Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder
- Price: $1,299.00
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Remember the Essentials
Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
The VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder is Canon's high-end offering for 2011. Packed with so many mouth-watering features and functions it doesn't seem to right to call this model a 'consumer camcorder'. Yet, still at a consumer price-point the HF G10 brings professional capabilities to those who seek to do more while staying within the means of their budget.
It's almost redundant to say that a camcorder at this level shoots 1920 x 1080 high definition video, but we'll say it anyway. The HF G10 records at 60i, in native 24p, and in the 24p Cinema mode and 30p Progressive mode (both at 60i). With the 24p frame rate options you can give your footage a truly cinematic look. Using Cinema-Looks Filters you boost that film look with 9 built-in adjustable filters. Some choices include Cinema Standard, Dramatic B&W, Nostalgic, Old Movie, and Sepia. You can also shoot video that's optimized for the 'net with the 30p Progressive mode. Driving all that stunningly detailed and vivid image capture would be the heart of the HF G10: The Canon HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor. This 1/3" image sensor boasts excellent low light performance and a wide dynamic range, giving you flexibility unseen in most consumer camcorders. Working with the sensor to create each shot would be Canon's DIGIC DV III Image Processor. The image processor reduces noise, corrects color for life-like reproduction, and also powers a number of proprietary Canon features like Smart Auto and the Cinema-Look Filters. Other features of the HF G10 include a generous 3.5" touch panel LCD display, a color viewfinder, optical image stabilization, and a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens. The lens boasts an 8 blade iris, and a 4.25-42.5mm focal length(30.4-305 35mm equivalent). Other important basics include 10x optical zoom, a 58mm filter diameter, and a number of terminals. Connections include USB 2.0, Component and Composite outputs, a mini HDMI, and as one would expect on a model of this caliber, headphone and microphone jacks. Whether you're shooting for a film look and feel or simply recording a family get-together, good audio makes your production. Canon gave the HF G10 multiple ways to achieve high-quality sound recording, including the aforementioned built-in microphone and headphone terminals. Attach external microphones and headphones for audio capture that you can monitor with manual audio level controls. If you're looking to capture 5.1 Channel Surround Sound the G10 lets you do that as well using the optional SM-V1 microphone from Canon. When you'd rather leave the accessories at home the camera features a built-in stereo microphone that features directional adjustments, as well as frequency adjustments. The HF G10 also packs in a number of shooting functions. Among the functions usually found on consumer models, the G10 also boasts professional shooting assist functions to make shooting easier. Custom key and dial, composition aids, and advanced control like manual exposure, aperture priority, and shutter priority, just to name a few. Among the more pedestrian features you'll find face detection, Instant AF, Advanced Video Snapshot, and so on. This camcorder, as one would expect, also comes packaged with Canon's Pixela Video Browser Software. Compatible with Windows XP (SP2 and SP3), Vista, and Windows 7, this software helps you to edit and share all your video in post production.- Flash Memory
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The VIXIA HF G10 allows you to record up to 12 hours of clear high definition video to a 32GB internal flash drive or to two SDXC-compatible memory card slots. With Relay Recording, the camcorder automatically switches video recording from the internal drive to the SD memory cards when the memory becomes full. No need then to worry about running out of recording time during a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime shot. With SDXC memory card compatibility, you'll have card storage capacity from more than 32GB up to 2TB and ultra-fast data transfer speeds.
You'll also have the flexibility of copying video from your VIXIA HF G10's internal drive to the removable SD or SDXC memory cards. That makes it easy to insert the card into your computer or HDTV's card reader and view your recorded footage immediately.
Double Slot Recording allows you to record to two SD cards simultaneously, so you can have an automatic safety backup as you shoot.
The advantages of flash memory go beyond the added recording time. You'll also appreciate the quick response time, because there are no moving parts in the recording process. Press the record button and your VIXIA HF G10 starts recording video faster than you've ever seen before. In addition, when you review, you'll have quick access to your footage
- Low Power Consumption
- Another benefit of flash memory is the VIXIA HF G10's low power consumption rate, allowing your battery to last longer. It's just what you need so you don't miss that pivotal play on the field or the moment when they say "I do"
- Shock-Resistant
- While we certainly hope you keep your VIXIA HF G10 securely in your hand while shooting, if it happens to slip, or you accidentally knock it against something, you'll be happy to know that flash memory makes your camcorder more shock-resistant than other recording storage systems. It also minimizes the chance of data loss if you accidently jolt or drop your camcorder
- Canon HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor
- Incorporating a technology proven in Canon's professional level camcorders, HD CMOS Pro is a 1/3" 2.07MP image sensor which delivers outstanding video resolution, superb low-light performance and a wide dynamic range. Unlike image sensors found in competitive consumer camcorders, HD CMOS Pro uses fewer pixels, which are significantly larger (61 percent) and more sensitive, resulting in optimized video performance
- Outstanding Video Resolution
- Since the effective number of pixels of HD CMOS Pro is equal to 1920 x 1080 (2.07MP), resizing is eliminated, allowing Full HD video to be captured and recorded with professional precision (800 vertical and 900 horizontal TV lines)
- Superb Low-Light Performance (1.5 lux)
- Because each individual pixel is larger and more sensitive, each is capable of capturing more light, allowing high quality video to be achieved even in dimly lit conditions. The sensitivity of HD CMOS Pro is approximately 25% better than the Full HD CMOS sensor in the 2010 VIXIA HF S series
- Wide Dynamic Range
- A larger pixel area also allows more light to be stored, resulting in 280% improvement in dynamic range for exceptional reproduction of both highlights and shadows. Skin tones are captured in a finer gradation, and stable gamma and Auto Exposure control is also achieved resulting in a more 'lifelike' image.
