Canon's top of the line offering for 2009, the VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder, provides an impressive 8.59Mp CMOS sensor along with HD recording. This dynamic duo gives you excellent video and 8Mp still images with up to 12 hours of high definition recording to the built-in 32GB flash memory. If you run out of space there's also the SDHC expansion slot, which can hold another 12 hours of HD footage.
Flash memory keeps this camcorder light and compact while high definition gives you excellent image capture. But helping you make your video and stills even better would be the DIGIC DV III Image Processor along with the 10x HD Video Lens, 2.7" wide LCD and the SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer.
The HF S10 gives the casual home movie maker Face Detection and Pre-record functions to ensure they always get the shot as well as more advanced features for the aspiring film-maker. Microphone and headphone terminals along with the Mini Advanced Accessory shoe help to capture high quality audio. In addition, 24p Cinema mode and 30p Progressive mode give your footage a professional look and feel.
The HF S10 gives you quality and then some, no matter what your subject.
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 8.59 Megapixel 1/2.6" CMOS |
| Lens |
6.4 - 64 mm f/1.8 - 3.0 |
| Zoom |
Optical: 10x Digital: 200x |
| Filter Size | 58 mm |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| System | NTSC |
| Recording Media | Internal Flash Memory, SD/SDHC Up To 32GB Video/Image |
| Recording Time |
Internal Flash Memory LP: 12 hours, 15 minutes XP+: 5 hours, 45 minutes MXP: 2 hours, 55 minutes (allows 1920 x 1080 full HD recording) |
| Video Format |
High Definition MPEG AVC/H.264 1920 x 1080, 1440 x 1080 (60/24/30 fps) |
| Still Image Resolution | JPEG: 8.02 Megapixel |
| Audio Format | 2-ChannelStereo |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Screen Size | 2.7" |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Lux | 0.3 (Night Mode) |
| Built-in Mic | Yes |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Built-in Light/Flash |
Light - Yes Flash - Yes |
| Accessory Shoe | Mini Hot |
| Tripod Mount | 1/4" |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Inputs | 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Stereo Mini |
| Outputs |
1x USB 2.0 1x Component Video (out) 1x Composite Video (out) 1x Mini HDMI 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Stereo Mini |
| Microphone Input | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | Yes |
| General | |
|---|---|
| System Requirements |
Windows System
|
| Power Adapter | 100-240VAC, 50/60HZ |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 2.8 x 2.7 x 5.4" / 71.12 x 68.58 x 137.16 mm |
| Weight | 1.1 lb / 498.95 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
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Most Liked Positive Review
Great camera with internal memory
I was looking to upgrade from Mini-DV tape and decided on flash memory. A few things to know based on not having a current computer, mine is a few years old. Imac G5 power...Read complete review
I was looking to upgrade from Mini-DV tape and decided on flash memory. A few things to know based on not having a current computer, mine is a few years old. Imac G5 power pc right before the intel chips were used. I understand a current processor is needed to uncompress the files the HFS 10 camera makes. I decided to get the DW-100 Canon burner which works perfectly. You can record in any quality except the highest "MXP" for the burner to work. You have to use DVD -R media (no +R) for it to work. You must play back burned DVD-R on a blue-ray player as a standard DVD player portable or not will Not work! I added the Canon mic DM-100 which is compact and well worth it. I decided on the BP-819 pack, you may way a second as well. I did not bother with the included battery. Be aware the camera does not include a camera strap or battery charger. I contacted Canon and being a Nikon, Canon and even a Sony mini-dv user over the years these items are usually included. Furthermore, when you are spending [$] it should be included even the digital P&S have a charger. Canon's customer service sent me no charge a camera strap and stand alone charger. Nice and appreciated customer service. B&H currently charges about $70 for both. Camera bag: The included Edit 110 is a nice bag but too small. It will fit and I added a protective filter and Canon lens cap, but their is no wiggle room. The Canon mic can fit on top of the camera (not attached) used the divider to separate. The Kata CC 190 is well made and fits better, but I believe the CC 191 will give better room for a wide angle lens, polarizer to use when needed, extra battery & mic. I will find that out shortly. Wide angle lens attachment: Century optics is good and I have one for the Sony mini-DV tape camera. However, the reversible wide/fisheye lens does not zoom through. So with the wide angle side all will go out of focus at a point. The other wide attachment .65 century optics lens to top heavy for this camera and has an 82 mm front. I am waiting on the Canon wide angle lens to see how that goes. Because of the few missing and needed items I give this 4 1/2 stars. It is nice for B&H to include the Edit 110 bag, but it should be at least the size of the Edit 120, just a few more inches and this would be perfect as far as the bag goes. The extra $100 is worth the step over the HFS 100. Any more than $100 you have to think. I like the idea of coping internal memory data to the removable SDHC card! Will update on any new discovery's, FYI-[@] is helpful
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Most Liked Negative Review
Good picture quality - But
The camera is not used for commercial purpose, just family functions. We just returned from a trip to Yellowstone and Glacier NP's and much was brought to light about the unit.
