The ease of the Canon DC100 DVD Camcorder

Category: Review on Canon DC100 DVD Camcorder

Posted by: 24-Oct-2006

Strengths: very easy to use, lightweight, good viewer and convenience of recording onto DVD (albeit mini-DVD)

Weaknesses: very limited feature set, problems in low light on auto mode, low recording time per DVD and low battery life

If you’re looking for a very easy to use video camera with almost zero learning curve, the Canon DC100 DVD camcorder might be what you’re looking for. If you’re a quick learner, though, and get bored quickly, don’t bother with the DC100, pick up the DC10 instead.

The auto mode is great for everyday use in good lighting for both still photos and action video. For catching all the action of “the big game” or taking nighttime stills, however, you need to switch to the appropriate mode. This change requires navigating through menus, not an easy-to-switch button or dial. Even when you do get the mode switched the quality might be a bit lacking.

Mini-DVDs that record the video only hold about 20 minutes of at the XP setting. While this might be fine for short captures, a sports game or a child’s ballet performance will find you switching out DVDs multiple times. That might not be a problem anyway, since the battery has a life of only about 20 minutes. You can pick up spare batteries for under $20. Finalizing (locking) a DVD can only be done if you use the AC adapter.

Zooming is pretty good for a camera in this price range but the button layout isn’t natural. Shutter speed is satisfactory but is only accessible while in Program mode, again requiring menu navigation.

The DC100 is an alright investment for the occasional user and teen videographer if you can get one on clearance or used. You shouldn’t waste your money if quality is of concern or you can foresee the need to record more than 20 minutes at a time.