JVC GZ-MS120 Dual SD : Review

Posted to Camcorders 2010-12-12

JVC GZ-MS120 Dual SD review:

The JVC GZ-MS120 Dual SD camcorder features a 35X zoom lens and dual SD/SDHC card slots for video storage. This standard definition, flip-style camcorder also features 800K pixel resolution, a 1//6" CCD sensor and a 2.7 inch 123,000 dot color LCD display. The unit has a focal length range of 36-1260mm, a minimum aperture range of f/1.8 at the wide end to f/4.0 at the telephoto end and 2-channel Dolby Digital sound.

The unit features image resolutions of 720x480 and 640x480, measures 2.1x2.6x4.4 inches and weighs only 10.2 ounces. At highest resolution, the camcorder can store 14 minutes of video per GB of storage. The MS120 can store up to 64GB of video on two SD cards and features a USB port and an A/V output. There are no inputs to the unit. The MS120 also features 5 white balance settings. 6 scene modes and Auto, Manual and Tele Macro focus modes.

Rating:

3.8 out of 5

Value

The MS120 represents an excellent value in a standard definition camcorder for the street price. The unit is YouTube friendly, using the included software, and can take stills while shooting video with the press of a button. Video quality is above average in outdoor lighting and acceptable indoors. Sound quality is excellent and the laser touch control user interface is very intuitive. The 35X zoom and dual SD card slots make this a very versatile unit for the price.

Features

The MS120 has more features than you would expect for the price. The unit offers complete manual control, which is unusual in this price range. But unless you want to get more creative, you probably won't need the manual control, as automatic operation produces excellent results. The control over white balance is nice, though, and the available settings are quite accurate. Manual focus is sketchy at best, however, using the low-resolution LCD display.

Summary

If you're in the market for an easy to carry standard definition camcorder, the MS120 makes an excellent choice. The host of features, 35X zoom range and dual SD slots make for a very versatile unit at a reasonable price. If you just need to shoot video for the web and occasional home video viewing, this unit should fit the bill.

Pros

35X optical zoom lens
720x480, 640x480 resolution
2.7 inch 123,000 dot color LCD display
Laser touch control interface
Small and lightweight

Cons

There are no cons for this product