Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder
- Price: $599.00
- Instant Savings: -$100.00 Offer ends MAY 31 '13
- You Pay: $499.00
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
- B&H # CAHFM50
- Mfr# 6094B001
Product Highlights
- Canon HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor
- Capture Full HD 1920 x 1080 Video
- SD/SDHC/SDXC Slot & 8GB Flash Memory
- HD Video Lens with 10x Optical Zoom
- LCD 3.0" Touch Screen Display
- Built-In WiFi
- Optical & Powered Image Stabilization
- Cinematic Features & Touch Decoration
- Smart Auto, Face Detection & Instant AF
The Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder is a 1920 x 1080 high def cam with 8GB of flash memory. In addition to its built-in memory, the HF M50 also boasts a SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slot that supports up to 64GB cards. With this much storage space it's possible to record for several hours. Whether you record to the internal memory or removable card, the camera's 1/3" HD CMOS Pro Sensor and image processor work together to provide stunningly detailed, life-like images that look great on your HDTV. Of course, these two don't work alone: the HF M50 also employs a genuine Canon 10x HD video lens, optical image stabilization, powered image stabilization and a 3.0" flat touch screen LCD display, among other great features.
Designed with advanced users in mind, the camcorder also comes with headphone and microphone jacks. These connections make it possible to capture high quality audio to go along with your movies. In addition to using an external mic for audio, the HF M50 features an enhanced internal microphone, which gives you the choice of 4 different recording directions, including monaural, stereo, wide, or synced with zoom. This feature also allows for adjustment between low, mid-range, and high frequencies.
- 10x HD Video Lens
- The HF M50's 10x HD video lens produces extraordinary images. The high-performance Canon HD Video Lens uses low-dispersion glass to suppress chromatic aberration, delivering crystal clear video with excellent resolution, even at the telephoto end of the zoom. Super spectra coating technology lowers flare and ghosting. The lens also features an iris diaphragm, which produces highly expressive video with sharply focused subjects and beautifully blurred backgrounds
- Professional-Level Sensor for Professional-Quality Images
- Equipped with the same high-powered image sensor found in professional models, the compact HF M50 camcorder captures 1080p Full HD video. The professional-level 1/3" native 1920 x 1080 HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor has a large pixel size that captures more available light to deliver superb imaging. Technical refinements including a thinner on-chip microlens, improved color filter transmittance and deeper, wider photodiode allow 20% higher light transmittance. Additional light to the sensor means that video shot in low-light situations is brighter and clearer, with better noise suppression. The extended dynamic range is exceptionally wide, producing enhanced gradation and natural, lifelike realism in high-contrast scenes
- Record to Internal Flash Drive or SD Memory Card
- The camcorder's internal 8GB Flash Drive holds up to 3 hours of crisp, high-definition video safely and securely. With no moving parts, flash memory technology is perfectly able to withstand camcorder jolts or drops. You can also record to a removable SD memory card, making it easy to share your video with friends and family. The camcorder supports up to 64GB card, which means 24 hours of recording for a combined capacity of 72GB or 27 hours. For added flexibility, you can even backup your video directly to an external hard drive by using the optional UA-100 USB Adapter
- Record in AVCHD or MP4 Format
- The HF M50 camcorder gives you the flexibility of dual codec recording, allowing you to record in AVCHD or MP4 format, so you can pick the format that best suits your needs. AVCHD's higher bit-rate and finer resolution will yield the highest quality video for viewing on an HDTV or archiving to Blu-ray. For use with today's most typical video applications, the camcorder lets you record in MP4 format, which produces files you can share right away with no need for conversion. Video is immediately available to upload to social networking sites like Facebook or YouTube
- Built-in WiFi