- Stunning Image Quality
- The VIXIA HF G10 features a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens which offers a 35mm equivalent of 30.4mm - 304mm. It delivers unsurpassed image quality, the versatility of a wide angle of view and smooth and professional looking background images thanks to a sophisticated 8-blade iris. The professional touch of a dedicated manual focus ring allows accurate and precise control. Combined with Canon's Exclusive HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor, it captures video with stunning resolution, superb low-light performance, and a wide dynamic range
- Canon's DIGIC DV III Image Processor
- Canon's DIGIC DV III image processor provides stunningly realistic color and sophisticated noise reduction for exceptional low-light performance. It is also the high-speed engine that powers a variety of Canon technologies including Smart Auto, Touch & Track, Genuine Canon Face Detection, and Cinema-Look Filters
- 24Mbps Recording
- You will also find that exceptionally lifelike tone and detail are captured thanks to 24Mbps Recording, which offers the highest bit rate in AVCHD. The VIXIA HF G10 not only captures images in Full HD, but records and outputs at 1920 x 1080 as well, so you get HD from lens to screen
- Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization with Powered IS
- The VIXIA HF G10 features Canon's proprietary Dynamic SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization which provides continuous adjustment throughout the entire zoom range to correct a broad range of motion. Extra compensation is applied at wide-angle focal lengths to eliminate unwanted shaking which is common when walking. Together with the latest development, Powered IS, you'll find an even higher level of compensation for subtle hand movement at the telephoto end of the zoom range. Powered IS can be engaged by pressing or holding the Powered IS button on the Touch Panel LCD
- Instant AF
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A critical objective when shooting in high definition is achieving the sharpest focus possible. The VIXIA HF G10 camcorder features Canon's revolutionary Instant AF focusing system which offers a dramatic improvement in auto focus speed and accuracy, compared to traditional auto focus systems. The Instant AF feature uses an external sensor, in combination with Canon's auto focus system, to help significantly decrease the time it takes to find focus, even in low light conditions. This system achieves focus instantaneously, reducing focus "hunting." This is especially beneficial in high brightness or night shooting situations. In addition, with Instant AF it's possible to capture fast, accurate focusing even when following a moving subject.
For those situations in which the super quick action of Instant AF might not be desirable, you also have the option of Medium AF, which is softer and smoother than Instant AF, but faster than would be possible with manual focusing
- 3.5" Touch Panel LCD Screen
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You will see extraordinary detail with this large, stunning 922,000 dot screen which also provides approximately 100% coverage of your shooting scene. It delivers brilliant color combined with touch panel control for faster and easier menu navigation. You'll also have Touch & Track, which allows you to get precise focus and exposure on any subject - whether it's people, pets, or vehicles, by selecting your choice right on the Touch Panel LCD.
You'll also be able to use the Touch Panel for Touch Decoration. This feature lets you superimpose select decorations onto the images on your LCD and then records the images complete with the additions. You may add animation effects, hand written and stamp messages or insert a still image to give your video a truly individual look
- Color Viewfinder
- For your convenience, the VIXIA HF G10 is also equipped with a 0.24", 260,000 dot color viewfinder which provides approximately 100% coverage, for use in shooting when very bright outdoor light conditions may make it difficult to see the LCD display
- Smart Auto
- Smart Auto makes shooting great video easier than ever before. Using the power of Canon's DIGIC DV III Image Processor, the VIXIA HF G10 intelligently detects and analyzes faces, brightness, color, distance, and movement, then automatically selects the best settings for the scene. Whether you are capturing a sunset, a day at the beach, or a fast-paced soccer game, Smart Auto delivers exceptional accuracy, raising your video to the next level
- Tele Macro
- Among the 38 scenes available in Smart Auto, a standout is Tele Macro. Tele Macro automatically zooms the lens of the camcorder to the telephoto end, setting the minimum object distance to approximately 1.3 feet (from 3.3 feet). This gives you the opportunity to shoot spectacular close-ups with the dramatic look of a shallow depth of field
- Touch & Track
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Touch and Track delivers precise tracking of the focus and exposure on any subject - people, pets, vehicles and more. Simply select your point of interest on the Touch Panel LCD, and you will have your subject in sharp focus, regardless of where in the frame it moves during the shot - and, the exposure will be perfectly adjusted for subject and conditions. Touch & Track is the default setting. You can also choose to adjust focus or exposure independently by turning off Touch & Track, and turning on Touch Focus or Touch Exposure.
