Reviewed by CamcorderInfo.com: Samsung SC-HMX20

The CamcorderInfo.com has reviewed Samsung SC-HMX20 as below.

Here's a surprise. It's been a while since we've seen a strong camcorder from Samsung. Then the SC-HMX20 comes along and all we can say is "wow!" Samsung's second generation HD camcorder, the HMX20 is the replacement for last year's lackluster SC-HMX10 (Review, Specs, Recent News, $0.00). The generational differences are unexpected, and not all obvious ones. For one thing, the new SC-HMX20 is actually larger than its predecessor, but only a little. It retains its ultra-stylish looks, and surprisingly useful swivel grip on the hand strap. Under the hood, however, Samsung staged a tiny revolution. The SC-HMX20 features a huge 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensor, dwarfing the previous generation's chip. The performance boost was simply enormous, particularly in low light, where Samsung has shot to the top of the list. To add to its charms, the SC-HMX20 is incredibly easy to use, making it a good choice for beginners. It may not have all the bells and whistles of its competitors, but this camcorder is definitely worth investigating.

The Front (5.75)Architecturally, not much has changed from last year's SC-HMX10. Samsung nixed the LED video light, leaving the facade of the SC-HMX20 strictly lens-oriented. This camcorder looks like a miniature bazooka barrel head-on, thanks to the SC-HMX20's massive 49mm filter diameter. The SC-HMX20 has an automatic lens enclosure that engages when the camcorder is powered on or off. Over time, the delicate inner mechanics of an automatic lens enclosure could fail, which is why we prefer an external lens cap or manual lens cover switch system. Most people go for the convenience of the automatic, though.


The SC-HMX20's f/1.8 10x optical zoom lens has a focal length of 6.3 - 63mm. The record lamp is stationed at the top right of the lens and can be switched off manually. Lastly, the built-in stereo microphone is tucked underneath the lens barrel, facing the ground. This design strays from the typical front or top-mounted microphone configuration found on nearly all camcorders.

To be continued...

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