- Built-in WiFi opens up a world of possibilities, giving you the connectivity and immediacy you expect today. The HF M50 camcorder is a sharing device, ready to send your video wherever you like, whenever you like. Plus, if you're in an Internet hotspot, you can post video to YouTube, Facebook and other sharing sites. The free Canon iOS Movie Upload app lets you upload video from the HF M50 camcorder to your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. When you send video to your smartphone or tablet, you'll find it conveniently filed where your other videos are stored. Shoot video in your living room and save it to the PC in your home office over your home network. Wireless setup with the HF M50 is as quick and easy as it is with your other devices. You can register and store up to three networks for immediate retrieval at any time
- Intelligent IS
- Intelligent IS makes it easy to shoot clear, sharply focused video, even in situations that typically cause camera shake. The Intelligent IS system analyzes the shooting situation for you, then automatically switches to the image stabilization method best able to produce sharp, steady video. Four IS systems cover the gamut of shooting situations. Dynamic IS corrects minor movement and the shaking caused by walking while shooting. Macro IS delivers perfectly steady close-up shots. Powered IS comes into play when you're using the camcorder's powerful zoom, correcting shake that can occur in telephoto shots. Tripod Mode stops IS when the camcorder is stationary
- Increased Clarity & Adjustability
- The HF M50 camcorder's audio is an excellent match for its pristine image quality. The microphone has updated elements that increase clarity at medium and low frequencies, so even faint sounds are recorded clearly. Three microphone positions let you adjust recording to suit the position of the zoom or your subjects: front for monaural recording; regular for normal stereo effect; and rear for a wider, more enhanced stereo effect. Frequency response characteristics can be adjusted for the scene with several options. You can balance all frequencies for normal recording, emphasize low frequencies for impactful live music recording, attenuate low frequencies to reduce ambient noise, emphasize mid frequencies to focus on voices, or emphasize low and high frequencies to record live music with balanced lows and highs
- Flat 3.0" Touch Panel LCD
- The HF M50's 3.0" Flat Touch Panel LCD provides super intuitive control that feels instantly familiar. With a touch, you can shift focus immediately to any subject. Exposure for any area of the screen can be controlled with a touch as well. And with Touch Track, you simply place your finger on a moving subject and the focus will follow that subject. Tactile buttons are also available for selecting settings and controlling camcorder operations on-screen. A Home button on the camcorder takes you to the main LCD screen, where clear explanations of shooting modes and recording settings help you make informed choices for an exceptionally simple and enjoyable shooting experience
- Smart AUTO & Auto Tele Macro
- Smart AUTO lets you capture clear, bright, well-focused video while the camcorder takes care of all the details. The system recognizes 38 shooting situations based on numerous factors, then automatically chooses the optimal settings for the situation. When you shoot a nearby subject in telephoto zoom mode, Auto Tele Macro gives your video the high-end artistic effect of a well-focused subject against a beautifully blurred background
- Cinema-Look Filters
- Giving your videos more creativity is easy with new Cinema-Look Filters. Cinema Standard subdues brights and enhances darks for the feel of film. Vivid accentuates primary colors for a cheerful effect and Cool adds a bluish tint for a futuristic feel. Nostalgic recreates the look of 1970s TV shows. Sepia adds a distinctive fade and antique tint. Old Movies imparts the aged look of early cinema. Dynamic creates dramatic high-contrast grayscale. Dream adds a magical look (soft-focus) for dream-like scenes. Memory produces a faded, misty look-great for flashback scenes
- Story Creator