Touch Focus allows the user to pinpoint a specific area to focus on. This function is similar to the Push AF feature found in professional camcorders, but can target a subject anywhere in the frame.
Touch Exposure enables exposure to be locked or compensated for the area touched by the user
- Genuine Canon Face Detection
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The same high quality Face Detection technology used in Canon digital cameras is available in the VIXIA HF G10 high definition camcorder. Up to 35 faces can be tracked automatically, ensuring razor-sharp focus and natural, accurate exposure. Of the faces tracked, 9 detection frames can be displayed at one time
The system is in fact so smart that it will recognize faces turned downwards or sideways. In addition, a specific face may be selected as the main subject for continuous tracking. This feature can be used to search for clips featuring that specific subject's face. In search and playback, use of the Face Index will display frames with the chosen face as a thumbnail in each shot in which it appears. The selected face can be linked as a timeline to further identify footage containing that subject.
With the Face Only AF option, the camcorder will automatically track a chosen face. However, should that face leave the scene, it will reset focus to manual mode
- Professional Shooting Assist Functions
- To provide an exceptional level of control over the components of the video you shoot with the VIXIA HF G10, you will find a range of shooting assist functions normally only available to professional videographers
- Custom Key and Dial
- A Custom Key and Dial feature allows you to assign functions to an easily, accessible key and adjust the settings with a control dial. They include: Tv/Av: Use the dial to adjust shutter speed (Tv mode) or aperture (Av mode), as needed. In this mode the key has no effect. Manual exposure: When manual control is selected, the dial can adjust aperture, shutter speed, or gain. Select items to adjust, such as aperture or other settings, with the key. Exposure Lock can be set on or off as can the AGC Limit
- Focus and Exposure Aids
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To further enhance focusing capability the VIXIA HF G10 also features Focus Assist. It includes enlargement, which helps in capturing your subject in razor-sharp focus. It works by providing a 2x magnification of your subject, which is automatically cancelled when you start recording. This is a feature normally found in professional broadcast-quality cameras. Also included is color peaking, which shows the shooting object's focused areas in actual colors. With Canon's Edge Monitor Focus Assist system, a red and green monitor is shown at the bottom of the LCD Display and three red focus check areas are shown across the display. The green waveform shows overall focus of the image, while the red waveform shows the focus status of the focus check boxes. Through this dynamic focus feedback, you can intuitively tune focus in a scene and quickly change the zone of focus.
Typically only found on expensive external units, the VIXIA HF G10 has a waveform monitor built right into the camera. The waveform monitor shows a detailed view of overall image brightness.
Enhanced zebra pattern (70% or 100%) indicates 'blown out' or high brightness areas to help you set the proper exposure
- Composition Aids
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With the Level Marker feature, it's easy to keep your camcorder level for more professional looking shooting. Line up any horizontal lines in your shot - such as the horizon - to the marker and you can be sure your camcorder is level.
The Grid Marker helps you compose your shot accurately, by referencing a grid in your viewfinder. Depending on the background color of your shot, you can choose between two different colors for better viewing contrast
- Advanced Control
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The VIXIA HF G10 features full manual exposure, as well as aperture priority (AV), and shutter priority (TV) modes.
Either color bars or color bars and test tone can be selected and recorded using a menu. The color bars comply with the SMPTE standard. -12 dB, -18 dB or -20 dB can be selected as the test tone.
The white balance control has 6 available presets settable through a variety of day and artificial light conditions (Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent H, Fluorescent), as well two manual white balance settings. Color temperature may also be manually set from 2000K to 15,000K in 100K increments for more precise adjustment.
Gain may be manually set from 0dB to 24dB in 1dB increments. Additionally, Auto Gain Control Limit allows you to set the maximum gain limit for the image sensor's sensitivity. With this function, brightness and noise can be balanced as required, and image quality can be maximized in low light situations.
The zoom speed as controlled by the rocker and handle controls is selectable, with a choice of variable or 16 fixed speeds, with fast/normal/slow settings for greater control while zooming in various situations
- Advanced Video Snapshot
- Advanced Video Snapshot allows you to capture the highlights of a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a family milestone with the same ease as taking photos. Simply record a series of short video clips - or select your favorite clips while in Playback Mode - and blend in your favorite background music to create an exciting movie that will grab everyone's attention. This version of Advanced Video Snapshot allows selectable recording time (2, 4, or 8 seconds). Additionally, audio from an external source such as an MP3 player can be played along with the Snapshot movie, and playback can be controlled from that source
- Easy Web Sharing
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HD-to-SD Downconversion allows you to convert recorded high definition video to standard definition files while safely preserving the original HD video. These standard definition files make it even more convenient to edit or share video online. The video can be transferred to your computer via traditional methods - i.e. USB connection, card slot - or wirelessly to sharing sites with an Eye-Fi SD memory card.
