The new HF S21, HF S20 and HF S200 store video to either the built-in flash memory in the case of the HF S20/S21, or to your own removable SD card with the HF S200. These new models include a 10x HD video lens and a 1/2.6-inch, 8.59 megapixel full HD CMOS image sensor. All three models have a 3.5-inch high-res touch screen for easy menu navigation. Another feature that will be welcomed by professionals is the return of a LANC terminal, which allows for the connection of zoom controllers and other prosumer and professional accessories.

The HF S-series will be available in April starting at $999.99.

The middle of the VIXIA line is the HF M-series, and includes the new HF M31, HF M30 and HF M300 models. The HF M31 and HF M30 record to their built in 32GB or 8GB of internal flash memory, while the HF M300 records to an SD card. The M-series has a slightly larger lens at 15x and a smaller 2.7-inch touch screen, but include most of the same features except for the LANC terminal and 24p recording. These new models will be available in April starting at $679.99.

Rounding out the bottom of the line are the HF R-series models and include the HF R11, HF R10 and HF R100 models. These are aimed towards the budget-minded consumer and include 1080p video recording. Like the previously mentioned models, the HF R11 and HF R10 record to their internal 32GB or 8GB of memory, while the HF R100 records to an SD card. The R-series includes a 20x HD video lens, but does not include a touch screen for navigation.

The new R-series will be available in three colors (black, red, and silver) beginning in March starting at $499.99.

If all you need is a standard-definition camcorder, you still have hope with the new FS31 and FS300 camcorders. The FS31 records to 16GB of internal memory while the FS300 records to an SD card. The small FS-series has a 41x zoom and dynamic image stabilization. The FS300 will be available in three colors in March for $299.99 while the FS31 will be available for $299.99.

Many camcorders that you might know of use tape, usually the MiniDV standard. Within the last few years, camcorders using hard drives or flash memory have been popping up. Canon has been a pioneer in this area, and today we're taking a look at one of their latest flagship flash models, the VIXIA HF S10. How is the quality compared to MiniDV? Read on to find out.

The VIXIA HF S10 is Canon's flagship flash memory camcorder, and utilizing the AVCHD format with up to 24Mbps bit rate you can capture stunning high resolution footage. The HF S10 has an 8.59 Megapixel CMOS sensor and the latest Canon DIGIC DV III image processor. Best of all, the HF S10 has 32GB of internal storage and can take an additional 32GB SDHC card for extra storage.

The HF S10 also has a 10x HD video lens with a built-in 1.7x digital teleconverter, which provides extended telephoto range for those hard to get shots. This particular model records up to 1920 x 1080 resolution video, and up to 60 frames a second.

The camcorder also has some advanced features, including color bars, manual gain, zebra stripe functionality, and a 3.5mm mic input for using a high-quality shotgun microphone. On the right hand side of the camcorder under a flip-up lid are USB, miniHDMI, and component video ports for connecting the HF S10 to a HDTV or computer.

On the top is a decent sized zoom rocker and a non-standard "Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe Terminal". We would have liked if Canon stuck with the regular hotshoe that can be used to mount LED lights (such as Litepanels) and higher-end shotgun microphones (not the DM-100 Canon offers). One unique feature about the HF S10 is the Video Snapshots feature, 4-second clips that you can lay on top of ten music tracks that Canon provides for a highlight reel of a vacation or family event. Not sure if I'd use this, but if you want an easy way to capture moments and share them, this is perfect for you.

In our tests, we found video quality to be excellent (24Mbps mode) and sharp with saturated colors. While the camera did focus fairly quickly on macro shots, outdoor shots had some purple fringing on high-contrast edges. Battery life was fairly average, and even though it charges quickly, we recommend purchasing an extra battery.

Find the Canon VIXIA HF S10 on Amazon.com today for $1249.99.

Pros

• Excellent, saturated video.
• Built-in 32GB memory.
• Advanced "prosumer" features included.

Cons

• Proprietary hotshoe.
• No optical viewfinder.

Based on the highly popular and portable Mino pocket camcorder, Flip Video has upped the ante once more with the MinoHD. As the name implies, it shoots 1280 x 720 video, but does it really do the job in all conditions? We've put it through the test, and our full review is after the break.

In terms of cosmetics, the Mino & MinoHD are nearly identical, save for the stainless steel plastic finish around the bezel. Inside, the capacity is doubled up to 4GB, but still shoots the same 60 minutes worth of video. Unlike the older Flip Ultra, the MinoHD only comes in one color, black.

