Camcorder News

CamcorderInfo's Full 2010 CES Coverage

Canon Standard Definition Camcorders

Canon Entry-Level High Definition Camcorders

Canon Mid-Range High Definition Camcorders

Canon Flagship High Definition Camcorders

January 5, 2010 – With the HF R11, HF R10, and HF R100, Canon has created an entirely new, entry-level line of HD camcorders. The models would best be described as HD versions of Canon's standard definition line—the FS series—as the two sets of camcorders have similar shapes, sizes, form factors, and LCDs. The HF R series, however, range in price from $499 to $699, and each includes a 1/5.5-inch CMOS sensor with a total pixel count of 2.39 megapixels.

The most expensive model, the HF R11, comes with 32GB of built-in flash memory, while the HF R10 comes with 8GB of internal flash memory. The HF R100 comes with no internal memory, but, like all of Canon's 2010 camcorders, it can record video to SD/SDHC memory cards. Each camcorder in this line will include a 2.7-inch LCD with a 112,000-pixel resolution—the same LCD that you'll find on Canon's standard definition camcorders. These LCDs do not use touchscreen technology, which is a prominent feature on Canon's new high-end HD models.

Each of the HF R camcorders will include a 20x optical zoom, digital image stabilization (with a Dynamic setting), and ports for an external mic and headphones. The camcorders also have an improved Video Snap function that now allows for 2, 4, or, 8-second clip limits.

The Canon HF R10 comes in three colors.

The HF R11 and HF R10 both feature an HD-SD downconversion setting, as well as a function called relay record. Relay record enables the camcorder to automatically start recording on an inserted memory card once the internal memory fills up. This feature, along with the HD-SD downconversion, is not available on the HF R100 because it has no internal memory.

These three camcorders are fairly limited when it comes to connectivity features and control interfaces. None of these models feature accessory shoes, filter threads, viewfinders, or control dials. All menu navigation and manual controls are adjusted using the joystick on the LCD panel.

The HF R100 doesn't include any internal memory.

Each of these camcorders will be available in March 2010. The HF R11 will come in black with an MSRP of $699, while the HF R10 will be available in three colors (black, red, or silver) at a cost of $549. With a $499 price tag, the HF R100 will be the cheapest of the set, and it comes with a silver paint job.