Samsung Mini DV Digital Camcorder SC-D372

This little camcorder is very inexpensive, and can make you pretty happy if you don't want to spend much, and want to ignore the fact that it was built by ill treated factory workers, but it does have some drawbacks.

I do like that it has a real, traditional viewfinder as well as the LCD screen, which can be turned around all the way, that it is light, and has a 34 X zoom.

The low light quality is very grainy. Most low budget camcorders have this problem, but this one seriously does.

The sound is very low, and tinny, and the sound of the motor is recorded. I basically just used it for recording video I'd mute and put music over, for the most part. Otherwise, I'd put it right next to my face to record, and then on IMovie, up the volume the whole way.

There is no external mic, which is a common problem in low end cameras, but they are available, such as in the Canon ZR500 MiniDV Camcorder. Unfortunately, that one has no good way to attach it rather than to hold it, and it really needs to be used as the built in mic is overly sensitive to hand movements, etc.

The tape eject lever broke off of mine, so I used the tip of my eyeglasses to open it every time.

When I kept it turned off to save the battery, it would take too long to start up again to take the shots I wanted.

Camera shake can be extreme.

So, while it can do in a pinch, when you can upgrade to something more professional, if you care about quality, go for it.

And, to put it in a larger context, I generally try to avoid buying from companies in China known for treating their workers badly. While this camera was a gift, I wouldn't buy a Samsung for that reason. Doing a little research into the Samsung factory reputation for worker quality of life might convince people wavering on brands to go elsewhere. You can most likely find a better camera for the price, and have a better conscience at the same time.