So far this does what I need. I'm still new to using it and doing what I use it for, so there's a learning curve. I make craft towels for YouTube. Sometimes I need a distance view and sometimes a macro shot. As long as both do. Due to the small screen size, I have trouble telling if an image is in focus or not, which can limit my shots. The audio is clear but sounds a bit distant so I'll have to try the mic mount but haven't done it yet. The packaging is amazing. This is a really well designed tote that fits pretty much everything and has so many useful extras and attachments. Overall I am satisfied with this purchase. Is a smartphone camera better? Maybe it's the camera. mine is. But I can't sit on my phone and record for hours without draining the battery and causing other problems. But I can sit and record on my camcorder for hours and get a lot of good videos.