What To Know
- The Sony HDR-NX70U, however, goes a step further by offering XAVC S recording at 50 Mbps, allowing for higher-quality video with greater detail and clarity.
- This allows the microphone to automatically adjust its focus based on the zoom level, ensuring that the audio remains clear and balanced even when zooming in on distant subjects.
- The Sony HDR-NX70U, on the other hand, offers a more professional feel with a larger body and a retractable LCD screen.
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 HF R38 and the Sony HDR-NX70U. Both boast impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the victor? This comprehensive comparison delves into the strengths and weaknesses of each camcorder, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors
The image quality of a camcorder is paramount, as it dictates the overall visual experience. The Canon Legria HF R38 utilizes a 1/2.88-inch CMOS sensor, while the Sony HDR-NX70U features a 1/2.88-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor. Both sensors are capable of capturing high-quality images, but there are subtle differences.
The Sony HDR-NX70U’s Exmor R CMOS sensor is known for its exceptional low-light performance, thanks to its back-illuminated design. This means that the sensor’s photodiodes are positioned on the back of the chip, allowing for more light to reach them. As a result, the HDR-NX70U produces cleaner and brighter images in dimly lit environments.
On the other hand, the Canon Legria HF R38’s CMOS sensor delivers vibrant and detailed images, particularly in well-lit conditions. It excels in capturing colors accurately and producing crisp, sharp footage.
Video Recording Capabilities: A Battle of Frames and Formats
When it comes to video recording capabilities, both camcorders offer a range of options to suit various needs. The Canon Legria HF R38 records in AVCHD and MP4 formats, supporting resolutions up to 1920×1080 at 50p/60p. The Sony HDR-NX70U, however, goes a step further by offering XAVC S recording at 50 Mbps, allowing for higher-quality video with greater detail and clarity.
The Sony HDR-NX70U also boasts a higher frame rate capability, reaching up to 100 fps in 1280×720 resolution. This enables slow-motion playback, capturing action sequences with impressive detail. The Canon Legria HF R38, however, is limited to 50p/60p frame rates.
Lens and Zoom: Capturing the Big Picture
The lens and zoom capabilities of a camcorder play a crucial role in determining its versatility. The Canon Legria HF R38 features a 32x optical zoom lens, providing a wide range of focal lengths. This allows you to capture both wide-angle shots and close-up details. The Sony HDR-NX70U, however, surpasses this with a powerful 30x optical zoom lens, offering even greater flexibility for capturing distant subjects.
Both camcorders incorporate digital zoom functionality to further extend their reach, but it’s important to note that digital zoom often results in a decrease in image quality.
Audio Recording: Sounding Off
Audio quality is an often-overlooked aspect of camcorder selection. The Canon Legria HF R38 features a built-in stereo microphone, providing decent audio recording capabilities. However, the Sony HDR-NX70U steps up the game with a built-in stereo microphone with zoom mic functionality. This allows the microphone to automatically adjust its focus based on the zoom level, ensuring that the audio remains clear and balanced even when zooming in on distant subjects.
Design and Features: A User-Friendly Experience
Both camcorders are designed with user-friendliness in mind. The Canon Legria HF R38 boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around. It features a rotating LCD screen and a dedicated zoom lever for intuitive operation. The Sony HDR-NX70U, on the other hand, offers a more professional feel with a larger body and a retractable LCD screen. It also includes a built-in handle for added stability and control.
Feature-wise, both camcorders offer a range of options, including slow-motion recording, time-lapse capture, and various scene modes. The Sony HDR-NX70U, however, takes the lead with its advanced features like Picture Profile settings for greater creative control and a built-in GPS receiver for geo-tagging footage.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camcorder for You
Ultimately, the choice between the Canon Legria HF R38 and the Sony HDR-NX70U boils down to your specific needs and priorities.
Canon Legria HF R38:
- Pros: Compact and lightweight design, affordable price point, vibrant and detailed images in well-lit conditions.
- Cons: Limited low-light performance, lower frame rate capability compared to the Sony HDR-NX70U, basic audio recording.
Sony HDR-NX70U:
- Pros: Exceptional low-light performance, higher frame rate capability for slow-motion recording, powerful zoom lens, advanced features like Picture Profile settings and built-in GPS.
- Cons: Larger and heavier design, higher price point compared to the Canon Legria HF R38.
If you prioritize affordability, portability, and image quality in well-lit conditions, the Canon Legria HF R38 is an excellent choice. However, if you require exceptional low-light performance, advanced features, and a powerful zoom lens, the Sony HDR-NX70U is the superior option.
Beyond the Basics: A Look at Alternatives
While the Canon Legria HF R38 and Sony HDR-NX70U are strong contenders, it’s worth exploring other camcorders within their price range. Consider options like the Canon Legria HF G50, which offers 4K recording capabilities, or the Panasonic HC-VXF1, known for its excellent image stabilization.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which camcorder is best for beginners?
A: Both the Canon Legria HF R38 and Sony HDR-NX70U are relatively user-friendly and suitable for beginners. However, the Canon Legria HF R38’s simpler design and intuitive controls might make it slightly easier to grasp for first-time users.
Q: Which camcorder is better for low-light shooting?
A: The Sony HDR-NX70U excels in low-light conditions due to its Exmor R CMOS sensor. Its back-illuminated design captures more light, resulting in cleaner and brighter images.
Q: Which camcorder is better for capturing fast-moving action?
A: The Sony HDR-NX70U’s higher frame rate capability allows for smoother and more detailed slow-motion playback, making it ideal for capturing fast-paced action sequences.
Q: Which camcorder offers better audio quality?
A: The Sony HDR-NX70U’s built-in stereo microphone with zoom mic functionality provides superior audio recording capabilities, ensuring clear and balanced sound even when zooming in on distant subjects.
Q: Which camcorder is better for professional videographers?
A: While both camcorders offer impressive features, the Sony HDR-NX70U stands out with its advanced features like Picture Profile settings and a built-in GPS receiver, making it a more suitable choice for professional videographers seeking greater creative control and versatility.