HDR-HC1's digital-still capabilities were mediocre at best. Colors were good, but objects were not sharp, and there was quite a bit of noise throughout the image. But the camcorder scored well on our resolution tests for a 2.8-megapixel device: It captured 1,125 lines, which is more in the 4MP range. We were unable to test its boot-up time, but we found that the camcorder had a slow 5.2-second recycle time between flash shots. We also found significant shutter lag. The HDR-HC1 is certainly geared toward early adopters, but we believe those folks who do pony up for this camcorder will be very pleased with the results. Stay tuned, though, because we expect the infant field of high-def consumer camcorders to fill up quickly. The good: High-resolution video; compact design; excellent viewfinder; versatile features. The bad: Only interlaced HD video, no 720p; some design quirks; some autofocus glitches. The bottom line: The Sony Handycam HDR-HC1 is a good first effort at a consumer HD camcorder, but only HD fanatics should consider it. The Sony Handycam HDR-HC1 HDV Digital Camcorder features a 2.7-inch wide hybrid and a touch-panel LCD screen to access menu options. This is a great camcorder! It features include fully automatic controls, a built-in microphone for audio quality, an intelligent pop-up flash, and super steady shot image stabilizer. I like the manual Zoom and manual Focus Ring for a faster zoom time. The HDR-HC1 Cinematic mode lends film-like (24 frames) effect to your recordings; this is perfect for creating your own movie masterpieces. Includes an active interface shoe Video in/out (multi) Audio in/out (stereo, multi) USB port (1.1) and i.LINK(R) DV interface (IEEE1394) Stereo Mini headphone jack and more. Other convenient features include fully automatic controls, a built-in microphone for audio quality, an intelligent pop-up flash, and just about everything you want or need. The Ports/Connectors are: (1) Video Input / Output (multi),(1) Audio Input / Output (Stereo, multi, (1) i.LINK2 DV Interface IEEE1394, (1) USB 1.1, (1) Headphone Jack Stereo Mini, (1) Microphone Stereo Mini. ? This is the world's smallest and lightest high definition consumer camcorder with full HD resolution. I love it and use it very often. I recommend it highly!?

bravo sony!!

Score: 80 Posted 01-Jan-1900 by Darren, at pricerunner

Pros: it has high-resolution video.along with a compact design and excellent viewfinder. it has various versatile features.

Cons: it offers only interlaced HD video and no 720p. there are some design quirks and some autofocus glitches.

Conclusion: The Sony Handycam HDR-HC1 is a good first effort at a consumer HD camcorder, but only HD fanatics should consider. i really like it and iam sure many others will feel the same about this wonderful camera.

Read full review

First consumer HD camcorder

Score: 80 Posted 01-Jan-1900 by ep01 at Shopping.com

Pros: Great video quality.

Cons: Fairly expensive. Doesn't have as many features as some standard definition camcorders.

Conclusion: If there are important memories that you want recorded in the best possible quality, this camera is for you.

Read full review

Good Camcorder

Score: 80 Posted 01-Jan-1900 by Jack, at pricerunner

Pros: This cam has brilliant video quality. Plus it supports HD and DV resolutions. It takes pretty good still photos. It looks good, and it quite compact.

Cons: It doesnt have a microphone jack. Its editing options are limited.

Conclusion: This cam costs much less than Sony's previous camcorder. It is also much lighter and easier to carry around. It has excellent video quality, not to forget its sound quality! Plus it has very easy to use features. Despite its few weaknesses, on the whole this cam is a very good buy. I definitely feel like i have got my money's worth.

Read full review