Canon VIXIA HF M32 Pro Reviews

The Vixia HF S20 carries the same $1000 price as the HF M32, has a bigger sensor, includes 32GB built-in memory and two SDHC card slots, takes eight-megapixel stills, offers a native 24p recording mode, sports a bigger 3.5-inch LCD screen, and adds a useful custom control dial. But if you want extra-roomy built-in memory and don’t need the extra features in the HF S20, then the Vixia HF M32 makes a very good choice for a mid-level HD camcorder.

The Canon Legria HF M32 is actually an upgrade of the preceding Legria M31 model, but it stills packs a good video punch. The ease of use is certainly exactly that - we was able to pick up the M32 and start shooting without referring to a manual. However, the touchscreen needs (ahem!) a touch more finessing, while menu nomenclature is a little obscure for the novice. The lack of an EVF means when shooting in direct sunlight, composing properly, particularly for smaller subjects or when not working on a tripod becomes hard. However, key to this camera’s success will be the compact size and ease of use, we carried it around in a trouser pocket (yes okay, insert smutty innuendo here) but portable it certainly is. The quality of footage is excellent with the only caveats around the wind noise when shooting outdoors.