Sony Handycam DCR-DVD100

Average User Rating

16 reviews

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CNET Editors' Review

The good: Mini DVDs may be more convenient than MiniDV cassettes for some users; flexible night-shooting options.

The bad: Relatively expensive media; poor video quality; problems focusing in dim light.

The bottom line: You're better off with a cheaper MiniDV camcorder or one of Sony's pricier DVD models.

Review: The Handycam DCR-DVD100 is the entry-level option in Sony's trio of DVD camcorders. It shares many features and benefits with its upscale siblings but has its own set of flaws. In the end, you're better off with a cheaper MiniDV camcorder or one of Sony's pricier DVD models: the ... Expand full review
The Handycam DCR-DVD100 is the entry-level option in Sony's trio of DVD camcorders. It shares many features and benefits with its upscale siblings but has its own set of flaws. In the end, you're better off with a cheaper MiniDV camcorder or one of Sony's pricier DVD models: the DVD200 or the DVD300.

The differences between the DVD100 and the step-up camcorders are few but important. For instance, the DVD100 has a much lower effective video resolution: 340,000 vs. 690,000 pixels. We consider the DVD100's video quality borderline, but even if you think it's acceptable, it's still very soft compared with the DVD300's. It's also surprisingly noisier. Moreover, the DVD100 takes smaller (VGA-size) still photos, which are at best suitable for only onscreen viewing at scaled-down sizes.

Average User Rating

2.5 stars out of 16 user reviews

Rating Breakdown

  • 5 star: 2
  • 4 star: 5
  • 3 star: 3
  • 2 star: 5
  • 1 star: 1

My Rating

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Most recent user reviews

Showing 3 of 16 reviews

5.0 stars

"Simply Great" By lhill8181

Pros: Great Quality, Records in 16.9 and Dolby Digital, Super Easy to Finalize, Play DVD on any DVD player. Great features, Easy to use. I notice lots of people dont know how to use this machine, Very easy Finalize disc, and load to computer to do what ever you

Cons: only 60 min dvds, thats really it !!

Summary: Buy this DVD Handycam, If you learn how to use it, you will not be disappointed !!

4.0 stars

"Easy to use, fabulous quality, compact design" By

Pros: Simplicity, great quality video, and compact design, all make this small camcorder a great choice for replacing your old model. Being able to take the disc out and play it on your dvd player is SO easy and great. There is software to use if you choose t

Cons: The software takes a little getting used to if you're not a computer genious. It has a lot of icons, instead of directions. But once you're used to it, you can become your own director.

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