Sanyo Xacti VPC-CG9

An excellent compact "single hand" camera that takes good quality still images and videos.
I bought this camera more specifically to videos without the problems of weight that you usually get with ordinary video cameras. I was surprised just how light this feels whilst in use, without lacking a sense of solidity at the same time. The built in image stabiliser does a reasonable job of keeping the images still but it does not overcome ...
...are not HD but offer a good level of image quality and are more than compensated for with the lower purchase price of this model compared to the HD Xacti range. If you want TOP quality videos, this model will not do for you and you would be well advised to invest in the more expensive models available, however the overall video performance was better than I expected.
Now for the big surprise, the still images taken by this model are really ... more

An excellent compact "single hand" camera that takes good quality still images and videos.
I bought this camera more specifically to videos without the problems of weight that you usually get with ordinary video cameras. I was surprised just how light this feels whilst in use, without lacking a sense of solidity at the same time. The built in image stabiliser does a reasonable job of keeping the images still but it does not overcome all camera shake. However, better that nothing!
The videos are not HD but offer a good level of image quality and are more than compensated for with the lower purchase price of this model compared to the HD Xacti range. If you want TOP quality videos, this model will not do for you and you would be well advised to invest in the more expensive models available, however the overall video performance was better than I expected.
Now for the big surprise, the still images taken by this model are really excellent with good definition and little noise. There is the added function of extreme micro which allows you to take images from as little as 2cm from the subject for stunning effects! There are several built in filters and modes which allow some flexibility with images but in full auto the images are really very good.
The only real negative point is the initial difficulty is selecting everything with your thumb including the shutter release, it was a bit difficult at first and meant several blurred images as the button was jerkily pressed instead of being squeezed as it should be. However this is only a minimal disturbance as after a short practice period this becomes second nature.
I have heard that some people find difficulty in opening the SD card slot which is located on the back of the camera. I must confess that I didn't have this problem at all. I was a bit disappointed that the battery had to be removed to be charged. I expected that it could be charged in the camera but this is no great problem. The battery life is reasonably good at about an hour of video but I intend to get a spare for security.
I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a "different" compact to the usual models and to expect some pleasant surprises from the images they capture.
 

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