Review: Samsung SMX-F50 Standard Definition SD Camcorder

By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

Are we at the end of the age of the standalone camcorder? The recent demise of the Flip video camera and the improving HD video recording capability of smartphones and even tablets, it might be hard to convince casual users to spend money one standalone camcorders. For users who need great zoom capabilities, better battery life and the convenience of a camera that uses old SD Cards, here's a option worth checking out.

Samsung’s SMX-F50($199 at Best Buy Canada) might be one model to change people’s minds. This is an incredibly light, surprisingly capable video camera features a 65x optical zoom and 2200X digital zoom that no smartphone can touch. Yes, it is a camcorder in the traditional sense. It has a rotating flip-out screen that serves as a viewfinder and it can manage the zoom as well as the recording and controls of the camera.

 

Samsung’s packed the SMX-F50 with a lot of technology but has also made it easy and intuitive to use. Featuring a Scheneider Kreuznnach Varioplan lens, the ability to charge via USB and a Smart Background  Music feature  that If you choose to add background music to a movie, the Smart BGM feature automatically lowers the music volume when speech is detected so it doesn't drown out what's being said.

Camera operation is straightforward. Turn it on, wait 10 seconds and it should be good to go. The SMX-F50 has the ability to take stills as well as video which is convenient although don’t expect the stills to be as clear or sharp as a standalone camera, this is really a device that’s focused on video.

Samsung's SMX-F50 offers users plug and play simplicity and 2 hour battery life, 65x optical zoom with 2200x digital zoom and can take stills and  mp4 video. We found some of the controls to be a bit slow, especially during start-up so the camera should be on standby if you expect to shoot any fast action sequences or you might miss the opportunity. Some users may be bothered that it isimited to H.264 recording

For users with a lot of SD Cards lying around, the SMX-F50 is a remarkably able and easy to use  standard defintion video camera. The 65x zoom alone makes It a  capable all around video camera at a decent price if you aren't interested in playing back HD video.

Rating: 4 out of 5