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Canon VIXIA HF R800 Portable Video Camera Review

The Canon Vixia HF R800 is an excellent starter camera if you are new to live to stream and use a video camera.

This Canon’s advanced high-resolution HD CMOS image sensor features additional sensitivity that delivers beautifully lifelike Full HD video with natural colour, even in low light & makes your event mind-blowing.

Read the full review below to know more about this product.

Let’s get started…

Canon VIXIA HF R800 Portable Video Camera Review

Canon Vixia HF R800 Review

No surprise, camcorders have an important role in everyone’s life, be it at home or in offices. Birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and other special occasions will not be completed without capturing videos of the events. Besides, both videographers and YouTubers use them for shooting videos on a budget.

Although you may use your smartphone for recording special or candid moments, the quality, fun, experience from a camcorder is incomparable. So, there is no wrong if you will give a try to Canon Vixia HF R800.

This camcorder boasts its sleek styling, which resembles a compact yet elongated cylinder. You can conveniently check how photos are being framed through a large screen display that can be folded out on the left. Besides, you can find the exteriors of this camera quite impressive.

Since Canon Vixia HF R800 is designed with DIGIC DV 4 image processor, you can expect a one-of-a-kind imaging performance. In fact, you can enjoy capturing more light even you are in dark scenes while producing images that are brighter and noise-free.

As for the handheld shooting, it is considered to be speedy and delivers clear images, thanks to the image stabilization. This camcorder comes in 1920×1080 resolution along with a 3.28 MP Full HD CMOS image sensor. Not only that, the on-chip noise reduction feature helps in producing clarity to each frame so that there will be a really full HD video with stunning, natural color.

In this Canon Vixia HF R800 review, you’ll have the best chance to get more familiar with its features and what you would like about or dislike. That way, you can be sure that this camcorder is really meant for you. We understand that finding the perfect camcorder based on your video recording needs and budget can be a bit frustrating, especially if you are interested in Vixia HF R800 but don’t have any idea about it.

Luckily, this Canon Vixia HF R800 camcorder review will help you learn everything about it, from key features up to what other people who have already purchased it are saying.

Meanwhile, we know that most consumers are conscious of their budget. It is good to know that as we took an effort to review Canon Vixia HF R800, you are familiar even with how much budget you need to prepare.

Features:

  • Whether you’re shooting home videos, events, or recitals, the 57x Advanced Zoom ensures that you can take the photo from the back rows of an auditorium if necessary, while the Super Range O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) keeps the image stable at longer focal lengths.
  • It also speeds up operation during work and enables stable image stabilization for clear images even when shooting with your handheld.
  • Even during handheld shooting situations, Dynamic Mode provides five-axis image stabilization (pan axis, pan, pan, pan up, pan down, left-right) to ensure smooth video capture with minimal camera movement. camera, even when shooting while walking.
  • A great resolution of 4K or at least 1080p will help you find a camera that lasts and stays up-to-date with improvements like video quality, Internet speed, and viewer expectations. It is compatible with SD, SDHC, SDXC memory card types.
  • The iVIS HF R82 and iVIS HF R800 feature a Slow / Fast Segment feature that allows users to change the speed of specific points in their video with a single touch during shooting. With this feature, users can capture moments like a goal during a soccer game or a child crossing the goal line in slow motion, or speed up segments of activities like cooking to record impressive video content.
  • VIXIA HF R800’s lightweight, compact & suitable package means you can have it handy to record whatever you want, when you want, on removable SD cards for fast and convenient swapping. Check our detailed guide on Best Cameras For Church Live Streaming and help yourself choose the right Cameras for your Church  Live Streaming.
  • It allows you to record 1920 x 1080 / 60p videos with a compact, lightweight body that fits in your pocket.
  • Overall, this camera is heavy and has a 3-inch screen for clicking and previewing images.
  • This camcorder incorporates an advanced Canon HD DIGIC DV 4 image processor for improved image performance.
  • VIXIA HF R800’s lightweight package means you can have it on hand to record whatever you want, when you want, on removable SD cards for quick and convenient swapping.
  • You can record fast motion at up to 1200x and slow motion at 1 / 2x for more creative possibilities. It’s easy to use and take with you, grab the VIXIA HF R800 and start creating memories.
  • It reduces zoom magnification when you lose sight of a subject during zoom, making it easier to locate and relocate the subject. Its higher performance enables better noise reduction and leads to brighter, noise-free images, even in dark scenes & you feel secure with amazing production.

