Strengths: slim, light, good video quality

Weaknesses: unfriendly software, complicated function setting

Summary: This camcorder is very slim and record very nice quality of videos, though I find the color saturation is not as good as Canon DSLR. The recording time for a single mini-dvd-r is about 30 minutes, which is enough for making home-videos but not long enough for recording an event. Moreover, the software is not very easy to use, and the function setting of the camcorder needs some time to get used to.

Strengths: Camcorder works good if you record during day time indoor or outside and good quality.

Weaknesses: The software is unfriendly, but that is not a big problem.

Summary: After researching on many similar camcorders from different manufacturers,I purchased DC50. What a great choice !!!This is my very first camcorder and nothing to complain about; easy to operate. I LOVE IT !!!

Strengths: 5 megapixel still camera with many photo options. Remote helps navigate menus. Image stabilization feature.

Weaknesses: High sticker price for standard-definition camcorder. Hard to understand manual and software.

Summary: What makes the Canon DC50 unique is the 5 megapixel still photo capability with many options, including continuous shooting mode. You can record photos on a microSD or on a mini DVD. The camcorder fits comfortably in the hand. The viewfinder sits back, away from your face, and can be angled for a better view. The remote option is a helpful alternative to using the joystick.As a first-time camcorder user, I am finding it difficult to learn how to use it without outside help: the manual and software instructions are hard to follow. On camcorder playback, the video images and colors looked good. I haven't finalized my first disc yet, so I haven't played my video on a DVD player or computer. The DC50 comes with a Canon mini DVD-R. When I went to purchase a mini DVD-RW, I was told that not all brands, such as Sony, will work with the Canon.