Highlights
- The Sony HDR-CX405 lacks a viewfinder, which may be a drawback for some users who prefer to use a viewfinder for framing and focusing.
- The Canon Legria HF R806 has a battery life of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, while the Sony HDR-CX405 has a battery life of approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
- If you prefer a more compact and affordable camcorder with a built-in viewfinder, the Legria HF R806 is a solid choice.
In the realm of digital camcorders, Canon and Sony stand as industry titans, offering a wide range of options for video enthusiasts. Two such offerings, the Canon Legria HF R806 and the Sony HDR-CX405, have garnered significant attention for their competitive features and price points. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of both camcorders, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Image Quality
Resolution
Both the Legria HF R806 and the HDR-CX405 offer Full HD (1920×1080) video recording, ensuring sharp and detailed footage. However, the HDR-CX405 has an edge in resolution with its 12.4-megapixel sensor compared to the Legria HF R806’s 8.59-megapixel sensor. This difference becomes noticeable when zooming in or capturing fast-moving subjects.
Lens
The Canon Legria HF R806 boasts a 20x optical zoom lens, while the Sony HDR-CX405 features an 30x optical zoom lens. For capturing distant subjects or zooming in on details, the HDR-CX405 provides greater flexibility. Both camcorders offer image stabilization to minimize camera shake and ensure smooth footage.
Audio
Microphone
The Canon Legria HF R806 comes equipped with a built-in stereo microphone, while the Sony HDR-CX405 has a built-in 5.1-channel surround microphone. The HDR-CX405’s surround microphone provides a more immersive audio experience, capturing sound from multiple directions.
External Microphone Input
Both camcorders feature external microphone inputs, allowing you to connect an external microphone for improved audio quality. This is especially beneficial for recording interviews or capturing audio in noisy environments.
Features
Viewfinder
The Canon Legria HF R806 has an integrated viewfinder, providing a clear and accurate preview of your shots. The Sony HDR-CX405 lacks a viewfinder, which may be a drawback for some users who prefer to use a viewfinder for framing and focusing.
LCD Screen
The Legria HF R806 has a 3.0-inch LCD touchscreen, while the HDR-CX405 has a 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen. Both screens offer bright and clear viewing, making it easy to compose shots and review footage.
Recording Formats
The Canon Legria HF R806 records in AVCHD and MP4 formats, while the Sony HDR-CX405 records in XAVC S and MP4 formats. AVCHD provides higher quality footage but larger file sizes, while MP4 is more versatile and compatible with a wider range of devices.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi
Both the Canon Legria HF R806 and the Sony HDR-CX405 feature Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to transfer footage wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet. You can also control the camcorder remotely using a dedicated app.
USB
Both camcorders have USB ports for connecting to a computer for transferring footage or charging the battery.
Battery Life
The Canon Legria HF R806 has a battery life of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, while the Sony HDR-CX405 has a battery life of approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Both camcorders come with chargers for convenient recharging.
In a nutshell: The Verdict
Both the Canon Legria HF R806 and the Sony HDR-CX405 are excellent camcorders for videography enthusiasts. The Legria HF R806 offers a compact design, built-in viewfinder, and affordable price point. The HDR-CX405 provides superior image quality, a more powerful zoom lens, and a surround microphone.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality and flexibility, the HDR-CX405 is the better option. If you prefer a more compact and affordable camcorder with a built-in viewfinder, the Legria HF R806 is a solid choice.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which camcorder has better low-light performance?
A: Both camcorders offer good low-light performance, but the Sony HDR-CX405 has a slight edge with its larger sensor and wider aperture.
Q: Can I use an external flash with either camcorder?
A: No, neither camcorder has a built-in flash or a hot shoe for connecting an external flash.
Q: Which camcorder is better for recording fast-moving subjects?
A: The Sony HDR-CX405 has a higher frame rate (60 fps) than the Canon Legria HF R806 (30 fps), making it more suitable for recording fast-moving subjects.