Unveiling the Ultimate Showdown: Canon Legria HF R36 vs Sony Bloggie Live – Which Reigns Supreme in the World of Camcorders?

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a vast array of options. Two popular contenders in the compact camcorder market are the Canon Legria HF R36 and the **Sony Bloggie Live**. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the champion? 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.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon Legria HF R36 boasts a sleek and compact design, making it easy to carry around. Its lightweight construction and ergonomic grip ensure comfortable handling, even during extended recording sessions. The Sony Bloggie Live, on the other hand, adopts a more modern and minimalist approach, with its distinctive cube-like design. While it’s slightly larger than the Legria HF R36, it remains portable and easy to use.
In terms of build quality, both camcorders are well-made and durable. The Legria HF R36 features a sturdy plastic body, while the Bloggie Live utilizes a combination of plastic and metal, giving it a more premium feel.

Video Quality

When it comes to video quality, both camcorders deliver impressive results. The Canon Legria HF R36 utilizes a 32GB internal memory and a 32x optical zoom lens, capturing crisp and detailed footage in Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080). Its advanced image stabilization system effectively minimizes camera shake, ensuring smooth and steady videos.
The Sony Bloggie Live, despite its smaller sensor, also captures high-quality Full HD videos. Its wide-angle lens captures a wider field of view, perfect for capturing group shots and landscapes. It also features a built-in microphone for clear audio recording.

Features and Functionality

The Canon Legria HF R36 offers a comprehensive set of features, including:

• Advanced Manual Controls: Allows for greater control over video settings like exposure, white balance, and focus.
• Slow Motion and Fast Motion: Enables creative video effects, perfect for capturing action sequences or time-lapses.
• Built-in Wi-Fi: Allows for wireless video transfer and remote control via a smartphone app.

The Sony Bloggie Live also boasts a range of features, such as:

• Live Streaming: Enables real-time video streaming to popular platforms like YouTube and Facebook.
• Built-in USB Charging: Allows for convenient charging on the go.
• Wide-angle Lens: Captures a wider field of view, ideal for capturing large groups or expansive scenes.

Battery Life

Both camcorders offer respectable battery life. The Canon Legria HF R36 can record for up to 2 hours on a single charge, while the Sony Bloggie Live provides approximately 1.5 hours of recording time. However, the Bloggie Live’s compact design and built-in USB charging make it easier to recharge on the go.

Price and Value

The Canon Legria HF R36 is generally priced slightly higher than the Sony Bloggie Live. However, its advanced features and superior video quality justify the price difference for many users. The Bloggie Live, on the other hand, offers excellent value for its price, especially for those seeking a compact and affordable camcorder with live streaming capabilities.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder

Ultimately, the best camcorder for you depends on your specific needs and priorities. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Canon Legria HF R36 if:

• You prioritize video quality and manual control over features like live streaming.
• You need a camcorder with a powerful zoom lens for capturing distant subjects.
• You’re willing to pay a premium for a feature-rich and reliable camcorder.

Choose the Sony Bloggie Live if:

• You need a compact and portable camcorder with live streaming capabilities.
• You prioritize affordability and ease of use.
• You want a camcorder with a wide-angle lens for capturing expansive scenes.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Additional Considerations

While the above comparison highlights the key differences between the Canon Legria HF R36 and the Sony Bloggie Live, there are several other factors to consider:

• Audio Quality: Both camcorders offer decent audio quality, but the Legria HF R36 features a more advanced microphone system.
• Connectivity Options: The Legria HF R36 offers a wider range of connectivity options, including HDMI and USB.
• Accessories: Both camcorders are compatible with a range of accessories, such as external microphones and tripods.

Final Thoughts: A Farewell to the Camcorder Battle

Choosing between the Canon Legria HF R36 and the Sony Bloggie Live is not a simple task. Both camcorders excel in different areas, offering a unique blend of features and capabilities. Ultimately, the best camcorder for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
By carefully considering the factors discussed in this comparison, you can make an informed decision and choose the camcorder that best suits your filmmaking aspirations.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use the Canon Legria HF R36 or the Sony Bloggie Live for professional video production?
A: Both camcorders are suitable for amateur and semi-professional video production. However, if you’re looking for a professional-grade camcorder with advanced features and image quality, you may want to explore other options.
Q: Does the Sony Bloggie Live support 4K video recording?
A: No, the Sony Bloggie Live only supports Full HD (1080p) video recording.
Q: Can I edit videos directly on the camcorder?
A: Both camcorders offer basic editing capabilities, but for more advanced editing, you’ll need to transfer the footage to a computer.
Q: What are the main differences between the Canon Legria HF R36 and the Sony Bloggie Live?
A: The Canon Legria HF R36 offers superior video quality, advanced manual controls, and a powerful zoom lens. The Sony Bloggie Live stands out with its compact design, live streaming capabilities, and affordability.