Overall, we were pleased with the video we shot with the ZR800. Colors were relatively accurate and details were reasonably sharp. Essentially, the quality of the footage was on par with the ZR830, while the ZR850's higher pixel count yielded video that was slightly sharper. Also, while the ZR850 was able to focus in our extreme low-light test, neither the ZR800 nor ZR830 could lock focus when we turned our lamp light low. Also, as we've come to expect in lower-priced camcorders, the electronic image stabilization was only effective to about 75 percent of the camera's impressive 35x optical zoom range.
Choosing among Canon's new MiniDV lineup can be tough. If you plan on capturing still images, you should opt for the ZR850 since its 1-megapixel sensor makes a noticeable difference. On the other hand, if you definitely won't capture stills, it might make sense to save a few dollars and go for the ZR800 over the ZR830. Of course, that also means you'll have to live without the convenience of the ZR830's remote control, which can be useful when watching your tapes on a TV and using the camcorder as a playback device. And so, much like the social dynamic in so many American living rooms, this decision may hinge on a remote control.
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