Used Canon VIXIA XA10 64GB Internal Flash Professional Camcorder, 2.37 Megapixel, 3.5" Widescreen Color LCD

2017-02-07T19:00:00

I received this camera as a Christmas gift, and I am more than impressed. I have spent years filming and editing videos as a hobby, and until now I have been stuck using cheap handhelds and GoPro cameras. This camera and its ability to support an external microphone, adjust settings thoroughly in different conditions, and still be compact enough to be practical is wonderful. I would highly recommend this camera to anyone who takes filming seriously, but does not do so professionally. It's a great mix between value of a consumer camera, and performance of a professional one.

NickC

Originally posted at

2016-08-30T06:10:51

The best Camara I have.

Hung T.

2015-08-06T21:00:00

I use this camcorder for weddings and love it!! Quality is great! I use a Rode XLR mic with it. Battery life is great. I got a couple of the long life batteries to go with it, because I usually have 10 hour days when filming. I also have the 30, but prefer the 10. In the reception I always use an led light. I use the Neewer 160-CN led light. The rechargeable batteries are dirt cheap for it, buy several and your videos will be well lit and awesome

Video P.

2014-08-25T21:00:00

We use our Canon XA10 to film our line of pharmaceutical equipment in operation and to capture our spray nozzles spraying. Great screen, simple to figure out all features.

Jo

2014-01-01T19:00:00

Don't let the price or its newer big brothers fool you. This camera is a sophisticated workhorse of enormous quality, a true pro cam that delivers on so many levels: an excellent image sensor, low light shooting, a wild assortment of menu options, and a wonderful 64 gig internal solid state drive. The XA20 & 25 do not offer the drive but rather a wifi link. Trust me, the drive is flat out awesome. Coupled with two card slots and you've got hours of filming ahead. The image quality is astounding, but that's to be expected on a Canon. This is the same image quality that one would expect from a 5D Mark II, but unlike the Mark II, the XA10 has pro audio XLR inputs built right in. This a small, compact, run and gun ready camera that succeeds on so many levels. Yes, there are more sophisticated cameras with interchangeable lens and a significant bump in price, but the XA10 is a proven commodity that delivers on quality, value, and performance. Try it, use it, play with it, master it, you'll be hard pressed to pass it by. You will want to add a high capacity battery or two for extended shooting. You'll also want a good tripod, monopod, or shoulder rig for maximum image stability... And don't forget to add an XLR microphone for great pro audio.

Andrew

Originally posted at

2013-05-06T20:00:00

I purchased the XA10 for it's pro-quality image output and, due to the type of shooting I mainly do, it’s accuracy on auto as it is described as having very accurate auto-features for face and subject tracking and for coping with changing lighting conditions etc - 'Smart Auto'. These features are important to me as I shoot almost completely outdoors and I film myself so obviously manual control of focusing etc is out of the question. I have not been able to get this camera to perform to anything close to what I would expect or how Canon describe it on anything but a couple of occasions. It seems to be unable to cope with situations of strong light outdoors with colours and highlights blowing-out and in areas of contrast darker or shadowed parts of a scene will lose all contrast and become black-holes. Worse still the focusing is just terrible. Face tracking and subject tracking are very hit-or-miss with accuracy that I would put at less than 50%. Often it will show on the display that it has achieved face-lock but on playback on your computer (because the LCD screen on the camera isn’t quite accurate enough to pick it up you find that focus hadn’t been achieved so you only find out well afterwards that you’ve missed a shot. I’ve had situations in normal light with the presenter in centre frame and clearly separated from the background where it has taken the camera over 20-seconds to achieve focus. This makes spontaneous shooting impossible for a camera that’s widely promoted as run-and-gun. Often, especially in bright daylight, entire scenes will just drop out of focus, everything will go ‘soft’. Additionally I’ve found footage can be incredibly inconsistent with material from the same shoot looking like it’s been shot on different cameras. For example – camera set on tripod, good outdoor lighting conditions, presenter clearly in centre frame etc. One take will be of acceptable quality, stop recording, next take, restart recording less than 1 minute later with no change in light or presenter position and the footage will have blown colours be lacking dynamic range and have soft focus. This makes it impossible to smoothly edit scenes or takes together as the material is just too different - one take will look like its been shot on a reasonable camera, the next will look like it was shot on a sub-$200 point-and-shoot handy-cam. I gave the camera to Canon to inspect, they had it for a month & insisted that there is nothing wrong with it yet when it came back all of these problems persisted. All-in-all it’s been a very disappointing purchase and frankly an expensive mistake. I'm a long term Canon pro-DSLR user and I’ll certainly never be buying a Canon video camera again. I need reliability and consistency in a camera and the XA10 just hasn’t delivered.