The VIXIA HF G10 is compatible with the Eye-Fi SD Memory Card. It's possible to wirelessly transfer your video and photos to your computer, or upload them directly to online sharing sites in a few simple steps. Insert an Eye-Fi SD Memory Card into the SD card slot on the camcorder, configure your computer to select the target site (e.g., Facebook, YouTube, Shutterfly, Flickr) and you're ready to share your standard definition files with family, friends, and the world! 1
- Frame Modes
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The VIXIA HF G10 boasts a host of shooting modes which give you creative options rare in a consumer camcorder. These four offer a range of opportunities to give your video a truly cinematic look and feel.
Native 24p Mode, a feature generally found only on Canon's professional camcorders, allows 24 frames per second to be captured and recorded (instead of the standard 60i) - a must for serious filmmaking work.
24p Cinema Mode enables all aspiring moviemakers to achieve a professional "film-look." You can change the camcorder's frame capture rate to 24p (recorded at 60i), which provides the appearance of the same frame rate as movie film. In addition, you can use the VIXIA HF G10's Cine setting, which changes the color and tonal characteristics, evoking the look and feel of a movie shown in a theater. For added flexibility, these settings can be used together or independently.
You would normally have to look to professional video cameras in order to have a sophisticated tool like 30p Progressive Mode at your command. In addition to the standard interlaced video frame rate of 60i, you may choose to set the VIXIA HF G10 to capture video in 30p, (30 progressive frames, recorded at 60i) which is particularly useful for footage to be used on the Internet. Excellent for action and sports shots, this setting gives enhanced quality to still images captured after recording
- Cinema-Look Filters
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Other cinematic looks can be had through the use of Cinema-Look Filters. This feature offers a choice of nine varied built-in adjustable filters which give the look of a variety of cinematic styles by compensating for the color, gamma and other aspects of the image's quality. The looks can be previewed in the LCD display while shooting. Choose from:
- Cinema Standard: Tones down highlights slightly, boosts shadows slightly and adds warmth for a cinematic look
- Cool: Adds a bluish tint for cool, futuristic-looking scenes
- Dramatic B/W: Creates bold B/W movies with high contrast and grain
- Dream: Adds a magical look (soft focus) for dream-like scenes
- Memory: Adds a faded, misty look to create flashback scenes
- Nostalgic: Recreates the look of old '70s TV programs
- Old Movie: Gives movies the aged look of old cinema
- Sepia: Uses a sepia tint for an antique, faded look
- Vivid: Accentuates primary colors for a bright, cheerful look
When Cinema Standard is selected, color depth, softening, and contrast can also be adjusted
- Terminals
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To maximize the usefulness and versatility of the VIXIA HF G10, you'll find a range of terminals to extend the capabilities of your camcorder. A supplied HDMI cable offers easy, one-cable connectivity to your HDTV. The HDMI terminal also supports CEC and x.v.Color*. The camcorder converts 1080i in which the video was shot into HDTV format 1080p through the HDMI Terminal.
The Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe allows you to attach optional Canon accessories, such as the VL-5 Video Light, DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone or SM-V1 5.1-Channel Surround Microphone.
The built-in microphone terminal with manual audio level control and headphone terminal provide exceptional audio flexibility.
A built-in remote control terminal (compatible with LANC protocol) provides an easy connection to both Canon and third party wired remote controllers
- Audio
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The VIXIA HF G10 offers an enhanced internal microphone to capture high-quality audio. The microphone's direction can be adjusted four different ways to match your needs and taste. Choose from:
- Monaural: Single point direction
- Normal (stereo)
- Wide: Provides a more enhanced, separated stereo effect than normal
- Synced with Zoom: Directionality is adjusted to match the zoom position
In addition, the frequency response characteristics of the microphone can be adjusted between low, mid-range and high frequencies
- Normal: Provides a balance throughout all frequencies
- Low-range emphasis: Excellent for recording live music with impact
- Attenuate low frequencies: Reduces ambient noise and the sound of traffic outdoors, such as wind, cars and the like
- Mid-range emphasis: Ideal for capturing people's voices
- Low and high range emphasis: Record live music with balanced lows and highs
The Automatic Attenuator feature prevents high volume distortion and optimizes audio quality in situations when sound levels quickly change, such as when loud music plays in the background. It automatically keeps the audio clean and even.
The built-in microphone terminal with manual audio level control and the headphone terminal provide exceptional audio flexibility.
Canon's new optional WM-V1 Wireless Microphone allows you to record high-quality audio without wires from up to 164 feet away (50m), ideal for ceremonies and recitals.
