JVC Picsio GC-FM1 Camcorder Review

JVC GC-FM1 versus Kodak Zx1
• The Picsio records 1080p video, while the Kodak maxes out at 720p. • Video and photo quality is superior on the Picsio • The Picsio operates on rechargeable internal battery (recharges via USB); the Kodak uses rechargeable AA batteries (and comes with a wall-mounted charge station). • The Kodak is considerably sturdier.
	Sony MHS-PM1 Comparison	(Page 14 of 17)	Conclusion

The Picsio GC-FM1 and the Kodak Zx1 look similar on the surface, but are quite different in fact. Both record to SD/SDHC memory cards, but the Picsio relies on an internal rechargeable battery, while the Kodak utilizes AA batteries. The FM1 has a maximum video resolution of 1440 x 1080 (1080p), compared to the 720p maximum of the Kodak Zx1. Both offer the same bevvy of ports and connections, but those on the Kodak are protected by a sturdy rubber cover. And, to tell the truth, we think the Kodak is a nicer-looking product.

Unfortunately for Kodak lovers, the Picsio results in much higher quality video and still photos, especially with the high-resolution sensor and superior color accuracy in indoor lighting. Both are largely simple to use, with some quirks that make "advanced" operations (like accessing the menu) more difficult.

Overall, the superior video quality would be enough to recommend the Picsio over the Zx1. However, that flimsy tele-macro switch that occasionally impedes focus on the Picsio is very troubling. As are the uncovered ports.

	Comparison Specs
	JVC GC-FM1	Kodak Zx1
Price	$199	$149
Primary Recording Media	SD/SDHC memory cards	SD/SDHC memory cards
Secondary Recording Media	34MB internal memory	30MB internal memory
Image Sensor	1/3.2-inch CMOS	1/4.5-inch CMOS
Effective Pixel Count	Unknown	1.6 Megapixels
Mic Input	None	None
LCD	2-inch	2-inch
Viewfinder	None	None
Weight	100g with battery	152g with battery
Dimensions	53 x 97 x 17mm	50.1 x 107 x 20mm
HD	Yes	Yes
Frame Rates	1080/30p, 720/60p, 480/60p, 240/30p	720/30p, 720/60p, 480/60p
Compression	MPEG-4 AVC/H.264	MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
Maximum Bitrate	Unknown	Unknown
Optical Zoom	None	None
Battery	Internal lithium-ion rechargeable (rechargeable via USB)	AA (ships with two AA batteries, rechargeable via DC wall charger)

	Close-Up Color Comparisons
	Ideal	JVC GC-FM1	Kodak Zx1
Red
	Ideal	JVC GC-FM1	Kodak Zx1
Green
	Ideal	JVC GC-FM1	Kodak Zx1
Blue
	Ideal	JVC GC-FM1	Kodak Zx1
Skin Tone 1
	Ideal	JVC GC-FM1	Kodak Zx1
Skin Tone 2

Video Sharpness Score Comparison