The Canon VIXIA HF R72 is shaping up to be one of the best vlogging cameras under $300, thanks to its emphasis on video recording instead of capturing still images. Its high-quality recording is in sweet 1080p, and even has some built-in technology that’s a must to have for any fledgling (and experienced) vlogger. While this camera is great, you may want additional options. If so, you can visit our best vlogging camera list.
Why We Like It – Canon Vixia HF R72
The Canon VIXIA HF R72 Camcorder is packed and ready to go for your vlogging needs, like built-in storage, 1080p Full HD video, and easy-to-connect live streaming.
- Records 1080p HD video
- Can be used for live streaming
- 32GB built-in flash memory
- A slightly learning curve
- Doesn’t take photos
Performance
We loved the performance of the Canon VIXIA HF R72. For starters, it records in crisp and clear 1080p, just like the Canon VIXIA HF R800, thanks to its DIGIC DV 4 image processor and Full HD CMOS image sensor. Its CMOS sensor still captures great image quality even with its 32x optical zoom, which can extend to 57x digital zoom through Advanced Zoom. This is thanks to its Highlight Priority Mode, which helped capture colors and tones as close to the naked eye as possible.
Related: Read our Canon PowerShot SX730 review for a camera with a strong zoom range
To keep your shot steady, it makes use of optical image stabilization, which Canon calls “SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization.” It was a joy to mess around with fast motion recording, allowing us to record up to 1200x or slow-motion at 0.5x. All of this was captured on its 32GB of internal memory. It does not, however, capture photos. For that, look to the Canon PowerShot SX610 HS.
Design
On the right-hand side is a strap for your hand to slide into, and since the device is only 8.5 ounces, you don’t need to be Hulk to handle it. On the left-hand side of the video camera is the screen itself; it can open and twist. It’s a crucial feature to have when the camera is pointed at you, knowing what you look like and if you’re in the shot.
Related: Check out our Canon Vixia HF R700 review
With the screen pulled out, it reveals various ports such as USB, HDMI, and audio ports. The screen itself is a touchscreen and can be used to alter details such as adjusting white balance and baby mode. Additionally, since it’s NFC and Wi-Fi capable, use your smart device as a remote control. If you need something durable and ready for on-the-go activities, look to the GoPro Hero5 Session.
Value
Everything you get with the Canon VIXIA HF R72—high definition video, various modes—makes it a great camera to have for vlogging, unlike the Panasonic Lumix ZS50, which focuses on photos more than video. And with how little you spend on it, you’ll have a budget leftover to pick yourself up a tripod. This is especially true with the built-in 32GB of internal flash. It’s nice not having to buy memory cards right away. Additionally, it comes with a card reader, capable of reading SDHC SDXC, and SD.
Canon Vixia HF R72 Wrap Up
The Canon VIXIA HF R72 is a joy to use, especially in a vlog setting. It’s built for recording video, not taking photos; with that comes a slight learning curve. Aside from that, it’s a great workhorse that can record stable videos in 1080p, live stream, and has a sweet 32GB storage that can handle several hours of recording.