For the ultimate home theater experience, 5.1 channel surround sound allows you to capture audio quality that matches the stunning realism of your high definition video. The sound is captured from all directions (five different pickup sensors) so your home movies will look and sound more lifelike than ever before
Optional SM-V1 5.1-Channel Surround Microphone is required
- Story Creator
- Story Creator assists you in the process of creating an organized and sophisticated video. Choose one of five different themes - Travel, Kids & Pets, Party, Ceremony, and Blog - and the camcorder provides a list of suggested scenes to shoot. After capturing your video, Story Creator helps you categorize and rate your scenes, making it easy to review, select and playback your favorites
- Optional WD-H58W Wide Converter
- The optional Canon WD-H58W Wide Converter is optically matched for the VIXIA HF G10's HD lens. It provides a magnification factor of 0.8x, increasing wide angle capability to approximately 24mm (35mm equivalent)
- Intelligent Lithium-Ion Battery
- Intelligent Lithium-Ion Battery accurately indicates remaining battery time down to the minute, so you won't run out of power when you need it most
- Pixela Video Browser Software
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Pixela Video Browser Software* is bundled with the VIXIA HF G10. You can easily perform a variety of functions, including AVCHD Editing in which you can trim, reorder, and combine scenes, as well as add music, titles, and transitions. This software also allows you to play your AVCHD movies on your computer and will let you share copies of your movie with friends and family through flash memory to hard drive copying. Transfer and store your movie onto your computer's hard drive with the software and easily convert your high definition video to standard definition video as well. Pixela Video Browser will also assist you in converting video to the optimum resolution for transmission over the Internet.
The bundled application is compatible with Windows XP (Service Pack 2 and 3), Windows Vista, and Windows 7
- 27 Language Support
- Support for 27 languages is available, including Czech, Danish, German, Greek, English, Spanish, French, Italian, Hungarian, Malay, Dutch, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Finnish, Swedish, Turkish, Russian, Ukrainian, Arabic, Farsi, Thai, simplified Chinese, traditional Chinese, Korean, and Japanese
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 2.37 Megapixel 1/3" |
| Lens |
4.25 - 42.5 mm f/1.8 - 2.8 |
| Zoom |
Optical: 10x Digital: 200x |
| Filter Size | 58 mm |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| System | NTSC |
| Recording Media |
Internal Flash Memory 32GB SD/SDHC, SDXC 1 Please Note:Camcorder equipped with 2 memory card slots close |
| Recording Time |
Internal Flash Memory 32GB: LP: 12 hours, 15 minutes; SP: 9 hours, 35 minutes; FXP: 4 hours, 10 minutes; MXP: 2 hours, 55 minutes SD 2GB: LP: 45 minutes; SP: 35 minutes; FXP: 15 minutes; MXP: 10 minutes 4GB: LP: 1 hour, 30 minutes; SP: 1 hour, 10 minutes; FXP: 30 minutes; MXP: 20 minutes 8GB: LP: 3 hours; SP: 2 hours, 20 minutes; FXP: 1 hour; MXP: 40 minutes 16GB: LP: 6 hours, 5 minutes; SP: 4 hours, 45 minutes; FXP: 2 hours, 5 minutes; MXP: 1 hour, 25 minutes |
| Video Format |
High Definition MPEG AVC/H.264 1920 x 1080i, 1920 x 1080p (60/24 fps) |
| Still Image Resolution | JPEG: 2.07 Megapixel, 1920 x 1080 |
| Audio Format | 2-Channel Stereo |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Screen Size | 3.5" |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Lux |
1.5 (With Auto Slow Shutter selected, shutter speed 1/30 second) 0.1 (Low Light mode, shutter speed 1/2 second) |
| Built-in Mic | Yes |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Accessory Shoe | Mini Hot |
| Tripod Mount | 1/4" |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Inputs |
1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Stereo Mini
2
Please Note:Remote control terminal: Yes (compatible with LANC protocol) close |
| Outputs |
1x USB 2.0 1x Component Video (out) 1x Composite Video (out) 1x 1/8" (3.5mm) Stereo Mini 1x HDMI C (Mini) |
| Microphone Input | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | Yes |
| General | |
|---|---|
| System Requirements |
Windows
Mac
|
| Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 3.0 x 3.1 x 5.9" / 7.62 x 7.87 x 14.99 cm |
| Weight | 1.21 lb / 549 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 110 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
94%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (95)
- Image stabilization (80)
- Good in low light (77)
- Large clear LCD (76)
- Easy to use (69)
Cons
- Limited zoom (16)
- Complicated to operate (15)
- Poor still image (8)
- Battery life (3)
Best Uses
- HD shooting (73)
- Home movies (62)
- Travel (61)
- Low light (56)
- Movies/short films (52)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Enthusiast (38), Semi-pro (29), Casual user (25), Pro videographer (14)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (101)
Most Liked Positive Review
Best Camcorder I've ever had!
Since I was a little kid with an 8mm film camera, I have tried in vain to make videos that had the look and sound of professional TV and movie productions.
I...Read complete review
Since I was a little kid with an 8mm film camera, I have tried in vain to make videos that had the look and sound of professional TV and movie productions.
I failed in many ways, many times. Sometimes due to my meager skills, sometimes due to the short comings of my cameras.
