HD Camcorders on a Budget: Vixia HG20

In this series, I'll review HD camcorders under $600, for those of us with a small budget and a need for quality. Here's my review of the Vixia HG20.

The Camera

Although it's heavier than the Vixia HF11, the Vixia HG20 packs quite a punch with its increased storage space and great HD video recording quality, and comes with a much lower price tag as well.

Tech Specs

Price: $549.99 USD and up

Digital Zoom: 200x

Optical Zoom 12x

Video Resolution: 3.3 megapixels

Digital Storage: Hard Drive

The Good

When I go on trips, the biggest problem I have is not having enough storage space on my camcorder (because who wants to stop and upload videos in the middle of a vacation?). This camera would be great for long trips and that kind of thing because it can store its digital videos and images in one of two areas: an SD card or on a 60 gigabyte hard drive. Also, this camera has a 12x optical zoom (and a 200x digital zoom). The camcorder records in up to five different media resolutions and has three different frame rates.

The camcorder has a sleek, understated design, with ports for a firewire cord, an additional microphone, and a pair of headphones. The buttons are nice and big, and very simple to use. Also, the flip-out screen has a joystick that makes navigating through the six-paneled menu a breeze.

The Bad

Because of this camcorder's 60 gigabyte hard drive, it weighs a little more than other flash-based camcorders. It weighs a little more than a pound, and although that doesn't sound like much on paper, believe me, it can get pretty tiresome lugging that around.

Also, there's a joystick inside the screen, but there's also one on the bezel of the camera. This was very annoying, because it was nearly impossible to use the joystick (which is needed to change video settings) while filming and keeping the camera straight.

The Bottom Line

Although the camera's design may be a little less than user-friendly, this HD camera is a steal, coming in at less than $600 USD. The display and controls are simple and easy to use, have a large print and the camcorder itself has an automatic anti-shake setting, making it an ideal present for a first-timer or elder. I give this camcorder a thumbs-up.

HD Camcorders on a Budget: Vixia HG20

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