On the back is the same 1.5-inch LCD screen, seen throughout the Flip Video product lineup, but it's fairly small to view HD content, which is letterboxed on the screen.

One other downside we found when unboxing the device, was the lack of an HD-quality output. The MinoHD, unfortunately, only supports composite video. What's an HD camcorder without an HDMI or component output?

In our tests, we were somewhat impressed with the video quality, except for the slightly washed out color reproduction. Other than that, the MinoHD is A-okay. The microphone isn't the best, but if you want better audio and video quality, it's probably best to step up to a real HD camcorder like the Canon VIXIA HV30.

For capturing those quick moments when you don't have the time to get a huge camcorder ready to shoot, the Flip MinoHD does it's job fairly well.

Flip Video also made it very easy to share videos you record with friends and family. The bundled FlipShare software provides a simple enough interface that anyone with basic computer experience can use it, and exports video to YouTube and other video services. It also offers a simplistic way at editing multiple videos together with a music soundtrack.

The MinoHD retails for $229, a hefty cost for such a simple device, but does it compare in quality to the Kodak Zi6 camcorder? We'll bring you that review next week.

Pros

• Video quality was fairly good, but washed out.
• Small, compact package.
• Simple to use software.

Cons

• Small LCD screen.
• No HD output.

Pocket video cameras are a great stocking stuffer this holiday season. There's a huge selection available, and the best one we've seen is the Flip Video Mino. It comes in white or black, and stores up to 60 minutes of video on the 2GB of internal storage. The camera gets its "Flip" name from the flip-out USB plug which allows you to plug it into your computer without a cable. The Mino shoots up to 640x480 video and you can preview it using the 1.5" display on the back. To record, just press the large red button, it's as simple as that. Grab one from Amazon.com today for just around $150.

A little over a year ago, Canon introduced the HV20 HDV camcorder, and it was a huge success. Just around 4 months ago Canon introduced the VIXIA HV30, a small step-up from the HV20 with only a couple of new additions. Is it worth upgrading from the HV20? Read on to find out.

The VIXIA HV30 is nearly identical to the HV20, so instead of focusing on what's the same we'll be focusing on what's new.

Instead of the silver and grey finish that the HV20 had, the HV30 now has a matte and glossy black finish that makes it look much more like a prosumer camcorder. Canon has also managed to make the zoom slider larger and easier to find when grasping the camera in your hand. The LCD is now non-solarizing, making it easier to see in sunlight.

To make it easier for online video services, Canon now includes a 30P Progressive Mode in the HV30. Traditionally, sites like YouTube cut the frame rate down to 15fps (frames per second) - which is easier to do with 30P than 24P mode or 60i. Need extra battery life? You're in luck, the HV30 supports the Canon BP-2L24H extended battery.

The HV30 uses the same sensor as the HV20, a 1/2.7" 3-megapixel CMOS and the same DIGIC DVII image processor. Which means the video quality managed to stay the same, crisp and noise-free. This is probably the best camcorder for those looking to start their own internet TV show or video podcast.

Overall, the Canon VIXIA HV30 is a somewhat lacking upgrade over the HV20 but those who are looking for a great HDV camcorder should take a look at the HV30. Find it today at Amazon.com for just under $880 bucks.

Pros

• Exceptional video quality.
• New non-solarizing LCD screen.
• 30P progressive mode for internet video.

Cons

• Not a big improvement over the HV20.

Final Verdict
4.5 out of 5 stars.

Look what Mr. FedEx decided to deliver today: the brand new Canon VIXIA HV30 HDV camcorder. It has nearly the same internals as the HV20 we reviewed in February, but also has a few new things added to it. We're a big fan of the new black design, we think it makes the camera look even more prosumer-oriented.

They also improved the zoom slider by enlarging it quite a bit, making it easier to handle. Inside, the HV30 now has the ability to shoot in 30P Progressive Mode. It's designed to make uploading to sites like YouTube easier, where frame rates are cut down in half to 15fps. The HV30 also supports the Canon BP-2L24H extended battery which is not compatible with the HV30.

The older HV20 is still available for lower prices, which makes the HV30 a so-so upgrade. We expect the same excellent video quality that the HV20 delivered or even better, but we haven't had the chance to test it out just yet. Keep an eye out for our full review in April.

From high definition DVD's to next-gen game consoles, high-definition has become a big deal for consumers. Now you can create your own high-definition movies at home with the Canon HV20. I used the HV20 for over two months and it is a great camera, but is it missing anything? Read on for more.

