JVC GZ-HM200

Motion (7.70)

The JVC GZ-HM200 only shoots 1080/60i video, but the camcorder does offer a 1080/60p up-conversion when using its HDMI output. This does not mean the camcorder shoots at 1080p (it is still 1080i); there is simply a conversion process that allows the video to play as 1080p on compatible televisions. Sony has also begun implementing this feature on its new flash-memory camcorders, like the HDR-CX500V.

The GZ-HM200’s motion looked good in our testing, but keep in mind that our motion videos are shot under bright, even lighting conditions. The camcorder’s footage doesn’t look nearly as good when the lights get dim. Still, we found the camcorder to capture very smooth motion in our testing. Unsurprisingly, it also had more artifacting and less detail than the higher-end consumer HD camcorders. As far as motion is concerned, we didn’t notice any real difference between the GZ-HM200 and its sister model, the JVC GZ-HD300 in this test.

Based solely on 1080/60i recording, the JVC GZ-HM200 actually captured slightly better motion than the HDC-SD20. The SD20 wasn’t as smooth, had about the same amount of artifacting, and produced a bit more blur than the HM200. The HDC-SD20, however, does offer a 24p mode (called Digital Cinema). This gives you an extra frame rate option that is not present on the JVC GZ-HM200.

The Canon HF20 is a step above the JVC GZ-HM200 and the Panasonic HDC-SD20 when it comes to motion and sharpness. The camcorder has a larger sensor than most mid-range models and it makes good use of its enhanced specs. The camcorder had much less noticeable artifacting than the SD20 and HM200 and it also captured a sharper, more detailed image. In addition, the HF20 offers both a 30p and 24p recording mode (as well as regular 60i), making it one of the most versatile mid-range camcorders on the market when it comes to frame rates. Keep in mind, the Canon HF20’s superior motion and sharpness performance doesn’t come cheap—the camcorder is a couple hundred dollars more expensive than the Panasonic HDC-SD20 or JVC GZ-HM200.

We were very impressed with the JVC GZ-HM400’s ability to render smooth, fine motion. The camcorder kept artifacting to an absolute minimum and it produced some of the cleanest footage we’ve seen all year. The only downside is the HM400 doesn’t have a 24p or 30p mode for recording HD video. The camcorder does have some low quality, high-speed frame rate options (120fps, 300fps, and 600fps), but the videos captured in these modes have strict time limitations and very low resolution. If you choose to spend the extra money for an HM400, motion is definitely one area in which you’ll get your money’s worth. More on how we test motion.