Canon VIXIA HF G10 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory

by Canon

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 9 x 7 x 6.5 inches ; 4 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 4.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B004HW7DZM
• Item model number: G10
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (27 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #131 in Camera & Photo (See Top 100 in Camera & Photo)
  • #26 in Camera & Photo > Camcorders
• Date first available at Amazon.com: January 1, 2011

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

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. Memory capacity MXP (app. 24Mbps) FXP (app. 17Mbps) XP+ (app. 12Mbps) SP (app. 7Mbps) LP (app. 5Mbps) 2GB 10 min. 15 min. 20 min. 35 min. 45 min. 4GB 20 min. 30 min. 40 min. 1 hour 10 min. 1 hour 30 min. 8GB 40 min. 1 hour 1 hour 25 min. 2 hours 20 min. 3 hours 16GB 1 hour 25 min. 2 hours 5 min. 2 hours 50 min. 4 hours 45 min. 6 hours 5 min. 32GB* 2 hours 55 min. 4 hours 10 min. 5 hours 45 min. 9 hours 35 min. 12 hours 15 min. 64GB 5 hours 55 min. 8 hours 20 min. 11 hours 30 min. 19 hours 10 min. 24 hours 30 min. (*) Size of built-in memory in VIXIA HF G10. When recording has continued for 12 hours, it will stop and then restart, automatically. The maximum memory capacity and recording time can be substantially increased by the combination of the internal memory and the size of the SD memory card chosen. For example, the VIXIA HF G10’s 32GB of internal memory, combined with two removable 64GB memory cards, would give 160GB in total memory capacity, and 61 hours 15minutes of recording time at LP setting. MXP and FXP modes record in 1920 x 1080 and require a Class 4 or higher SDHC Card. 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. 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." 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.

Incorporating a technology proven in Canon’s professional level camcorders, HD CMOS Pro is a 1/3” native 1920 x 1080 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 (800 Vertical and 900 Horizontal TV Lines) Since the effective number of pixels of HD CMOS Pro is equal to 1920 x 1080, resizing is eliminated, allowing Full HD video to be captured and recorded with professional precision. 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. * This is compared to the pixel size of Canon’s 2010 VIXIA camcorders of 1.7µm. The current HD CMOS Pro pixel size is now 2.75 µm, reflecting a 61.76 percent increase in size. ** Rating measured with auto shutter speed of 1/30 second. *** This statistic is the result of comparisons with Canon’s HD CMOS Pro, versus Canon’s 2010 VIXIA HF S-series camcorders.

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 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. 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 Full HD from lens to screen. And with Tele Macro, the VIXIA HF G10 automatically zooms the lens to the telephoto end and sets the minimum object distance to approximately 1.3 feet (from 3.3 feet) giving you the opportunity to shoot spectacular close-ups with the dramatic look of shallow depth of field. Tele Macro is one of 38 scenes available in Smart Auto Mode.

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.

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.

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. For your convenience, the VIXIA HF G10 is also equipped with a 0.24-inch, 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 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. 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 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.

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.

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 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 green monitor is shown at the bottom of the LCD Display. The green waveform shows overall focus of the image, and the height raises to indicate the area in focus. 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 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 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 as two manual white balance settings. Color temperature may also be manually set from 2,000K to 15,000K in 100K increments for more precise adjustment. Gain may be manually set from 0 dB to 24 dB in 1 dB 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 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.

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! Canon camcorders are not guaranteed to support Eye-Fi card functions, including wireless transfer. In case of an issue with the Eye-Fi card, please consult with the card manufacturer. The use of Eye-Fi cards may not be approved in all regions, or from one region to another; please contact the card manufacturer for status of approval in the country/region of use. Canon makes no representations or warranties with respect to any third party accessory or product mentioned herein.

The VIXIA HF G10 boasts a host of shooting modes which give you creative options rare in a consumer camcorder. In addition to Normal mode, three other modes 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.

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 The brightness of each filter can be adjusted low, medium or high, for even greater control. When Cinema Standard is selected, color depth, softening, and contrast can also be adjusted.

