Canon VIXIA HF M400 vs Sony Bloggie Live: The Battle of the Best Camcorders!

Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. If you’re looking for a compact and user-friendly device to capture your memories, the Canon Vixia HF M400 and the Sony Bloggie Live are two popular contenders. But which one comes out on top? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the features, pros, and cons of each camcorder to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Portability

Both the Canon Vixia HF M400 and the Sony Bloggie Live are designed for portability. The Vixia HF M400 boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around in a pocket or bag. It features a rotating LCD screen that allows for flexible shooting angles. On the other hand, the Bloggie Live is even smaller and lighter, making it ideal for discreet recording. Its unique design with a built-in clip allows for easy mounting on clothing or objects.

Video Quality and Features

Canon Vixia HF M400:

• Video Resolution: 1080p Full HD (1920 x 1080)
• Frame Rate: 60 frames per second (fps)
• Lens: Canon HD Video Lens with 32x optical zoom
• Image Stabilization: Advanced Dynamic Image Stabilization
• Features: Manual controls, slow motion, time-lapse, and more

Sony Bloggie Live:

• Video Resolution: 1080p Full HD (1920 x 1080)
• Frame Rate: 30 fps
• Lens: Carl Zeiss lens with 8x optical zoom
• Image Stabilization: SteadyShot image stabilization
• Features: Live streaming, built-in Wi-Fi, and more

The Vixia HF M400 offers superior video quality with its higher frame rate and advanced image stabilization. Its 32x optical zoom allows for capturing distant subjects with clarity. The Bloggie Live, while providing decent video quality, lacks the same level of detail and zoom capabilities. However, it stands out with its live streaming feature, enabling you to share your experiences in real-time.

Battery Life and Storage

Canon Vixia HF M400:

• Battery Life: Up to 2 hours of recording time
• Storage: SD card slot (up to 32GB)

Sony Bloggie Live:

• Battery Life: Up to 2.5 hours of recording time
• Storage: Built-in 8GB memory, microSD card slot (up to 32GB)

Both camcorders offer reasonable battery life, allowing for extended recording sessions. The Vixia HF M400 provides a dedicated SD card slot for ample storage options. The Bloggie Live comes with 8GB of built-in memory and also supports microSD cards, providing flexibility for different storage needs.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Canon Vixia HF M400:

• Connectivity: HDMI, USB, composite video out
• Additional Features: Built-in microphone, external microphone jack, remote control compatibility

Sony Bloggie Live:

• Connectivity: USB, HDMI
• Additional Features: Built-in microphone, Wi-Fi for remote control and sharing, live streaming

Both camcorders offer basic connectivity options. The Vixia HF M400 provides a wider range of ports, including composite video out, for greater compatibility with older devices. The Bloggie Live excels in connectivity with its built-in Wi-Fi, enabling remote control and sharing capabilities.

Pros and Cons

Canon Vixia HF M400:
Pros:

• Excellent video quality
• Powerful zoom capabilities
• Advanced image stabilization
• Manual controls for creative shooting
• Compact and lightweight design

Cons:

• No live streaming feature
• Limited connectivity options

Sony Bloggie Live:
Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design
• Live streaming feature
• Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and sharing
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Lower video quality compared to the Vixia HF M400
• Limited zoom capabilities
• No manual controls

Which Camcorder is Right for You?

The choice between the Canon Vixia HF M400 and the Sony Bloggie Live ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Choose the Canon Vixia HF M400 if you:

• Prioritize video quality and zoom capabilities
• Need manual controls for creative shooting
• Value a compact and lightweight design

Choose the Sony Bloggie Live if you:

• Want to live stream your experiences
• Prefer a smaller and more discreet camcorder
• Need built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and sharing
• Are on a tight budget

The Verdict – More Than Just a Camcorder

Both the Canon Vixia HF M400 and the Sony Bloggie Live offer impressive features and capabilities. The Vixia HF M400 excels in video quality, zoom, and manual controls, making it ideal for serious videographers or those who want to capture stunning footage. The Bloggie Live stands out with its live streaming capabilities and built-in Wi-Fi, making it a great option for sharing your experiences in real-time.
Ultimately, the best camcorder for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, desired features, and intended use to make the right choice.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q1: Can I use the Canon Vixia HF M400 for live streaming?
A: No, the Canon Vixia HF M400 does not have live streaming capabilities.
Q2: Is the Sony Bloggie Live compatible with external microphones?
A: No, the Sony Bloggie Live does not have an external microphone jack.
Q3: What is the maximum recording time for the Canon Vixia HF M400?
A: The maximum recording time for the Canon Vixia HF M400 depends on the storage card used and the recording mode. With a 32GB SD card, you can record up to 2 hours of video at 1080p resolution.
Q4: Can I edit videos directly on the Sony Bloggie Live?
A: No, the Sony Bloggie Live does not have built-in editing capabilities. You will need to transfer your videos to a computer for editing.
Q5: What is the difference between optical zoom and digital zoom?
A: Optical zoom uses the lens to magnify the subject, resulting in higher quality images. Digital zoom uses software to enlarge the image, which can lead to a decrease in image quality. The Canon Vixia HF M400 offers optical zoom, while the Sony Bloggie Live offers both optical and digital zoom.