Compact and user-friendly, a built-in USB cable and wide-angle lens distinguish the Handycam CX130 and its siblings, the CX160 and XR160, from its competitors.
Lori Grunin
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
The CX130 and CX160 are small, but not the smallest in their class, and the XR160 is larger and heavier because of the hard drive; if you have big hands, that can be an advantage. The best feature of the camcorders is the relatively wide-angle lens, which starts around 30mm-equivalent.
2 of 5 Sarah Tew/CNET
Top controls
On top of the camcorder are mode and photo buttons, which feel too close together, and the rather loose zoom switch. It was hard to precisely control both the speed and amount of zoom.
3 of 5 Sarah Tew/CNET
Minimalist controls
In the LCD recess sit two small buttons for power and playback, as well as covered Mini-HDMI and USB connectors. the SD card slot is on the bottom--not my favorite location, and blocked if you put it on a tripod--but not bad, either.
4 of 5 Sarah Tew/CNET
Nothing to see here
There's only a record button on the back of the camcorder, and no hard buttons on the small LCD bezel.
5 of 5 Sarah Tew/CNET
Built-in USB cable
The tiny captive USB cable tucks into the strap, and comes in handy when you're on the road.