The HV20 is probably the best consumer HD camcorder around if you can afford it, and has some great features. It has a Canon True HD CMOS sensor, which is used in Canon's professional EOS digital SLRs and makes for stunning 1920 x 1080 resolution full HD video recorded onto regular MiniDV tape. Still images are recorded at 1920 x 1440 resolution in 4:3 mode and 1920 x 1080 in 16:9 mode. The DIGIC DV II image processor also processes your images and improves color reproduction and optimized image quality. Size is not an issue either, the HV20 fits in the palm of your hand and isn't too bulky to carry around on a long vacation. The camera also has Canon's SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization so you don't have to get motion sick while watching on a big screen.

On the back of the HV20 are conveniently located controls for recording video, zooming, and a joystick for navigating through menu items. On the side are controls for focus, and a handy video light. The HV20 also has a very nice 2.7-inch widescreen LCD and a color viewfinder for saving battery life. The HV20 can take up to 3-megapixel still images with it's 10x optical zoom. Canon tried to bridge the gap between consumer and professional camcorders by providing users with the option of shooting in 24p, to give a "film look". You can also turn on Cinema Mode which changes the color and tonal characteristics, to make it feel like you're actually watching a movie in a theater. Want to hook up the HV20 to an HDTV for sharing it with friends and family? No problem, the HV20 has an HDMI port for connecting to your HDTV.

If you want to hook up a pro microphone, you're out of luck - the HV20 uses a minijack for connecting microphones. You can however use an XLR adapter such as the Beachtek DXA-2s. Canon does sell a shotgun microphone, which should work just fine atop the accessory shoe above the lens.

Video quality was simply amazing, we tested the HV20 both in indoor and outdoor settings in the Sacramento and San Francisco, CA area. Video had very little noise, colors were saturated and the images were sharp. The HV20 does show a little bit of graniness in low light conditions though, and Canon's night mode doesn't really help. The still images are good, but you probably don't want to use a camcorder as a digital camera anyway.

Canon has already introduced their HV30 product, which has nearly identical specs besides the ability to shoot in 30p and support for the Canon expanded battery pack. The Canon HV20 is available today from Amazon for just under $700. A great deal for a camcorder that will last a lifetime.

Pros

• Stunning HD video quality.
• Small and compact body.
• Conveniently located controls.
• Large 2.7-inch LCD.
• 24p Cinema Mode.
• HDMI output.
• Accessory shoe.

Cons

• Night mode makes low-light conditions worse.

Final Verdict
4.5 out of 5 stars.

Canon is always one of the first name brands I think of when camcorders come into my mind. I recently had a chance to take a look at one of their miniDV camcorders, the ZR850.

In the ZR line of camcorders, there's the ZR800, the ZR830, and the ZR850 we'll be reviewing today. All three have mostly the same features, except the ZR800 has a mic-in port for connecting an external microphone. It would have been nice if this came standard, since built-in microphones usually don't sound as good for recording talking heads (interviews).

The ZR850 has a 35x optical zoom and a 1-megapixel CCD sensor, which makes for pretty darn good video. You'll have to supply a decent amount of light though, since the ZR850's low-light performance isn't too good. The built-in video light on the front of the camera isn't bright enough to help either.

All of the ZR series have the ability to capture still images as well, but can only be used in the 4:3 mode at 1152x864 resolution. Color reproduction wasn't the best, but this isn't the reason you bought a video camera was it?

One caveat of ours was the tape slot, which was awkwardly placed on the bottom of the camcorder, making it hard to load a new tape when placed on a tripod. However, there are some good things about the camcorder. In decent light, the ZR850 produced video with accurate and vibrant color. The ZR850 also has a generous 2.7" widescreen LCD, which also means it shoots in 16:9 widescreen or the typical 4:3 aspect ratio. The navigation is intuitive with the joystick just below the screen.

In our testing the video had consistent motor noise from the tape mechanism using the built-in microphone, but doing voiceovers once in post-production or editing can help overcome this. You may want to consider purchasing the low-end ZR800 with a mic input, but with lower-quality video (680k pixel sensor), or going without one and getting somewhat better video with the ZR850.

All in all, the Canon ZR series of camcorders are perfect for those quick moments you need to capture on video, like a vacation or wedding. The camcorder's navigation isn't too overwhelming for the amateur videographer. The ZR850 is available now at Amazon for just under $250.

Pros

• Good video under ample lighting.
• Easy to use interface and controls.
• Large 2.7" LCD screen.

Cons

• No microphone input.
• Motor noise from tape mechanism in audio.
• Still imaging only in 4:3 mode.
• Not too good low-light performance.

Final Verdict
3.5 out of 5 stars.