Review on Sony HDR-CX100 HD Camcorder, AVCHD Format, 10x Optical Zoom, Smile Shutter, Black (Discontinued by Manufacturer) by Brett Cat

Sony HDR-CX100 AVCHD HD camcorder with smile shutter and 10x optical zoom (Black) For the price this is a great camcorder. HD quality (1080i) is acceptable when viewed on "standard" size screens. However, there are some pixel errors when playing on my 61" Samsung DLP TV. The main disadvantage is the lack of light. Therefore, it is difficult to achieve good quality in low light conditions. Also, there are sometimes focus issues that seem to require a "reboot" (close and reopen the viewfinder) to fix. This is sometimes quite annoying and inconvenient. However, the sound quality on this machine is pretty good. viewfinder to stabilize the camera. Finally, the software that comes with the camcorder is quite interesting. While I haven't explored all the options, I've noticed that Sony suggests knowing what I want to do before I make a "cringe before you go" decision. Some of the default features can be annoying. I've had this camcorder for less than a month but am considering returning it to upgrade to one with a night light. I find this a major disadvantage as indoor shots taken at night in normal room lighting are just unacceptably poor. I wish Sony would make a night light, even if it had to be bought as an accessory. I also bought a carrying case for this product but I found it too bulky. I like the portability of the camera itself as it fits neatly in my pocket.