This camcorder has a lot going for it: the ability to take still images at up to 1024 by 768 pixels and save them to an SD card, a powerful 16X optical zoom, and a bright-white LED video light mounted on the front of the camcorder--a real plus for low-light shoots. The GR-D72US also scored above average in our video tests: We were particularly impressed with the subtle and accurate colors in the outdoor videos. The camcorder also offers a slow shutter setting, which you can quickly turn on and off. The D72US outshone many of the other cameras we tested when shooting video with the lamp on, offering images that were sharper than those captured from the similarly priced Canon ZR90.
However, the camera felt awkward in our hands, and we often inadvertently triggered the hypersensitive record button on the rear of the camcorder body. This is especially worrying as you can accidentally overwrite video you may want to keep.
The D72US ran for 1 hour and 20 minutes; adequate for a day's casual shooting, but (as with most of the camcorders we reviewed) we recommend you buy a higher-capacity or spare battery. The viewfinder is a pleasure to look at, with bright, crisp video. However, it can't be tilted up, which means you have to use the LCD except when shooting at eye level. And you have to flip out the LCD to access the playback controls, as well as the USB and FireWire ports. Other camcorders position them at the rear of the body, a more convenient location.
This attractive camcorder comes with lots of features for a low price, but quirky controls make it awkward to use.
Bryan Hastings
