How long have you used the product?

Less than 1 month

What are the strengths?

I obviously haven't had much chance to test extensively but so far it does everything that the advertising blurbs say. It comes very comprehensively supplied with connection leads and software. I have been able to connect directly to my Pioneer DVR 420HS DVD recorder which then allows basic editing and recording to DVD. The supplied software includes older versions of PowerDirector and PowerProducer (do a search) which provide comprehensive editing, adding sounds, narrative, transitions, titles and then burning to DVD; I'll probably upgrade to their latest versions.

The resultant picture quality from the camera is really excellent although the controls learning curve is quite high. The beauty about the results is the ability to select clips from anywhere on the MicroHD and 'mix and match' them without having to wind tapes to and fro.

You may feel that it would be worth waiting for the JVC GZ MC500 (do a search) which will be on sale shortly but is bound to be more expensive. I

What are the weaknesses?

The only con that I would mention is the fact that with the unit being so small and there being no view finder, I find it quite difficult at the moment to achieve steady pans. This could, of course get better with practice. I don't see a solution here though if you want such a compact unit. It's actually smaller than my Fuji FinePix 1400 digital camera; incredible!

Which similar products have you used?

None

Summary

The camera is good. JVC is a suprise!! The best thing about this cam, is undoubtedly, its size!! It is so small and compact, that it fits right into your pocket without any difficulty. It also allows me to take some really good still photos - i dont even need to carry my digicam with me everywhere - i just need to take my camcorder!! Its low light performance isnt too good, but then again, almost EVERY camcorder doesnt perform well under low light conditions. Its really good for its price!!

How long have you used the product?

1-3 months

What are the strengths?

This camcorder is brilliantly sized! It is small and compact and extremely lightweight. It has a great 2.1 megapixel camera that allows me to take really good still photos. Its got a 10x optical zoom and a 200x digital zoom. Relatively lower priced.

What are the weaknesses?

Average low light performance. It has a small display screen.