Who Would Buy Canon Vixia HF R800?

Not everyone can effortlessly shoot in the best angles as possibles. Sometimes it would take you a series of practice just to easily and quickly find your desired angles. But with Canon Vixia HF 800, no need for you to get frustrated that is because it offers you a long list of amazing features that can give you the best shooting experience.

If you are a beginner or experienced videographer or even an aspiring vlogger, this camcorder is the best option for you. Even you have a high standard for camcorders, you can’t go wrong with Vixia HF R800. This camcorder has an advanced zoom feature up to 57 times. This means that you can shoot close-up photos and videos on demand. You can also enjoy the free tripod to ensure stability, 64GB SanDisk memory card, and LCD touch panel.

Whether you are a business owner related to video recording or a hobbyist, ensure to make Vixia HF R800 part of your business or hobby. For sure, you will also get interested in its file lock, which is a set function where you can disable several features like deleting, copying, MP4 conversion, or trimming. Besides, it will protect your work while kids, your friends, and other people are using this camcorder.

Key Features of Canon Vixia HF R800

To start our thorough review of Canon Vixia HF R800, it is ideal for learning the key features of this camcorder. That way, you can decide whether this one fits your requirements. We understand that you have your particular needs when it comes to video or photo shooting, so we hope that the features of the Vixia HF R800 we have reviewed can help you decide.

Many have already find Canon Vixia HF R800 to be a satisfying, best companion camcorder. So, now is the perfect time for you to discover its key feature and why many people prefer this Canon camcorder model.

1. Record Directly to a Removable SD Card

With an SD card, you can easily share beautiful videos with ease. The more interesting thing with the Vixia HF R800 camcorder is that you can directly record a full HD video to a memory card. Besides, you can also use SDXC cards that can hold a maximum memory capacity of 2048GB.

2. SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer

Despite offering a budget-friendly price range, Canon Vixia HF R800 is designed with SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer. The results? You can quickly correct the camera shake so that you can achieve the handheld video’s sharp and steady long focal lengths.

Then, the system will continue to offer adjustments regardless of your desired zoom range when you are shooting while in motion. As for the rotational camera shake, it produces distortion-free videos during roll, horizontal, and vertical axis. You may also like Best Canon T5i Lenses

3. Zoom Framing Assist Function

Apart from having features 0.5x slow motion as well as time-lapse functionality that allows you to shoot between 2:1 to 1200:1 ratios, Canon Vixia HF R800 also offers a zoom framing assist function. This feature lets you tap on the screen so that you can reduce the magnification and then, locate your desired subject before continuing at the former level of the zoom range.

4. 1080/60 Recording

With this kind of feature, the Vixia HF R800 can capture a huge amount of information. Other than that, it can also eliminate any diagonal noise. Meaning, you can capture crisp video quality even you are shooting fast-moving objects. You can find the color as well-enhanced, while the tonal gradation is well-defined.

5. Touch Panel LCD

The Canon Vixia HF R800 comes in 3” touch panel LCD screen where you can see your subjects clearly and brightly. Then, the smooth user interface will make choosing of focal points, shooting or watching videos, and tracking of subjects convenient and fun.

Every time that you need to select shooting modes or record formats, a clear explanation will immediately pop up on the screen. Meaning, even you are an amateur videographer, you can be confident enough that at the end of the day, you can create beautiful, impressive videos.

