for better quality, and advanced manual controls.
Audio Quality: A Battle of Sound
Canon Legria HF M56: The M56 features built-in stereo microphones that capture decent sound quality. However, it lacks external microphone inputs, limiting audio recording options.
Sony NEX VG20E: The VG20E takes audio recording seriously. It includes a built-in stereo microphone with a shotgun-like design for better directional audio capture. Furthermore, the VG20E offers a dedicated XLR input for professional-grade external microphones, providing exceptional audio quality for filmmakers and videographers.
Verdict: The VG20E’s dedicated XLR input and superior microphone design make it the clear winner in terms of audio recording capabilities.
Design and Ergonomics: A Matter of Comfort
Canon Legria HF M56: The M56 boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to handle and carry around. Its intuitive controls and a large, rotating LCD screen contribute to a user-friendly experience.
Sony NEX VG20E: The VG20E adopts a more professional look and feel, with a larger body and a detachable handle. While this may require some getting used to, it provides greater stability and control, especially when shooting for extended periods. The VG20E also features a large, articulating LCD screen and a separate viewfinder for more precise framing.
Verdict: The choice here depends on your preference. The M56’s compact design is ideal for portability, while the VG20E’s more professional build offers enhanced stability and control.
Connectivity and Accessories: Expanding Your Horizons
Canon Legria HF M56: The M56 offers basic connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and AV outputs. It also supports SD card storage.
Sony NEX VG20E: The VG20E expands on connectivity with HDMI, USB, and composite video outputs. It also features a microphone input, a headphone jack, and a remote control terminal. The VG20E supports both SD and Memory Stick PRO Duo cards for storage.
Verdict: The VG20E’s more extensive connectivity options and wider range of accessories provide greater flexibility and expandability.
Battery Life: A Balancing Act
Canon Legria HF M56: The M56 boasts a decent battery life, capable of recording for approximately 1.5 hours on a single charge.
Sony NEX VG20E: The VG20E’s battery life is less impressive, lasting for around 1 hour on a single charge. However, it can be extended with the use of optional battery packs.
Verdict: The M56 has a slight edge in battery life, but the VG20E’s battery can be extended with additional packs.
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder for You
The Canon Legria HF M56 and the Sony NEX VG20E are both capable camcorders with distinct strengths and weaknesses. The M56 excels in its compact design, user-friendliness, and decent image quality.
However, the Sony NEX VG20E stands out with its superior image quality, versatile recording options, professional audio capabilities, and greater connectivity. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities.
If you prioritize portability, ease of use, and solid image quality, the Canon Legria HF M56 is a great option.
If you require exceptional image quality, advanced recording features, professional audio capabilities, and greater creative control, the Sony NEX VG20E is the better choice.
What You Need to Learn
Q1: Which camcorder is better for beginners?
A: The Canon Legria HF M56 is generally considered more beginner-friendly due to its user-friendly interface and compact design.
Q2: Which camcorder is better for low-light shooting?
A: The Sony NEX VG20E offers superior low-light performance thanks to its larger sensor.
Q3: Which camcorder is better for professional videographers?
A: The Sony NEX VG20E provides more professional features, including advanced manual controls, XLR audio input, and a wider range of recording options.
Q4: Which camcorder is more affordable?
A: The Canon Legria HF M56 is generally more affordable than the Sony NEX VG20E.
Q5: Which camcorder is better for shooting in 4K?
A: Neither camcorder supports 4K recording.