The JVC Everio-G GZ-MG21 hard drive digital camcorder is the entry level hard drive camcorder by JVC. The camcorder sports a 20GB hard drive, large enough to record five hours of DVD quality video. Hard drive camcorders also make it easy to download video onto your computer, making the entire process as simple as dragging and dropping the video files.
Positive Aspects of the JVC GZ-MG21
The JVC GZ-MG21 is lightweight, and has a 20G hard drive making it possible to record five hours continuously, without ever changing a tape. Hard drive camcorders also make downloading video onto your computer much easier.Negative Aspects of the JVC GZ-MG21
The JVC GZ-MG21 does not have a viewfinder, and typically has poor video quality for video shot in low-light situations. The camcorders image stabilization is also lacking, making video shot hand held difficult to watch.JVC GZ-MG21 Video Quality
The JVC Everio GZ-MG21 is not designed well to handle low light situations. Video shot in darker situations, such as a shadowy room, or outdoors at night often are difficult to see, and grainy when played back. The camcorder does a great job of recording video in bright light situations, and has some pre-set recording modes to help adjust the camcorder to different lighting conditions.Another downside to the video quality in the GZ-MG21 is the image stabilization. Unlike most camcorders, where the image stabilization softens movements like breathing, and slight hand movements, the image stabilization on the GZ-MG21 does not work very well, making video shot handheld difficult to watch. Video also distorts when moving quickly between camcorder shots.
No Viewfinder
I am always a huge advocate of using the viewfinder on your camcorder. Viewfinders cut down on battery power, and can make it easier to see what you’re recording in bright light situations. The GZ-MG21 does not have a viewfinder, making the LCD the only way you can see what you are recording on the camcorder. This can make for a horrible recording experience if you are outside on a bright day with the sun behind you and the LCD screen is hard to see.
