CES 2017 introduced the anticipated updates to the HF R80 without an increase in price! The Canon VIXIA HF R80 is a powerful digital video camcorder with a budget-conscious sensibility. Even premium smart and iPhones aren’t yet designed to match the impressive 57x Advanced Zoom range of the HF R80. In addition, it’s good to know that you can hand over your digital VIXIA if someone wants to record the action instead of parting with your phone. Rest assured the camcorder will record the action and deliver the video results desired.
About the Canon VIXIA HF R80
The Canon VIXIA HF R80 is practically a clone of the R82’s design. It’s really no surprise since they’re part of the same family and tend to benefit from any new style presented by Canon. The big difference is in the 16GB of internal storage rather than the 32 GB sported by the R82.s 32 GB. It’s much like operating the R70, so you’ll enjoy the comfortable familiarity of operation while admiring the newest changes.
Comparison with the Canon VIXIA HF R70
Surprisingly, the R80 is intended to complement rather than replace last year’s HF R70. Both models include smartphone remote control, Wi-Fi/live streaming connectivity, Optical Image Stabilization, and a powerful 57x zoom. Several modifications and enhancements make the HF R80 worth considering, even if you’re still getting used to the R70 you bought last year. The R80’s Highlight Priority mode has additional fast-speed recording options and improved backlight correction. The result? Preserved details in backlit situations to reflect what your eye sees. The result is a compatible video suitable for displaying on bright LCD HDTVs. Two new speed settings (300x/600x) have been added, increasing the number to eight.
Features
The conveniently located record button is by the thumb, while the zoom trigger is located atop the RF80. There’s a 3-inch touchscreen revealed by folding out the left side, replacing the unsightly buttons that once bedecked the exterior. Simply use the display to control recording performance. A 3.2 megapixel CMOS sensor shoots clear video night and day. Stutter and frame drop are virtually eliminated. The files are saved as 1080p videos at a frame rate of 60 per second.
Canon’s Flexible Slow and Fast motion recording is new in this budget model, providing the ability to create both fast and slow-motion effects while recording. The DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor has been modified to make working with full stream video better. It evaluates the signal sent from the image sensor to determine which ones are sent by mistake. It cancels them out to produce a video stream more impressive than those from models at comparable pricing. It also allows simultaneous recording in MP4 and AVCHD formats with the Dual Recording function. You’ll be able to focus on the action or record tranquil moments when shooting video with the VIXIA HF R80 camcorder. Its remarkable 57x Advanced Zoom range brings in additional detail. Use it for long-range shooting, candid family videos, and formal ceremonies. The manual mode feature of Advanced Zoom permits flexibility in shooting with the ability to use telephoto power from 32.55mm up to 1853 mm (equivalent to 35mm). There are 15 levels of continually variable Zoom Speed settings.
It’s irksome to review footage distorted by camera shake. Quick reaction from the high-tech SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer greatly reduces the chance of this problem in VIXIA HF R80 videos because it’s designed to provide continuous adjustment for any zoom mode. Vertical, horizontal and roll axis rotational camera shake is stabilized so you get distortion-free video even when walking.
The HF R80 Highlight Priority mode features backlight correction for brighter images. It exposes for the subject instead of delivering an overexposed background. You get a vibrant image instead of silhouettes. Framing Assistance is beneficial because it keeps distant subjects centered, whether they are still or in motion.
Baby Mode is an enjoyable way to keep track of each day of your baby’s life. The important details like genuine smiling, delight over a toy, and first steps will be preserved forever. This is also an incredible benefit for families with furry four-legged members. Create albums on Facebook where family and friends have access to daily events. Make a silly pet video to delight everyone who sees it. Share videos and images from the camcorder by transferring them to Android devices or iPad, iPod, or iPhone for free using Wi-Fi and the Canon Camera Connect app.
Conclusion
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry along.
- Stabilization system controls camera shake.
- Flexible Slow and Fast motion recording.
- Still $399.
- Built-in Wi-Fi
Cons
- Limited design change over the past few years hides the upgrade to a newer model
Verdict:
Camcorders are still in fashion. The Optical Image Stabilizer is one of the best features because it allows steady videos without disruptions due to age, weather, and what’s being filmed. This Canon camcorder is fairly simple to use for older children through adults and light enough to carry along to sporting events, school activities, and meetings. The price has been kept the same for another year, an additional incentive to select the quality Canon VIXIA HF R80 .