JVC Everio GZ-MC200: An Hour of DVD with No Cassette!
Conclusion
The Everio GZ-MC200 corrects the shortcomings of earlier memory-card camcorders from Panasonic and Sanyo, which had poor image quality and low recording capacity. With its ability to record one full hour of DVD-quality video, the Everio is an interesting alternative to cassette camcorders, especially since its compact size makes it perfect for travel. Its price of $1,299 doesn't put it at a great disadvantage against MiniDV competitors, given that it also boasts a 2-megapixel still-photo mode. Our only criticisms concern its handling qualities.
Buy It If:
- You want an ultra-compact camcorder
- You don't need to do video editing
- You want to burn video to DVD easily and quickly
- You also want to take still photos with your camcorder
Don't Buy It If:
- You want to do video editing with most standard software
- You want a camcorder that shoots in 16/9
- You use a Mac
Everio GZ-MC200 | |
---|---|
Video storage media | Microdrive / Compact Flash type II / SD / MMC card |
Video resolution | 720x480 pixels |
Video format | MPEG-2 PS |
Audio format | AC3 |
Sensor | CCD 2.1 million pixels |
Size | 1/3.6 inch |
Filter diameter | 30.5 mm (1.2") |
Optical zoom | 10x |
Digital zoom | 200x |
Focal length, 35 mm equivalent | 43.2 - 518.4 mm |
Sensitivity | 6 lux |
Shutter | 1/2 - 1/4000 s |
Viewfinder | None |
LCD display | 1.8" (4.5 cm) at 130,000 pixels |
16/9 mode | No |
Still photo storage media | Microdrive / Compact Flash type II / SD / MMC card |
Still photo resolutions | 1600x1200 / 1280x960 / 1024x768 / 640x480 |
Outputs | USB 2.0 and AV/S-Video multi-connector |
Flash/Torch | yes/no |
Software | PowerDVD, PowerDirector, PowerProducer |
Accessories | 4 GB Microdrive, USB cable, video cable, charger, AC power cord, CD |
Weight with battery | 12 oz (350 g) |
Dimensions | 3" x 2.25" x 3.75" (74 x 56 x 94 mm) |
Color | *** |
Definition | *** |
Sensitivity | ** |
Optics | ** |
Ergonomics | *** |
Connectivity | ** |
Quality/price ratio | ** |
Overall rating | *** |
Stay on the Cutting Edge
Join the experts who read Tom's Hardware for the inside track on enthusiast PC tech news — and have for over 25 years. We'll send breaking news and in-depth reviews of CPUs, GPUs, AI, maker hardware and more straight to your inbox.