Products

• Technology news: Canon HG21

  
  03 December 2008
  
  

  Canon HG21 Features:
  Camera resolution: 3.3 megapixels
  Optical zoom: 12x
  Screen size: 2.7"
  CMOS size: 1/3.2"
  Hard drive storage capacity: 120GB

  Pros: 120GB hard drive, excellent Full HD video quality, impressive array of modes and features

  Cons: Too expensive compared to the HG20, poorly constructed viewfinder

  The final word: When judged on its own merits, the HG21 is an exceptional high-definition camcorder that impresses on nearly every level - it even seems attractively priced. However, when compared to the near-identical HG20, its value for money is significantly diminished. Unless you absolutely must have 120GB of storage, go for its cheaper sibling instead.

  THE Canon HG21 is another winner from a company that never fails to deliver the goods.

  Boasting a stunningly vibrant Full HD mode (1920x1080p), an extensive array of manual features and a massive 120 gigabyte (GB) hard drive, it is easily one of the best camcorders on the market. With that being said, some users will be better off with the 60GB HG20 version, which offers an identical performance for significantly less money.

  Indeed, if there is one criticism we can throw at the HG21, it would have to be its inflated price tag. At $1899, it is $400 more expensive than the HG20. For the extra dosh, you’re basically getting the same camera with an added viewfinder, a slightly larger LCD screen, and an additional 60GB of inbuilt memory; otherwise, all components and specifications remain the same. When you consider how affordable HDD memory is these days, we don’t think the extra features justify the higher premium. To make matters worse, the viewfinder is fixed to the camera and can’t be swivelled up or down, which severely limits its use. We consequently have few doubts that the HG20 will be a better seller. (Ironically, the HG21 is significantly cheaper than its chief rival from Sony, the HDR-SR12 E). If it wasn’t for the existence of the HG20, it would probably seem like a pretty good deal!)

  Dodgy pricing aside, the HG21 is just as accomplished and impressive as its cheaper sibling, a model we enthusiastically awarded four stars to. Offering an extensive array of manual features and a point-and-shoot ‘Easy’ mode, it should prove equally suitable for experienced users and casual novices alike.

  As mentioned, the HG21 comes equipped with a massive 120GB hard drive, which, along with the Sony HDR-SR12 E, is the highest-capacity of any camcorder on the market. At the highest quality setting, this will record 11.5 hours of high-definition video (or close to 46 hours in LP mode). In the unlikely event that you run out of recording space while on the road, the HG21 also comes equipped with an SD slot. This allows you to boost the camcorder’s capacity by an additional 32GB, though you’ll need to purchase the memory cards separately (32GB cards currently cost around $600).

   

  (news.com.au)