6. Flexible Recording

With Canon Vixia HF R800, you can have a very flexible video recording. You can choose between fast and slow-motion capabilities. In fact, you can record slow-motion subjects at a minimum speed setting of 0.5x. If you are also a golfer, you can use this camcorder to check your gold swing.

As for the fast motion capability, you can take advantage of the 1200x top speed, where you have an opportunity to record up to 20 hours of action within a single one-minute scene. Not only that, but you can also choose between 300x and 600x new speed settings for additional flexibility.

Other Features and Specifications of Canon Vixia HF R800

  • Instantly turns on/off once you opened the LCD panel
  • It comes with Pre-REC function, where you can record the previous three seconds so that you will not miss important highlights of your video when pressing the record button
  • Designed with HDMI Mini Connector, so you can get the best quality result if prefer hooking it directly to the HDTV
  • It has an External Microphone Jack to offer you more quality sound options
  • It has a headphone jack that you can use for monitoring your audio
  • It delivers a faster frame rate of 60p mode, making this camcorder perfect for recording different sports events
  • The user option interface and setup is the simplified version of the G30, so beginners will find it easy to navigate and use the camcorder

Pros and Cons of Canon Vixia HF R800

After discovering the key features and several specifications of the Canon Vixia HF R800, it’s time for you to learn its pros and cons. Keep in mind that there is no perfect camcorder you can find in the market. We want you to realize that no matter how great the features are, your own preference. For example, you may find a specific feature effective to you, but others may find it less necessary.

If you are ready to go deeper into this Canon Vixia HF R800 review, then let’s get into the pros and cons of this camcorder.

Pros of Canon Vixia HF R800

1. Ultra-Simple and Ultra-Portable Design

The side of the Canon Vixia HF R800 comes in a physical lens cover switch, while the top part has a zoom slider. On the rear, you will the Record button, and below, this is the power port.

When you open the LCD panel, you will see the rest of the ports and buttons such as the Mini HDMI port, microphone port, USB mini AB port, SD card slot, on/off button, playback button, headphone/AV combination port, and microphone port. If you are not into more specialized control and prefer reduced complexity, the design of this camcorder works best for you.

2. Rotating LCD Display

The camcorder’s LCD display is known to rotate outward and attributes til control, which helps you swivel with the maximum of 180˚ forward to face the device’s front and then, 90˚ downward. So, if you are into vlogging, this camcorder suits your recording needs.

3. No Manual Reading Required

When it comes to the set process, this camcorder offers a straightforward process. Without using the Canon Vixia HF R800 manual, we successfully unboxed the product. Then, we were able to charge the camcorder and navigate and use it.

We also find the Basic Setup portion along with outlined steps very simple, which involves the options for date and time, preferred language, and SD card or onboard memory. Overall, the manual of this camcorder is concise, clear, and complete with necessary illustrations to eliminate any ambiguity.

4. Pain-free Recording Formats

Since you can save your videos straight to a standard SD card, you are free to import video by removing the SD card and then, put it into a card reader. Besides, you can also use a mini AB USB cable to connect Vixia HF R800 directly to a computer.

We find this kind of process very easy, where did not encounter any issue pulling a video from the camcorder. But, you need to ensure that you will be pressing the play button first. By doing so, the camcorder will establish a USB connection. After that, it will be recognized by your computer.

5. Impressive Video Quality

We are very satisfied with the video quality, thanks to 32x optical zoom or 52x when in advanced mode. This feature gave us the ability to get closer to our subjects effortlessly. We are also impressed with the image stabilization in a handheld position. Then, the highlight priority mode provided us with backlight correction, especially in bright scenes. Overall, we have achieved the video quality and sharpness we are expecting.

6. Lightweight

One of the top considerations when buying a camcorder is the weight, especially if you are always on-the-go and you love shooting in different places. Good thing, the Canon Vixia HF R800 is lightweight. Whether you’ll be on a trip abroad, bringing this camcorder is hassle-free, and you can be sure that you will capture all the precious moments.

