Canon VIXIA HF R100 Flash Memory Camcorder

by Canon

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.4 x 4.9 inches ; 8 ounces
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B00322ON8S
• Item model number: HF R100
• Average Customer Review: 3.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (30 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,969 in Camera & Photo (See Top 100 in Camera & Photo)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: January 5, 2010

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

Compare All 2010 Canon Camcorders


With the Canon VIXIA HF R100 Flash Memory Camcorder, you'll find that high definition video has hit new levels of convenience, ease, performance- and value. The VIXIA HF R100 records to SD memory cards and features Canon's Smart Auto. A Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Lens and Dynamic IS works in combination with our sophisticated Canon HD image processing to deliver the sharp, vivid, lifelike video you want to see on your HDTV. Advanced Video Snapshot lets you create 2-, 4- or 8-second movie clips, with music, that are perfect for sharing. And advanced easy-to-operate control features of the VIXIA HF R100 help to make high-quality video that can turn the casual shooter into the family cinematographer, at our most affordable HD price.

Flash Memory
The VIXIA HF R100 allows you to record crisp high definition video directly to removable SD memory cards.

Ultra-Sleek, Compact, and Lightweight, the VIXIA HF R100 is, at approximately 9.5 ounces and 2.4 x 2.5 x 4.9 inches, a companion you’ll always keep handy, while traveling or at home.

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. Press the record button and your VIXIA HF R100 starts recording video faster than you've ever seen before. In addition, when you review, you'll have quick access to your footage.

Another plus is the VIXIA HF R100'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 R100 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 there is damage to your recording media or to the moving parts found in other camcorders.

Stunning Image Quality
A Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Lens delivers unsurpassed image quality. The Canon Exclusive 2.39-megapixel HD CMOS Image Sensor captures high definition video and photos with astonishing detail, while Canon’s Exclusive DIGIC DV III Image Processor provides the ultimate in color and imaging performance, with enhanced reproduction of difficult to capture purple and blue tones.

Instant AF
A critical objective when shooting in high definition is achieving the sharpest focus possible. The VIXIA HF R100 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.

To further enhance focusing capability, the VIXIA HF R100 also features Focus Assist. This 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.

Dynamic IS
With the Canon VIXIA HF R100, you can be sure that even on the move your video will be smooth, steady and professional looking. The Dynamic IS system provides continuous adjustment throughout the entire zoom range to correct a broader range of motion. In comparison to conventional electronic image stabilization systems, extra compensation is applied at wide-angle focal lengths to eliminate unwanted vibration common when shooting while walking.

2.7" Widescreen LCD
The 2.7" Widescreen LCD on the VIXIA HF R100 lets you see more of what your camcorder is recording. There's no need to imagine what your final image will look like on your widescreen television because it's squeezed into a small space while you're shooting.

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 R100 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 exceptionally accurate results.

Genuine Canon Face Detection
The same high quality Face Detection technology used in Canon digital cameras is available in Canon high definition camcorders. 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.

In fact, the system is so intelligent 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 is convenient in searching for clips which feature that specific subject's face. In search and playback, use of the Face Index will display those frames with the chosen face as a thumbnail in each shot in which it appears. Your selected face can also be linked as a timeline to further identify footage containing your subject.

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 hold everyone’s attention. This version of Advanced Video Snapshot allows selectable recording time of 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 File Sharing
The VIXIA HF R100 is also compatible with the Eye-Fi SD Memory Card. It’s possible to wirelessly transfer 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, Shutterfly, Flickr) and you’re ready to share your photos 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 an Eye-Fi card, please check with Eye-Fi, Inc. Outside of the United States and Canada, government approval is required to use Eye-Fi cards in many countries or regions. Without approval, use of the card is not permitted. If it is unclear whether the card has been approved for use in the area, please check with Eye-Fi, Inc.

Built-in Digital Camera
Since Canon is acknowledged as a world leading maker of digital cameras, it’s not surprising that the VIXIA HF R100, in addition to being a brilliant camcorder, is also a capable digital camera. Once again, Canon delivers features and technology that advance convenience and capability. The VIXIA HF R100’s Dual Shot makes it easier than ever to capture both video and photos.

Auto Intelligent Auto Focus, AiAF, ensures sharp images and gives creative flexibility. Even when your subject isn't in the center of the frame, the VIXIA HF R100's 9-Point AiAF will automatically select from 9 metering frames on the screen to help bring images into sharp focus. You can also choose from a range of exposure modes: Auto, AV (aperture priority), TV (shutter priority), and P (program).

For optimal exposure, the VIXIA HF R100 offers selectable metering patterns. You can choose the options of Evaluative, Center-Weighted Average, and Spot.

