Simple Question: HF10 or SR11?

[Orwella]

I am after my first HD camcorder, and have narrowed the choice down to two. The camcorder size/weight does not bother me too much. What I really want is best image quality (for 50/50 in/outdoor) and ease of transfer for PS3 compatable playback.

I know it's an easy question, but I suspect the answer is more complicated.

[redsox_mark]

The image quality of these 2 models is as close as it can get. So much that one set of tests (German "Slashcam") gave both an identical score of 366. They both use AVCHD. They are both easy to copy to the PS3.

I would choose based on:
-HDD vs flash memory: Do you have a preference? HDD cams you can shoot a long time, no need to change cards. But if the HDD fails (however unlikely), you lose everything).
- The SR11 has a viewfinder, the HF10 does not (if you care about that)
- The SR11 can shoot in standard definition; also has S-video output which the HF10 doesn't (if you care about that).

[rhubarbe]

HF10/100 is a lot lighter (nearly half the weight of the Sony). I know you said you didn't care about that but it's still a consideration.

[senu]

Originally Posted by Orwella

I know it's an easy question, but I suspect the answer is more complicated.

It is not really an easy question ..the answer reflects that

As youve seen: Best quality video or ease of transfer to the PS3 is not the deal breaker..

[Orwella]

Thanks for the comments. I popped down to Tottenham Court Road after work and handled both. The Sony feels better quality and reassuringly bulky compared to the Canon. I also think the IS is better on the Sony when near to full zoom - the Canon shows more shake. However, the Canon will fit into a pocket and I do like the idea of no moving parts.

In the relatively dull shop, the Sony seemed slightly better for low light performance so I will hunt for the cheapest deal and order an SR11.