7. High-Capacity Battery Pack

This Canon camcorder is powered by BP-727, which is a high-capacity battery pack. Not only does a rechargeable lithium-ion battery gives you a chance to shoot for a long period, but also features a technology where you can get an accurate indication of the remaining battery time. That way, you can be very sure that you will not miss any shooting opportunities.

8. Safety from Any Accidental Operational Errors

One of the most interesting things about Vixia HF R800 is that in just a single sitting, you can effectively keep all your footage safe from any sort of accidental operational errors. This camcorder features a File Lock, which disables common errors. So, you will have a peace of mind that all your videos are safe, and you can watch and share them anytime you want.

9. Canon Connect Station CS100 Compatibility

The compatibility of Canon Connect Station CS100 with Vixia HF R800 allows you to experience up to 1TB hard drive space that is perfect for shooting photos and videos. This means that you can store up to 70 hours of videos or 150,000 photos.

10. Allows the Use of Downloadable Application

You can download CameraWindow DC software to help you make it easier to import JPEG and MP4 files from the camcorder to Mac or PC. After that, you can start sharing and editing your photos and videos.

Cons of Canon Vixia HF R800

1. It has a green cast

There are times that we have noticed a green cast to the video, which became visible towards the frame edges. But overall, the clarity and sharpness are impressive.

2. Only offers 1920x1080MP

If you prefer camcorders with higher video resolution than 2.1 or 1920x1080MP, then you will hesitate to purchase Canon Vixia HF R800. So, you can go for better still-image quality that can satisfy your requirements.

3. Lacks manual audio control level

When it comes to the mic issue, be aware that Canon Vixia HF R800 does not have a manual control level for the external mic input. Besides, you need to get your own external mic if you plan to talk within a while walking or on the road.

4. Not Compatible with Mac High Sierra

Although the Canon software is an incredible feature for this camcorder, it does not perfectly work with a Mac when using the High Sierra. So, we have spent almost an hour with their technical support just to make it work, but not that well.

5. Yellowish color

Once you set the camcorder on its full-auto outdoor shots, you may notice that the colors tend to be yellowish when you compare it to the real subject. Meaning, the colors will look much better with indoor low-light recording.

6. Several Graininess

For most consumer-grade camcorders, enough light is one of the major concerns of users, and this camcorder is not exempted. The Vixia HF R800 comes in graininess even when you are shooting in full-light situations. Meaning, if you prefer recording in a low-light environment most of the time, this camcorder may disappoint you.

7. Slow downloading time

There are some instances that it may take you for a while to completely download from this camcorder. So, we suggest using a USB memory card reader when transferring your photos or videos to your computer.

Conclusion

Social media bloggers, families, beginners, and seasoned videographers will love the Canon. It is lightweight, compact, and has good battery life. Aside from that, the camcorder does not require any extensive knowledge or skills in video experience. Since it has a compact and light design, you can effortlessly turn it on and then, begin filming. You can bring this camcorder to the beach, special events, and other outdoor activities.

If you are a vlogger, you will get love the size of the camcorder as well as the image quality every time you need to shoot. Overall, the Canon Vixia HF R800 is a decent camcorder with impressive features. Although you may find some disadvantages, more advantages can make your video recording experience satisfying.

We hope that in this Canon Vixia HF R800 review, you became more familiar with the camcorder. From key features to pros and cons, you will get valuable information that can help you decide whether to buy or not to buy this camcorder. Make sure that you already know what you are really looking for from a camcorder. That way, it becomes easier for you to decide.

If you think that Canon Vixia HF R800 is the right camcorder for you, then buy yours now!

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Jason Baxter

Jason is a professional photographer based in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Loyd has been doing photography for over 14 years and specializes in fine art landscape photography. Loyd's work has appeared on book covers, CD covers, television, internet galleries, and on the walls of private residences.