- Creating a compelling video that truly documents an important event can be challenging, so the VIXIA HF M50 camcorder steps in to help with Story Creator. The feature is even easier to use than ever, so even beginning videographers can cover an event with confidence. Before shooting, you'll see a list of scenes you'll want to be sure to catch for several different types of occasions. And now each scene selection includes specific shooting tips that help with scene structure and composition, including suggestions for wide-shots, close-ups, even recommendations for length of shots. After shooting, you can watch your video in coherent story order based on each scene's theme, as opposed to the order in which each scene was shot
- 24p Cinema & 30p Progressive Modes
- The HF M50 camcorder's sophisticated shooting mode options offer superior creativity and functionality. 24p Cinema Mode gives your video a film-like feel, making it look as if it were shot at the same frame rate as movie film, with a frame capture rate of 24p recorded at 60i. The camcorder also gives you the option of recording in 30p Progressive Mode, which is ideal for clips you intend to post online
- Microphone & Headphone Terminals
- The HF M50 camcorder offers exceptional audio flexibility with microphone and headphone terminals. The microphone terminal allows you to capture professional-quality sound with an external microphone and manual audio level control ensures proper volume for any situation. In addition, you'll find a dedicated headphone terminal, ideal for remote communication with the optional Wireless Microphone WM-V1 and other applications
| Camera | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 2.37 Megapixel 1/3" CMOS |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens |
6.1 - 61 mm f/1.8 - 3.0 |
| Zoom |
Optical: 10x Digital: 200x |
| Filter Size | 43 mm |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| System | NTSC |
| Recording Media |
Internal Flash Memory 8GB Video/Image SD/SDHC/SDXC Up To 64GB Video/Image |
| Recording Time |
Internal Flash Memory GB 8GB LP (5Mbps): 180 minutes 8GB SP (7Mbps): 140 minutes 8GB XP+ (12Mbps): 85 minutes 8GB FXP (17Mbps): 60 minutes 8GB MXP (24Mbps): 40 minutes Internal Flash Memory GB 8GB MP4 (4Mbps): 250 minutes 8GB MP4 (9Mbps): 115 minutes |
| Video Format |
High Definition AVCHD (MPEG4) 1920 x 1080p / 24 fps 1920 x 1080p / 30 fps 1920 x 1080i / 60 fps High Definition MPEG4 1920 x 1080p / 24 fps 1920 x 1080p / 30 fps 1920 x 1080i / 60 fps |
| Still Image Resolution | JPEG: 2.07 Megapixel, 1920 x 1080 |
| Channels | 2-Channel Stereo |
| Audio Format |
AAC Dolby Digital 2ch |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Screen Size | 3.0" |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Optical & Digital |
| Lux |
1.2 (Regular Mode) 0.1 (Low Light Mode) |
| Built-in Mic | Yes |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Built-in Light/Flash |
Light - No Flash - No |
| Accessory Shoe | Hot |
| Tripod Mount | 1/4" |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Outputs |
1x HDMI C (Mini) 1x Mini-USB 2.0 1x A/V |
| Microphone Input | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | Yes |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Languages |
English Spanish French German Portuguese Japanese Dutch Russian Simplified Chinese Traditional Chinese Korean Italian Polish Romanian Turkish Arabic Czech |
| System Requirements |
Windows
Mac
|
| Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack, 3.6VDC, 1840mAh Hours per Charge |
| Charging Method | AC Adapter |
| Power Adapter | 100-240VAC, 50/60HZ |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 2.68 x 2.52 x 4.76" / 6.8 x 6.4 x 12.1 cm |
| Weight |
10.93 oz / 310 g with battery 12.88 oz / 365 g without battery |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 26 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
91%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (22)
- Easy to use (21)
- Image stabilization (21)
- Zoom range/performance (18)
- Good in low light (15)
Cons
Best Uses
- Home movies (16)
- HD shooting (12)
- Travel (10)
- Low light (9)
- Movies/short films (6)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual user (11), Enthusiast (6), Semi-pro (5)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (24)
Most Liked Positive Review
Mic input and manual controls, low cost
I only had a few days with this camera, setting it up and training non professionals to use it for video production in Haiti. The auto features worked very well in my trial video ...Read complete review
I only had a few days with this camera, setting it up and training non professionals to use it for video production in Haiti. The auto features worked very well in my trial video and that gave me much confidence for who ever would use it in the future.
