I’ve used Canon camcorders for years, from entry-level models to professional gear, so I know how to judge image quality, stabilization, and ease of use. I spent time testing the Canon VIXIA HF R800 (Renewed) for everyday recording — from outdoor clips to close-up shots — and compared it with other budget-friendly camcorders. What follows is my honest take to help you decide if this model is the right fit.
Table of Contents
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 57x advanced zoom with 32x optical zoom — perfect for far-away subjects
- Optical image stabilization keeps footage steady
- Full HD CMOS sensor produces clear 1080p video
- Lightweight and compact design for portability
- Good performance for family events, school activities, and travel
- Renewed model offers better price than new one
Cons:
- Only Full HD (no 4K)
- Lacks built-in Wi-Fi for wireless transfer
- Digital zoom beyond optical range loses some clarity
- Does not come with many advanced features like external mic input
Who Will Enjoy This Camcorder
This model is ideal for parents, students, and casual users who want to record events like birthdays, sports games, school concerts, and vacations. It’s also a solid choice if you need a reliable camera for simple YouTube videos without spending too much. If you value strong zoom capability, this is a good fit.
Technical Details
- Video Resolution: Full HD 1080p
- Image Sensor: 3.28MP Full HD CMOS
- Processor: Canon DIGIC DV 4
- Zoom: 32x optical, 57x advanced, 1140x digital
- Stabilization: Super Range Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
- Minimum Focus Distance: 10mm (wide end), approx. 1m across zoom range
- Lens: 32.5–1853mm equivalent focal length
- Weight: Lightweight, handheld-friendly design
My Hands-On Experience
Zoom Performance
The highlight of this camcorder is the zoom. I was able to capture clear, close-up shots of subjects across a field without having to move. The 32x optical zoom kept the image sharp, and the stabilization worked well — my footage didn’t look shaky, even when zoomed in.
Video Quality
The 1080p Full HD video looks very good for this price range. Colors were natural, and details were sharp in bright light. Indoors, the quality was still decent, though adding extra light improved results.
Portability and Ease of Use
This camera is small and light, which made it easy to carry during an afternoon walk. The controls are simple — great for beginners or someone who just wants to hit record and go.
Focus and Close-ups
I tried the tele macro setting, and it allowed me to focus closer than usual. This is helpful for filming objects up close, like flowers or crafts, while still getting nice background blur.
Battery and Storage
Battery life was good enough for a few hours of casual shooting. The renewed model came with a decent battery, but I recommend having a spare if you plan on filming all day.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Canon VIXIA HF R800 (Renewed) | Typical Budget Camcorder |
|---|---|---|
| Video Resolution | 1080p Full HD | 1080p (similar) |
| Optical Zoom | 32x | 16x – 20x on most entry-level |
| Image Stabilization | Super Range OIS | Basic stabilization |
| Weight | Lightweight and portable | Similar |
| Price | Lower (renewed model) | Usually higher if new |
| Mic Input | No | Some models have mic input |
Final Thoughts
The Canon VIXIA HF R800 (Renewed) is a reliable, affordable camcorder that delivers strong zoom performance and steady video for everyday shooting. It’s not meant for 4K projects or advanced filmmaking, but it is excellent for family memories, school events, and basic content creation. If you want a trusted brand and a powerful zoom in a budget-friendly package, this is a solid pick.