Adam W.

Originally posted at

2013-04-08T20:00:00

You can't shoot it if your camcorder's not with you! The XA10 is ridiculously compact and provides excellent quality video and sound. I carry it around without the removable handle and I have to say that the built in microphone produces a high quality soundtrack. Canon has managed to provide a professional package whose weight and dimension eliminate the excuse to leave the camcorder behind because of its size. Its convenient, professional, and barely draws attention to itself allowing to function as the perfect run-and-gun camcorder.

cnjvideo

Originally posted at

2013-04-01T20:00:00

You could not go wrong with this camera, its light and easy to use. I selected this camera (I have 3 of them) for use on the run simply due to its size. Our business is based around marine photography both still and video and our requirements are for light portable equipment that we can easily carry on aircraft so we picked the XA10 and 5D as our kit and have not been disappointed. Sure in some reviews people complain about the menus being fiddly but this a small price to pay for the overall excellent camera Canon have provided. We can arrive on the ground and start shooting in moments ... Thanks Canon!

Viking

Originally posted at

2013-03-15T20:00:00

We run a music blog and livestream concert events. This camera makes me look like a hero. With almost no effort, we get cinema-like imagery for our concert footage. When people see the shots from this camera they ask "What camera we're you using?" The size is very compact. The handles makes it a great mobile handheld shooter. Also, it has direct professional quality mic inputs, so I can go out with a couple of mics, a mono pod, and my talent guys and we can cover interviews on the street, or in some obscure corner of a building, with no power or additional equipment needed. I cannot tell you how much our team loves this camera and it is a must for any type of Internet broadcaster or someone who needs to capture long form video. DSLRs are great but most cannot run their sensors for long periods of time. This camera has DSLR type performance AND the ability to record for hours on end. My only beef is that when you are using two mics, you can only record them in stereo. We often have an interviewer and interviewee who both need mics and the resulting audio signal should be in MONO. You can have one mic in mono but not both mics in mono. Otherwise, a perfect camera.

Derek

Originally posted at

2013-02-12T19:00:00

I use this camera to record action sports athletes, mainly snowboarders. In addition, I use this camera to record action sports related events. I use it indoors and out, in cold weather and warm. I have used this camera in below freezing temperatures for long periods of time with no problems whatsoever. The only cons are that the XLR controls rattle on the handle if you are moving it quite a bit (i.e. running) -and- the touch menu isn't quite as responsive as an iPhone. Pros; I am able to produce results comparable to cameras that cost thousands more, wide angle and tele lenses are available (and awesome), it is very easy to use, two XLR inputs and lastly it's quite durable.

Pete

Originally posted at

2013-02-01T19:00:00

You might call this camcorder "the little train that could." We use this camera and the HFG10 (same guts) in doing a lot of outdoor training videos. Both of them fit in a single medium sized padded carrying case. The video is simply outstanding. The first time you see it, your jaw drops. The main thing about the XA10 are the XLR audio inputs. We use these with wireless mikes as well as 48v microphones. That way we get superior audio along with the video. It works perfectly and allows us to control gain and monitor input right at the camera. When we go to post all we need to do is a little tweaking. The batteries last a couple of hours. We always have a few backups in the case and they are easily and quickly changed. The camera gives you a lot of recording options. I suggest moving away from the automatic settings quickly to realize the full power of the camera. The "image effects" area provides some options with color and sharpness, which should be tried. Incidentally, the first time the "face recogition" technology turns on it is pretty amazing. You just laugh and say "wow', this thing is smart.