I purchased 2 of the cameras because of the manual features of exposure, focus, and audio levels, as well as a mic input. These features are great for the anyone looking to have needed control when needed to insure their footage doesn't have the typical consumer grade auto feature look that plagues certain/most lighting situations. The manual mic gain control is critical too, allowing professional mics to be plugged in and controlled properly. Audio quality is more important than video quality, if your audience can't understand what's being said, it doesn't matter how good the image is.
The low light performance was delightfully above par for a consumer camcorders too. Canon sacrificed higher megapixel still image ability for low light abilities, something I wish all consumer camcorders did years ago. Who wants grainy, ugly indoor footage? If I want a hi res still I'll use my photo camera, not my camcorder. If you really want some great low light footage, and a shallow depth of field (that in and out of focus look) you'll need to invest in an DSLR (like a Canon T3i) and some large aperture lenses (not a kit lens), but this camcorder does pretty good in low light.
For the price point, this is a great entry level camcorder for the aspiring filmmaker or low budget operation looking to produce higher quality content with greater control over the camera.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Features That Make It Stand Out, Don't
I got this camera to live webcast my son's band. I paid more to have wifi.
Pros:
In good light, you get great results. Has useful built in microphone features. ...Read complete review
I got this camera to live webcast my son's band. I paid more to have wifi.
Pros:
In good light, you get great results. Has useful built in microphone features. I combine it with Zoom H4 for great audio results. Battery life, built in storage, plenty for 1 hr 45 minutes. HDMI cable included, great for playback on HD TVs. View display rotates around to face forward.
Cons:
Bundled software doesn't work AT ALL. There is NO support for the software. You have to use the software to configure the network settings, so... No Networking. Can't upload to YouTube, because the software doesn't recognize Google-based YouTube login. None of the patches resolved any of these issues. Black on black controls useless in low light. Limited controls.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 26 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
Pretty dynamic, easy to use, surprisingly small and light but still (reasonably) durable and provides great picture quality. This was purchased primarily to record martial arts events; it captures action well, and the picture is pretty stable. Versatile, as you can record in a number of formats and frame rates. It has a decent amount of internal storage, and there is almost no noticeable lag when writing to the SD card. I think the camera should have come with a remote, but that's a pretty minor complaint and doesn't deserve a ding in the device's reputation. The touchscreen is a little imprecise; I don't always get the command I intended to hit, but again, that's a relatively petty complaint. I'd recommend it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I first purchased HFR40 Series. Wanted to be in love with it, but just wasn't. Upgraded to HFM50 with a larger sensor and wow the difference is amazing. Outside shots are crystal clear, but inside lowlight is extremely impressive too. Even the still photos indoors are good for the 2MB camera (they were virtually of unusable quality on the HFR40, very grainy). Video in Gym setting with fluorescent lights came out bright and w.o yellow cast! I have used in all settings for several weeks now, and have nothing that I'd change on it (except possibly more zoom-but I'll sacrifice zoom for image quality anyday!). Image stabilization is great as well!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Bad Touch Screen Buttons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
Great little consumer camcorder for the price. My only gribe is the touch screen menus are tough for me to navigate. I can never seem to hit the buttons correctly. Makes you want to pull your hair out after 4th or 5th time trying to access a menu and then you accidentally hit the button right next to the button you meant to hit.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I bought a camcorder to record myself for streaming videos and DVD teachings. I needed one with manual override capabilities allowing full control for a professional production. It delievers as promised, from the mic jack allowing wireless recording, apperature control for depth of field to quality resolution to equal HD stock video editing.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I got this camera to live webcast my son's band. I paid more to have wifi.
Pros:
In good light, you get great results. Has useful built in microphone features. I combine it with Zoom H4 for great audio results. Battery life, built in storage, plenty for 1 hr 45 minutes. HDMI cable included, great for playback on HD TVs. View display rotates around to face forward.
