Canon Legria HF R28 vs Sony Bloggie Live: The Ultimate Camcorder Showdown

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially with the wide range of options available in the market. If you’re looking for a compact and user-friendly device to capture your precious memories, the Canon Legria HF R28 and the Sony Bloggie Live are two popular contenders worth considering. Both camcorders offer impressive features and capabilities, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each device, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.

Design and Ergonomics: Compact vs. Pocket-Sized

The Canon Legria HF R28 boasts a sleek and traditional camcorder design with a comfortable grip and a rotating LCD screen. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around, but it’s not as pocket-friendly as the Sony Bloggie Live. The Bloggie Live, on the other hand, is a true pocket-sized camcorder, designed to be incredibly portable and discreet. It features a flip-out LCD screen that allows you to record from different angles.
Canon Legria HF R28:

• Pros: Comfortable grip, rotating LCD screen, compact size.
• Cons: Not as pocket-friendly as the Bloggie Live.

Sony Bloggie Live:

• Pros: Extremely portable, pocket-sized design, flip-out LCD screen.
• Cons: Less comfortable grip, limited screen size.

Video Quality: Full HD vs. HD

Both the Canon Legria HF R28 and the Sony Bloggie Live offer Full HD video recording capabilities, but their image quality and features vary. The Canon Legria HF R28 features a 32GB internal memory and supports SDXC cards, allowing you to capture hours of footage. It also boasts a 29.8mm wide-angle lens and an advanced image processor that delivers sharp and detailed videos. The Sony Bloggie Live, while offering Full HD recording, has a smaller sensor and a less sophisticated image processor. This can lead to slightly lower image quality in low-light conditions compared to the Canon Legria HF R28.
Canon Legria HF R28:

• Pros: Full HD video recording, 32GB internal memory, SDXC card support, 29.8mm wide-angle lens, advanced image processor.
• Cons: None.

Sony Bloggie Live:

• Pros: Full HD video recording, compact design.
• Cons: Smaller sensor, less sophisticated image processor, limited storage capacity.

Features and Functionality: Advanced vs. Basic

The Canon Legria HF R28 packs a range of advanced features that enhance your recording experience. It includes features like zoom microphone, slow-motion recording, and face detection. The Sony Bloggie Live, on the other hand, offers a more basic set of features, focusing on simplicity and ease of use. It lacks advanced features like zoom microphone and slow-motion recording, but it does include built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing and live streaming.
Canon Legria HF R28:

• Pros: Zoom microphone, slow-motion recording, face detection, advanced editing features.
• Cons: None.

Sony Bloggie Live:

• Pros: Built-in Wi-Fi, live streaming, easy to use.
• Cons: Limited features, no zoom microphone, no slow-motion recording.

Battery Life: Long-Lasting vs. Short-Lived

The Canon Legria HF R28 boasts a longer battery life compared to the Sony Bloggie Live. This is crucial for extended recording sessions or travel. The Sony Bloggie Live, with its smaller size and limited features, has a shorter battery life, requiring frequent charging.
Canon Legria HF R28:

• Pros: Longer battery life.
• Cons: None.

Sony Bloggie Live:

• Pros: None.
• Cons: Shorter battery life.

Price: Affordable vs. Budget-Friendly

The Sony Bloggie Live is generally more affordable than the Canon Legria HF R28. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, the Canon Legria HF R28 offers more advanced features and better video quality for a slightly higher price.
Canon Legria HF R28:

• Pros: Advanced features, better video quality.
• Cons: Higher price.

Sony Bloggie Live:

• Pros: Affordable price.
• Cons: Limited features, lower video quality.

Making the Right Choice: Your Needs and Preferences

Ultimately, the best camcorder for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability and simplicity, the Sony Bloggie Live is a great choice. Its pocket-sized design and easy-to-use interface make it ideal for casual recording and sharing. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more feature-rich camcorder with superior video quality and extended battery life, the Canon Legria HF R28 is a better option. Its advanced features and robust performance make it suitable for more serious videographers and those who want to capture high-quality footage.

The Verdict: A Tale of Two Camcorders

The Canon Legria HF R28 and the Sony Bloggie Live are both excellent camcorders, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The Canon Legria HF R28 excels in video quality, features, and battery life, making it a great choice for serious videographers. The Sony Bloggie Live, on the other hand, shines in its portability, affordability, and ease of use, making it an ideal option for casual recording and sharing. Ultimately, the best camcorder for you depends on your specific needs and priorities.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. Can I use the Canon Legria HF R28 for live streaming?
No, the Canon Legria HF R28 does not have built-in Wi-Fi or live streaming capabilities.
2. What is the maximum recording time for the Sony Bloggie Live?
The recording time for the Sony Bloggie Live depends on the size of the memory card. With a full memory card, you can record for several hours.
3. Does the Canon Legria HF R28 have a built-in microphone?
Yes, the Canon Legria HF R28 has a built-in zoom microphone that captures clear audio.
4. Is the Sony Bloggie Live compatible with external microphones?
Yes, the Sony Bloggie Live has a microphone jack for external microphones.
5. Can I edit videos on the Canon Legria HF R28?
Yes, the Canon Legria HF R28 has basic editing features built-in, allowing you to trim, add transitions, and apply effects to your videos.