Top Panasonic SDR-SW20 Camcorder Reviews

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Camcorder Summary:
The Panasonic SDR-SW20 is a rugged and waterproof compact camcorder that records to SD or SDHC memory cards. It is designed for active users who do not want to worry about a fragile camcorder. The SDR-SW20 features waterproofing, shock-proofing, dust-proofing, 10x optical zoom, and a 2.7" LCD. It is available now for about $399.

Panasonic SDR-SW20 News Release Summary:
Panasonic introduces two new SD card camcorders ideal for active users on-the-go. The new waterproof SW20 and ultra-mobile SDR-S7 make debut at CES 2008.

Las Vegas, NV (January 6, 2008) – Panasonic, a leader in High Definition and digital video technologies, today announces two new SD Card camcorders, the waterproof SDR-SW20 and the compact and ultra-mobile SDR-S7.

“In the past, camcorders were most often used to record special events, such as weddings and vacations. However, camcorder usage has evolved, and consumers demand better technologies and have more versatile needs,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Panasonic has addressed this demand by announcing two new SD Card camcorders that offer unique designs and features for specific activities, but are still compact and affordable enough for everyday use, such as uploading to online video sites.”

The new SDR-SW20 combines a rugged, compact body with waterproofing that allows use in water, including seawater, to a depth of five feet, shock-proofing that protects against drops from up to 4 feet, and a dust-proofing design that shuts out airborne dust particles that can lead to malfunction. With a design that protects it from water, dust, and impact, the SW20 is a versatile camcorder that can meet varying weather conditions and shooting environments.

Both new models have a 10x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD screens and feature new designs for easy and comfortable shooting. Both have a grip designed so the user can stabilize the unit by bracing the elbow against the body as with conventional camcorders. In addition, they both feature a Sub Rec button on the front of the camera, making it possible to shoot with a pistol-grip style.

Both the S7 and SW20 record to SD or SDHC Memory Cards, which further contributes to their compact design and also provides extended recording capability. A 16-GB SDHC Memory Card allows up to approximately 13 hours 20 minutes of recording.

Other new features of the SDR-SW20 and SDR-S7 include:

• World Timer – Handy for travelers, this feature makes it easy to set the time when crossing time zones and again when returning home. Simply select the destination from the display map, and the camcorder is automatically set for that time zone. The time for two different locations can be set – such as home and destination – allowing the user to switch between the times by simply pressing a button.

• 0.6-Sec Quick Start – Starts recording just 0.6 second from the time the LCD is opened, making it easier to catch those special moments that come with no warning.

• Create DVD Discs with One-Touch Ease – This new function allows users to save content onto DVD discs without all the fuss. Connect the SW20 or S7 via USB cable to a VW-BN1 DVD Burner (optional), and press a single button to copy recorded video clips from an SDHC/SD Memory Card to a DVD disc (DVD-RAM/-RW/-R/-R DL).

The Panasonic SDR-SW20 will be available in February 2008 with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $399.95 and the SDR-S7 will be available in May 2008 with a MSRP of $299.