CoalbinGeorge

Originally posted at

2012-08-14T20:00:00

I was so impressed with this camera. I had used it on our family vacation, very handy and great feature. The only thing I don't like about this camera was when I was changing the battery pack. The battery slot was actually open and being supported by a small like clip and if you're in a hurry and accidentally grab the battery it might slip your hand and fall off. Canon should have the battery slot closed and with lock. I like this camera and still thinking whether to return and wait till Canon have an upgrade on this model but that would take years from now. Well, I had thought about it very carefully and consider keeping the unit because it's really nice, lightweight and affordable.

Marie K.

Originally posted at

2012-08-05T21:00:00

I have only played around a bit with this camera so far. I have not put it to assignment use, so my insight into it might be a little limited. However, with that being said, I am very happy with it so far. The Image Stabilization performs great, the quality of the image is very good, very compact and lightweight, so easy to log around. It does take time to familiarize yourself with all the controls and options, hence why I still have not put it to work on assignment, but once you get the hang of things that problem is solved. I would recommend.

MoonLite P.

2012-08-01T20:00:00

I have been using the Canon XA10 for 10 months now. I have been very very pleased with the quality of footage i've been able to get from this camcorder. For what was paid for this device and the picture quality and over all performance that it has demonstrated, i would recommend this camera to anyone and everyone! The only set back is that i wish it had come with both transfer utility disc's for Windows and Mac, as i work on both systems. Other than that i give this device an A+

Rob

Originally posted at

2012-06-29T20:00:00

This camera is the best. Indoor, lowlight, picture quality, xlr inputs, input into fcpx, and much more. It is very compact and fun!

CannonFan

Originally posted at

2012-06-17T21:00:00

Great camera at this price point. You just need to make sure you have an updated computer to be able to download the footage. The Vista machines will not read the file type with out some type of convertor. The convertors lose the quality of the footage. I've been told Windows 7 can and will read the file type and of course the mac computer with final cut pro 7 have no problems.

Pirates55

2012-06-05T21:00:00

Since all products are a compromise of some sort (price vs. size vs. weight vs. ruggedness vs ?) the trick when buying a complex product is to determine if the designers made the right compromises, i.e. they gave up features that aren't very important to you and they preserved the features that are. For me, the Canon XA-10 puts the priorities in all the right places: image quality, manual controls, audio quality, size, weight, price and...did I say image quality? Are there some missing things I wish it included (like more buttons and a larger viewfinder)? Sure, but I'm not willing to pay a higher price and get a larger, heavier camera to get them. The image quality is superb out of the box, and gets better and better as you learn how to tweak the settings. Sharpness, color saturation and dynamic range are excellent. I used to think only a three-chip camera could deliver video of this quality, especially in low light. Audio quality is excellent with both the built-in mics for ambient sound and with my Rode NTG2 shotgun or a lavaliere for dialog. I thought I would hate the touch screen. It's not as responsive as my iPhone, but I've gotten used to it. It's bright, clear and the menus are (mostly) logically laid out. Virtually everything can be manually controlled when you want to, and that really makes a difference. The handle with XLR inputs works well. Mine does have a rattle, but, who shakes a camcorder when shooting? Not me. This problem has been exaggerated, although I agree that Canon should have never let this design or assembly problem happen. I do have a few small complaints: I wish the headphone jack were not underneath the LCD when closed and I wish the speaker was functional when "headphones" was selected but no headphones were plugged in. For those of you trying to decide whether to use a DSLR or camcorder for video, here's my take. I've been shooting film and video for almost 40 years, and commercial still photos for just as long. I shoot some video with my pro-level DSLR and pro-level lenses. The ONLY advantage I have found that the DSLR has compared to the XA-10 is limited depth of field. In almost all cases the overall image quality of the XA-10 is superior. Unless you are willing to spend quite a bit on accessories for you DSLR, and have an assistant, and a detailed script and shooting plan, I would choose a camcorder.

