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Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder

#1

★★★★☆
4.5

based on 290 reviews  

 

Ratings Distribution

5 star
 
178
4 star
 
98
3 star
 
8
2 star
 
3
1 star
 
3

Category Average

★★★★☆
4.1

 

$799.99 at B&H Photo Video

 
 

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Pros

  • Great picture quality (259)
  • Great features (202)
  • Comfortable to operate (182)
  • Simple controls (170)
  • Versatile (166)
  • Durable (84)
  • Great sound (80)
  • 24p (2)
  • Lightweight (2)
  • 2 auto focus speeds (1)
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Cons

  • Poor sound quality (52)
  • Flimsy (37)
  • Poor battery life (31)
  • Uncomfortable (26)
  • Complicated to operate (11)
  • Inadequate features (7)
  • Poor low-light video (3)
  • Low-quality recordings (2)
  • Awkward ergonomics (1)

Best Uses

  • Travel (171)
  • Movies/short films (140)
  • Home movies (120)
  • Hd shooting (115)
  • Family (78)
  • Documentaries (66)
  • Special events (64)
  • Editing (54)
  • Sports (44)
  • Weddings (42)
 
 
 

Provided by OneCall

The Image Quality of HD
The VIXIA HV30 is the HD camcorder to go along with everything else in your HD world. It captures true 1080 High Definition resolution video in 16:9 format, using MiniDV cassette tapes. The VIXIA HV30's true 16:9 widescreen HD image is made for your new HD widescreen TV. High Definition and widescreen are the future. Be sure you invest in that future with Canon's VIXIA HV30.

At the same time, the VIXIA HV30 gives you the flexibility to record in SD (standard definition) mode, too. That means you can enjoy the ultimate in HD video and photo quality, and still shoot SD video for viewing on your non-HD equipment.

HD Video Lens
Since 1934, Canon has been producing exceptional photographic lenses that are synonymous with unsurpassed optical performance. Because of Genuine Canon Optics, every Canon broadcast lens, 35mm film camera, digital camera and camcorder assures brilliant optical quality - and the VIXIA HV30 is no exception.

The VIXIA HV30 comes with an outstanding High Definition video lens - a 10x HD Genuine Canon Optical zoom. It's the lens you need to record long shots of your child on the soccer field, wide shots of beautiful landscapes, and everything in-between. And because it comes with three pre-set zoom speeds, you always get smooth, steady, professional looking zoom shots.

Super spectra coating technology results in images with minimal flare and ghosting. Plus, the new lens' aspheric design reduces aberration and increases resolution, ensuring crisp, sharp video and enhancing the HD image quality. Not only that, but a new gradation ND system gives you better exposures in bright shooting situations.

Canon Exclusive: Full HD CMOS Sensor (1920 x 1080)
The VIXIA HV30 features a Canon designed and manufactured CMOS image sensor. The CMOS image sensors in Canon's EOS Series Digital SLR cameras result in outstanding digital photographs. In the VIXIA HV30, the CMOS sensor reproduces high-resolution images at 1920 x 1080 resolution with full HD information in video images.

Compared to a CCD, the VIXIA HV30's CMOS's high color resolution and advanced color reproduction gives brilliant results. It is also unique in featuring Canon's proprietary noise reduction technologies for crisp, sharp images. Low noise technology also means that even in dimly lit scenes, the signal from each pixel is as pure as possible, with minimal noise or other aberrations. It's the ideal sensor for HD.

The VIXIA HV30 uses an RGB Primary Color Filter with Bayer Pattern that separates light into red, green and blue color components. This results in vibrant images with deep, rich, accurate color and natural-looking tones similar to what you'd obtain from 3CCD camcorders. In addition, it is the Bayer pattern that delivers sharp high definition images without creating false colors. As an added benefit, the CMOS sensor provides outstanding image capture in low light conditions.

Canon Exclusive: DIGIC DVII
DIGIC DVII is the next generation of Canon's exclusive DIGIC DV signal processing technology. Designed specifically for HD, DIGIC DV II ensures optimal image quality. It also ensures optimal image quality for still images, even though video and still images have different color requirements. DIGIC DV II is just another one of Canon's advanced technologies that make the VIXIA HV30 an exceptional performer.

Thanks to DIGIC DV II image processing, the VIXIA HV30 produces video with improved color reproduction -- especially in skin tones, and dark and light scenes. It also uses a hybrid noise reduction system that employs two types of noise reduction -- for high definition images that are crystal clear.

