Canon HF100 or Canon HG20 Hi all,I'm about to buy a Canon camcorder but confused about selecting between these two camcorders.HG20: 24Mbps recording, 60Gb hd, black, 639$HF100: 17Mbps recording, no internal capacity, 577$.Any ideas? Canon HF100 or Canon HG20 Hi all,I'm about to buy a Canon camcorder but confused about selecting between these two camcorders.HG20: 24Mbps recording, 60Gb hd, black, 639$ » Read More Canon HF100 or Canon HG20 Hi all,I'm about to buy a Canon camcorder but confused about selecting between these two camcorders.HG20: 24Mbps recording, 60Gb hd, black, 639$HF100: 17Mbps recording, no internal capacity, 577$.Any ideas? « Show Less
1375919
Fahri -san,smart choice from you and very good advice from Scott.Hope you enjoy the product as much as I do.I have written a guide about the HF11/HF10 (and HF100 if you want).It might give you some additional ideas of what you can do.http://www.amazon.com/gp/richpub/syltguides/fullview/R1350ZLGI7U7TP/ref=cm_pdp_sylt_title_1Hope this helps.
1375920
Fahri,One more additional detail nobody has mentioned yet.The advantage of the HF100 is that you can record in extreme situations with high vibrations (concerts, bungee jumping , free fall etc.) Any video camcorder with a HDD will fail in those situations.Hope this helps.
1375921
In fact, they are not recording the same quality, HG20 is a set ahead than HF100, 24Mbps against 17Mbps, resulting better quality. Can we see the difference? Who knows? But it's there...I aggre with you, HF100 feels cheap(in fact it's cheaper) but does not give the quality feel of HG20, it's not as ergonomic as HG20...HD part of HG20 lets you to handle it better, HF100 feels too small..But, are these enough to pay about 65-70$ more?
1375922
I've ordered the HF100. 549$.I couldn't see any difference between the HG20's 24Mbps recording and the HF100's 17Mbps recording on 40" fullHD Toshiba lcd.It's cheaper about 90$, about 2 16GB SDHC Cards and a 8GB SDHC card...I will use my PS3 to watch videos, no need 60Gb capacity on camcorder.
1375923
Good eye, sir. I do see where you are correct on Canon's website. I missed that detail in the comparison. Normally I'd say I wouldn't notice the difference in quality, but given I'll be putting this on my 56 inch HDTV, I bet it will be noticeable. The HF100 does feel cheaper. The extra bulk from the HDD makes the unit more managable. That plus the menu makes it less appealing.I would say the extra $65-70 is justifiable given the 60gb of included space, especially considering if you can get your hands on a 32gb SD card you'll be paying well over $100. Maybe in a year it will be <$100, but by then these camcorders will be cheaper anyway. I've made up my mind on the HG20! Good eye, sir. I do see where you are correct on Canon's website. I missed that detail in the comparison. Normally I'd say I wouldn't notice the difference in quality, but given I'll be putting this on my 56 inch HDTV, I bet it will be noticeable. The HF100 does feel cheaper. The extra bulk from the HDD makes the unit more managable. That plus the menu makes it less appealing.I would say the extra $65-70 is justifiable given the 60gb of included space, especially considering if you can get your hands on a 32gb SD card you'll be paying well over $100. Maybe in a year... » Read More Good eye, sir. I do see where you are correct on Canon's website. I missed that detail in the comparison. Normally I'd say I wouldn't notice the difference in quality, but given I'll be putting this on my 56 inch HDTV, I bet it will be noticeable. The HF100 does feel cheaper. The extra bulk from the HDD makes the unit more managable. That plus the menu makes it less appealing.I would say the extra $65-70 is justifiable given the 60gb of included space, especially considering if you can get your hands on a 32gb SD card you'll be paying well over $100. Maybe in a year it will be <$100, but by then these camcorders will be cheaper anyway. I've made up my mind on the HG20! « Show Less
1375924
I've changed my mind, decided and ordered the HF100. HG20 seems much more expensive than it is but, after a while, for about 15-20 minutes, disc part disturbed me, first time handling seems better but after a while, HF100 excels in this category.I didn't see any quality difference from HG20's 24Mbps recording on my 40inch fullHD Toshiba LCD, seems identical..I liked both menu's, not very different.I've selected HF100, including 2 16GB SDHC Cards, one more silver 809S battery and a charger..I think I did the right choice...Best price/performance ratio including one of the best video quality... I've changed my mind, decided and ordered the HF100. HG20 seems much more expensive than it is but, after a while, for about 15-20 minutes, disc part disturbed me, first time handling seems better but after a while, HF100 excels in this category.I didn't see any quality difference from HG20's 24Mbps recording on my 40inch fullHD Toshiba LCD, seems identical..I liked both menu's, not very different.I've selected HF100, including 2 16GB SDHC Cards, one more silver 809S battery and a charger..I think I did the right choice...Best price/performance ratio... » Read More I've changed my mind, decided and ordered the HF100. HG20 seems much more expensive than it is but, after a while, for about 15-20 minutes, disc part disturbed me, first time handling seems better but after a while, HF100 excels in this category.I didn't see any quality difference from HG20's 24Mbps recording on my 40inch fullHD Toshiba LCD, seems identical..I liked both menu's, not very different.I've selected HF100, including 2 16GB SDHC Cards, one more silver 809S battery and a charger..I think I did the right choice...Best price/performance ratio including one of the best video quality... « Show Less
2133597
Can you explain the difference in the following 3 Panasonic Camcorders:HDC-TM90KHDC-TM700HDC-HS700I REALLY need to buy a good camcorder (under about $700) to take video of my son's lacrosse games for college recruiters. THANK YOU!!
