Quick Review Camcorders : Canon ZR100

This model performed relatively well in bright light conditions that were equivalent to a sunny day. The ZR100 produced a fairly bright and acceptable image, for such an entry level camcorder.  The image was however a little fuzzy and the colors a bit washed. In low lighting conditions, comparable to a dimly lit bedroom, the camcorder produced an image suffering from significant noise. This entry level model performed similarly to its bigger siblings, the ZR200 and ZR300. Their images are plagued with similar noise, but the colors are not as vivid. More importantly, the bright images from the ZR100 are better than last year's dreadful results.

The ZR100 is fairly easy to use. It provides an easy mode button which, upon engagement, surrenders all image control decisions over to the camcorder. The camcorder’s adjustments are fairly swift and accurate. Novice users can put more emphasis on shot composition rather than image quality control decisions. For those who want to tweak the image qualities, the camcorder does offer respectable manual control options, most notably the manual shutter speed.

Although the camcorder can be operated fairly easily there are some design features that impede truly effortless operation. This year’s ZR line suffers from poor LCDs, which limit the ease with which the camcorders can be operated. The LCD on the DCR-HC90 solarizes with the slightest movement, making it difficult for a user to judge or control the quality of the image. The LCD is rendered nearly useless due to this distortion. The viewfinder's lack of mobility compounds the problem. The camcorder’s poor button placement is also detrimental to optimum comfort and ease of use. The menu button is uncomfortably placed at the bottom of the camcorder's rear. With time, the user can fortunately learn to adjust to some of these shortcomings and compensate for others.

The ZR100 deviates from it siblings with its lack of digital still capability; no photographic options are offered. Most entry level camcorders at least have mediocre still options. The Sony DCR-HC21 capture stills to tape with the standard 640 x 480 resolution used for video; therefore, the stills perform similar to the video. The Panasonic PV-GS19 offers an SD card option which allows the user to store a high number of images and separate the photo and video images within their respective medium.

Affordability is usually the seductive aspect of an entry level camcorder, but the ZR100's more attractive sibling, the ZR200, has better features for just a few dollars more. The ZR200 has better ports and still features. Both camcorders have similar handling issues, but that can be overcome with time and familiarity. The performance of the ZR100 is mediocre but certainly an improvement from last year's abysmal results, and with the good manual controls the user can better control the quality of the image. The ZR100 is ultimately for novice users hoping to save some cash, but I recommend they save a few more dollars and purchased the more viable ZR200.