The Vixia HF G10 changes that. I can no longer blame my equipment.
Let me say now, I am not a professional video/film maker. I have had no formal training. My videos are for my own enjoyment, I record special moments and travels for myself and my family. I seldom display or publish videos on the Web.
So far, I have just been learning about the G10, and its features. I've made some stunning video studies of my flower and vegetable garden. Whether played back on the camera's LCD screen, or on my big screen HD television, the images are sharp, clear, vibrant, and have the look of a professional documentary. In addition, the on camera microphones are far superior to any camcorder I've ever used. I have some large wind chimes near my garden and the playback of audio through my TV is astonishing. I have a Sennheiser MKE 400, but have not used it as yet, the on-camera sound is excellent.
What I like: Coming from a DV tape camera, the memory cards are the best thing since sliced bread. The 'touch screen' is very good. I did not think I would like it, but it is easy to use, responds well, and the menu system is somewhat intuitive. The Manual mode provides tons of recording and exposure options. In Programmed mode the camera will make several automated exposure adjustments as the scene or lighting changes. In Av mode the DOF control is excellent, and there are built-in ND filters available in Av mode that have already come in handy. I have not used Tv mode, but in full Manual the controls are easy to access and perform as well as my Canon EOS still camera.
Three modes of Auto focus and excellent, easy to use Manual focus. Zoom speed adjustment, very cool.
Cinema Mode: Sounds like a gimmick, works like a charm. The primary feature in Cinema Mode is a set of 9 filters for various cinematic effects. I like them all, and look forward to using them to highlight my scenes in my videos. It would be easy to over use these, I think. But the Nostalgic, Sepia, and Old Movie filters will surely get used, as will the Dramatic B&W. I'm thinking the Vivid would work on panoramic landscapes.
The whole memory card/built-in memory thing is wonderful. Transfer to a Win 7 PC is easy and fast. So far I'm sticking with the MXP 24P (true 1920 x 1080). It is the luxury I paid for, and I'm going to use it.
Things I don't need: Still photos - nice but I have a great still camera. In camera editing and Decorations: just fluff to me. I guess these things have market appeal, but why does Canon add them to a camera aimed at the upper end video customer?
Things I don't like: The initial impression that the G10 is a small, cheap-looking, plastic camcorder (I got over that when I saw how it performed). The shallow angle of the lens opening prevents adding after market wide angle conversion lens; apparently the only lens that currently fits is the very expensive Canon lens. The BP808 battery is small, and you need 2, or a larger BP819. There is no separate battery charger included, so you need one of those, too. The hot shoe is the Canon mini-shoe, so you need an adapter to use after market mikes or lights, or buy the expensive Canon accessories.
My still camera is a Canon 5D Mk2. It has fantastic video performance as well as awesome still image performance. I wanted the G10 to give me more flexibility for different situations; run-and-gun, handheld kind of stuff, ad hoc filming which I find difficult with the 5D Mk2.
That's about all I can think of now. I would buy this camcorder again without hesitation. I would and do recommend it to anyone looking to take that next step up in video making.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Frustratingly menu for control freaks
I'm reviewing the canon vixia HF G10 from the perspective of a canon XH A1 owner. It's not a fair comparison obviously but could be useful for XH A1 owners contemplating buying this.
I'm reviewing the canon vixia HF G10 from the perspective of a canon XH A1 owner. It's not a fair comparison obviously but could be useful for XH A1 owners contemplating buying this.
I mostly use my camcorders to record stage performances in theatres.
Pros:
+tapeless
+small and light
+can be powered by AC with battery attached as a backup, unlike XH A1
+has some professional featuers (zebra pattern, peaking, manual mode)
+has a spotlight exposure mode that may be useful shooting stage show (have not tested it)
Cons:
-touch screen requires unusually firm pressure. To prevent breaking the hinge, I have to put my fingers behind the screen to support it, and use my fat thumb to operate the touch screen.
-the menu, for two reasons:
Firstly, most features have to be accessed via the menu. There are very few buttons on the camcorder.
Secondly, the menu is unintuitively arranged.
-User assignable buttons are useless to me. The functions I want to assign are not assignable to the buttons.
I only have this for a few days and haven't used this for a production yet.
I wish Canon make a slightly larger version of this, put more buttons, knobs, and levers on it. No, the XA10 doesn't cut it, and the XF100 cost too much.