1191259
I bought the Hdvr-150 for my son for Christmas. I also bought the Blackvue DR400G-HD II for myself. I don't know if the Hdvr-150 is the same but the Blackvue DR400G II records 1 to 3 minute video files until the memory chip is full then starts re-recording over the oldest file. You can have more memory cards or copy the video MP4 files from the memory card to a computer. I chose my by looking at samples videos on YouTube. Hope this helps.
2091071
Personally, I did a lot of research before I bought the HG21 myself, and it seemed the best in the price range. I will mention though that I only looked at Canons (since I'm used to their system interface), so I'm not sure if there are other similar camcorders in other brands. Also, it didn't seem the Digic III was a huge change over the Digic II. The only extra feature Digic III really seems to offer is the face-detection, however that wasn't a huge selling point for me. For me, a better sensor mattered more, as it means better video quality.
1886592
Despite what amazon wrote, the Canon VIXIA HF R100 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder is not the newer version of the Canon VIXIA HF200 HD Flash Memory Camcorder with 15x Optical Zoom, the Canon VIXIA HF M300 Flash Memory Camcorder is. The HF200 is a 2009 model with a list price of $749.99 and the HF R100 is a 2010 model with a list price of $499.99, which makes it the lowest-cost (or bottom of the line) Vixia model. The HF200 was also the lowest cost of the 2009 line-up, but the 2010 line-up has a lower bottom. There are several differences. The HF R100 has a 20X optical zoom, vs. 15X optical for the HF200. That appears to be the only advantage the HF R100 has over the HF200. However, unless you use the HF R100 on a tripod, that extra zoom will be useless because it has worse image stabilization than the HF200 and you can't handhold a camcorder at that magnification and shoot acceptable footage (it will be bouncing all over the place). So, that extra zoom is mainly a marketing ploy rather than a true advantage. The HF200 has a larger image sensor (for better low-light performance), higher resolution image sensor (for sharper video and still images), higher resolution LCD screen (for sharper images and icons), Multi-Angle Vivid LCD screen (apparently for wider viewing angles), optical image stabilization (for sharper images; the HF R100 has no optical image stabilization but uses electronic image shifting instead), and a higher maximum recording bit rate (for sharper images with fewer compression artifacts, a.k.a. pixelation). Since the HF200 is a 2009 model, it is available at about 1/3 off the list price bringing it down to the same street price as the still new 2010 HF R100 model. The HF200 is a much better camcorder than the HF R100 and they sell for the same price right now.
1969855
I am certainly no expert on either camera, however I do own the WB850F model. The main differences I can see from looking at specs on both are these: WB850F: 21x optical zoom TL220: 4.6x optical zoom Having a good optical zoom capability is important to me; your situation may be different of course. Recording video with WB850F can be at 1080p resolution. With the TL220 it appears to be limited to 720p, which is still technically HD, just not as high definition as 1080p is. The TL220 has both front and back LCD screens which should make taking pictures of yourself easier (hold the camera up on front of your face and shoot type of photos). The WB850F does not have this. Lastly the WB850F can take photos of 16 megapixels while the TL220 maxes out at 12.2 megapixels (if that matters to you). I hope this helps.
