Sony Handycam HDR-TG5V Camcorder Review

by Jeremy Stamas
Published on Sep 25, 2009 2:00 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 Sanyo VPC-HD2000 Comparison
JVC GZ-X900 Comparison Sony HDR-XR520V Comparison
Conclusion Photo Gallery
Specs and Ratings


Introduction
The Sony HDR-TG5VIn most ways, the Sony HDR-TG5V ($999 MSRP) is a very minor upgrade over last year's HDR-TG1. It has the same sensor and lens, but has been outfitted with a new menu system, a redesigned LCD touchscreen, and includes 16GB of internal flash memory. Sony also changed the color scheme a bit and made the new TG5V slightly more compact than the HDR-TG1.

The HDR-TG5V is not a top-of-the-line camcorder when it comes to performance. In fact, it more closely matches up with mid-range camcorders in that regard. Its benefits stem from a sleek design, durable body, and unique handling experience.
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Section The Good The Bad
Product Tour Streamline body design; automatic lens cover Lack of power switch may confuse some users.
Color & Noise Performance Low noise levels Color accuracy wasn't great; no color adjustment options
Motion & Sharpness Performance Average results—not too good, not too bad No 24p or 30p record mode
Low Light Performance Decent performance overall Colors were a bit bland
Compression & Media Includes both HD and SD recording options; 16GB of internal memory Uses Sony-proprietary Memory Stick PRO Duo cards
Manual Controls Spot Focus and Spot Exposure work seamlessly with touchscreen. No aperture or shutter speed control
Still Features Face and Smile Detection works quite well. Maximum native resolution is only 2 megapixels.
Handling & Use Durable, compact body; simple design The LCD touchscreen has its problems; smooth, rectangular design is difficult to grip
Playback & Connectivity Highlight Playback is fun; USB adapter is smart The HDMI port is only located on the provided docking station.
Audio & Other Features GPS and Smooth Slow Record are good tools to have. No external mic or headphone jack

 

Sony HDR-TG5V Comparisons
the Sanyo VPC-HD2000 the JVC GZ-X900 the Sony HDR-XR520V
Sanyo VPC-HD2000 JVC GZ-X900 Sony HDR-XR520V



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