Sony Handycam DCR-SR85 Camcorder Review

Conclusion
We expected more of an improvement from the Sony DCR-SR85 over last year's SR42. By increasing the pixel count on the SR85, Sony did improve image quality, but the 1/6-inch CCD sensor isn't big enough to make the camcorder an elite low light performer. This may not be an issue, however, if you enjoy the look of Sony's NightShot mode. Overall, as far as video performance goes, it's difficult to complain about the SR85—it produces a solid image and the automatic controls work admirably. The camcorder may not have produced the best scores in our testing, but in bright light and moderately low light we liked the way the images stacked up against the competition.

We must mention the limited ability of Sony's touchscreen interface. While the camcorder handles well overall, the touchscreen simply doesn't cut it when it comes to adjusting manual controls and navigating through menus. Other than that, the Sony is well designed and expertly organized.

The Sony DCR-SR85 is larger than most standard definition camcorders. If you're looking for an ultra-portable device, this isn't the camcorder for you. However, if you want something traditional, that feels good in your hand and performs well, the SR85 is an excellent option. With so many manufacturers pushing for smaller camcorders, especially in the standard definition market, it's almost refreshing to hold the Sony DCR-SR85 in your hand. It has some weight and it has a bit of bulk, but sometimes that's exactly what you're looking for.

Comparisons

	Canon FS11 Sony doesn't make a standard definition camcorder that records solely to solid-state memory. Canon is just the opposite—it doesn't manufacture standard def camcorders with built-in hard drives. The Canon FS11 does come with 16GB of internal memory, however, so it's Canon's most comparable product to the DCR-SR85. The FS11 has a long, slim design that is far more portable than the wide, chunky SR85. We found, however, the Sony felt better in your hand as the 60GB hard drive gave you something to wrap your hands around. Canon doesn't use touchscreen menus, which could be a positive or a negative depending on your view of touchscreen systems. As far as video performance goes, the two camcorders performed very similarly. Canon got the edge on low light sensitivity, but the Sony SR85 offers more features (including an accessory shoe and a NightShot mode). With both camcorders being nearly the same price, we'd have to say the SR85 and it's 60GB internal hard drive is the better buy.
	Panasonic SDC-H60 We haven't tested the SDC-H60 yet, but its size and shape closely resemble the DCR-SR85. Like the SR85, the H60 also has a 60GB internal hard drive. There aren't too many specs that set the H60 apart—it does allow for adjustable aperture and it has an optical image stabilization system. Look for our review soon to see how it performs against the competition.
	JVC Everio GZ-MG360 and GZ-MG330 JVC has a number of hard drive camcorders and we're going through the reviewing process with the GZ-MG330 right now. JVC's website calls the Everio series the smallest and lightest hard drive camcorders on the market, and in side-by-side comparison the GZ-MG330 is significantly smaller than the Sony DCR-SR85. It's hard to imagine JVC could fit a 30GB hard drive into a body that small (the GZ-MG360 has a 60GB hard drive). If portability is important, you have to look for our review soon. Also, the Everio series camcorders are available in a variety of colors!
	Sony DCR-SR65 The DCR-SR65 is the step-down model to the SR85. Both camcorders have identical specs, apart from the smaller, 40GB hard drive inside the SR65. The camcorders are even the same size, so all you really save with the SR65 is $100. It could be good for a budget option (especially if you have extra MemorySticks lying around), but the extra $100 for the additional 20GB on the SR85 isn't a bad deal. Sony also makes the DCR-SR45, which has a 30GB hard drive and a $400 price tag. It also has a smaller sensor, worse LCD screen, no accessory shoe, and less overall features than its big sisters.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters
Sony's Easy button makes things simple for beginners and the auto controls on the DCR-SR85 perform adequately. Using the camcorder as a point-and-shoot device also keeps you from having to deal with the troublesome touchscreen interface. This could be a good choice for novice videographers.

Budget Consumers
The Sony DCR-SR85 isn't all that cheap, although it costs significantly less than a quality HD camcorder. There are plenty of options out there that will cost you far less and give you the same video quality. The step-down Sony DCR-SR65 will save you $100 or the Canon FS100, which comes with no internal memory, are excellent budget options.

Still Photo / Video Camera Hybrid
The DCR-SR85 does take photographs, but the options are limited and the quality is not very good. This really isn't any reason that makes this camcorder a better than average choice as a hybrid device.

Gadget Freaks
The accessory shoe may attract Sony enthusiasts with a stockpile of accessories. The shoe accepts Sony-brand products only, however, so don't expect all your professional mics to work unless you purchase a third-party adapter.

Manual Control Freaks
The annoying touchscreen interface wipes out any possibility of a manual control guru enjoying this camcorder. The manual control options are also rather limited.

Pros / Serious Hobbyists
Pros won't be interested in the DCR-SR85.