-
Introduction
-
01.Design
-
02.Product Tour
-
03.Performance
-
04.Color Performance
-
05.Low Light Performance
-
06.Motion Performance
-
07.Sharpness Performance
-
08.Sample Videos
-
09.Usability
-
10.Ease of Use
-
11.Handling
-
12.Controls
-
13.Features
-
14.Recording Options
-
15.Hardware
-
16.Other Features
-
17.Sony HDR-XR520V Comparison
-
18.Canon HF S100 Comparison
-
19.Sanyo VPC-HD2000 Comparison
-
20.Conclusion
-
21.Photo Gallery
-
22.Specs & Ratings
-
23.Comments
Panasonic HDC-HS300
Previous: Page 19
Sanyo VPC-HD2000 ComparisonNext: Page 21
Photo GalleryConclusion
In our testing, there was really no arena where the camcorder failed to put up decent numbers. In low light sensitivity, the HS300 was able to match the impressive standards set by the Sanyo VPC-HD2000 earlier this year. In bright light, the camcorder scored near the top in every single category. We were a bit disappointed to find the HS300’s 24p mode not having much of an effect in improving the camcorder’s low light capabilities, but this is a minor grievance.
Since Panasonic has long been known for having extensive manual controls, it should come as no surprise that the HDC-HS300 excels in this category. What is unexpected, is how well the camcorder’s new Intelligent Auto (iA) features work for beginners. The iA functions utilize Panasonic’s new touchscreen system to provide, among other things, AF/AE tracking, face detection, and one-touch spot focus and exposure. The only group that may feel a bit lost with the HS300 are intermediate users, or people who like to experiment with one or two manual controls while leaving the camcorder mostly automated.
At just under $1400, the Panasonic HDC-HS300 isn’t the most affordable camcorder out there, but you get excellent performance and lots of controls for your money. If you want to save a little cash, or if you don’t like the idea of recording to a huge internal hard drive, the flash memory Panasonic HDC-TM300 is available for $100 less than the HDC-HS300.
Shop for the Panasonic HDC-HS300
Latest News
& Reviews
-
16-May-2012
Panasonic HC-V500M Camcorder Review
The Panasonic HC-V500M is a small, lightweight, budget camcorder that offers a lot for its $499 MSRP. Read More...
-
04-May-2012
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Digital Camera Reivew
Along with its retro design and weather-sealed body, the Olympus E-M5 features a robust movie mode that provides you with a variety of manual video controls and features. Read More...
Top Rated Camcorders
-
$1,499.991Canon Vixia HF G10
With the Vixia HF G10 ($1499 MSRP), Canon's latest flagship camcorder, the company decided to use a completely different image sensor with a smaller amount of pixels. If you check out the results from our performance testing, you'll quickly see the change paid off—particularly in low light situations. Read full 5-part review
$1,499.99Any TypeConsumerAny Media TypeInternal Flash Memory -
$1,099.002Panasonic HDC-TM900
The Panasonic HDC-TM900 is the successor to the lauded HDC-TM700, our pick for Camcorder of the Year in 2010. The TM900 offers the same fantastic video performance as its predecessor, particularly with its widely-praised 1080/60p mode, but Panasonic didn't improve on much else. Read full 5-part review
$1,099.00Any TypeConsumerAny Media TypeInternal Flash Memory -
$999.003Panasonic HC-X900M
The HC-X900M is the replacement for last year's HDC-TM900 flagship HD camcorder from Panasonic, but if you're looking for hot new features or exciting updates then you should prepare to be disappointed. Other than a few design alterations and some slight tweaks to the lens and sensor, the HC-X900 is identical to its predecessor. Read full 5-part review
$999.00Any TypeConsumerAny Media TypeInternal Flash Memory -
$599.994Canon Vixia HF M40
The Canon HF M40 is the latest mid-range camcorder from Canon. With the same risky new sensor, this impressive bargain has great low light performance and a plethora of manual controls. Read full 5-part review
$599.99Any TypeConsumerAny Media Type -
$1,499.005Sony Handycam HDR-TD10
The twin lens system featured prominently on the front of the Sony HDR-TD10 should tell you one thing: this is a camcorder that can record 3D video. Read full 5-part review
$1,499.00Any TypeConsumerAny Media TypeInternal Flash Memory
Features
-
An Introduction to High Definition Video.
Understand what’s going on in the world of HD camcorders so you can make sense of it all and make an informed decision on your next purchase. Read More...
-
CamcorderInfo.com 2010 Selects Awards
Our awards for the best camcorders in 2010. Read More...
-
The Student Filmmaker's Buying Guide To Consumer Camcorders
For the student filmmaker, finding the right camcorder can be a very arduous task. This article goes through the best consumer camcorders on the market for the student filmmaker, and all of these models can be found for $1500 or less. Read More...
-
Video Editing Software For Your Camcorder
Most consumer camcorders come with some kind of editing program, but the quality of this provided software can range drastically. This article offers an overview and critique for these editing programs. Read More...
(add your own)