I started my RVing and now RV/Boating YouTube channel in late 2012. Back then, I used a Sony NEX5 for stills and some video, but my primary video camera was a little Sony HDR-CX405 camcorder. I’ve loved using a camcorder as it is an all-in-one tool. Camcorders are compact, have tremendous zoom capabilities, work well in low light, and offer decent automatic exposure and focus. Basically, I can pop it out and use it without much fuss.
Original Video and Photo Cameras I Used – 2015
Around 2018, I upgraded my Sony to a larger, more feature-rich FDR-AX53 model. It had fantastic image stabilization and the ability to use an external microphone for improved sound, particularly in reducing wind noise. About a year ago, though, it failed on me. The touchscreen stopped working, and the camera was well-used, so I decided to replace it. However, when I shopped around, I noticed the model wasn’t readily available, and it may have even been discontinued. Plus, Sony hasn’t updated it in many years.
Sony FDR-AX53 Camcorder Review – 2018
This led me to have a look at the Canon line of camcorders. Canon is well-known for its high-quality cameras, and it offers a camcorder model called the VIXIA HF G70, released in late 2022, that appeared to fit the bill. So far, almost a year later, I’m happy with the purchase. There are some minor dislikes, but many more likes.
My Canon VIXIA HF G70 Pros & Cons List
Pros:
- Released Oct 2022
- Solid build, feels good in my hands
- Padded adjustable hand strap
- Good quality electronic viewfinder
- The viewfinder pulls out and tilts
- Rubber eyepiece included
- Large, bright flip-out adjustable touch screen
- Manual button controls
- Twist-on lens hood with door flap included
- Custom color profiles
- Dual SD memory card slots
- Custom buttons, an adjustable knob/ring
- Nice looking 4K Resolution 3840×2160 150Mbps
- Decent optical stabilization
- Excellent sound with an external microphone
- Headphone jack
- Preset shooting & scene modes
- Built-in (ND) Neutral Density filter
- Multiple Zoom Options + Digital Zoom
- Good focus, multiple setting adjustments
Cons:
- Short OEM battery life
- Awkward joystick adjuster location
- Needs OEM charger vs USB
- No computer connection for file transfer
- The webcam function has no audio
- External mic input behind multi-use cover
- Can’t take a photo while the video is recording
- Limited high frame rate options
- Viewfinder focus adjust slider
The only thing I really miss on the Sony is the remarkable BOSS (Balanced Optical SteadyShot) image stabilization. The Canon is quite impressive, but the Sony features a unique 5-axis floating lens, similar to an internal gimbal. I often use the camcorder to shoot from our boat or while hiking/wildlife viewing, so image stabilization and long-range zoom are important to me. The pluses for the Canon in comparison are more manual control options, so it doesn’t have to rely on the touchscreen as much, and it handles bright contrast scenes better.
I also prefer the overall color of the recorded video, especially when it comes to human faces. I’ve been shooting almost exclusively in 4K mode lately and find that the Canon Vixia HF G70 looks and works much better for me than the Sony did. The Canon 4K footage appears smoother to my eye, and my video editor handles the Canon video file much more easily. Anyway, if you want to compare footage visually, look at any of my travel vlogs from a few years ago, shot with the Sony, and this year, shot with the Canon.
Canon Vixia Camcorder Review Video
PS. For my review, upgrades/mod, repair type videos, I sometimes use a camcorder, but I mostly use a compact Sony ZV-1 camera. Those style videos are usually done close up and often in cramped locations, so the small ZV-1 camera with an attached wide-angle lens works well for that task. Perhaps in a future video, I will review that little camera.
Amazon Links:
- Canon Vixia HF G70 Camcorder – USA
- Canon Vixia HF G70 Camcorder – Canada
- Sony FDR-AX53 Camcorder – USA
- Sony ZV-1 Mirrorless Camera – USA
- Sony ZV-1 Mirrorless Camera – Canada