The AE Bracketing feature of the VIXIA HF R100 automatically takes three versions of a shot, with 'dark,' 'normal' and 'light' settings in ½ exposure steps so you may choose the one that best suits you.

The VIXIA HF R100 can shoot up to 3 frames per second in the Continuous Mode, or a blazing 5 frames per second in the High Speed Continuous Mode.

The VIXIA HF R100 comes with a Histogram Display which allows you to see the brightness information of your photos, so you can adjust your exposures as you shoot. With the Level Marker feature, it's easy to keep your camera level for more professional-looking photos. The VIXIA HF R100's Grid Marker feature lets you compose your shot accurately, according to the grid in your viewfinder. You can even choose from two different colors for the grid ensuring that you see the grid, no matter what the background color of your shot is.

The versatile VIXIA HF R100 even lets you capture a still image from an already recorded movie. While playing the movie in your camcorder, simply press the photo button to capture a 1920 x 1080 still image onto an SD card. Additionally, the VIXIA HF R100 allows you to capture 30 photos from one second of video. Now, better photos, filled with action and expressions, are easy to grab, print, post and share.

Your VIXIA HF R100's built-in flash lets you capture superb photos indoors and in low light conditions. The VIXIA HF R100 also features red-eye reduction.

Print/Share allows you to connect your camcorder directly to select Canon printers or any PictBridge-compatible printer with the supplied USB cable and with a touch of the Print/Share button, print directly from your VIXIA HF R100. Print/Share also makes it easy to transfer your photos to your computer.

You can also easily burn DVDs of your photos taken with your VIXIA HF R100 as it is compatible with Canon's DW-100 DVD Burner. A one-cable connection is all it takes to send the files across and, with the click of a few buttons, your photos are ready to share with all.

24p & 30p Frame Modes
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 R100's CINE mode, 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 find 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 R100 to capture video in 30p, (30 progressive frames, recorded to 60i) which is particularly useful for footage to be used on the Internet. It’s also excellent for action and sports shots. In addition, this setting gives enhanced quality to photos captured after recording.

Terminals
To maximize the usefulness and versatility of the VIXIA HF R100, you’ll find a range of terminals to extend the capabilities of your camcorder. Easy, one-cable connectivity to your HDTV is achieved through the VIXIA HF R100’s HDMI Terminal which also supports CEC and x.v.Color. A Microphone terminal with manual audio level control and Headphone terminal provide exceptional audio flexibility.

Additional Features

Built-in Electronic Lens Cover
The Built-in Electronic Lens Cover means you never have to go looking for your lens cover again. Turn your camcorder on and the lens cover automatically opens. Turn it off, and the cover closes. It couldn’t be simpler.

Quick Start
Never miss a quickly unfolding shot again, as it’s possible to shoot the moment the LCD is opened. No worries about using up power with Quick Start - by keeping the LCD screen closed between shots, Quick Start allows you to save battery power so you get longer battery life.

Pre-Record
The Pre-record feature places your VIXIA HF R100 in a stand-by "pre-roll" mode. With this feature the camcorder continuously records three seconds of video to memory before you even press the record button. When you start recording, the additional video is recorded too. It will be easier than ever to capture the moment when the bat hits the ball at the start of that home run.

Pixela ImageMixer 3SE Video Editing Software is bundled with the VIXIA HF R100. 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 also 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. This software will also assist you in converting video to the optimum resolution for transmission over the Internet.

With Pixela ImageMixer 3SE, you can burn your edited video onto Blu-ray disc, AVCHD DVDs (which play in AVCHD compatible Blu-ray disc players), or onto standard definition DVDs. And to complement the VIXIA HF R100's Video Snapshot feature, a music CD containing royalty-free soundtracks is also provided.

* The bundled application is compatible with Windows XP and Windows Vista

DVD Burner Compatible
You can also easily burn DVDs of the video shot with your VIXIA HF R100 as it is compatible with Canon's DW-100 DVD Burner. A one-cable connection is all it takes to send the files across and with the click of a few buttons, your videos will be burned to an AVCHD disc for play in a compatible DVD player.

Compare All 2010 Canon Camcorders

Product Description

With the Canon VIXIA HF R100 Flash Memory Camcorder, you'll find that high definition video has hit new levels of convenience, ease, performance- and value. The VIXIA HF R100 records to SD memory cards and features Canon's Smart Auto. A Genuine Canon 20x HD Video Lens and Dynamic IS works in combination with our sophisticated Canon HD image processing to deliver the sharp, vivid, lifelike video you want to see on your HDTV. Advanced Video Snapshot lets you create 2-, 4- or 8-second movie clips, with music, that are perfect for sharing. And advanced easy-to-operate control features of the VIXIA HF R100 help to make high-quality video that can turn the casual shooter into the family cinematographer, at our most affordable HD price.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

114 of 117 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Canon Vixia HF R100 enthusiast, May 5, 2010

By 

S. E. Carver (Bakersfield CA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF R100 Flash Memory Camcorder (Electronics)

Since purchasing and using the Canon Vixia HF R100 (search c925-1520) for a month since 4/8/2010, my opinion has moved from doubtful skeptic to delighted enthusiast.