213219
no, this camcorder is not High Definition. It does not record in either 1080i or 720p. It does say however that it is high resolution, which is where I think it gets almost misrepresented. Here is the confusion.. Widescreen HR Recording The FS200 records true High Resolution Widescreen for picture perfect video. Canon's Widescreen HR Mode uses the entire width of the image sensor, capturing true 16:9 widescreen. What difference does it make? It's simple. The more pixels captured, the better your final image quality is. Notice that it does not say High DEFINITION, it says high RESOLUTION. Easy way to truly know is that In order for something to be high-def it has to be 1080i or 720p!
903011
As of today, it actually costs a dollar less than $600 ;-) The bad reviews should maybe be reviewed too: Choppy videos are a consequence of HD shooting, not of the HF200, the software is poor but maybe that's because there is no need for any of it, hard disk or tape-based camcorders are totally obsolete nowadays, and too noisy anyway. The smaller sensor size compared to the much more expensive HF100 may or may not impact low light shooting (an objective comparison would be welcome), but there are also negative reviews about the HF100 low light quality. It might be a trade-off for the better optical and digital zoom. As for the review about non true progressive format, unless I misunderstand (I am no expert), this 60i format is just the internal format of the recording, and does not affect the capture or playback, which is 30p or 24p, depending on your set up. AVCHD seems to be supported throughout the whole editing/playback channel now, so the support issues encountered by the early AVCHD adopters are hopefully obsolete. We should look at the good points too, such as the movie mode (24p fps and movie color tone) which is rarely seen on consumer products at that price.
57176
Bill,I can vouch for the Flip Ultra that looks good on TV so I would think the HD version looks even better. I was comparing this camcorder with Kodak's new HD Zi6. I think that it can record at 60 frames per second instead of 30. It would be good if anyone has seen a comparison of the two to share on this forum.Mike
1989937
I can't wait for a reviewer to get their hands on the HS20. Sounds great on paper.HS20 reportedly has Bigger CMOS sensor and faster circuits (along with a few other fixes, plus remote shutter release capable, more frames per second, SDXC, and includes a proper bayonet mounted hood).HS10 at under $400 sounded too good to be true, this sounds more like it, how it is worth the extra dough.DP Review reports the basics (propaganda):http://www.dpreview.com/news/1101/11010513fujifilmhs20exr.asp
161400
Hey! 1. There is definitely a considerable increase in quality between 60i and 60p, especially if you are using the camera to shoot movies. For example, for me, I usually add CG elements into my film since I enjoy making short films, and that does not necessarily sit well with 60i footage. The interlacing can cause weird artifacts especially while I'm compositing shots. The more lateral (horizontal) movement you have, the greater the quality of 60i depreciates compared to 60p. However, as much as I hate interlaced footage, i would stress that you consider what you use your camera for. If it is for straightforward home movies or other casual recordings, then you are FINE! You wouldn't necessarily appreciate or find as great a jump in quality. 2. I'm not going to pretend that I have expert knowledge on this. Your point seems valid. However, RAW bit rate is not always an accurate measure of video quality. And keep in mind that for both cases the bit rate corresponds to bits per second, and if there are 60 frames in a second, interlaced or not, each frame contains the same amount of data, with this data being either interpolated in the interlaced case, or actually captured in the progressive case. 60p at 28Mbps would look better than 60i at 25Mbps 3. You would think so right? However, due to standards that were set in the film industry back in the old days, and the reluctance of the industry to let go of these standards, 24fps is what most movies you watch in theaters are recorded/playing at. In essence it is what makes movies look like movies. Usually just after a glance you can tell whether any playing video is a movie or a TV show; It is because you are subconsciously used to movies looking like they do, i.e. at 24fps. Hence, for a short film maker like myself, 24fps mode is a huge plus! I hope i answered your questions, or at least did so partly. Cheers!
1062810
You might not need the bigger LCD or viewfinder but you do need the OIS if you shoot handheld, previous Canon camcorders got a really bad stabilization, the new stabilization is not ground breaking stabilization like SONY (Pretty much let you walk and shoot with 0 shake) or "Very Good" like Panasonic but it's "acceptable" and will remove low shake Other thing that is special about HF S200 is that it can shoot at Native 24P so if you are into shooting short movies or so it's one of the best features, normal consumers who do not use a tripod find it "jerky" though I'm personally going with TM700 this year because i need a very good stabilization and wide angle plus the 1920x1080p60 is something i wanted for years, HF200 lens is zoomed in quite a bit for my taste
2091073
HG21 has a better sensor(1/3.2") than the HF20/200 (1/4"). Also, it still has the flash card option to record video, in addition to the hard drive. Not to mention, the HG21 also includes a viewfinder, which is missing in the HF20/200. I would definitely pick the HG21.
