Canon ZR850

Canon ZR850

ZR850 Review, by Brian Chen May 22, 2007

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• Reviewed by:

  Strengths: size, optical quality, features, price

  Weaknesses: No external mic, included software is garbage

  Overall: An incredible dvcam for the price. Slight zoom noise, but image quality for this price is amazing. Even low light is very acceptable, even though the experts pan the camera. Stills are good enough if you can't carry another still cam.

• Reviewed by:

  Strengths: Good small size, good price, good image quality

  Weaknesses: Very loud motor sound overwhlems every audio recording, no input for external mic

  Overall: I bought this camera because I trust Canon's still-photography cameras, and because this model was endorsed by CNET. What I found upon my first use of it, however, was that the motor was shockingly loud. Not only is it annoying to hear while recording, but it ruins the movies themselves, drowning out all but the loudest sounds, and destroying any chance for ambient sounds. This wouldn't be a problem if the camera provided for an external mic input, but it doesn't. It is so stripped down that you can't even plug in a mic. You're left with the little built-in mic which is bullied into uselessness by the roaring motor.I should note that I got the ZR850 because my 7-year old Sony handycam finally broke down. The Sony handycam, purchased back in 2001 when digital camcorders were first getting big, was not loud. Clearly this is not a technology issue, but one of price: The ZR850 is very cheap. You get what you pay for.I will return this camera immediately and spend more money to get one without the audio issues. Unless you are planning to completly dub your movies or record silent films, avoid the Canon ZR850.

• Reviewed by: jamitra

  Strengths: Compact, lightweight, wide-screen, powerful zoom & handy LED

  Weaknesses: Poor low-light performance & inadequate jitter control

  Overall: Shoots well in daylight & bright illumination. LED comes handy, if you must shoot in the dark. Zooming is substantial, but due to inadequate image stabilization, it is not a good idea to use it while hand-held. Controls are pretty handy & easy to use. Over all, it is a good 'Value for money' in a tight budget.

• Reviewed by: bryce0

  Strengths: Affordable. A good starter camera. Nice added features (SD card capabilities). Good Zoom (35X). Fairly easy to use

  Weaknesses: The camera should really come with a DV (firewire) cable. Video transfer quality wasn't superb (but it wasn't bad either). Needs an included program included for digital video capturing.

  Overall: This is a good starter camera. It was affordable and gives you a good value. I was a little disappointed with the quality of the video captured digitally. This could however be a result of having a little older computer (5 years old). I also can't believe that it doesn't come with a firewire. It isn't as easy to use as maybe some other models, but it is easy to use. The LCD isn't amazing, but it definitely gets the job done. Video coloring is pretty good. In summary, I think it is a good camera for someone who is on a tight budget like me, but if high quality video is your top priority you may want to look into something else. Video quality is good, but not great. Also there is a high pitched sound in playback that I think is the sounds of the camera itself as it is recording, so that is a small set back as well. All and all I am pleased with the camera, but I will definitely be getting another one when my budget allows for such.

• Reviewed by: fred42773

  Strengths: Price, features, ease of use.

  Weaknesses: None.

  Overall: The Canon ZR850 is an excellent camcorder for the money. The camera has a simple yet functional design. The ability to take still photos on an SD card along with video on the mini DV tape is a very useful feature for a camera in this price range. Video quality is very good. Camera is very easy to use. I would highly recommend this camera for a recreational camcorder user.