Changes in the Canon VIXIA HF R82 are hidden under the surface of its sleek exterior. The company already knows the style is convenient to carry and use. The resulting updates are geared towards technological changes like improvements in picture quality and simpler uploading.
About the Canon VIXIA HF R82
The HF R82 rounds out some of the best features introduced since Canon began the VIXIA line of camcorders. The company continually reviews and responds to customer suggestions and requests. The result is a yearly update that is either a huge change inspiring purchase of a new model or holding back in the event next year’s introduction has one or two items worth the wait. This is a year to consider adding the new camcorder to your family because of features like 32GB internal storage, a low price, and its comfortable, user-friendly operation.
Comparison with the Canon VIXIA HF R72
A year sometimes makes a big difference in a product. The Canon VIXIA HF R82 is more of an update on certain features than a replacement for the previous model HF R72. Besides my favorite feature, the Optical Image Stabilization, there are three other attractive features in both its predecessor and the current design:
- Wi-Fi/live streaming connectivity
- Impressive 57x zoom
- Smartphone remote control
The HF R82 is capable of 12 hours built-in recording time, doubling the R72’s capability. Add a 64GB SD card to Canon’s VIXIA HF R82 and boost the recording time to as much as 36 hours! Like the 72, there are fewer extras to buy to enjoy the camcorder benefits. What else inspires a second look or more at this member of Canon’s 800 family?
Features
The HF R82 presents improved backlight correction in its Highlight Priority mode. Additional fast-speed recording options deliver more options to video enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with a myriad of features to get incredible results. Enjoy true-to-life colors throughout your filming experience.
Connectivity! A popular experience in today’s world, it’s the focus of keeping in touch with business associates, family and friend via social media, smartphones, and e-mail attachments. VIXIA HF R82’s built-in Wi-Fi and NFC (near field communication) capabilities announce Canon’s intent to stay ahead of the competition by providing state-of-the-art technology in its mid-class camcorders. File down-conversion and a live streaming mode enhance the appeal of adding to the collection of media capabilities at your home or business.
What’s the best thing about an app? Some people choose its ability to work while others select a free download. Enjoy the benefits of both with the Camera Connect app. Pair it up with a compatible smartphone and enjoy remote cameral control of your new camcorder. Share clips of the day’s activities or family news. Baby Mode lets you make a living history of your child’s life that can be shared with family and friends around the world. Modify the results using Sepia, Old Movie, or any of the other built-in adjustable filters. Transfer them to your iPhone or Android devices using the app and Wi-Fi.
The impressive video display received when using the DIGIC DV 4 image processor is an example of its ability to provide superior low-light performance. It’s ideal for filming sporting events, weather conditions, and fireworks. Capture the magic of a spectacular Florida sunset or the seagulls diving over an empty stretch of rain-sodden California beach. Portrait, night, and low-light modes are additional ways to turn difficult-to-capture moments into amazing videos. The modified image processor makes it easier to work with full stream video by evaluating and canceling out incorrect signals, thus delivering a high-quality product.
Just a bit of practice will help you feel like a pro when using Flexible Slow and Fast motion recording. Add a feeling of fun, whimsy, or amazement when you change the pace of any action during the video. There’s a 3-inch touchscreen displayed with a left side fold-out. Buttons that once crowded the exterior of the compact camcorder, such as the auto button, are now conveniently displayed around the screen. Simply move your thumb over to hit the record button and use a finger to push the zoom trigger on the top of the unit.
Pros:
- Super Range OIS
- 32X optical zoom; 1140X digital zoom
- Dual recording mode
- Supports FlashAir, SD, SDXC and SDHC memory cards
Cons:
No negative features were noted during this review.
Conclusion
The Canon VIXIA HF R82 delivers performance and quality comparable to more expensive camcorders. Accurate color and lifelike, natural images are typical of the scenes taken by the DIGIC DV 4 processor. Instant autofocus is part of the zoom lens and significantly reduces blurry images. The optical image stabilizer makes the camcorder ideal for all video fans because it keeps the filming steady while you’re walking or when the weather causes your hands to shake. Photo mode is available for those moments when a still photo is desired. The 1920 x 1080 resolution of digital still images provides a superior shot worthy of a higher-level camera. Its compact design makes it convenient to carry with you without adding a lot of weight. The battery, carried online as well as many photo shops and multi-purpose stores, is inexpensive and convenient to replace when needed. You’ll enjoy using the HF R82 whether it is your first-time camcorder or an upgrade for the one you currently use.