Reviewed by 110 customers
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I bought this as an upgrade and it has given me some amazing footage. I've shot several music videos and some corporate video with it. It gets a little grainy at high gain but it can usually handle low light fairly well. The only negative is that if you use the lens hood, every once in while it creeps into the shot while the image stabilizer is enabled. Love that it can shoot 24p and the lens opens pretty wide for a nice shallow depth of field. Can't beat the manual focus ring. The LCD is not totally reliable. Sometimes footage looks great and then in the editing room it looks a bit dark. I usually set it to manual (to gauge the zebras) and then set it manually against the auto picture. Zebras, plus wave form monitoring is awesome. The mic is okay but the lag mic or shotgun mic is usually a better option. All in all this is a great camera and totally worth the money.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
My new Canon Vixia HF G10 is great. The features that count the most; great picture, extensive manual controls, an amazing stabilizing system, a good lens, it's all there. Sure I wish the viewfinder was better, that some of the controls were available without having to go into the menu. These are the compromises that had to be made to meet this price point. I also like to comment on the sound, many reviewers criticized it. I was amazed when i boosted the high above 5K by as little as 5db in my editor. The audio was quiet and crisp. I would buy this camera again.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Shotgun mic., Monopod.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I use this camera almost exclusively for work and for the most part, I can leave it on automatic. However, I do require frequent access to the manual focus ring and, with the LCD screen flipped out, it is difficult to get my large hand onto the ring. I would use the viewfinder, but it is seriously in need of a better eye cup and the manual/auto focus button is on the inside of the LCD panel. I agree with many of the other reviewers... It could definitely use more buttons on the chassis.
That being said, video quality is excellent, low light shooting is superior, and there is access to many high level manual options, if inconvenient to access.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I mostly use the camera to record music performances. My daughter is in a nationally recognized youth orchestra and I purchased this camera specifically for that purpose. The first and foremost thing that you have to do is turn off the auto-adjust for the audio recording level for this type of performance. I learned this after my first recording session; it was not hard to find, but a warning would have been nice. I also recommend and external microphone if you really want to pick up musical nuance.
Things that are great: the interface is fairly intuitive with regards to menuing and external controls. I have fairly large hands and the zoom was easy to reach and manipulate once I had adjusted the strap to fit my hand. The image and audio quality is top notch, but you have to set the recording quality to the 24MBps rate. I like the extended capacity using external high-speed flash cards also as it makes it possible to record several performances.
Things that are not great: As I said, I have large hands; for me, the menu is difficult to navigate using my fingers and I am forced to use the included stylus. It's an inconvenience that I could do without especially given that there is no storage for the stylus without hanging it from the strap.
Nevertheless, I do not regret the purchase specifically because the image and audio quality is so high and its ease of use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I just shot my first job with this camera. When I went to edit the footage I was really impressed with how much better the image , color, exposure
were compared to my Vixias: HF 10, HF 200 were. the tools I used to enhance the images from my older cameras were not needed with the HF G10. then I took it out at night shot some night footage in a medium well lit enviornment and got some great and useful footage. I delivered a copy of the footage to the head of the video dept at my church and he was impressed. I recomended this camera to an associate whos daughter is working in southeast asia as a reporter and shopping for a new camcorder. This camera and the home made slider I just finished will be terrific improvements to my video business.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- vixia hf 200
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
For the price, you can't print the great picture on this camera. Love it!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I primarily will use the camera for recording our new born set to arrive in July 2012, but wanted to pick it up in advance to get comfortable with the use. I selected this camera based on the comprehensive review at www.camcorderinfo.com. This camera ranks at the top based on all the factors considered. I was particularly drawn to this camera because of it's performance in low light situations. From my use so far, it performs great all around, is easy to use (you'll want to read the manual a couple of times though to get yourself familiar with everything). Downloading the AVCHD files to my PC is a snap. All in all, I think it's a great camera (little pricey compared to some of its competition) but I have faith in the Canon brand. My wife uses the Canon 7D and we love it. I also picked up the DM-100 directional mic with it, some filters (UV a must - if anything to protect the lens), a 32-GB card (which I don't think I will use much as the internal storage is sufficient for most of my uses) an extra battery (next size up) and the plug in charger. It's a pricey entrance into the video world for an average consumer, but if you have the funds, I believe the performance supports the price tag.
- 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
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I had hoped to be able to use this video camera in my litigation (deposition) video business, but it's lack of a time, with seconds, readout & the inability to output video in the 4:3 Aspect Ratio makes it unusable for this purpose. The manual states that the TV will automatically switch from 16:9 to 4:3, but when feeding the signal through a standard definition DVD recorder, it simply squeezes the image. All that said, the camera does a great job in recording HD & easily outputs to a Mac for editing.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Canon BP-827 Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (2670mAh)
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
Meets and exceeds all my expectations. Easy to use and become comfortable with. By far the best camera I have owned.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Good in Low Light
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I use camcorders for streaming live video of Niagara Falls over the internet. In the past I've always used Sony for their great image quality but I had to replace one of my cameras and went out on a lark and bought a G10 for the exceptional low light quality I have read about. I wasn't dissapointed at all. As a matter of fact I would say there is a 80% increase in quality for viewing the falls at night. On the other hand I feel the image quality in normal lighting conditions is about 5% lower than the Sony. So there is a trade off to consider. The Sony seems to give a bit of a "crisper" quality. To view the quality for streaming live video, google niagara falls web cam. I'm using G-10's for both webcams. I agree with a previous post regarding manipulating the menus on the screen being difficult. The sensitivity of the touch screen is inadaquete and the menu items are too close together. Two other "con" items: if you want to use the composite out ports you cannot close the lcd display and there is no mini-viewfinder.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Poor low-light focusing
Best Uses
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I bought it especially to use in low-light situation. Sure, it's color reproduction is much better than my Canon HF200 even in low light. And thanks to AGC there is by far less noise, which is great! (That's probably the only good thing.)
