What To Know
- The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is a compact and versatile 360° camera designed to capture immersive panoramic footage.
- It boasts a powerful APS-C sensor, a high-quality zoom lens, and a host of manual controls, making it a favorite among filmmakers and videographers.
- The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is a more budget-friendly option, while the Sony NEX-VG20E caters to those seeking professional-grade equipment.
Choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the diverse options available in the market. Two popular contenders often come up in conversations: the Samsung Gear 360 2017 and the Sony NEX-VG20E. While both offer unique features and capabilities, they cater to different shooting styles and needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each camcorder, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
Samsung Gear 360 2017: The 360° Immersive Experience
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is a compact and versatile 360° camera designed to capture immersive panoramic footage. Its two fisheye lenses capture a complete spherical view, allowing you to relive your experiences from every angle. This makes it ideal for capturing breathtaking landscapes, bustling cityscapes, and action-packed events.
Key Features of the Samsung Gear 360 2017:
- 360° Video Recording: The Gear 360 2017 captures high-resolution 360° video (3840 x 1920 pixels) at 30 frames per second (fps), providing a truly immersive viewing experience.
- Live Streaming: You can live stream your 360° adventures directly to platforms like YouTube and Facebook, sharing your experiences in real-time.
- Compact Design: Its small and lightweight design makes it incredibly portable, allowing you to easily capture moments on the go.
- Mobile App Integration: The Gear 360 app provides seamless control over the camera, allowing you to adjust settings, preview footage, and even stitch videos directly on your smartphone.
Sony NEX-VG20E: A Professional-Grade Camcorder
The Sony NEX-VG20E is a more traditional camcorder designed for professional-grade video production. It boasts a powerful APS-C sensor, a high-quality zoom lens, and a host of manual controls, making it a favorite among filmmakers and videographers.
Key Features of the Sony NEX-VG20E:
- Exquisite Image Quality: The NEX-VG20E features a 16.1MP APS-C sensor that delivers exceptional image quality with impressive detail and dynamic range.
- Interchangeable Lenses: The camcorder allows you to swap lenses, giving you the flexibility to capture a wide variety of shots, from wide-angle landscapes to close-up portraits.
- Manual Control: The NEX-VG20E offers extensive manual controls over exposure, focus, white balance, and more, allowing you to fine-tune your footage for professional results.
- Professional Features: It comes equipped with features like zebra patterns, peaking, and focus magnification, making it suitable for advanced video production.
Samsung Gear 360 2017 vs Sony NEX-VG20E: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Now that we’ve explored the key features of each camcorder, let’s compare them directly to see which one emerges as the winner in different aspects:
1. Video Quality
- Samsung Gear 360 2017: Delivers high-resolution 360° video, ideal for immersive experiences.
- Sony NEX-VG20E: Offers exceptional image quality with a larger sensor and a wider dynamic range, suitable for professional-grade productions.
Verdict: The Sony NEX-VG20E wins in terms of overall image quality, particularly for professional applications. However, the Samsung Gear 360 2017 excels in capturing immersive 360° footage.
2. Versatility
- Samsung Gear 360 2017: Limited to 360° shooting, but offers live streaming and mobile app integration.
- Sony NEX-VG20E: Highly versatile with interchangeable lenses and manual controls, allowing for a wider range of shooting styles.
Verdict: The Sony NEX-VG20E wins for its versatility, offering more flexibility in terms of shooting scenarios and creative options.
3. Ease of Use
- Samsung Gear 360 2017: Simple and intuitive to use, with a mobile app for easy control.
- Sony NEX-VG20E: More complex to operate, requiring a steeper learning curve due to its extensive manual controls.
Verdict: The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is easier to use, making it ideal for beginners or casual users. The Sony NEX-VG20E requires more time and effort to master but offers greater control over your footage.
4. Portability
- Samsung Gear 360 2017: Compact and lightweight, making it highly portable.
- Sony NEX-VG20E: Larger and heavier, requiring a dedicated bag for transport.
Verdict: The Samsung Gear 360 2017 wins for its portability, making it ideal for travel and on-the-go shooting.
5. Price
- Samsung Gear 360 2017: Offers a more affordable price point.
- Sony NEX-VG20E: Comes with a higher price tag due to its professional features and capabilities.
Verdict: The Samsung Gear 360 2017 is a more budget-friendly option, while the Sony NEX-VG20E caters to those seeking professional-grade equipment.
The Final Verdict: Which Camcorder is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best camcorder for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact and easy-to-use camera to capture immersive 360° experiences, the Samsung Gear 360 2017 is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritize professional-grade image quality, versatility, and manual control, the Sony NEX-VG20E is the superior option.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Samsung Gear 360 2017 and the Sony NEX-VG20E are excellent camcorders, the market offers a wide range of other options. Consider exploring these alternatives based on your specific requirements:
- Action Cameras: For capturing high-action footage, action cameras like the GoPro Hero 10 Black or the DJI Osmo Action are excellent choices.
- Vlogging Cameras: If you’re looking for a camera specifically designed for vlogging, consider the Canon EOS M50 Mark II or the Sony ZV-1.
- Budget-Friendly Camcorders: For those on a tight budget, there are affordable camcorders like the Canon Vixia HF R80 or the Panasonic HC-V180.
Common Questions and Answers
1. Can I edit 360° footage from the Samsung Gear 360 2017?
Yes, you can edit 360° footage from the Samsung Gear 360 2017 using specialized software like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve. These software programs offer tools for stitching and manipulating 360° videos.
2. What is the difference between the Samsung Gear 360 2017 and the Samsung Gear 360 2016?
The Samsung Gear 360 2017 offers several improvements over its predecessor, including higher resolution video recording, improved image quality, and a more compact design.
3. What lenses can I use with the Sony NEX-VG20E?
The Sony NEX-VG20E is compatible with a wide range of E-mount lenses from Sony and third-party manufacturers. This gives you immense flexibility in choosing lenses based on your specific shooting needs.
4. Can I use the Sony NEX-VG20E for live streaming?
While the Sony NEX-VG20E doesn’t have built-in live streaming capabilities, you can use an external encoder like the Blackmagic ATEM Mini Pro to stream your footage live.
5. What are the best accessories for the Samsung Gear 360 2017 and the Sony NEX-VG20E?
For the Samsung Gear 360 2017, consider accessories like a tripod, a selfie stick, and a waterproof case. For the Sony NEX-VG20E, invest in a good quality microphone, a shotgun mic, a lens hood, and a camera bag.