375775
Charlie just like the Eos 7D that requires a CF card to record to which you can get in different size Gigabyte's like 8GB 16GB 32GB and so on, so to can you get different size GB sizes for the Black Magic Cinema Camera. if your looking for the best looking Video go with the BMCC, I own the 7D and I love it, but the dynamic range you get with the BMCC and increased resolution with the BMCC is a huge selling point. yes the storage for the BMCC may cost more than a CF card for the 7D. the 7d will shut down around 12 minutes while the BMCC will record as long as you have space and battery life. hope this helps! Charlie just like the Eos 7D that requires a CF card to record to which you can get in different size Gigabyte's like 8GB 16GB 32GB and so on, so to can you get different size GB sizes for the Black Magic Cinema Camera. if your looking for the best looking Video go with the BMCC, I own the 7D and I love it, but the dynamic range you get with the BMCC and increased resolution with the BMCC is a huge selling point. yes the storage for the BMCC may cost more than a CF card for the 7D. the 7d will shut down around 12 minutes while the BMCC will record as long as you have space and battery life.... » Read More Charlie just like the Eos 7D that requires a CF card to record to which you can get in different size Gigabyte's like 8GB 16GB 32GB and so on, so to can you get different size GB sizes for the Black Magic Cinema Camera. if your looking for the best looking Video go with the BMCC, I own the 7D and I love it, but the dynamic range you get with the BMCC and increased resolution with the BMCC is a huge selling point. yes the storage for the BMCC may cost more than a CF card for the 7D. the 7d will shut down around 12 minutes while the BMCC will record as long as you have space and battery life. hope this helps! « Show Less
1300002
Thank you J. I'm sure the HV20 should work since it's DV Tape based and the video capture is made in real time.My concern is that since the HG10 works with a Hard Drive, the files copied to the computer may be in a format that the Mac cannot read... That would be a bummer.I've heard about some Sony AVCHD cameras not being compatible with the Mac and this is why I wonder about this one.I guess ultimately I can just get it and try it and return it if it doesn't work.Thanks again,Christian
776938
It is true that the hfs10 has internal memory and the hfs100 has external memory. Other than that, there are no real differences. You'll just need to know which works best for you personally. For me, having multiple sd cards on hand is a must. Therefore, any kind of internal memory is instantly obsolete, never to be used. But thats just my personal need for this camera. To each his own, right?
1229500
I've used cards of 45Mb/s up to 60Mb/s with this camera and on the FH100 I was using 15Mb/s and no problems with either camera. On the Premium Auto Pro mode for photos there is much processing going on and the screen brings a processing message sometimes on difficult shots with low lighting. The fantastic picture results are worth it compared with the normal mode. High speed Video recording hasn't been a problem. I'd keep to above 45Mb/s to leave the full versatility of this camera available. The manual is vague in suggesting values except suggesting to use Ultra high Speed SD cards of which I have used. I currently use the Sandisk Extreme 45Mb/s and Toshiba Exceria R95 w60Mb/s which both work well. I've used cards of 45Mb/s up to 60Mb/s with this camera and on the FH100 I was using 15Mb/s and no problems with either camera. On the Premium Auto Pro mode for photos there is much processing going on and the screen brings a processing message sometimes on difficult shots with low lighting. The fantastic picture results are worth it compared with the normal mode. High speed Video recording hasn't been a problem. I'd keep to above 45Mb/s to leave the full versatility of this camera available. The manual is vague in suggesting values except suggesting to use Ultra high Speed SD cards of... » Read More I've used cards of 45Mb/s up to 60Mb/s with this camera and on the FH100 I was using 15Mb/s and no problems with either camera. On the Premium Auto Pro mode for photos there is much processing going on and the screen brings a processing message sometimes on difficult shots with low lighting. The fantastic picture results are worth it compared with the normal mode. High speed Video recording hasn't been a problem. I'd keep to above 45Mb/s to leave the full versatility of this camera available. The manual is vague in suggesting values except suggesting to use Ultra high Speed SD cards of which I have used. I currently use the Sandisk Extreme 45Mb/s and Toshiba Exceria R95 w60Mb/s which both work well. « Show Less