Canon Vixia HF G20 vs Contour Roam: The Battle of the Camcorders! Which One Will Come Out on Top? Discover the Winner!

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a multitude of options. Two popular contenders in the market are the Canon Vixia HF G20 and the Contour Roam, each boasting unique features and capabilities. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of these two camcorders, helping you decide which one best suits your filming needs.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon Vixia HF G20 is a traditional camcorder, featuring a compact and ergonomic design. It’s built with a durable plastic body and a comfortable handgrip. The Contour Roam, on the other hand, is a more rugged action camera designed for capturing extreme activities. It boasts a durable waterproof and shockproof housing, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.

Image Quality and Features

Canon Vixia HF G20

• Image Sensor: 1/2.84-inch CMOS sensor
• Video Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (1080p) at 60fps
• Optical Zoom: 20x
• Features: Manual controls, slow motion, time-lapse, and built-in microphone.

The Vixia HF G20 excels in video quality, delivering sharp and detailed images with accurate color reproduction. Its 20x optical zoom allows for capturing distant subjects with impressive clarity. The manual controls offer greater control over exposure, aperture, and other settings, making it suitable for more experienced filmmakers.
Contour Roam

• Image Sensor: 1/2.5-inch CMOS sensor
• Video Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (1080p) at 30fps
• Optical Zoom: None
• Features: Wide-angle lens, built-in LCD screen, and various mounting accessories.

The Contour Roam prioritizes versatility and durability over image quality. Its wide-angle lens captures a wider field of view, perfect for action shots and capturing landscapes. While its video quality is decent, it lacks the detail and sharpness of the Vixia HF G20.

Audio Quality

Canon Vixia HF G20
The Vixia HF G20 features a built-in stereo microphone that captures clear and balanced audio. It also offers an external microphone jack for using high-quality external microphones.
Contour Roam
The Contour Roam has a built-in microphone, but its audio quality is not as impressive as the Vixia HF G20. The microphone is prone to picking up wind noise, which can be a significant drawback in outdoor settings.

Battery Life

Canon Vixia HF G20
The Vixia HF G20 boasts a decent battery life, offering up to 2 hours of continuous recording.
Contour Roam
The Contour Roam has a shorter battery life than the Vixia HF G20, lasting around 1.5 hours on a single charge. The battery life can be further reduced in cold temperatures.

Connectivity and Storage

Canon Vixia HF G20
The Vixia HF G20 offers various connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and SD card slots. It allows for easy transfer of footage to computers and other devices.
Contour Roam
The Contour Roam features a micro-USB port for charging and data transfer. It also supports microSD cards for storing footage.

Ease of Use

Canon Vixia HF G20
The Vixia HF G20 is relatively easy to use, with a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. It’s a good choice for both beginners and experienced users.
Contour Roam
The Contour Roam is designed for simplicity and ease of use. Its compact size and straightforward controls make it easy to operate even for those unfamiliar with action cameras.

Price and Value

Canon Vixia HF G20
The Vixia HF G20 is priced higher than the Contour Roam. However, it offers better image quality, audio, and features, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking professional-grade footage.
Contour Roam
The Contour Roam is a more affordable option, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers. Its rugged design and versatility make it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.

The Verdict: Which Camcorder Should You Choose?

The choice between the Canon Vixia HF G20 and the Contour Roam ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Choose the Canon Vixia HF G20 if:

• You prioritize high-quality video and audio.
• You need a camcorder with manual controls for greater creative control.
• You’re looking for a versatile camcorder suitable for various shooting scenarios.

Choose the Contour Roam if:

• You need a rugged and waterproof action camera for extreme activities.
• You’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability.
• You want a simple and easy-to-use camera for capturing action shots.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Comparison

While this blog post has provided a comprehensive comparison of the Canon Vixia HF G20 and the Contour Roam, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Beyond the technical specifications and features, think about the type of content you want to create, your shooting style, and your budget.
Ultimately, the best camcorder is the one that empowers you to tell your stories and capture your experiences in the most compelling way possible.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: What is the best camcorder for beginners?
A: For beginners, the Canon Vixia HF G20 is a good choice due to its user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. It offers a balance of features and ease of use, making it suitable for those new to camcorder filming.
Q: Which camcorder is better for action sports?
A: The Contour Roam is designed for action sports, thanks to its rugged waterproof housing and wide-angle lens. It’s ideal for capturing fast-paced and dynamic activities.
Q: Can I use the Canon Vixia HF G20 for vlogging?
A: Yes, the Vixia HF G20 is a suitable camcorder for vlogging. Its image quality, audio, and manual controls make it capable of producing professional-looking vlogs.
Q: Are there any other camcorders I should consider?
A: Yes, there are many other excellent camcorders available. Depending on your specific needs, you might want to explore options like the GoPro Hero 10 Black, the Sony FDR-AX100, or the Panasonic HC-VX981K.