Samsung HMX-R10 Camcorder Review

by Jeremy Stamas
Published on Aug 12, 2009 12:30 PM

 
Intro
 Product Tour
Color & Noise Performance Motion & Sharpness Performance
Low Light Performance Compression & Media
Manual Controls Still Features
Handling & Use Playback & Connectivity
Audio & Other Features JVC GZ-X900 Comparison
Sony HDR-TG5V Comparison Panasonic HDC-SD20 Comparison
Conclusion Photo Gallery
Specs and Ratings


Introduction
The Samsung HMX-R10 doesn't feel or look like an ordinary camcorder. On the surface, it boasts a compact design, rounded edges, and a unique, tilted lens that angles roughly 25-degrees higher than the rest of the camcorder. Inside, it has a huge 1/2.33-inch CMOS sensor, Full HD capability, and a 9-megapixel still image capability—the same specs as the GZ-X900, the top-line model from JVC. With an MSRP of just $499, the Samsung HMX-R10 is a compelling choice for a mid-range camcorder, and it is one of the most intriguing video/photo hybrid devices we've seen this year.

The Samsung HMX-R10 records video to SD/SDHC memory cards and is currently available in either silver or black.
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Section The Good The Bad
Product Tour Unique design; available in silver or black No lens cap
Color & Noise Performance Average color accuracy Noise levels were on the high end
Motion & Sharpness Performance Very good sharpness for a camcorder of its class. Captured motion showed significant artifacting
Low Light Performance Good color accuracy in low light; 30p mode enhanced low light performance Terrible low light sensitivity, high noise levels
Compression & Media Included software has a variety of editing options No internal memory; built-in upload to YouTube is limited
Manual Controls Wide range of controls are offered—aperture, shutter speed, exposure, noise reduction, etc. Touchscreen interface is horrible for setting manual controls
Still Features ISO control, built-in flash, native 9-megapixel still image capability Noise levels were a bit high in our testing
Handling & Use Unique design can be very comfortable for certain shooting styles. Body is easily scratched; lack of a hand strap makes the camcorder prone to drops
Playback & Connectivity Lots of playback options; all ports are located in same general area Proprietary AV-out, Component-out and USB port
Audio & Other Features Time Lapse Record is useful; slow motion settings are fun Bad mic placement; no headphone or external mic jack



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