Panasonic HDC-SD100 Camcorder Review

by Kaitlyn Chantry
Published on Sep 26, 2008 3:30 PM

 
Intro Performance
Format Auto / Manual Controls
Still Features Handling and Use
Audio / Playback / Connectivity Other Features
Conclusion & Comparisons
 Photo Gallery
Specs and Ratings


Conclusion
Once upon a time, Panasonic ruled the roost when it came to videophiles and consumer camcorder afficianados. With camcorders list last generation's HDC-SD9, Panasonic started lopping off features in an effort to attain ultimate portability. We're relieved to see that Panasonic is returning to their hard core audience with the HDC-SD100 and the HDC-HS100. Both are designed with a more experienced user in mind: extra ports, a viewfinder, an accessory shoe, and the multi-function ring: a fantastic new way to control manual image adjustments.

This little ring lets you accurately and effortlessly adjust zoom, focus, white balance, shutter speed, and iris. It's an excellent addition to an already stellar set of manual controls. However, we can't help but be a bit disappointed that this one standout feature wasn't better implented—the onboard flash gets in way of perfect ring operation and a few features (namely, sharpness, color, and exposure) are buried in the menus instead of up front on the ring where they belong.

In everything else, the SD100 does very well, but is never quite head of the class. Video performance is very solid, but is hindered by the sometimes grainy appearance and oversaturation. The switch to CMOS sensors did improve low light performance, but there are comparable, if not better camcorders among the competition. And we just can't get over the abominable port placement that has you constantly removing the battery and plugging in the camcorder in order to access USB, HDMI, and DC jacks.

Like the nearly identical Panasonic HDC-HS100, we really like the HDC-SD100. There are imperfections aplenty, but this is the case for the competition as well. When you have so many excellent camcorders to choose from, it often comes down to what is most important to you. If you choose the SD100, know you are certainly choosing from among the best.

Comparisons

Panasonic HDC-HS100
The two camcorders are virtually identical, save for the HS100's increased capacity and price tag. As always, hard drives have their benefits and their disadvantages. With hard drives, you have more moving parts, which are a little less resilient than solid state memory. However, you'll need 5-15 memory cards to equal the longevity of a 60GB hard drive.
   

Panasonic HDC-SD9
Last generation's memory card camcorder from Panasonic can be had for less money, but you'll pay the price. Video performance was markedly better on the SD100, thanks to an upgrade in processor and a switch over to CMOS sensors.

You also won't get the SD100's best feature: the multi-function lens ring. On the SD9, all manual control happens inside the menus. Plus, the SD9 is missing features like an accessory shoe, headphone and mic jacks, and a viewfinder.
   

Canon HF100
When it comes to video performance, the Canon HF100 can't be beat. Quite simply, the HF100 produces better-looking video than the Panasonic HDC-SD100, thanks in large part to superior resolution and a single, large sensor that improves low light sensitivity. Plus, Canon offers a couple camcorders with internal flash memory and the same stellar video performance (HF10, HF11).

What the Panasonic offers over the Canons is an incredible depth of options for manual image control, many of which are operated with the smooth, versatile lens ring. While Canon does offer its own robust set of manual controls, all adjustments are made via the inferior menu/joystick system.
   

Sony HDR-CX12
The Sony HDR-CX12 probably comes the closest to competing with the Panasonic's manual control offerings. The Sony offers nearly as many options, all controlled by a multi-function Cam Control dial—smaller and less accessible than the Panasonic's fantastic multi-function ring. But Sony does other things better: namely, superior video performance. The single 1/3.15-inch ClearVid CMOS chip with a 3,200,000 gross pixel count contributes to a beautiful picture in bright and low light.

However, the Panasonic has a slight edge in some of the little things. The one manual control that Sony blatantly omits is shutter speed—a dismaying omission for experienced users. Plus, Panasonic doesn't make you use proprietary accessories (and now AV cables) the way Sony does. And for port placement, it's almost a tie—Sony has no ludicrous battery compartment ports, but you do have to use a docking station to connect via USB. You won't find a mic jack, headphone jack, or viewfinder on the CX12. And if you're counting pennies, the CX12 comes with a 4GB memory card, compared to the SD100's 8GB.

All in all, if the Panasonic is the right camcorder for you, you'll know it. It has a lot of controls and options that some experienced users could never live without. In terms of video performance, however, Sony has the edge.
   
Samsung SC-HMX20
The one area in which the latest Samsung disappointed is the same area in which the Panasonic HDC-SD100 excels: manual control. The Samsung SC-HMX20 lacks a lot of the options offered on the Panasonic, and everything is controlled from within the menu system—no fancy ring or dial here.

However, the Samsung came out of left field this year to surprise us with its stellar video performance, edging out the Panasonic in both bright and low light. Not only does the video look better, but the Samsung is cheaper, easier to use, comes with 8GB of internal flash memory, and... let's face it, is a sleeker, sexier camcorder.

If you expect a wide range of manual controls for your videography, the Panasonic is a clear winner. But just about anyone else looking for a high quality, easy-to-use camcorder should look no further than the Samsung SC-HMX20.


Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters
This is not the camcorder for you. The multi-function ring is versatile, but unintuitive. Three separate menus mean lots of time trolling around for what you want. And all the cool new ports and features (like a viewfinder and elaborate audio control) will just gather dust. The new tool tips help smooth the ride, but beginners could find a better journey to take.

Budget Consumers
It's certainly a cheaper option than the hard drive cousin, but you could get more for your money by looking at last year's model or a manufacturer that offers a little less in the way of manual controls.

Still Photo / Video Camera Hybrid
A 1920 x 1080 is still the largest image you can capture on high-end Panasonics. (This is very low indeed, compared to the 5-10 megapixel stills captured by Canon or Sony.) The SD100's still quality is decent, but not great. Sony and Canon also offer a wider range of features, but the Panasonics do have the handy ability to capture still photos while recording.

Gadget Freaks
The most tech-savvy videophiles might be interested in the new 3MOS imaging system and will like the option to record in 24P, but it's hard to deny the gadgety goodness of that shiny new control ring. This is the feature that will bring in video geeks.

Manual Control Freaks
We think Panasonic could do more with that ring—like adding exposure, sharpness, and color instead of burying them in the menus. But with a host of adjustable features (including gain) and a buttery smooth control interface, the Panasonic might not be perfect, but it beats out the competition.

Pros / Serious Hobbyists
The concept of the SD100 is nearly enough to turn professional heads. Bulk up the viewfinder, put your ports somewhere sensible, and pull that joystick out of the LCD cavity and you've got one heck of a contender. Unfortunately, no amount of manual control can compensate for the noisy video quality and low resolution. Panasonic footage looks great for a consumer camcorder, but there's better competition.



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