I am a non-professional user who has occasionally used several video machines(beta, vhs, 8mm, mini-DV, Hard Disk, DVD, and now HD to SD chip) to capture life events (gatherings, celebrations, outings, sports events, documentary of people, animals, plants, stage plays, and travel). Except for cell snapshots, The HFR100 is now my ONE camera for both video & stills.

Initially, the factory setting for video disappointed. Once the Camera was configured to HD CINE 24 frame mode, the results became much more clear, vivid, detailed & acceptable. While slow panning The DIGIC DV III processor and 2.39 megapixel HD CMOS process images fast enough to create clear individual frames without the choppiness that earlier, slower HD cams had (shots from a moving car with the Vixia actually produced some usable frames and clips).

The 20x(40-800 mm 35mm eq.), glass, canon-quality lens is not threaded to accept threaded filters or wide/tele extensions, but is recessed about 1 cm behind the camera face so it is both protected and somewhat hooded from surrounding light sources. An automatic, drop-down into the cam, lens protector operates when the cam is switched on/off. This is a great feature for protecting the lens while being quick ready. The dynamic image stabilization worked well out to 20X and was amazingly steady for videoing while walking at wide angle settings. The digital zoom (oversampling feature beyond 20X) may be set to 80X or 400X and in this camera may be good enough to produce some useful images in these ranges.

The Instant autofocus was superb. Focus was always very close to being on or slightly deep into the field. There was no "dancing-focus" or movements toward the wrong end of the focusing scale whatsoever. The manual focus automatically magnified in the LCD panel, aiding focus. The high quality LCD panel was very sharp. Its readability in direct sunlight was enhanced with the backlight turned on.

The automatic face detection autofocus did a fantastic job of keeping the focal plane on faces even in a sports action environment. This also worked somewhat to keep wildflower blossoms in focus. Menus and controls are fairly intuitive, but the disk based (also available for download feom the canon web site) .pdf instruction manual should be read to access all of the feature-rich options this unit offers.

I normally carry the camera out and off. This camera starts, focuses, rapid zooms and readies itself very quickly (about 3 sec) so it is hard to miss a shot. Additionally the new, pre-record feature carries 3 sec of video to add in front of your clips to make it difficult to miss shots as long as the camera is on and pointed in the right direction.

The Smart AUTO setting works very well for point-and-shoot capture in most any condition. For difficult environments there are 10 manual modes that can produce great results in extreme conditions. I was disappointed with the low-light results in auto mode, but in the low light mode I was astounded to see what crisp COLOR images could be made in with such little light. An on-camera light is not present nor needed with this camera unless substantial low-light action shots are desired. Campfire light, flashlight, or moonlight are plenty adequate light sources. Starlight is usable with a bipod and no panning.

The stereo sound is bright, adjustable and very accurate. The wind dampening filter was minimal - not adequate. I have been experimenting with sponge materials to attach over the mics. The camera records a low decibel irregular low sound (something like a 16mm film sprocket). It is noticeable when played back at high volumes, and might be objectionable if listening closely for something near the same bandwidth in a low noise recording. I found it tolerable, but I'm hoping this will be corrected in later production.

The battery lasted about two hours. By keeping the camera off, I was able to get through a full day of taking portraits and snapshots on one battery. The day I accidentally left the camera on, I had a failure, but was able to charge it quickly and adequately with a car inverter. A back-up battery would be a wise precaution. On about 38 hrs of experimentation, camera set at highest resolutions, and including several hrs. of picking "snapshots" off of 220 video clips. I have 690 HD stills and have used 6.16G of a Patriot class6 16.1G SD chip. There are plenty of connectors (mini USB (use the included cable with this camera), mini HDMI (no cable included), component out (cable included), power in (115V adapter included)(battery is small(15x32x45mm) and recharged in the camera, a switchable 1/8"(3.5mm) pin headphone/ a/v out jack ((1/8 to (3) RCA) cable is included), and an external mic port. There is no hotshoe.

Advances- on an Alaskan Cruise a few years ago I quit using a still camera, because the high zoom of the Video Cam got us close to the action. The snapshots we could pull were tolerable for computer viewing, but inadequate for blow-ups. While watching glaciers "calve", after the "crack", the challenge was to get the vid cam on and focused in the exact right direction before the ice sloughed into the sea. The canon Vixia HF R100 would have been up to the task. It's fast to start and the resulting images are HD quality.

