JVC Everio GZ-HM300 (Black)

Pros: Small, Cheap, Good Video Under Good Lighting Conditions.

Cons: Feels Plasticky,Crummy I.S.,

Summary: There are times that you may not want to haul a larger, more expensive camera around.Taking the kids to the beach? Want video of them playing out in the snow? Taking the grandkids to to Disneyworld? Don't want to risk damaging your expensive camera? Then these are the cameras for you.They are small and cheap,take very good video in good light and any video is better than no video! Easy to carry, there is no problem taking one of these with you.Shoot at the highest setting and you will be happy with the results. I have the HM200 and the HM300. If you shop the auction sites you can get a good deal on these. I picked up my HM300 in as new condition,but without the box for $113 including shipping and tax. At that that price it's a no brainer. Outdoors,the video quality to the HM200 is identical,even though the HM200 has a larger sensor,and feels more substantial.Indoors the video quality is slightly better on the HM300,even though it has a slightly smaller sensor than the HM200. But what I do is use my Canon HG10 indoors which takes great video under all conditions but is heavier and much more expensive. If you keep the action up-close, use it primarily outdoors and don't go zoom happy,because the I.S. really stinks,you'll be happy with this camera,especially for the price.And you won't lose any sleep because after a day at the beach with the kids you are still pouring sand out of your expensive camcorder!