Plus, DIGIC DV II enables improved continuous shooting of digital photographs with the VIXIA HV30. You can shoot five (3.1 Megapixel) still images per second, and enjoy faster processing of your images to your memory card (1.4x normal card; 2.5x Hi Speed card). It also helps lower power consumption for longer battery life.

Canon Exclusive: SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization
Canon's innovative SuperRange OIS combines gyro- and image-sensors to give image stabilization through a wider range of camera motions. Some image stabilization systems correct one type of camera motion or vibration better than another. But Canon's SuperRange OIS corrects for a wide range of camcorder motion: the fast vibration you'd experience while recording from a moving car; the medium-speed motion of hand-held recording; and the slower motion of body sway. No matter what you're recording and how you're recording it, the VIXIA HV30's stabilization design corrects camcorder shake instantly. SuperRange OIS also delivers steady images when shooting at long focal lengths.

In addition, optical stabilization keeps your shot steady without a loss in image quality -- something that can't be said for electronic image stabilization. And image stabilization isn't just for video; you can even use it for taking sharper, clearer digital photographs with your VIXIA HV30. Thanks to Canon's expertise, it's easy to eliminate one of the telltale signs of amateur video and photography.

Canon Exclusive: Instant AF (Auto Focus)
Since it is critical to achieve very sharp focus when shooting in High Definition, the VIXIA HV30 camcorder features Canon's revolutionary Instant AF focusing system. It offers a dramatic improvement in auto focus speed and accuracy (compared to traditional autofocus systems). The Instant AF feature uses an external sensor, in combination with Canon's autofocus 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. The benefits of Instant AF are especially seen in high brightness and night shooting situations. With Instant AF, it's possible to get fast, accurate focusing, even when following a moving subject.

Canon Exclusive: 2.7-inch Multi-Angle Vivid Widescreen LCD
The 2.7-inch Multi-Angle Vivid Widescreen LCD on the VIXIA HV30 lets you see more of what your camcorder is recording. Using a hard coat AR surface and improved color reproduction, the scene in the viewfinder is more accurate to what you're capturing in the camcorder. An added benefit of this Canon Exclusive is the wider range of viewing angle possible with this new LCD screen. With less glare and deeper contrasts, groups of people can gather around it and see the image displayed more clearly than ever before.

Canon Exclusive - 2.96 Megapixel Full HD CMOS
Canon's own CMOS sensor reproduces high-resolution images at 1920 x 1080 resolution with full HD information in video images. Compared to a CCD, the VIXIA HV30's CMOS's high color resolution and advanced color reproduction gives brilliant results. It is also unique in featuring Canon's proprietary noise reduction technologies for crisp, sharp images. Low noise technology also means that even in dimly lit scenes, the signal from each pixel is as pure as possible, with minimal noise or other aberrations. It's the ideal sensor for HD.

24p Cinema Mode
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 HV30'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.

30p Progressive Mode
This is a unique feature that only Canon offers in the consumer camcorder market. You would otherwise have to look to professional video cameras in order to have this sophisticated tool at your command. In addition to the standard interlaced video frame rate of 60i, you may choose to set the VIXIA HV30 to capture video in 30p which is (30 progressive frames) particularly useful for footage to be used on the Internet. In addition, this setting gives enhanced quality to still images captured after recording. Excellent for action shots and sports.

Stunning Digital Photography
Canon's advanced image processing technology means your HD camcorder is also a high performance digital camera capable of capturing stunning 2.76 Megapixel photos in 4:3 aspect ratio to a miniSD â„¢ card (2.07 Megapixels at 16:9). It's like having an HD digital video camcorder and digital still camera -- all rolled into one. What's more, the VIXIA HV30's many advanced photo features make it a camera that rivals other state-of-the-art digital cameras. With Canon technology, it's not just video and photos -- it's the best of both.

Edit and Share Your Video
You can edit and share your video with the VIXIA HV30. Once you're connected to your computer, DV streaming and ultra-fast transfer of movies is a breeze. And because the VIXIA HV30 uses the IEEE 1394 protocol, there's no loss of picture or audio quality in the process. You'll want to share your brilliant HD memories with friends and family, and the VIXIA HV30 makes it fast and easy.

HDMI & Advanced Accessory Shoe Terminals
With the VIXIA HV30, sharing your High Definition video on your HD television is easier than ever. Only a single cable connects your camcorder to your TV for the highest quality playback (video and audio).

