Panasonic TA-1 Pocket Camcorder Review

Sometimes things happen in life that you'd like to capture and keep with you. Memories are nice but they have some problems. They become fuzzy, fade away, and are awfully difficult to share. All things considered, it's a good idea to have a reliable camcorder in your possession. Perhaps you're eagerly awaiting your baby's first steps? Maybe you want to get in on America's Funniest Home Videos or Animal Planet's Funniest Animals? You could aspire to be an amateur filmmaker? No matter what your reason, the Panasonic TA-1 camcorder might just be for you.

First things first- this is an attractive little piece of camera tech. Panasonic was clearly trying to make something stylish to appeal to the 'trendy' crowd. This pocket-camcorder certainly is easy on the eyes when you pull it out. Whether you get the shiny, apple red TA-1 or the sleek, mauve TA-1, you'll be impressed with its aesthetics. The black model, while fairly attractive, is lacking when compared to the flavorful alternatives.

While appealing in design, the price may frighten away cost-conscious consumers. Priced at around $160-$170, depending on where you go, the Panasonic TA-1 isn't exactly cheap. For those eager to get their hands on an attractive, HD format pocket-camcorder, the price probably won't be too much of an issue. Considering the capabilities of the phone, you definitely are getting your money's worth.

Put simply, video quality is top-notch on the TA-1. It has a little trouble keeping up if the action gets too hectic for those interested in recording video games or gameplay of the like- but it certainly serves its everyday purpose nicely. The Panasonic TA-1 functions more than properly as a device you whip out of your pocket to capture something funny or interesting. Youtube is waiting!

An extra feature worth noting for communication interested consumers is the integrated Skype functionality. Both Skype Audio and Skype Video are enabled on the Panasonic TA-1. Those interested in chatting with friends as well as recording random daily events will be covered. The functionality works well enough, though can be a little awkward at times- namely because you may find yourself adjusting the TA-1 a lot. Overall it's a great feature and does its job of add an extra incentive to the package.

While the videos are great in terms of quality and ease of capture, the pictures also a more than admirable feature of the phone. Taking 8MP HD photos is huge step-up from the camera on most phones. Some might not appreciate the quality offered an it certainly isn't going to sway some more frugal consumers, but it's another incentive worth noting. The one real flaw with the Panasonic TA-1 is its durability. While not cheaply made, this pocket-camcorder doesn't quite feel like it could take much punishment. A potential serious issue depending on how careful you are with your tech- it may make or break your decision.