If there's one thing I've learned while testing and reviewing the Canon XA65, it's that the acronym ENG stands for electronic news gathering. The XA65 is an ideal ENG video camera, given that it's capable of being operational seconds after being switched on. And that its epic 20x optical zoom range (29.3 – 601mm on a 35mm equivalent) and 40x digital zoom is enough to capture breaking moments up close and far away almost instantly.
Camcorders have a somewhat unfair reputation for being dated, clunky, and old-fashioned. And in many ways, the Canon XA65 is less sexy than some of the best mirrorless camera and the best cinema cameras. But if you're someone who gets paid to make news or journalism-style content, or you're a documentary filmmaker in search of something capable but compact to shoot video but not stills, the XA65 might be enough for your needs.