Cons:
Bundled software doesn't work AT ALL. There is NO support for the software. You have to use the software to configure the network settings, so... No Networking. Can't upload to YouTube, because the software doesn't recognize Google-based YouTube login. None of the patches resolved any of these issues. Black on black controls useless in low light. Limited controls.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- No Wrist Strap
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
The M50 is a great Camcorder! I mostly use our camcorders for recording my daughter's swim meets for us to review later. Our old camcorder was just not producing the clarity we wanted. With all the HD TV's out there, we really needed an HD camcorder. So after much research, we chose the M50. I was worried about the zoom not being enough, but it turns out it was great! For the swim meets, I sit in the stands and can't exactly get close to the pool. The lens on this Camcorder preformed awesome though. The zoom suits me just fine. I also use it to record home movies. The clarity of my recordings is amazing and I can't believe we waited this long to upgrade to an HD camcorder.
Being a photographer, I would even go as far as to say that this could work to record weddings...depending on your situation, of course.
The battery life seems to be sufficient as well. My only complaints are: 1) I wish the camera came with an external battery charger. But our previous Canon camcorder did not either, so I am used to that. And 2) I wish it came with a wrist strap.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Limited Still Photography
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I was hoping for a streaming interface with the wifi, but it is not capable of that on its own. My laptop will not accept HDMI in, so that was not a good work-around. The picture quality is excellent and the low light quality is acceptable. The camera can only record MP$ for 30 minutes and AVCHD recordings are broken down into segments that need to be edited back together on the laptop. I recorded an indoor concert using the "spotlight" video setting and the "music" audio setting and was pleasnatly surprised. I do wish that I could use the digital zoom and take a still photo, but the camera won't let you do that after a certain zoom factor. I do like the SDHD card slot. I'm using a 32 Gig card and a 16 Gig ExtremePro that make moving the media to my laptop very easy. Overall I'm happy with my choice in buying this camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
Used for general video capture.
Good for its' features.
Navigating and setting features takes a little time for a new user, wide angle is limited, but can be worked around, that's the reason for four star rating!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
This camera greatly upgrades our product videos. The high quality video is perfect to display our products. The clear crisp picture has given us terrific final results. A great thanks to B&H for the recommendation of this product.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
Easy to Use, Good Image Stabilization. Love it
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
The reason for 3 star is because I have not used it very much.
But operating the camcorder is a no brainer. I am not used to having a touch screen in a camcorder, so have not used it much either. Zooming and focus are good. 8Gb internal memory is a lot more than I am used to. I still added the 64GB SDXC card.
Charges quickly enough, easy to use, Zoom is good enough, battery lasts well for my applicaions and light weight. Too early to talk about other features.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Missing Wireless Remote
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
Video quality is great, audio recording is decent, autofocus is fast, low light is great. I was able to import MP4 video into Camtasia and merged it with screencast. I purchased this Canon HF M50 to record mini-lectures for Youtube, although not being able to find a wireless remote control WL-D89 makes it difficult for zooming when recording myself.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Microphone
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Wifi Set Up Difficult
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Sports
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I was looking for a camera which would allow me quick and easy transferring from the camera into an IPad. This product works great as it allows for multiple storage platforms as well as the ability to transfer either wirelessly or using an SD card and camera connection kit. It works great for working with athletes and high speed movements.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- Canon HV30(x2)
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
i use the product for video trainings for my company.
it is better for focusing closer.
learning how to use it when buying it
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
This is my first Canon and I like it comparing with few Sony camcoder I've owned. Easy to use, simple setting, and excellent picture quality.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
The only complaint that I have is that when your first using the camera the operating buttons are hard to maneuver. The buttons are black....on a black surface.......and inscribed in black lettering.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I bought the camera to video my son playing sax for his several auditions. B&H is a company my daughter recommended and like with most things - She is right. Here is a team of people in a company that is a throw back to a time when service mattered and not the sale. Here is a team that is concerned about its customers and their needs. I would be grateful to anyone reading this review not to tell B&H that it is now 2013 and we live in a world in which companies are out to skin their customers. Please let them remain in that utopian cocoon from which they serve customers. May their tribe increase.
