JVC GZ-MG21

The JVC Everio GZ-MG21 camcorder is a puny and very portable device that offers many hours of recording time, which is a rare find as compared to what is usually available in the market. It is an innovative invention that does not require the use of any tapes or DVDs, so do not expect to find any pop-up doors for the video media that are usually found on other camcorders. All information will be stored in the hard drive of the machine, although a SD card is also available as an alternative storage mechanism. The hard drive in the device can actually story an amazing 25 hours of video recording. Just like many other camcorders, the GZ-MG21 model also has a flip out LCD. The 2.5 inches LCD is bright but the colour effects tend to get washed out. It comes equipped with a 32x optical zoom and an image stabilizer which is supposed to prevent any blur images due to shaky hands. However, the stabilizer is basically not a very helpful function of the machine because it does not work as well as that found in other camcorders. This device allows the transfer of recorded video information to your personally computer using a USB 2.0 connector. Alternatively, you can also choose to purchase a special share station whereby you can burn the DVDs directly from the device.

What I do not like about the GZ-MG21 camcorder is the poor video quality, most probably due to the ineffective image stabilizer. It is also very difficult to navigate around the menu or to change the settings because the switches are mainly hidden in compartments. It would have been more useful if the device is equipped with a viewfinder and installed with faster shutter modes. Basically, I feel that there are definitely much better choices of camcorders available in the market than the GZ-MG21 model.