Another pro-level feature of the VIXIA HV30 is the Advanced Accessory Shoe Terminal on the camcorder. Attach extras such as a video light or directional microphone without additional wires or batteries to raise the production value of the video you shoot.

Print/Share
Print/Share turns your VIXIA HV30 into a photo lab in the palm of your hand. Simply connect your camcorder directly to select Canon printers or any PictBridge-compatible printer with the supplied USB cable. Then, with a simple touch of the Print/Share button, print directly from your VIXIA HV30 without going through a computer.

Specification Description
Model 2680B001, 2680B001AA, CANHV30, HV30
UPC 013803091595
16:9 Record Mode Yes
AC Adapter CA-570
Accessory Shoe Advanced Accesory Shoe
Analog Audio / Video (Mini) (1) Rear Output
Aperture f/1.8-3.0
Battery Charger CB-2LW
Built-in Light Yes
Card Slot miniSD Card
color null
Compatible Battery BP-2L13
Compatible Battery BP-2L14
Compatible Battery BP-2L24H
Compatible Battery NB-2LH
Definition High Definition
Depth (Inches) 5.4
Digital Still/Memory Mode Yes
Digital Zoom 200
Effective Megapixel Count 2.76
Exposure Modes Auto
Exposure Modes Manual
Exposure Modes Program AE
Eyepiece Viewfinder Color
Filter/Wide Angle Capability 43mm
Focus Control Automatic
Focus Control Manual
HDMI Yes
Height (Inches) 3.2
IEEE 1394 (Firewire) Yes
Image Format JPEG
Image Stabilization SuperRange Optical (lens shift)
LCD Display Size (Inches) 2.7
Light Built-in
Mic Input (1) 3.5mm Stereo
Microphone Built-in
Optical Zoom 10
Recordable Media Type MiniDV
Recording Format MiniDV
Remote Control Included
Resolution High Definition
Scene Modes Automatic
Scene Modes Beach/Snow
Scene Modes Fireworks
Scene Modes Night Scene
Scene Modes Portrait
Scene Modes Sports
Scene Modes SpotLight
Scene Modes Sunset
Select Format Internal Flash Memory,Memory Cards
size null
sku 73432
skuprice 699.9900
Still Image Capability Stores still images on memory card
Still Image Resolution (Max.) 2048 x 1536
style CANHV30
taxable Y
USB Port (1) USB 2.0 High Speed
Video Compatibility NTSC
Weight (Pounds) 1.2
White Balance Cloudy
White Balance Daylight
White Balance Fluorescent
White Balance Fluorescent Light
White Balance Shade
White Balance Tungsten Bulb
Width (Inches) 3.5

Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder Questions

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Where to Buy

Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder

$799.99

No Tax Outside NY ends 09/09/15
BizRate Rating Outstanding 9.7
 

Product Reviews

Last update: Oct 4, 2009

Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder Reviews

 
 
 

Most helpful positive review

[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

Most helpful negative review

[6 of 6 customers found this review helpful]

 
★★★★★
5.0
Best cam under 1k and 1call has it 4less

"This camera is terrific, HD quality, awesome resolution and tons of features you can mess around with, all easy to learn and is in the manual. There is a cult following on the Canon HV series because they are just so good, just check out[@] see what users have done with their HV series cameras, they are out performing similar consumer to pro-consumer thousand dollar camcorders. The best thing about the camera be..." Read Full Review »

Aug 30, 2008 by Pete!!!!

See more positive Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder reviews

★★★☆☆
3.0
Mostly Satisfied

"I've been using this camera for about two months now. It leaves my old DV camera in the dust for quality. It does a nice job of readjusting exposure for high contrast situations like bright sky, dark foreground, white snow on dark mountains etc. The picture quality is great, but I'm no expert on the higher end cameras. I bought mine for [$], so its hard to complain. It feels pretty good in the hand, minus the pl..." Read Full Review »

May 31, 2009 by Antinet

See more negative Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder reviews

 
 

Displaying 1 - 5 of 290 Reviews

Show

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[2 of 2 customers found this review helpful]

Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder Review

Best cam under 1k and 1call has it 4less

★★★★★
5.0

    Pros

  • Comfortable to Operate
  • Durable
  • Great Features
  • Great Picture Quality
  • Simple Controls
  • More »

    Cons

  • Poor Sound

    Best Uses

  • Family
  • Movies/Short Films
  • Special Events
  • Sports
  • Travel
 

"This camera is terrific, HD quality, awesome resolution and tons of features you can mess around with, all easy to learn and is in the manual. There is a cult following on the Canon HV series because they are just so good, just check out[@] see what users have done with their HV series cameras, they …"  Read Full Review »

Look what I did to mine, love it!