Now about the Canon - It's a good camera but unfortunately not very MAC friendly. But that is something I will have to teach myself to overcome. The important point is that we as consumers must patronize businesses that keep our needs paramount. And make money while they are at it! They get my 21 Canon salute!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Can Go Out Of Focus
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
So I just got this camera as an early Christmas gift and I must say I'm blown away. I mainly use this camera to record my band and me playing drums. It handles low light, rapid color change and flashes, along with loud music very well and the picture quality is amazing. I have a 8GB card and you can select the quality you want to record. On the lowest setting you can get around 1.5-2 hours of video but if you go to the best it drops down to around 45 minutes. So you may need to look at getting bigger SD cards. Although it also has 8GB of internal memory as well. The battery seems to last a little more then two hours. I was told the you can only use a Cannon battery pack with it and that's around $[$]. Kind of crazy if you ask me. Over all I am totally happy with it.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
We use the camera to fim sporting events and the ease of use plus the great quality pictures is far more than we expected
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I found this product by searching for price and quality. I haven't used a camcorder before but I changed the battery and starting recording. It was very user friendly. For our needs we also purchased the suggested microphone and everything worked together nicely. I have been very happy with this purchase.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 26 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
91%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (22)
- Easy to use (21)
- Image stabilization (21)
- Zoom range/performance (18)
- Good in low light (15)
Cons
Best Uses
- Home movies (16)
- HD shooting (12)
- Travel (10)
- Low light (9)
- Movies/short films (6)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual user (11), Enthusiast (6), Semi-pro (5)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (24)
Most Liked Positive Review
Mic input and manual controls, low cost
I only had a few days with this camera, setting it up and training non professionals to use it for video production in Haiti. The auto features worked very well in my trial video ...Read complete review
I only had a few days with this camera, setting it up and training non professionals to use it for video production in Haiti. The auto features worked very well in my trial video and that gave me much confidence for who ever would use it in the future.
I purchased 2 of the cameras because of the manual features of exposure, focus, and audio levels, as well as a mic input. These features are great for the anyone looking to have needed control when needed to insure their footage doesn't have the typical consumer grade auto feature look that plagues certain/most lighting situations. The manual mic gain control is critical too, allowing professional mics to be plugged in and controlled properly. Audio quality is more important than video quality, if your audience can't understand what's being said, it doesn't matter how good the image is.
The low light performance was delightfully above par for a consumer camcorders too. Canon sacrificed higher megapixel still image ability for low light abilities, something I wish all consumer camcorders did years ago. Who wants grainy, ugly indoor footage? If I want a hi res still I'll use my photo camera, not my camcorder. If you really want some great low light footage, and a shallow depth of field (that in and out of focus look) you'll need to invest in an DSLR (like a Canon T3i) and some large aperture lenses (not a kit lens), but this camcorder does pretty good in low light.
For the price point, this is a great entry level camcorder for the aspiring filmmaker or low budget operation looking to produce higher quality content with greater control over the camera.
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Most Liked Negative Review
Features That Make It Stand Out, Don't
I got this camera to live webcast my son's band. I paid more to have wifi.
Pros:
In good light, you get great results. Has useful built in microphone features. ...Read complete review
I got this camera to live webcast my son's band. I paid more to have wifi.
Pros:
In good light, you get great results. Has useful built in microphone features. I combine it with Zoom H4 for great audio results. Battery life, built in storage, plenty for 1 hr 45 minutes. HDMI cable included, great for playback on HD TVs. View display rotates around to face forward.
