A decent camera for basic at-home use, the JVC Everio GZ-HD7 works well if you’ve been looking for a reliable entry-level camcorder. This camcorder features handy manual controls that are becoming more difficult to find in models of this caliber, and offers the user an attractive design. The JVC GZHD7US camcorder also delivers when it comes to noise level and recording in low light.

But this camcorder isn’t perfect – there are a few drawbacks that you should know about before deciding to make a purchase. The optical stabilizer is unreliable, the camcorder could benefit from a built-in ND filter, and there is quite a bit of horizontal stuttering during playback, which becomes annoying after awhile. The battery life needs to be improved as well.

Overall, for the price, the JVC GZHD7US camcorder is a good buy despite some of the issues mentioned above. It would be even better if offered in a lower price category, as most people purchasing a camcorder in this range will be turned off by the disadvantages.

This high-definition camcorder uses three low-resolution sensors, which is effective for standard-definition cameras, but it doesn’t seem to work for HD camcorders. The low resolution video this device produces is a big turn-off. However, some of the better features save the day.

Unfortunately, the JVC GZHD7US camcorder doesn’t come out on top when compared to comparable brands in the same price category. If JVC could have eliminated some of the problems associated with this camcorder, the benefits are quite appealing:

• Manual aperture
• Manual shutter speed adjustment and focus implementation
• Low noise
• Low-light video recording
• Bright LCD and viewfinder
• External mic input

Surprisingly, the control layout of the JVC GZHD7US camcorder is also designed for manual use, which is a bonus feature, although several of the main shooting controls (gain control, wind filter, and white balance) are difficult to find on the menu. This means you’ll be using the LCD more often than not. And with a weak battery life, using the LCD on a consistent basis is probably not a good idea.

Although the video output is passable, other lower-priced tape HD camcorders perform better. The convenience of the hard-disk drive is the only reason you may want to stick with this particular camcorder.

There are also some video problems with the JVC GZHD7US camcorder. The most common include interlace artifacts, horizontal jitter and stutter, and blown-out highlights. This is bad news if you plan on taking action shots.

On the whole, the JVC GZHD7US camcorder will suffice for most people wanting a camcorder for occasional use, as it underperforms in most aspects. For the price, you may want to consider the JVC GZHD7US camcorder as a good backup in case your other camcorder breaks, or you require a second camera for various reasons. It’s unfortunate that JVC couldn’t address some of the issues of this camcorder before getting it to market, as it offers the user many great features often overlooked in this type of camera.

JVC Everio GZHD7 3CCD 60GB Hard Disk Drive High Definition Camcorder with 10x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom asin: B000MANFIC