Samsung SC-D353 Review:

The Samsung SC-D353 is packed with features and value. The Samsung SC-D353 camcorder sports a streamlined body for easy carrying, and plenty of value-enhancing features. A 680K CCD and 20x optical / 900x digital zoom provide excellent picture clarity and high recording flexibility. A viewfinder and 2.5 inch LCD screen lets users plan their shots, edit scenes, and playback video. The camera also features enhanced image quality with DSP6 digital signal processing technology, and upgraded USB streaming capabilities (VGA, 30 frames per second).

Samsung SC-D353 Highlight

• Multi OSD Language
  You can select the desired OSD language among English, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Polish and Dutch.
• Digital Data Transfer Function with IEEE1394
  By incorporating the IEEE 1394 (i.LINK is a serial data transfer protocol and interconnectivity system, used to transmit DV data) high speed data transport port, both moving and still images can be transferred to a PC, making it possible to produce or edit various images.
• USB Interface for Digital Image Data Transfer
  You can transfer images to a PC using the USB interface without an add-on card.
• Photo
  The photo function lets you capture an object as a still along with sound, while in camera mode.
• 900x Digital Zoom
  Allows you to magnify an image up to 900 times its original size.
• Color TFT LCD
  A high-resolution color TFT LCD gives you clean, sharp images as well as the ability to review your recordings immediately.
• Digital Image Stabilizer (DIS)
  The DIS compensates for any handshake, reducing unstable images particularly at high magnification.
• Various Digital Effects
  The digital effects allows you to give your films a special look by adding various special effects.
• Back Light Compensation (BLC)
  The BLC function compensates for the bright background behind a subject you’re recording.
• Program AE
  The program AE enables you to alter the shutter speed and aperture to suit the type of scene / action to be filmed.
• Digital Still Camera Function
  • Using Memory card, you can easily record and playback standard still images.
  • You can transfer standard still images on the Memory card to your PC using the USB interface.
• MPEG Recording
  MPEG recording makes it possible to record video onto a memory card.

Sure, Samsung SC-D353 camcorder is not perfect, but for the price I couldn’t ask for much more. I think the availability of any MiniDV camcorder for little more money (after rebate) than today’s VHS-C models is reason to celebrate. I have had the Samsung SC-D353 for a few days and have done some testing. Even without changing the original settings, things look pretty good. In brightly lit scenes, colors are vibrant and fairly accurate. Granted, the focus is sometimes a little off. You might also see a digital artifact or two. But for casual video recording, these issues are not a big deal.

My main complaints are that the LCD could be a little more clear, the black and white viewfinder emits a weird kind of bluish halo around the edges, the Samsung SC-D353 is a little awkward to hold and some of the controls are inconveniently placed (at least for my hand), and I question the long-term durability of the plastic casing. But on the other hand, the 20X zoom is a major plus, the camera is loaded with features, it takes decent quality video and excellent audio, and, of course, it is CHEAP. Not to mention that unlike many cameras in this price range, the Samsung SC-D353 has a memory card slot for taking MPEG videos and still photos which can then easily be transferred to a computer via USB 2.0. Don’t expect this camera to replace your digital still camera, though.

If you want a top-of-the-line camcorder or are going to be doing a lot of low light recording, Samsung SC-D353 camcorder is not for you. But if you are a beginner or simply don’t have much money to spend and still want a passable camcorder, this is exactly what you’re looking for.

—– By Jerald Wuorenmaa

Samsung SC-D353 Features

• Upgraded USB streaming (VGA 30 frames per second)
• 20x optical zoom
• Memory stick slot
• Enhanced image quality (DSP6)
• PictBridge

Samsung SC-D353 Specifications

Compare Prices Of Samsung SC-D353 MiniDV Camcorder