Cons:
Bundled software doesn't work AT ALL. There is NO support for the software. You have to use the software to configure the network settings, so... No Networking. Can't upload to YouTube, because the software doesn't recognize Google-based YouTube login. None of the patches resolved any of these issues. Black on black controls useless in low light. Limited controls.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 26 customers
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
Pretty dynamic, easy to use, surprisingly small and light but still (reasonably) durable and provides great picture quality. This was purchased primarily to record martial arts events; it captures action well, and the picture is pretty stable. Versatile, as you can record in a number of formats and frame rates. It has a decent amount of internal storage, and there is almost no noticeable lag when writing to the SD card. I think the camera should have come with a remote, but that's a pretty minor complaint and doesn't deserve a ding in the device's reputation. The touchscreen is a little imprecise; I don't always get the command I intended to hit, but again, that's a relatively petty complaint. I'd recommend it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I first purchased HFR40 Series. Wanted to be in love with it, but just wasn't. Upgraded to HFM50 with a larger sensor and wow the difference is amazing. Outside shots are crystal clear, but inside lowlight is extremely impressive too. Even the still photos indoors are good for the 2MB camera (they were virtually of unusable quality on the HFR40, very grainy). Video in Gym setting with fluorescent lights came out bright and w.o yellow cast! I have used in all settings for several weeks now, and have nothing that I'd change on it (except possibly more zoom-but I'll sacrifice zoom for image quality anyday!). Image stabilization is great as well!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Bad Touch Screen Buttons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
Great little consumer camcorder for the price. My only gribe is the touch screen menus are tough for me to navigate. I can never seem to hit the buttons correctly. Makes you want to pull your hair out after 4th or 5th time trying to access a menu and then you accidentally hit the button right next to the button you meant to hit.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I bought a camcorder to record myself for streaming videos and DVD teachings. I needed one with manual override capabilities allowing full control for a professional production. It delievers as promised, from the mic jack allowing wireless recording, apperature control for depth of field to quality resolution to equal HD stock video editing.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I got this camera to live webcast my son's band. I paid more to have wifi.
Pros:
In good light, you get great results. Has useful built in microphone features. I combine it with Zoom H4 for great audio results. Battery life, built in storage, plenty for 1 hr 45 minutes. HDMI cable included, great for playback on HD TVs. View display rotates around to face forward.
Cons:
Bundled software doesn't work AT ALL. There is NO support for the software. You have to use the software to configure the network settings, so... No Networking. Can't upload to YouTube, because the software doesn't recognize Google-based YouTube login. None of the patches resolved any of these issues. Black on black controls useless in low light. Limited controls.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- No Wrist Strap
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
The M50 is a great Camcorder! I mostly use our camcorders for recording my daughter's swim meets for us to review later. Our old camcorder was just not producing the clarity we wanted. With all the HD TV's out there, we really needed an HD camcorder. So after much research, we chose the M50. I was worried about the zoom not being enough, but it turns out it was great! For the swim meets, I sit in the stands and can't exactly get close to the pool. The lens on this Camcorder preformed awesome though. The zoom suits me just fine. I also use it to record home movies. The clarity of my recordings is amazing and I can't believe we waited this long to upgrade to an HD camcorder.
Being a photographer, I would even go as far as to say that this could work to record weddings...depending on your situation, of course.
The battery life seems to be sufficient as well. My only complaints are: 1) I wish the camera came with an external battery charger. But our previous Canon camcorder did not either, so I am used to that. And 2) I wish it came with a wrist strap.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Limited Still Photography
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I was hoping for a streaming interface with the wifi, but it is not capable of that on its own. My laptop will not accept HDMI in, so that was not a good work-around. The picture quality is excellent and the low light quality is acceptable. The camera can only record MP$ for 30 minutes and AVCHD recordings are broken down into segments that need to be edited back together on the laptop. I recorded an indoor concert using the "spotlight" video setting and the "music" audio setting and was pleasnatly surprised. I do wish that I could use the digital zoom and take a still photo, but the camera won't let you do that after a certain zoom factor. I do like the SDHD card slot. I'm using a 32 Gig card and a 16 Gig ExtremePro that make moving the media to my laptop very easy. Overall I'm happy with my choice in buying this camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
Used for general video capture.
Good for its' features.
