Contour 2 vs Sony NEX VG20EH: The Best Camcorder for Your Needs Revealed!

Choosing the perfect camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often top the list: the Contour 2 and the **Sony NEX-VG20EH**. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the ultimate champion? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

The Contour 2: A Compact Action Hero

The Contour 2 is a compact and rugged action camera designed for capturing thrilling outdoor adventures. Its small size and lightweight design make it ideal for mounting on helmets, bikes, and other equipment.
Here’s what makes the Contour 2 stand out:

• Durability: Built to withstand the elements, the Contour 2 boasts a waterproof and shockproof design, making it perfect for extreme sports and outdoor activities.
• Wide-angle lens: The camera’s wide-angle lens captures expansive views, ideal for showcasing breathtaking landscapes and action-packed moments.
• Ease of use: With a simple interface and intuitive controls, the Contour 2 is user-friendly, even for beginners.
• Compact and lightweight: Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and mount in various locations.
• Long battery life: The Contour 2 offers extended recording times, allowing you to capture hours of footage without interruption.

However, the Contour 2 also has some limitations:

• Limited video quality: While capable of capturing decent footage, the Contour 2’s video quality falls behind that of the Sony NEX-VG20EH, especially in low-light conditions.
• Lack of manual controls: The camera lacks advanced manual controls, limiting the ability to adjust settings for specific shooting scenarios.
• Limited connectivity options: The Contour 2 offers minimal connectivity options, making it challenging to transfer footage to other devices.

The Sony NEX-VG20EH: A Versatile Video Powerhouse

The Sony NEX-VG20EH is a hybrid camcorder that combines the features of a DSLR with the convenience of a traditional camcorder. This versatility makes it a popular choice for both professional and amateur videographers.
Here’s what makes the Sony NEX-VG20EH stand out:

• Exceptional video quality: The NEX-VG20EH boasts impressive video quality, capturing stunning footage with vibrant colors and sharp details.
• Interchangeable lenses: The camcorder’s interchangeable lens system allows you to choose the perfect lens for your desired shooting style, from wide-angle to telephoto.
• Advanced manual controls: With extensive manual controls, you have complete creative freedom to adjust settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.
• High-quality audio: The NEX-VG20EH features a built-in stereo microphone and supports external microphones, ensuring clear and crisp audio recordings.
• Extensive connectivity options: The camcorder offers a wide range of connectivity options, enabling easy transfer of footage and integration with other devices.

However, the Sony NEX-VG20EH also has some drawbacks:

• Size and weight: The NEX-VG20EH is significantly larger and heavier than the Contour 2, making it less portable for on-the-go adventures.
• Price: The NEX-VG20EH comes with a higher price tag compared to the Contour 2, making it a more expensive option.
• Battery life: The NEX-VG20EH’s battery life is relatively shorter compared to the Contour 2, requiring more frequent charging.

Comparing the Contenders: A Head-to-Head Analysis

Video Quality: The Sony NEX-VG20EH clearly wins this round. Its larger sensor and advanced image processing capabilities deliver superior video quality, especially in low-light conditions. The Contour 2 offers decent footage, but it lacks the sharpness and detail of the NEX-VG20EH.
Features and Functionality: The Sony NEX-VG20EH offers a wider range of features and functionality, including interchangeable lenses, advanced manual controls, and extensive connectivity options. The Contour 2 provides a simpler and more user-friendly experience but lacks the versatility of the NEX-VG20EH.
Portability and Durability: The Contour 2 emerges as the winner here. Its compact size and rugged design make it ideal for outdoor adventures and extreme sports. The Sony NEX-VG20EH, while capable, is larger and heavier, making it less portable for on-the-go activities.
Price: The Contour 2 is significantly more affordable than the Sony NEX-VG20EH. If budget is a major concern, the Contour 2 presents a more accessible option.

Which Camcorder Should You Choose?

The best camcorder for you depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Choose the Contour 2 if:

• You need a compact and rugged camera for outdoor adventures and extreme sports.
• You prioritize portability and ease of use.
• You’re on a tight budget.

Choose the Sony NEX-VG20EH if:

• You prioritize exceptional video quality and advanced features.
• You need a versatile camcorder for a range of shooting scenarios.
• You’re willing to invest in a higher-priced option.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations

While the above comparison highlights the core differences between the Contour 2 and the Sony NEX-VG20EH, it’s important to consider additional factors that might influence your decision:

• Audio quality: If you prioritize high-quality audio recording, the Sony NEX-VG20EH’s built-in stereo microphone and support for external microphones give it an edge.
• Connectivity options: The Sony NEX-VG20EH offers a wider range of connectivity options, making it easier to transfer footage and integrate with other devices.
• Customization and accessories: The Sony NEX-VG20EH’s interchangeable lens system and compatibility with a wide range of accessories provide greater customization and flexibility.

The Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Cameras

Ultimately, the choice between the Contour 2 and the Sony NEX-VG20EH comes down to your specific needs and shooting style. The Contour 2 excels in portability, durability, and ease of use, making it a great choice for action sports and outdoor adventures. The Sony NEX-VG20EH, on the other hand, delivers exceptional video quality, advanced features, and versatility, making it a powerful tool for professional and amateur videographers alike.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I use the Contour 2 for underwater filming?
A: Yes, the Contour 2 is waterproof and can be submerged up to 10 meters (33 feet) without a housing.
Q: What kind of lenses can I use with the Sony NEX-VG20EH?
A: The Sony NEX-VG20EH uses Sony E-mount lenses. You have a wide range of options to choose from, including prime lenses, zoom lenses, and specialized lenses for specific shooting scenarios.
Q: Can I edit footage captured by the Contour 2 and the Sony NEX-VG20EH?
A: Yes, you can edit footage captured by both cameras using popular video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Contour 2 is generally considered more user-friendly for beginners due to its simple interface and intuitive controls. However, the Sony NEX-VG20EH offers a wealth of resources and tutorials to help beginners learn the ropes of video recording.
Q: What are some alternative camcorders to consider?
A: Other popular camcorders worth exploring include the GoPro Hero series, the DJI Osmo Pocket, and the Canon XA series.