Canon FS100: Review

Posted to Camcorders 2008-12-08

Canon FS100 Review:

The new standard definition, flash memory, limited moving parts camcorder from Canon, the Canon FS100, provides a lot of great options and a decent price. Though there are a wide variety of camcorders in the same field, the FS100 balances out the options to try and provide a great camcorder at a budget price. However, while some of the features are nice, in the end, don't judge this camcorder by its nicely labeled box.

It is standard definition, so though Canon has provided an impressive 37X optical zoom, but may be challenged, especially under low light. The 2.7 inch LCD screen, though a little grainy, makes up for it by being viewable even in direct sunlight. Weighing only 9.2 ounces, its light weight and ergonomic feel make it easy to record with. The included mic input is a nice touch; however, the wind filter is completely useless.

Rating:

2.8 out of 5

Quality

Canon overall provides a great product. The FS100 is really no different, bearing in mind the price bracket it is in. It is supplied with a standard one year warranty, but given the extremely limited amount of moving parts on this camcorder, there is really not much that can go wrong with it, barring the occasional dropping accident obviously. Also there is no image stabilization so even though it has great zooming capability, if it is not a stationary object, good luck keeping on target without zooming back out to find the target again. The zoom toggle makes it difficult to zoom at a desired speed as well.

Features

Though the FS100 does have some great features, like the electronic lens cover, the LED light, and it's stylish and functional design or options not typical to camcorders in this price range like shutter priority mode, program exposure, and various scene modes, it also has some things that should be considered before purchase. While you can record almost 14 min. per gigabyte at best-quality, it's not recommended you choose any option below that. (You can get about 39 min/GB in the lowest quality, but it is exactly what it states, low quality.) As mentioned above, there is no optical image stability and the wind filter is poor. I wouldn't recommend using in low light either, as the quality drops quickly becoming grainy. So if you're planning on videotaping the high school play, you might need to reconsider. Even though SD cards are getting cheaper, making it easier to have more on hand if necessary, this camcorder is really more for outdoor sunny day filming.

Ergonomics

This is one category where I really think Canon has nailed it with the FS100. The buttons are in convenient places, the weight of the camera is great, the zoom can be a little finicky but overall, great design. The swivel on the LCD screen makes holding this camera in any direction easy to keep the filming going no matter how you need to adjust.

Summary

All in all, for the price, you can get a decent camcorder for a decent price. If you need a camcorder and price is a factor, you can certainly make due with the Canon FS100. Record your memories today; after all, they are priceless when you look back on them down the road no matter what the quality.

Pros

good investment for an inexpensive camcorder
37x optical zoom
Accepts SD / SDHC media

Cons

Wind filter not very good