Th...Read complete review
The camera is not used for commercial purpose, just family functions. We just returned from a trip to Yellowstone and Glacier NP's and much was brought to light about the unit.
The picture quality is really quite good if not outstanding. The menu is not too bad, only requiring several uses of the manual. It is small and light weight that is good for hiking or inconspicuous use.
Using the camera is another issue. It NEEDS an optical view finder! After market batteries are totally annoying without the "Smart Chip" or whatever it is called. The controls are TINY. Make sure that you have read what ever is on your screen before you push "Set" on the joy stick (a misnomer if there ever was one because it is not a joy to use - and I do not have big fingers).
Do you really need HD? Now I find out that you cannot burn a disk in HD with my computers that will play on a standard homeowner DVD player and have been advised to convert it to SD!!! MY fault for not knowing video.
It uses batteries like crazy. Get the biggest one possible and you will welcome the weight as the camera is so light that you can see your heartbeat while watching the screen. Oh yes, hold your breath while shooting or use a mono or tripod with a fluid head to smooth it out.
It also needs a good quality wind screen for the microphones or turn off the sound because it records horrendous wind noise.
I would recommend it with a serious advisory as to my dislikes. Perhaps in more experienced hands it would be an excellent camera.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I use the HF S10 for both business and personal use and have found it to be very dependable, easy to operate with excellent quality video. Each year I make family videos and it has become something the family looks forward to at the holiday gatherings. I recently bought my 2nd VIXIA HF S10 after checking out the new cameras on the market , I felt there was no reason to change based on my the satisfaction from my first camera.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I just received this camera, so I'll report back more when I get the video into a proper video editor. It handles low light really well. I bought this mainly to take videos of bands playing live and the audio quality is surprisingly good. The auto setting has a great limiter in it, so it's neither too quiet or peaking.
Transferring video from the camera was a little confusing at first but I figured it out without spending hours reading the manual. Unfortunately the MTS format is not a common format but to be fair I am running an older version of imovie, so I can't see the raw video. I used a file converter to change the file format just so I could view the video. Once I upgrade to a newer version of imovie and final cut, I should be able to give more insight.
For the price range, it's probably the best camera you can use to do video in low light. It daylight the quality is stunning. From what I can tell, unless you want to spend a lot more on a Canon 7D or another DSLR that does video and drop more money on lenses, it's your best option. My DSLR is great for taking photos, but does NOT take video. The dual internal and SD memory make it much more suitable for video over a DSLR that also takes video. I look forward to using this camera more!
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
...
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I researched extensively before deciding on purchasing the Vixia HFS10. The competing Sony model's GPS tagging is an intriguing feature, but after a bad experience with my previous Sony HDV (HDR-HC7, which lasted about 2 years), I decided to give Canon a try. On one of the professional review sites, this model was rated in the top 5, behind much more pricier and pro-heavy models. The Panasonic equivalent model had not been released at the time of my purchase, though the projected price was going to be much more than this Canon model. Therefore, this HFS10 is a terrific value buy for all the features. After using it now for 2 months, I must say I love the Canon. First, good riddance to the digital tape technology. It is great not to have to deal with tapes and the mechanism of winding and rewinding tapes. I'm convinced that's what shortened the life of my old Sony. The ease of taking the flash drive out and plugging it directly into my desktop, makes the files transfer a breeze. Not having a viewfinder is a bummer, but short of this, I have no other negative comments about this Canon. I am also a repeat customer of B&H and have always had a great shopping experience with them. Their video demo of this model and the competing Sony is what made my decision more difficult, but at the end, rewarding.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I own a Canon xl2 and gl2 and just picked up one a canon hf s10 and want to say that the video quality is amazing for such a small camera and should be considered a prosumer camera. I am still getting used to its weight, it almost feels like nothing in my hands being used to heavier cameras. This is not for live video feeds without purchasing expensive hardware as the cpu recognizes it only as a memory device. Aftermarket batteries and lenses are fairly inexpensive compared to oem products. If recording in 24p make sure your software will import correctly. The internal stabilization feature kinda makes the software stabilization look weird. So use only one, either software or built in camera. Do your homework on this product if using for pro work
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
don't get me wrong, the camera is great: great quality, not much shake for the size, nice controls etc.
It can't download without power cord!!! That's my biggest complaint and the reason for 3 stars. Can't shoot a quick 2 minutes and download to youtube just like that...
