Best Mini DV Camcorders - CMOS Image Sensor Type

'The lighter-colored noise in the Sony is more apparent to the eye.'

'On the left side of the body sit a few, slightly difficult to feel, controls: backlight compensation, display, and video light, plus a manual focus toggle and somewhat loose focus dial.'

'deplorable viewfinder'

'It's relatively big, weighing 1 pound, 5.4 ounces, though it fits into a large, loose jacket pocket'

'poorly located microphone.'

'It's a textured plastic that feels a bit like sandpaper – we're not huge fans.'

'sound quality is subpar'

'This minimalist interface feels even more awkward than it sounds, reminding me of trying to change a television's settings without a remote control.'

'ugly video'

'The hinge is thin, flexible, and could easily hyper-extend or even snap off if not handled with care.'

'The new Sony HD HDR-HC7 is bound to spark interest among beginning or casual shooters looking for their first HDV camcorder and even serious hobbyists looking for an unobtrusive second camcorder.'

'Annoying touch screen interface'

'Sony has attempted to improve colour shooting under low-light conditions with a 'color slow shutter', but this isn't perfect, with a juddery effect.'

'The bad: No shoulder strap or accessory shoe.'

'Too much saturation can cost sharpness though, and that was definitely the case with the ZR500.'

'poor low light performance ratings'

'the excessive number of functions on one button was confusing, and the menus were counterintuitive at times.'

'While placing the manual focus engagement button on the exterior of the cam is great, the ease of access to the actual focusing is somewhat of a hassle.'