Link: http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/Samsung-HMX-R10-Camcorder-
Review-36864.htm
Samsung HMX-R10 Camcorder Review
by Jeremy Stamas Published on Aug 12, 2009 12:30 PM
Introduction
The Samsung HMX-R10 doesn't feel or look like an ordinary
camcorder. On the surface, it boasts a compact design,
rounded edges, and a unique, tilted lens that angles roughly
25-degrees higher than the rest of the camcorder. Inside, it
has a huge 1/2.33-inch CMOS sensor, Full HD capability,
and a 9-megapixel still image capability—the same specs
as the GZ-X900, the top-line model from JVC. With an
MSRP of just $499, the Samsung HMX-R10 is a compelling
choice for a mid-range camcorder, and it is one of the most
intriguing video/photo hybrid devices we've seen this year.
The Samsung HMX-R10 records video to SD/SDHC memory cards and is currently available in either silver or black.

Section The Good The Bad
Product Tour Unique design; available in silver or black No lens cap
Color & Noise Average color accuracy Noise levels were on the high end
Performance
Motion & Very good sharpness for a camcorder of its class. Captured motion showed significant artifacting
Sharpness
Performance
Low Light Good color accuracy in low light; 30p mode Terrible low light sensitivity, high noise levels
Performance enhanced low light performance
Compression & Included software has a variety of editing options No internal memory; built-in upload to YouTube
Media is limited
Wide range of controls are offered—aperture, Touchscreen interface is horrible for setting
Manual Controls
shutter speed, exposure, noise reduction, etc. manual controls
ISO control, built-in flash, native 9-megapixel still Noise levels were a bit high in our testing
Still Features
image capability
Unique design can be very comfortable for certain Body is easily scratched; lack of a hand strap
Handling & Use
shooting styles. makes the camcorder prone to drops
Playback & Lots of playback options; all ports are located in Proprietary AV-out, Component-out and USB
Connectivity same general area port
Audio & Other Time Lapse Record is useful; slow motion Bad mic placement; no headphone or external
Features settings are fun mic jack
Lens & Imaging System

There is no lens cover for the HMX-R10.
The HMX-R10 has a very odd lens that is angled 25-degrees higher than the rest of the camcorder's
body. This means you must hold the camcorder at a downward angle to get a straight-on shot. This
can be useful for certain shooting conditions and if you like to hold the camcorder away from your
body or down by your hip. It does make the R10 look pretty funny when it is mounted to a tripod,
however. Since the lens angle is higher than the body, the tripod must be tilted down significantly for a
straight-ahead shot—giving the appearance that the camcorder is being pointed towards the ground.
The lens doesn't have a built-in cover or an external cap, so you have to make sure to clean it
regularly to avoid fingerprints and dust. The lens only opens to f/3.5, which isn't very wide for a
consumer camcorder. Under the hood, the camcorder is fitted with a huge 1/2.33-inch CMOS sensor,
which is responsible for the R10's 9-megapixel still image capability.
Lens Sensor
Filter Diameter None Type CMOS
Focal Range 76.4 - 382mm Size 1/2.33-inch
Focal Range (35mm equiv.) Unknown Pixel Count (Gross) 9.15 megapixels
Aperture f/3.5 - f/3.7 Pixel Count (Effective) 5.3 megapixels (video)
9 megapixels (still)
Lab Tested Wide Angle* 46°
Front

flash for still photos
f/3.5 - f/3.7
5x zoom lens
tally lamp
stereo microphone
Right

anchor for wrist strap
Back

mode button
mode indicator light
zoom toggle
record on/off
behind this port
cover: HDMI, DC
power, and a
combined USB/
component/
composite output
Left

2.7-inch LCD
Q.Menu button On-screen display and Easy mode buttons
record on/off power on/off
secondary zoom control

Top
photo shutter button

Bottom
The SD/SDHC card slot and battery port
are located under this hard plastic port cover
tripod mount

In the Box

Samsung HMX-R10
wrist strap
(IA-BH125C)
carrying
AC power rechargeable USB cable
pouch
battery
component/composite
DC power software and documentation
AV cable