Canon Legria HF20

Compression (7.0)

The Canon HF20 records HD video using the AVCHD codec. Last year, when we wrote about the Canon HF11, AVCHD was just beginning to be the standard compression for HD camcorders that record to non-linear media (i.e. not tape). Now, AVCHD has solidified itself as the primary compression method for most HD camcorders. The codec still has its faults, however. Video files are large and full of information, which makes them very difficult to work with unless you have an extremely robust computer.

AVCHD has a maximum bit rate of 24Mbps and most high-end HD camcorders are now capable of recording at that level, including the Canon HF20. Sony is a significant exception, however, as it's top-of-the-line HDR-XR520V peaks at a bit rate of 16Mbps. The Canon HF20 has 5 video quality options: MXP (24Mbps), FXP (17Mbps), XP+ (12Mbps), SP (7Mbps), and LP (5Mbps). Only MXP and FXP record a full 1920 x 1080 HD image, with each of the other settings recording at 1440 x 1080.

Media (8.52)

The Canon HF20 comes with 32 GB of internal flash memory, which is enough to record just under three hours of footage at the highest quality. This is definitely enough space to start with, although you'll probably want to expand the storage space by purchasing a couple of SD/SDHC memory cards. You should also ask yourself how much that 32 GB of internal memory is worth (in dollars). The Canon HF200 is identical to the HF20 in design except it doesn't include any internal memory and cheaper. So, if you have a bunch of SD/SDHC memory cards lying around, maybe you should check out the HF200 instead.

You have the option of recording to SD/SDHC cards in addition to the 32GB of internal memory.

Below you'll see a chart showing the maximum record times using the various quality settings on the Canon HF20. If you want more internal memory, you're best off going for a camcorder that records to a built-in hard drive. Canon didn't release any new hard drive camcorders this year, so the HG21 is still the largest option (120 GB). The new HDR-XR520VE from Sony, however, has double the capacity (240 GB), which is probably enough space to capture all the way up to your toddler's high school graduation.

Editing (7.0)

AVCHD camcorders come with a standard warning—the recorded footage can be very difficult to work with and edit on a computer. Now, if you're just doing some minor editing, the AVCHD video probably won't cause you much trouble. Be forewarned, however, all but the most robust computers will run into problems when working extensively with AVCHD.

The Canon HF20 comes bundled with Pixela ImageMixer 3SE as well as a Digital Video Solution Disk. The Video Solution Disk includes drivers and some software to help your computer and camcorder function together (the software is compatible with both Mac and PC). The Pixela software is a basic editing system that allows you to add titles and transitions or trim and split your footage. The program also assists with transferring footage from the camcorder to your computer—something that can only be accomplished with the aid of software (you can't drag and drop the video files). Of course, the Canon HF20 also works smoothly with consumer and professional editing software alike. We had no trouble importing video files using both iMovie and Final Cut Express..

Lastly, according to Canon, the HF20 comes with a music CD. We didn't get copies of these disks with our review model, so we can't give you our thoughts on Canon's taste in music. We assume they're meant for adding background music to your videos during editing or for use with the camcorder's playback features (which allow you to add music). And, if nothing else, you can always add them to your record collection.