Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

8-21-18 I'm reviewing the Vixia HF R800 Camera. I got this camera to start doing my own repair videos on YT. After extensive research, reading reviews, consumer reports, and doing homework, this was the best camera for the cost I across. It's easy to use, it has the flip view screen which is great for being in front of the camera and still being able to see how the shots are coming along, very few reports of failure or being defective, and uses SD cards I already own. It did come with a 64GB card on top of it. The view screen is touch screen, which I'm not a fan of, because there would be no way around its failure like you could if it were push button. I open electronics up all the time and am able to manipulate or improvise repairs to continue use of broken device. I'm thrifty and hate to buy new all the time. I'm more old school, where I take care of my things and repair them when broken. It did come with a whole list of items making this camera completely ready to use for vlogging or recording: An extra battery, 60" tripod WITH a level (which comes with its own travel soft case/pouch), desktop tripod (also doubles as a hand grip), 64GB SD card as I mentioned above, a lens cleaner kit, a padded carrying case, a SD & Mini SD card reader for USB port, and a SD card wallet I'm thoroughly pleased with my purchase so far. The picture quality is amazing, so is the zoom, which is MUCH better than I expected. I do plan on updating my review as time goes on, which I've done with many of my reviews. I take it seriously. If searching for a vlogging camera, this by far is a great entry level choice! I bought this from the seller "Photo4Less" but fulfilled by Amazon, which I feel is important to list this info. I've come across sellers with variances in their items, including knockoffs, even if listed as same brand. I'll post an update with a durability review. ***UPDATE*** 12-4-18 It's now been a few months later and I've used this camera AND gear quite a few times. I don't use it everyday, but there are weeks where I'll use it 3 days out of the week. My favorites out of the set, besides the camera, are the tripod, travel bag, and the handheld grip. They make video recording so much easier, of course, keeping the camera and footage steady. I haven't used the handheld grip much for recording while walking, but it also doubles as a tabletop stand, which is perfect for recording underneath a vehicle. I know this won't apply to most people, but know it's a great option when the traditional tripod is still too tall at its shortest height. Everything is working as if straight out of the box. I've luckily never dropped it, so I can't speak to how it handles rough treatment. ***UPDATE*** 9-13-19 This camera is still going strong, but I take extra care of my equipment and tools. Most of what I received with this kit is working well, except for the tripods... the taller one finally broke back in June. Its failure was one of the legs cracked at the top hinge, just below the base. The other mini handheld tripod broke 2 months ago, when trying to be used as a tripod. It would still function, however, if merely being used to record while in hand. It broke or kept binding when trying to articulate the legs. Both are cheap accessories, so I truly don't mind their loss. The camera is still going very strong. The only thing I'd mention, is the battery does tend to drain faster in extr extreme heat. I record on site and in the elements, even though I shelter the camera from direct sun, ambient temperature and humidity affect it. I'd say somewhere upwards of 95*F. We've had a few heatwaves here, so I put it through the ringer. Also note, I've never dropped the camera yet, so durability is still outstanding for me. When storing in the camera bag, I've reusing the bubblewrap the camera came with to provide extra protection. I will be sure to continue updating as time progresses.