Quick Review Camcorders : Canon ZR85

With a CCD measuring at a sixth of an inch and 680,000 pixels, the ZR85 should behave as well as most of the cameras on the comparison chart. And, at 3000 lux, the ZR85 does perform without any surprises. It manages to remain a strong contender, producing a slightly muted palette throughout the chart. Despite slight problems in definition, the colors are fairly strong, considering the specs. However, when the camera was tested at 60 and 15 lux, the camera performed poorly, with large amounts of grain appearing at 60 that increased when lowered to 15. The colors get darker and darker, with overall dulling and muting, making much of the distinction that was possible at 3000 lux disintegrate. Even the Samsungs (the 903 and 6040, at least) managed better low light results than the ZR85.

The camera has an impressive 20X optical/400X digital zoom. The user of the ZR85 has manual control over focus, exposure, shutter speed, and white balance. These controls are not based in the LCD, which is great, as access to them is immediate and quick, without overly complex menus to get in the way. However, the depressible dial, like many models this year, is a little too small; I tend to accidentally depress the dial while using it quickly.

Along with a 2.5-inch LCD screen and color viewfinder, this camera is equipped with the followin ports: a Mini A/V in/out, which doubles logically as a headphone jack; FireWire; and USB. However, it should be noted that this camera has no S-Video port and no external mic jack, making improved audio quality only available through another recording device. This camera is capable of pass-through, along with a SD memory card slot.

The Canon ZR85 has a fantastic 20x optical zoom, analog-to-digital passthrough, and straightforward access to manual controls, making it a great option not only for standard automatic shooters, but those seeking manual control, as well. It is MPEG capable, has digital 16:9 effect, and stills-to-Memory Card functionality. However, its small CCD and poor low light performance make this camera ill suited for users without strong familiarity with manual control. Even with adjustments, this camera may not be able to control its disappointing low light performance.

Canon ZR85 Compared to the...