But it has at least three even four main problems:
1) Bad focusing in low light or in relative darkness. It's focusing problem in low-light situation is almost the same as HF200. It is not sharp at all. (Or am I too picky? But I don't pay just three or four hundred bucks either!)
2) Stabilization is not sufficient.
In case of zooming-in, hand shaking is not sufficiently dealt with. Moreover, you yourself should push powered IS button which doesn't take effect automatically. (It is just 10X, and not 40X zoom, and stabilization is still not pwerful enough)
3) Touch sensitivity of LCD is really a problem.
Sure, sometimes it works well. But sometimes it doesn't work even with more pressure. And I really don't want to hurt touch screen with agressive pressure. (If I somehow scratch it with more pressure, and if it doesn't work properly because of it, who will be responsible for it? I don't think Canon will pay for it.)
4)While shooting, even as I did nothing and there was no change regarding lightness, video footage shows some abrupt though slight change in overall lightness, which I don't understand. (Is anyone having similar issue?)
5)Just minor thing... it doesn't have flash, or video light. (Maybe because it is prosumer camcorder? HF200 has both.)
6) As expected, digital zoom is just of no use.
7) Be careful, it is 60i and not 60p!
8) I don't know what is the merit of 24p with much flickering, compared with 60i.
Conclusion
Though I agree that it is far better than my HF200 I'm using for several years, I don't think it is worth its high price. So I returned it.
- 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
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
good in condition and video quality is good
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
Use for Video Wedding
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- camera hs 100, CAMERA HS 300
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor Sound
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I use this camera for outdoor video and commonly in very low light conditions. This camcorder performed better than any other consumer model that I have come accross! The image is crystal clear! The controls are slightly tricky at first but with a little practice become quite easy. Only down fall is the audio doesn't match the video quality. Other than that I cant say enough good things about it.
- 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
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I use this camera for You Tube videos. This camera has great sound quility. Records very well in low light.It is very light perfect for backpacking.So far I haven't found anything I dont love about this camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Neil - Outdooroar
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Unfriendly User Manual
Best Uses
- Home Virtual Tours
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I purchased the Vixia HF G10 as an upgrade for Flip to do real estate virtual tours. I am an experienced still photographer, but new to video. This camera is very lightweight and easy to learn & use. You can set everything to automatic and just start shooting or take advantage of many manual settings. The photo quality is excellent, even in low light. It has a fairly wide angle (24mm) and the image stabilization is also good. It fits well in my hand. The sound is good, but I purchased a surround sound mic also. Since I am using this camera for home interiors, I also recently purchased the Canon wide angle lens. Battery life is good, but order an extra battery because they take a while to charge. The only downside is the user manual which is geared toward people with knowledge of technical video terms so I had a hard time getting through it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- No External Mic Input
- Not Enough Optical Zoom
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
If this camera had more optical zoom and external mike, this would be an awesome camcorder for this price, and you would feel like you got your money worth. The one problem I notice that the auto focus would start to fade to dark and then would like snap back to normal. Like the camera was bump, I would edit this part out but in a crucial scene you do not want this to happen.
- 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
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I got this camera for a friend overseas who has his own business. I didn't want to pay big money for a big camera. And this camera made my decision easy! This camera is every bit a professional is! Trust me, you won't be disappointed in buying this camera!
For previous users of similar Canon cameras, let me share this. Canon has fixed two problems with this camera: power consumption and low light video quality. The battery which came with the camera gave a solid 1.5 hours of record time. The double pack gives three hours. The two batteries give a solid four hours of record time over an eight hour day. Second, the low light quality was so good I was actually amazed. Lights...who needs lights? Well, unless they serve an artistic function. Everyone told me about the manual focus, and they were right! I loved the manual focus and the dual SD slot. It's one of the major reasons for buying the camera. This camera is like getting a professional... wait, it's better!!! Less weight + less cost and same results!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
I bought this because of its imaging sensor and optics, which are the same as those used in Canon's professional line, XA10. After experimenting and shooting with it for a couple of weeks, I must say I'm very impressed with its video quality. The video shows up nicely on the TV screen. I also tried it on my 24" LCD monitor (1920x1200) via HDMI and the video looks very beautiful and professional. The low-light image quality is also very good. Highly recommend if you want to shoot good-quality videos for your family and friends.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Canon VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory Camcorder:
A nice unit. Relatively easy to use right out of the box with significant manual capabilities for those who want to explore further. Amazingly compact and light! Built-in microphone extremely sensitive. No "quick start" instructions. Users manual initially looks formadible, but with a little time and patience is easily understood and manageable. Limited optical zoom.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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Capture the right view with a conversion lens.
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