USAGE- I set the camera for highest resolution, power saver, and keep it off until shooting. This camera will easily fit in a pocket or purse. I normally keep attached a 1 5/8 lb. 10"- 54" collapsible tripod. This added weight stabilizes the light (12 oz. with battery & chip) cam and improves results. The collapsible nature of the tripod with one, two, or three legs variously extended, greatly enhanced results.
At full zoom I found it difficult, even with the tripod, to take a still directly without shaking the camera. I find it much more effective to pull an image during playback while hooked to a monitor, using the snapshot feature. Playback speeds are 1/8 or 1/4 (a remote control is not available with this canon series), so it takes a little effort to find the best frame, but I find the result far more satisfying than trying to catch the perfect still.

Not everyone has the "photographer's eye" or the ability to catch the perfect frame of an event with a still, but most can select the best frame out of a video clip. Pixels are: 1,040,000 optical zoom dynamic image stabilization, 1,560,000 image stabilization off, 1,560,000 16:9 still, 1,730,000 4:3 still. While not exactly professionally acceptable, the 1 meg images will be acceptable for most casual user uses. Few video cams, costing much more, can offer better resolution off of a video clip than the HFR100.

What I like most about this camera is that it is small- very easy to carry every day. It is fast to prepare itself to shoot very good video. The third and most important thing is that the resulting video/still is very good. This camera does basic videography very well, and has a host of features to handle difficult light, movement or color situations even better. This camera has come a long way toward being my perfect camera, and is state of the industry in several critical areas. I kept it, use it, and recommend it. It has quality features and no weaknesses. I notice the Canon HFR 10 (the middle camera in this series) with 8G memory built in, is now selling for only $20 more. It may be a better price point. -Happy Hunting- 5/5/2010

54 of 59 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars not as good as expected, May 21, 2010

By 

Amazon Customer - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF R100 Flash Memory Camcorder (Electronics)

Length:: 0:09 Mins

I give a 2-star because of the excessive noise in quiet scenes and less than expected image quality (daylight or lowlight).

The noise came from inside the camcorder body. There must be a motor inside it. I don't understand why a flash card based camcorder has to run a motor all the time. I compared the recorded noise to my old Sony tape camcorder. I also asked my friend recorded a testing video in quiet room (He has a Vixia HF 100#. Unlike this HF R100, those two don't have any audible noises.

When I recorded the first video, I didn't notice this problem. But then the battery quickly ran out of its initial charge, so I had to charge it for a few hours. When the battery was ready, it was already near midnight. Duh! The noise is the only sound in the video!! The uploaded video shows how the noise sounds.

The noise problem might be an accidental defect. However, the image quality is not as good as expected either. I believe the quality under daylight is less than or around DVD at most #480p#. The image looks a little blurred under low light.

When I called Canon customer service for the noise problem, I was told I was the first one to complain about this. I decided to return the product. I purchased from Expo Electronics on Amzon. I want to thank them that I didn't have to pay shipping both ways.

Pros:
1. Nice menu, very easy to use.
2. Very small and light.

Cons:
1. Excessive noise in quiet scenes #as you can hear in the uploaded video#
2. Image quality less than expected at 17Mbps on HDTV

Other notes:
1. There's no separate battery charger. However, if you have a Canon SLR, depending on the model, you *might* be able to use that to recharge the HF R100 battery.
2. I forgot to check LCD screen under sunlight. I only used it in the morning. It's quite clear.
3. At 20x zoom, the image is not so stable as I expected. My hands are relatively stable compared to many others. But I guess I have to use a tripod at this zoom level.

20 of 21 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Poor indoor video quality. Good in day light., May 5, 2010

By 

Vijay Miriyala - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Canon VIXIA HF R100 Flash Memory Camcorder (Electronics)

I gave 4 stars because of poor indoor videos. Need to have VERY BRIGHT LIGHT to get clear videos. Low light videos have BLACK SPOTS which i didn't expect in a HD video camera for this price. I tried all the video modes in this camcorder and noticed poor video quality in medium light.

If you are planing to take videos during the day with bright light, you can go ahead with this camcorder. I won't recommend this camcorder if you are planing to take video in medium or low light. I don't see any other major issues with this camera.

- It is light weight, compact and handy
- Plan to buy large capacity SD card (min. 8GB, class 4 or more) if you plan to take more than 2 hours video
- Good video quality in day light even in 42" HDTV
- Face detection feature is great in this camcorder
- The menu controls are not user friendly and you need try couple of times to get used to the menu options
- While moving from low light to bright light, i noticed there is a delay in adjusting to the new location (around 2 sec)