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The Samsung Flash Memory Ultra-Compact Camcorder sits firmly in the mid-range of pocket camcorders we reviewed. Samsung has always done an amazing job on the design of its products. The HMX-U10 is no exception. For example, this mini camcorder fits comfortably in your hand, has very intuitive controls and offers a good variety of additional features. We were particularly impressed by its 1920x1080p full-HD capability. However, we soon found out the numbers don't quite line up with the overall quality when it comes to shooting video with this ultra-compact camcorder.

The first thing that stands out about the new Samsung Flash Memory Ultra-Compact Camcorder is that it records in 1920x1080p. Unfortunately, we found through extensive research that although this line of Samsung pocket cameras claims high production value, the actual picture quality depends on the lens and overall build. This Samsung product delivers some good-quality video in well-lit areas and outdoors, but because of its low-quality lens, it doesn't live up to the advertised resolution. Your ability to take pictures in the middle of recording video, however, is intact with Samsung's newest compact camcorder model. The quality of these still photos, which can be taken at up to 14MP, is outstanding in comparison with other pocket camcorders we reviewed.

A pocket camcorder should be able to take a lot of video without forcing you to switch out memory cards every few hours. The Samsung Ultra-Compact Camcorder supports up to 32GB of removable memory, which means you will probably only need one SD card to make your new Samsung video camera fully portable.

When it comes to leading technology in the field of pocket camcorders, Samsung has a clear advantage. Many of the controls that are part of the Samsung Flash Memory Ultra-Compact Camcorder can be accessed with the touchscreen. Actual buttons are available for the play, record and still-picture functions. There is no flip-out USB drive on this Samsung mini camcorder, but the reality is that if you have a cord at home for uploads, this shouldn't be much of an issue. The latest version of the camera also has an HDMI port so you can watch your videos or view your photos on any compatible TV or computer.

The overall shape and design make accessing the controls, USB ports and other features using this Samsung pocket camcorder quick and simple to use. The design feels natural in your hand and helps with stability when taking detailed pictures or video. The Samsung pocket camcorder also makes it easy for you to upload video quickly to social media sites such as YouTube.

Because Samsung has been around for so long, it has learned the importance of customer service. You will get the help you need during your shopping experience and long afterward. The company offers everything from live chat to a communities section where you can see how others have enjoyed, or solved problems with, their Samsung products.

Summary:

The idea behind a pocket camcorder is that you get a portable device at an affordable price that can take high-quality videos and photographs. Samsung hit the design right on the head with this ultra-compact camcorder. It also did well by including image-stabilization technology and the capacity to take photographs up to 14MP in quality. However, Samsung missed the figurative nail in some important areas such as quality video in any setting. Overall, the Samsung Flash Memory Ultra-Compact Camcorder is a good product that will deliver adequate videos and pictures for amateur photographers on the move.

 
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Samsung HMX-U20

Pros
With full 1080p HD, 14MP still pictures and image-stabilization technology, the Samsung ultra-compact camcorder is a good choice for shooting video on the go.

Cons
The video you take is very highly compressed, which causes problems for editing videos later, and the LCD display is a bit small.

The Verdict

Lens quality and video-format issues are limitations, but the 1080p HD and sturdy design of the Samsung Flash Memory Ultra-Compact Camcorder make up the difference.