Samsung HMX-H105 First Impressions Camcorder Review

by Kaitlyn Chantry
Published on Jan 26, 2009 8:00 AM

 
Intro Audio
Compression & Media
 Manual Controls
Still Features Handling & Use
Playback & Connectivity Other Features
Conclusion Photo Gallery
Specs and Ratings



Compression
The Samsung HMX-H105 records video in the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format, the same as models from the previous years. MPEG-4 has clearly been adopted as the format of choice for HD camcorders, split into two camps. Sony, Canon, Panasonic, and most recently JVC, all use AVCHD, which is a subset of AVC/H.264. AVCHD experienced some serious stumbling blocks in its first few years, as existing hardware and software choked on the heavy data loads. It has, however, gotten much better in the past year. AVC/H.264 is also data-heavy, at least compared to old standard definition camcorders, but the format is easier to read. QuickTime can work perfectly with the files, and has the benefit of being free and dual-platform.

There are three record qualities on the Samsung HMX-H105: superfine, fine, and normal.

You can also select the resolution: 1080/60i/60i N/30P, 720/60P, and 480/60P, web, and mobile.

Media
The HMX-H105 records to a built-in 32GB solid state drive (SSD). Media, is in fact, the most significant feature differentiating the different models in Samsung's H-series. The HMX-H106 records to a 64GB SSD (the largest capacity SSD currently in consumer camcorders), the HMX-H104 records to a 16GB SSD, and the HMX-H100 records exclusively to SD/SDHC memory cards.

Recording Media
Primary Media 32GB SSD
Secondary Media SD/SDHC Memory Card


Editing
With most of today's high definition video, you'll find sporadic support for the files. Fortunately, the H-series does ship with built-in software—though the software is only compatible with Windows. We haven't been able to see the software firsthand, but will give a more complete report once one of the camcorders makes its way through our labs. We expect that Samsung will provide a decent offering, since the CyberLink DVD Suite on the SC-HMX20 was a fairly satisfactory piece of editing software.




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