DAVID G.

2012-05-31T20:00:00

I am a part-time videographer who does mainly corporate and industrial videos. Years ago I was a TV news photographer so I know what to expect from pro-level equipment Because of the part-time nature of my work, I wanted to get the best camcorder I could for less than $2,000. Most important to me was image quality, low-light capability, easy to import into Final Cut Pro X, XLR inputs, excellent sound quality, and usable viewfinder. The XA-10 fills the bill for me in almost all respects. Obviously, the price and size did cause some compromises, but I can live with them. The video and audio quality is outstanding, and it gets better and better as the operator gains experience using the camera. There are three design choices that I don't agree with. The headphone jack should not be behind the LCD monitor when it's closed. The speaker should work when "headphones" is selected if there are no headphones plugged in. There should be an option for auto gain control when external mics are used. And obviously, the handle switches should not rattle; its a design or production goof that doesn't reflect well on Canon although it's only a minor annoyance in actual use Overall, this is a lot of camera for a modest price and I'm really happy I bought it.

SLODave

Originally posted at

2012-05-28T20:00:00

This is a great camera for those of us that are cresting the hill between entry level and professional video. It provides the bridge in features to ramp up to using all the manual controls. Read the manual front to back, use the camera, reference back as needed, use the camera some more and then read the manual again. You will have leaned a great deal of what you need to understand the basics that will result in some nice video and audio. Well done Canon!

Scott

Originally posted at

2012-04-29T20:00:00

I've been using one for almost a year now. It's an amazing camera. Even shooting two months in tight quarters, the jangly buttons on the handle caused no problem (although I was using external mics. The image quality is amazing. Negatives include some of the settings being hard to get to because they are buried too deeply in the menu system and really, as others have complained, there is no excuse for the jangly buttons unless they are going to include a roll of gaffer tape to stick on them. As a news videographer, this camera is the cat's meow.

Brian1121

Originally posted at

2012-04-06T20:00:00

I purchased this product back in November of 2011 and everything seemed fine and I was happy with it. A couple of months ago when editing a video I noticed that some weird focusing issues were occurring. I then sent the unit back for service and the focus issue still exists. I haven't seen anyone else explain that they have a focus issue but mine is very evident. Maybe I got a bad unit? I used to really love Canon products, this will make me think twice about future purchases. Very frustrated that I spent the money on this only to be worried that it will shoot out of focus video when using it at events.

Steve K.

Originally posted at

2012-04-02T21:00:00

Over all this camera is great! The only cons I have found so far is the XLR audio controls form the handle rattle, and the touch screen sensitivity is a little poor. Other than that this camera is very compact and captures great footage!

David R.

2012-02-19T19:00:00

I have upgraded to this camera from a Sony DSR-PDX10. I will be using it for conference and lecture recording at about 25 events per year. I will also be using it for some smaller video projects, mostly documentary style. I have not had a ton of time with this camera, but Adorama keeps asking me to review it, so here we are! I brought it to an event this weekend, and it was pretty much my first time using it. Overall, I am very happy with it. The image quality is superb with this tiny camera. It has taken me a bit of time to get used to the menu system, but things are fairly quickly accessed once you know where they are. I do with that I could access more manual controls outside of the menu system, but I knew that coming into this. I am pretty sure this I will continue to love this camera, especially when I start using it for things other than work. It is small, and super portable, or add the handle, and a shotgun mic, and it starts looking more "pro". I often fly for work, so the size will be great for that, and will be taking it traveling overseas.