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. * x.v.Color is a trademark of Sony Corporation HDMI, the HDMI logo and High Definition Multimedia Interface are registered trademarks or trademarks of HDMI Licensing, LLC in the United States and/or other countries

The VIXIA HF G10 offers a built-in stereo microphone to capture high-quality audio. It offers a significant reduction in noise at medium and low frequencies. 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. * This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be, offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained. ** Optional SM-V1 5.1-Channel Surround Microphone is required.

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. 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 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* 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. 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.

Product Description

Packing in every feature a video enthusiast could ask for%2C the VIXIA HF G10 Flash Memory camcorder is Canon%27s new flagship consumer camcorder%2C providing the ultimate in HD video performance and quality%2E Incorporating a 32GB internal flash drive%2C as well as dual SDXC%2Dcompatible card slots%2C it delivers exceptional storage capacity%2E%0D%0A%0D%0ARecording Full HD 1920 x 1080 video%2C the VIXIA HF G10 features a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens %2835mm equivalent of 30%2E4mm %96 304 mm%29 with an 8%2Dblade iris for smooth background blur and a dedicated manual focus ring for enhanced control%2E The VIXIA HF G10 boasts Canon%27s HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor which provides outstanding video resolution%2C superb low%2Dlight performance%2C and a wide dynamic range%2E%0D%0A%0D%0AThe 3%2E5%2Dinch High Resolution Touch Panel LCD provides a large%2C crisp display%2C and easy menu navigation%2E And advanced features such as an improved built%2Din microphone%2C Native 24p recording%2C Cinema%2DLook Filters%2C and full manual control provide the discerning user with an extensive level of creative management%2E

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

69 of 72 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Beyond my expectations, April 14, 2011

By 

M. Gutierrez (Tampa, Fl USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF G10 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory (Electronics)

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.

I placed my order on Jan. 5th, the day of Canon's new product announcement. Amazon was great, as usual, and kept my pre-order updated until the camera was released. I received it last week, and was immediately struck by the quality of the images.
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.

I'll try to post a short video soon, showing some of the images from the Vixia HF G10.

46 of 49 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Simply Outstanding!, May 4, 2011

By 

Simpleton Peck "Electronics Junkie" (Illinois) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF G10 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory (Electronics)

Let me first start out by saying, I originally wasn't going to spend so much on a new camcorder. I had bought the Canon HF 100 a few years ago, and was fairly happy with it. It was nice, but definitely had its drawbacks. So, I started researching Canon's new line for 2011 and was torn between the M40 and G10. Having the new CMOS Pro sensor was a must. Everything I read about the low light capabilities sold me. Basically Canon went with a smaller pixel count (exactly 1920 x 1080), which in turn makes the pixels larger and better in low light shooting. I originally bought the M40 and was very happy with it, but started to realize it wasn't fitting all my needs. That went back, and I went with the G10. I have not looked back since!

People might wonder what the biggest difference is between the two, and the big ones in my opinion are the manual lens control, wide angle lens (makes a HUGE difference in my opinion), larger LCD (3.5 in. vs. 3 in.), color viewfinder, and dual recording slots that let you record to both sd cards at the same time. Boy, I wish I had this feature two weeks ago for my niece's second birthday party. My sd card got corrupted while using the M40 and I lost her blowing out her candles and eating the first piece of cake. Now, if I had the G10, I would have had a backup of it recording to both slots simultaneously.

Image quality wise, I couldn't be happier. The video quality just pops out and is silky smooth. I have made a couple videos with it and people are just in awe of the quality. I usually record in 60i because I like the smoothness. I know there are benefits of recording in 30p and 24p, but for home videos, I prefer 60i. Now if I was doing an amateur film, I'd probably go with the true 24p this camera offers. This camera has a lot of setting to meet your shooting requirements. I know a lot of people wish Canon included a 60p mode, but I honestly don't see a reason for it, at least not now. Everything I've read about it, editing 60p is a complete nightmare. No thanks.

Speaking of modes, it does have an auto, manual, and cinema options. Manual of course gives you countless options, and cinema mode offers a variety of shooting preferences such as cool, vivid, dream, b/w, etc. You can search on youtube and see demonstrations of each.

