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


Conclusion
The HDR-TG5V is a bit overpriced for what you get—a mid-range camcorder with a high-end price tag. Now, it isn't quite as expensive as most top-line models, but with an MSRP of $999, the HDR-TG5V is not for people on a budget.

The camcorder doesn't look like a cheap model either. It has a sleek design that is very fancy, elegant, and stylish. Its titanium body is also quite durable—far more so than most camcorders of its size. So, if you're basing your purchase on style over substance, the HDR-TG5V is definitely in a class of its own.

When you get down to it, however, the HDR-TG5V doesn't have the performance or the features that really justify spending around $1000 for the camcorder. Mid-range models from Panasonic, Canon, and JVC can get you similar (or better) quality video for far less money. There's also the Sanyo VPC-HD2000, which has a similar upright design to the HDR-TG5V, but did significantly better in our testing.

Still, the HDR-TG5V did hold its own in our tests. It didn't fail at low light like the JVC GZ-X900, nor did it bomb in stabilization or any of our bright light tests. The bottom line is that it's a good camcorder that can capture quality video and decent stills. We just don't think it's worth a cool grand.
Comparisons (Page 15 of 17)    



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