TRISTEN W.

2012-02-14T19:00:00

This great little camera need a firmware update. My biggest issue is that there is NO AUTO level when using the XLR inputs. Only the internal mics have auto level options. Also the output volume of the headphone jack is way too low. In a fairly loud area , the headphones are useless. This is something I use on all my other cameras with success. The tiny CUSTOM button is almost impossible to access while shooting.

RL

Originally posted at

2012-01-29T19:00:00

Like others, the touchscreen takes getting used to but everything is there so now that I've got my workflow with it i don't care. Image quality is excellent and that's what i care most about. I gave 4 stars because I thought the custom wheel would be more customizable than it is. I feel that it should automatically switch and work for any menu window that you are in where the main parameter could use a wheel, such as gain control. Perhaps, this could be addressed in future firmware updates? Also, the one physical button that i miss is an AE or AF. The touchscreen works well but i still miss it. Otherwise, I am really enjoying using this camera and i feel that the image quality is far above its price range. My audio buttons rattle like everyone else, but I am using an external mic so it hasn't been an issue so far. Lastly, I was a little concerned about it 'looking' professional like some other reviews because it is so small but actually i think this thing looks pretty cool especially with the Canon wide angle attachment that comes with a lens hood. Things keep getting smaller these days and it doesn't seem to throw anyone off so far. If anything, people seem amazed and intrigued by such a small but professional looking camera. And for those that need to be discreet you can't beat it.

sumdumguy

2011-10-31T21:00:00

I use a pair of these camera's to product wedding videos. I really like the ability to record to two cards at the same time for backup. Records almost 6 hours onto 64G card. I don't like the frame loss each 12 minutes. Each 12 minutes about 2 frames of video and audio are lost as the camera closes one file and starts up a new one.

Chris

2011-10-16T20:00:00

I needed a small camera that would give me professional results, both in terms of video and audio. This camera has delivered both. The XLR inputs really make this camera useful as a professional tool. The video quality is outstanding, the images it produces are stunning. The sacrifice I made in buying the XA-10 over the XF100 is that I gave up easy access to manual controls, but with the XA-10 you can still access them through the menu system. The AVCHD format is also a life saver for my purposes. The proprietary format of the files produced by the XF100 meant I couldn't directly import video from the XF100 into Final Cut Pro X. I would have to convert it first, then import it. With the XA-10's AVCHD format I can pull files directly into FCPX which is a huge time saver. The color reproduction is spot on and the AF system I would rate at 9 out of 10. This is one very well thought out camera and the build quality is very good. I'm very happy with the purchase.

MAC

Originally posted at

2011-10-12T20:00:00

Great, great Camcorder! I have been using this for almost a month and love it! The image quality is superb! The XLR terminals do rattle a little, but I do a lot of my shooting w/ a tripod and this corrects the issue. Also the battery life on the small battery pack is not that long, so I strongly recommend buying the BP-827 battery pack. The size / ergonomics are wonderful. You are basically getting a Pro Camcorder in a consumer size! The drawback to this is having many functions in the touch screen menu rather than physical buttons. Finally, I did not like the manual, it is a bit confusing. Should contain better explanations and more examples.

Fred

Originally posted at

2011-09-17T21:00:00

The XA10 does more than what I expect it to do for me. The cam feels like a consumer cam in my hand, yet performs like a high-end pro cam. Thanks to Canon for releasing this model... it prevented me from buying the now under-rated Sony Nex-VG10, which could've been a big mistake on my part had I bought it. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for pros and aspiring pros who wants pro results yet with limited budget.

PHILIP E.

2011-09-13T20:00:00

I have purchased so far 4 of these and had to return all of them due to the fact that the XRL handle has faulty switches that rattle and make so much noise, you can't even take a step without the noise carrying over to the audio that's being recorded from the mic. The image is amazing, but serious design flaw on the XLR handle rendering the entire camera useless.

Mr D.

Originally posted at