One of the big selling points for me was the wide angle lens. Now I know you can always buy an optional attachment wide angle lens for the M40, but they add a lot of extra weight and in my opinion inconvenience of carrying around more equipment than necessary. I also think by the time you add in that cost to the camera, it's not that much cheaper. I love having the wide angle lens built in and with me at all times. It's truly something you get used to, and you won't want to be without.

Build quality is exactly what I expect from any Canon product. Feels sturdy and should hold up to a lot of wear and tear. I've never had any issues with previous Canon products breaking on me, so I would expect the same from this one. I would say the only thing I don't like on the newer Canons opposed to the older models is the touchscreen. It's simply not as responsive as I would like. I'm probably spoiled on my iphone's silky smooth touch controls. I guess it's just something I'll have to get used to. The only other feature I really miss from older camcorders is night vision. I don't know why most companies got rid of this feature. I still bust out my old Sony SR45 for those occasions.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an excellent prosumer camcorder with amazing low light, controls, and options, you won't be disappointed with the HF G10. I've already ordered the DM-100 external mic (I like to do lots of outdoor shooting, so I need to eliminate the wind noise the best I can), and already have the VL-5 from my previous camcorder for better dark shooting. I think I'm set for almost all recording situations. I hope this was an informative review. Thanks for reading.

32 of 33 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Extremely happy with my purchase, April 23, 2011

By 

M. Platt "UpIrons" (Columbus, OH) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF G10 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory (Electronics)

I guess I was one of the lucky few who was able to get this camera early. I got mine 2 weeks ago and have been nothing but impressed with it. Right out of the box and in a medium lit interior room the picture was superb. I got a chance to take it out in the field for a bit and am extremely happy with it. Full manual control, a focus ring, an awesome and absolutely beautiful touch screen, what more could you ask for?

I especially appreciate the dual SD card slots and the recording options there. There are certainly going to be times where you'll want to record to 2 cards at once and that will come in handy. But the ability to also record to the internal memory and then copy the contents to one of the SD cards in the card slots is also a great option.

The other things that are not mentioned in a lot of the bullet points for this camera that I am impressed with include the waveform monitor and peaking meters which come in handy for the manual exposure and focus modes. It also does zebra stripes so you have many options to get the perfect shots without relying merely on what you see through the viewfinder or on screen. Also, when you focus, by default, it automatically magnifies the center of the screen so that you can tell exactly what is in focus. Of course that can also be turned off if it is not your preference.

It is not a very large or very heavy camcorder either. That was my only reservation at first because I tend to prefer bulkier and heavier cameras. However this thing is so perfectly balanced in the hand and so rugged feeling that I am not concerned at all with the weight now.

I ordered 2 64GB SDXC cards with mine and at full resolution video recording it is reporting around 14 hours of recording time. Awesome! I also purchased the BP-827 battery, though I had plenty of recording time out in the field with just the standard battery as well.

Hope that helps anyone who might be on the fence about buying this one. If you have a model from last year then you may not need to upgrade yet. But it was definitely time for me to ditch the tapes and upgrade from my Canon HV30 and I am glad I did!


Update - June 21, 2011

I was able to take this camera on a trip last month to San Francisco, Napa Valley and Carmel by the Sea. The footage is simply amazing - but I did notice a couple of issues that I want to share with others who might purchase this camera.

Issue 1) The camera uses "dynamic IS" for image stabilization by default in both auto and manual modes. It does not appear that you can change this in auto mode but you can in manual mode (and this is a prosumer camera so you shouldn't really use auto mode anyway) and I highly recommend that you change this. Use "standard IS" instead because dynamic IS tends to give you a wobble effect around the edges of your video. Google it for this camera and you'll see lots of youtube videos and threads on forums about it. It is a non-issue if you just stick with the Standard IS and we're still waiting to see if Canon fixes this in a firmware update.

Issue 2) This is not as big of an issue but I did notice that there is a bit of vignetting going on with the lens that appears to be just when I have the lens hood on and at full zoom. It's a shadow effect around the edges. I recommend just using the lens hood when you really need it and only when you know you won't be zooming in full as much.

I still maintain the 5 stars at this point because these are little things that you can easily get around and the wobble issue could likely be fixed by Canon soon anyway. It is one of those things that you deal with as an early purchaser and I have no regrets about buying this camera regardless. The footage I have made with this camera so far is absolutely stunning!