Navigating and setting features takes a little time for a new user, wide angle is limited, but can be worked around, that's the reason for four star rating!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
This camera greatly upgrades our product videos. The high quality video is perfect to display our products. The clear crisp picture has given us terrific final results. A great thanks to B&H for the recommendation of this product.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
Easy to Use, Good Image Stabilization. Love it
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
The reason for 3 star is because I have not used it very much.
But operating the camcorder is a no brainer. I am not used to having a touch screen in a camcorder, so have not used it much either. Zooming and focus are good. 8Gb internal memory is a lot more than I am used to. I still added the 64GB SDXC card.
Charges quickly enough, easy to use, Zoom is good enough, battery lasts well for my applicaions and light weight. Too early to talk about other features.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Missing Wireless Remote
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
Video quality is great, audio recording is decent, autofocus is fast, low light is great. I was able to import MP4 video into Camtasia and merged it with screencast. I purchased this Canon HF M50 to record mini-lectures for Youtube, although not being able to find a wireless remote control WL-D89 makes it difficult for zooming when recording myself.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Microphone
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Wifi Set Up Difficult
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Sports
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I was looking for a camera which would allow me quick and easy transferring from the camera into an IPad. This product works great as it allows for multiple storage platforms as well as the ability to transfer either wirelessly or using an SD card and camera connection kit. It works great for working with athletes and high speed movements.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- Canon HV30(x2)
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
i use the product for video trainings for my company.
it is better for focusing closer.
learning how to use it when buying it
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
This is my first Canon and I like it comparing with few Sony camcoder I've owned. Easy to use, simple setting, and excellent picture quality.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
The only complaint that I have is that when your first using the camera the operating buttons are hard to maneuver. The buttons are black....on a black surface.......and inscribed in black lettering.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I bought the camera to video my son playing sax for his several auditions. B&H is a company my daughter recommended and like with most things - She is right. Here is a team of people in a company that is a throw back to a time when service mattered and not the sale. Here is a team that is concerned about its customers and their needs. I would be grateful to anyone reading this review not to tell B&H that it is now 2013 and we live in a world in which companies are out to skin their customers. Please let them remain in that utopian cocoon from which they serve customers. May their tribe increase.
Now about the Canon - It's a good camera but unfortunately not very MAC friendly. But that is something I will have to teach myself to overcome. The important point is that we as consumers must patronize businesses that keep our needs paramount. And make money while they are at it! They get my 21 Canon salute!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Can Go Out Of Focus
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
So I just got this camera as an early Christmas gift and I must say I'm blown away. I mainly use this camera to record my band and me playing drums. It handles low light, rapid color change and flashes, along with loud music very well and the picture quality is amazing. I have a 8GB card and you can select the quality you want to record. On the lowest setting you can get around 1.5-2 hours of video but if you go to the best it drops down to around 45 minutes. So you may need to look at getting bigger SD cards. Although it also has 8GB of internal memory as well. The battery seems to last a little more then two hours. I was told the you can only use a Cannon battery pack with it and that's around $[$]. Kind of crazy if you ask me. Over all I am totally happy with it.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
We use the camera to fim sporting events and the ease of use plus the great quality pictures is far more than we expected
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF M50 Full HD Camcorder:
I found this product by searching for price and quality. I haven't used a camcorder before but I changed the battery and starting recording. It was very user friendly. For our needs we also purchased the suggested microphone and everything worked together nicely. I have been very happy with this purchase.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Media
Show more >Be prepared - always carry extra media.
- Price: $14.95
Batteries & Power
Show more >Don't get caught without power, always have a spare battery.
- Price: $59.95
Bags & Cases
Show more >Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $17.95
Filters
Show more >Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect by adding a filter.
- Price: $10.95
- Price: $23.89
Lenses & Adaptors
Show more >Capture the right view with a conversion lens.
- Price: $92.50
- Price: $239.99
Wireless & Streaming Video
- Price: $289.00
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