Sony's compact HD camcorder, the Handycam HDR-CX100, may be a bit <i>too</i> compact. Here's our evaluation of its design.
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.
Small enough to fit comfortably in a jacket pocket, the CX100 actually feels a bit too small. It lacks the gentle rise of the older CX models that places the zoom and photo buttons higher up and easier to manipulate, and because of the shape tends to roll over if you don't cock your wrist awkwardly.
The disc burn, playback, power, display, and Easy buttons sit under the LCD. They're also pretty small and flat, but have enough of a texture that they're easy to feel. The mini HDMI and USB ports, as well as the Memory Stick Duo slot, also sit under the LCD.
Sony's Infolithium batteries are slowly morphing into ActiForce. The next-generation version of the batteries theoretically deliver better, more accurate reporting.
