Samsung VP-MX20

Samsung VP-MX20

Samsung VP-MX20

Features: Optical zoom: 35x
Video resolutions: 720×576, 640×480
Video speed: 25 fps
Supported memory media: Secure Digital (SD)
Wired terminals / ports: DC In, Composite Video Output, USB 2.0

Pros: H.264 AVC recording, fun Interval/time-lapse mode, pretty cheap (for a camcorder).

Cons: No still images mode, sub-par image quality, pretty expensive (for a Net-cam).

The final word: Despite its prominent YouTube branding, the VP-MX20 is not really a Net-cam; at least, not in the traditional sense. Nevertheless, it should prove adequate for casual users who require a cheap point-and-shoot camera.

ALONGSIDE sad and obsessive Facebook freaks, video bloggers are fast becoming the number one scourge of the Internet. It feels like everyone is uploading video diaries these days, ranging from giddy kneed Zac Efron crush-gushing to slavering political diatribes.

Some people are even making real money from their online ventures, with Web sites like YouTube offering cash incentives for popular blogs. All you need to get started is a bit of free time and a compatible camcorder, which is where the VP-MX20 comes in.

Keen to capitalise on this burgeoning market as swiftly as possible, Samsung has upgraded its VP-MX10 camcorder and slapped a YouTube logo on the front. The result is a Net-cam with a difference – sporting a 720×576 image resolution and a gargantuan 35x optical zoom lens, it can be used for a variety of non-Web purposes, including TV playback. This makes it a good option for people who want a fully fledged camcorder with blog-like trimmings.

With an RRP of over $500, it’s not really a Net-cam at all. There are far more affordable options on the market for those who are only interested in Web uploads, so check out the competition before laying down your cash.

The VP-MX20 records in the H.264 AVC format rather than MPEG 4. This is a newer video codec that is more typically associated with high-definition camcorders. Other improvements over the MX10 include an improved Schneider Kreuznach lens, face detection technology and a curious time-lapse recording mode.