Samsung Enters 2009 Strong with Four HD Camcorders - HMX-H106, HMX-H105, HMX-H104, and HMX-H100

Samsung has greatly expanded its high definition camcorder line for 2009 with four models in the newly coined "H-Series." The HMX-H106, HMX-H105, and HMX-H104 feature internal solid state memory (64GB, 32GB, and 16GB, respectively). The HMX-H100 records to memory card only. All four feature a 1/4.5-inch 2.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and record 1920 x 1080 video in the H.264 format. (View Photo Gallery)

All the camcorders also include a 37mm Schneider Kreunznach with a 10x optical zoom. They also have a 2.7-inch LCD and a return of Samsung's versatile swivel-grip design that allows for unique handling options not found on most camcorders. All models include an HDMI connection,  a flash for still photos, and Time Lapse video recording in 1, 2, 5, 10, 15, or 30 second intervals.

The 64GB solid state drive on the HMX-H106 is the largest internal flash memory to date on a camcorder. In fine mode, it stores up to 12 hours of video. The H105 has 32GB capacity, and the H104 has 16GB. All the models include expansion with a card slot.
 

The greatly expanded line-up of HD camcorders indicates that Samsung is looking to more firmly establish itself as a name brand in camcorders.  In 2008, Samsung released only one HD camcorder, the SC-HMX20, though it proved popular enough to receive awards for both Best Mid-Range Camcorder and for Editor's Pick from Camcorderinfo.com. The sensor on that camcorder, however, was significantly larger than the sensor in the 2009 models, and it is unknown what impact that will have on video quality.

Samsung HMX-H100

The HMX-H106 is scheduled  to be available in April 2009. The HMX-H105, HMX-H104, and HMX-H100 will ship in March 2009.