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
First puchase from B&H amd I'm very pleased. [...] I love the versatility and abilities of this camcorder. Don't like to poor battery life from the stock battery. I would recommend B&H and the Canon Vixia HFS10 to my friends.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I use this camera for both family/ home videos and my own personal video projects which are more creative/travel projects. The camera works very well for both applications. It's small enough to carry easily for family outings but also has the features and images quality necessary for more professional use.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
This camcorder is the perfect size! Its not bulky or huge and you can carry it with you anywhere you go. Its extremely easy to use as well.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I've only had this camera a week, but already I love the results. After a lot of research, I chose this camera because of the memory storage. The picture quality is great and it's easy to use. My previous camera, a Canon GL1 finally 'passed away' after 10 years of use. If money wasn't an option I would have stayed with MiniDV models, but I was tired of buying tapes - they get expensive and without having a deck, wore my heads out.
This camera was a great bargain at a great sale price, and I'm happy with my choice. It links up with my MacBook using Final Cut Express well, although you have to use the 'Log and Transfer' feature as it doesn't capture playback. That's a drag as it takes twice the time with clips longer than 15 minutes. There's some loss of picture quality, but nothing to complain about. I actually expected worse. The sound is amazing with the two exterior microphones! One thing I have to get used to is the size and shape relative to the hand strap. I have long fingers and it's not as comfortable in my hand as other models, but I mostly use a tripod, so I'm fine with it. Still haven't tried most of the features, but so far - great camera!
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
Travel & family. Image quality excellant.
The camera is smaller than I expected and since I
have big hands it's taking some time to get used
to it. Yhe instruction manual ir not as detailed
as it could be. The lack of a viewfinder is a
negative.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I use this for our vacations. The image quality is excellent; audio is o.k., but the camera shakes & jitters easily, especially for action shots. I'm just a beginner operator, so maybe this is a setting and operator problem (A tripod is a must, especially for zooming). I suppose better image stabilization would cost much more $.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
This is one of the best camera in the world. Quality of video is better than other brand of video cam such as Sony, Panasonic. Cameras menu is not difficult. I higly recomend this item to everbody. You can believe me, you will be satisfied.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I really looked around for the best camera and a computer that would be able to handle HD videos.I bought this camera and couldn't be happier.I bought a mac and final cut express to edit the HD videos.They work together awesome.I highly recommend this camera a mac and final cut express.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I use this product for short videos/films. So far I have had no problems with the camera. It is really small in size. It is a litter bigger than my hand. Even though I have big hands.
I would recommend using the 30p setting at 1080 because that looks the best and really shows what the camera can do. The screen is positionable toward you or the target which is nice. The camera back is nice and small like the camera.
Importing on my mac is simple enough once you know how to do it. I transfer on my mac into imovie first because it is file based. The full files can be non compressed and used in other programs.
The sound I need to play with because you can hear the wind if it is windy. I don't have the optional microphone attachment though.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I like:
- Compact, good build quality
- Super nice lens
- High quality video
- Ease of use
I dislike:
- Ridiculous rattle of the lens cover
- Image stabilization is only good at wide angle. When zoomed in, turn off IS for panning.
- The battery that comes with it is of a small capacity.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
Great camera for the price, used with a letus 35mm mini and it rocks! Crisp images, many manual controls. All in all A GREAT BUY
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I am very pleased with the Canon camcorder. The menus are much like their cameras, and easy to use. The large lense is a benefit in low light situations I am beginning to learn how to use it to film the reactions of guests at art shows. It is a little difficult to take a still photo with the camcorder and not shake it, due to the location of the photo button.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
This camera has amazing picture quality. The on board microphone does a great job for everyday use as well. I am a musician and tried recording one of my shows. The show was in a dark bar with a loud sound system. The lens worked great at capturing great detail in the low light (which seems to be a great test to see if you have a great camera). The audio setting on the camera helped to make sure the sound did not clip/distort. The audio sounded good but the low end was lacking in the mix.
If you are familiar with Canons digital still cameras, especially the SLR's, you will have no problem working this camera. The menus are easy to use and navigate through.
The only thing I have to figure out is how to get the video off the camera and onto a DVD or Blu Ray. My computer is 6 years old so I may have to upgrade in order to burn a disk (the reality of technology). I am looking forward to using it on our next vacation.
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Comments about Canon VIXIA HF S10 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder:
I bought this camera to use for filming depositions and as a B-Roll addition to my 5d Mark 2. I has fulfilled both roles admirably.The footage Looks great and can be combined with my mark 2 without issue (in good light). My biggest complaints are crummy stabilization and that it is a bit to small, making it hard to shoot handheld.
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