Look what I did to mine, love it!
  • Picture of Product
  • Using Product
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Was this Digital Camcorder review on the Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder helpful to you? 
 Report Abuse  (2)  (0)  0 comments
Aug 30 2008
Pete!!!!
Los Angeles, CA
I am:
  • Semi-Professional
Reviewed at:
 

[3 of 4 customers found this review helpful]

Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder Review

The perfect cam for the 1fst movie!

★★★★★
5.0

    Pros

  • Comfortable to Operate
  • Durable
  • Great Features
  • Great Picture Quality
  • Great Sound
  • More »

    Cons

  • None

    Best Uses

  • Documentaries
  • Editing
  • HD Shooting
  • Movies/Short Films
  • Travel
 

"After see this [@]you will Know what I'm talking about. This camera is great! Until now I can't beleave what can be done with it. I use it for short films.It has a great quality image to do pro filmaking.The thing that's not so great is that I can't buy another one right now... "

White Red Panic. It was shot whith this cam...

White Red Panic. It was shot whith this cam...
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Was this Digital Camcorder review on the Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder helpful to you? 
 Report Abuse  (3)  (1)  0 comments
Nov 26 2008
Carlos Faria
Lauro de Freitas, Brazil.
I am:
  • Pro Videographer
Reviewed at:
 

[11 of 11 customers found this review helpful]

Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder Review

Unbelievable

★★★★★
5.0

    Pros

  • Great Features
  • Great Picture Quality
  • Versatile

    Cons

  • Awkward Ergonomics

    Best Uses

  • Documentaries
  • HD Shooting
  • Home Movies
  • Movies/Short Films
  • Travel
 

"I bought this camera as a stopgap measure to upgrade economically to HDV in my event videography business. Forget stopgaps: I want a bunch more of these things!



First off, calling this a "consumer" camera is probably a bit of a misnomer. Sure, it'll go full auto and get a novice up and running …"  Read Full Review »

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Was this Digital Camcorder review on the Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder helpful to you? 
 Report Abuse  (11)  (0)  0 comments
Dec 3 2008
Jim in GA
Augusta, GA
I am:
  • Pro Videographer
Reviewed at:
Price: $799.99
 

[8 of 8 customers found this review helpful]

Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder Review

Best HDV Image Quality in its Class.

★★★★★
5.0

    Pros

  • Comfortable to Operate
  • Durable
  • Great Features
  • Great Picture Quality
  • Versatile

    Cons

  • No LANC jack

    Best Uses

  • Family
  • Movies/Short Films
  • Special Events
  • Sports
  • Travel
 

"I gave this a 5/5 because I feel image quality doesn't get any better than this from what's available today in in this price range and class.



For home: This camera does a really good job in average low-light (not darkness) with nice color and little noise. The colors are beautiful when there is …"  Read Full Review »

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Was this Digital Camcorder review on the Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder helpful to you? 
 Report Abuse  (8)  (0)  0 comments
Apr 9 2008
Auggie
San Diego
I am:
  • Professional
Reviewed at:
Price: $799.99
 

[9 of 11 customers found this review helpful]

Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder Review

BROADCAST QUALITY AT A TENTH THE PRICE!

★★★★★
5.0

    Pros

  • Comfortable to Operate
  • Durable
  • Great Features
  • Great Picture Quality
  • Great Sound
  • More »

    Cons

  • None

    Best Uses

  • Commercial Video producti
  • Event Videography
  • Movies/Short Films
 

"This camera is just unbelievable! I actually now own three of them. I am a Commercial Television Producer and also produce Corporate and Marketing video projects for a very wide range of clients. Up until a year ago I was shooting on a much, much more expensive Ikegami BetaSP TV Camera. I was loo …"  Read Full Review »

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Was this Digital Camcorder review on the Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder helpful to you? 
 Report Abuse  (9)  (2)  0 comments
Jul 10 2008
JMS VIDEO PRODUCTIONS
PHENIX CITY, AL / COLUMBUS, GA
I am:
  • Professional
Reviewed at:
Price: $799.99
 
Displaying 1 - 5 of 290 Reviews
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Canon VIXIA HV30 High Definition Camcorder

 

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