With a very low price prior to the holidays, and a new i7 iMac, I thought I'd finally jump on the HD camcorder wagon. I've had miniDV camcorders for the last 11 years. My last (Canon Optura Pi) was selected after careful research with a high priority on quality footage indoors in the evening - the achilles heel of digital camcorders. I own 3 Panasonic still digital cameras, so I admit to having a soft spot for the brand.

Anyways, the SD10 was a great price, a beautiful little form factor, and shot beautiful video outside during the day. My experience at night indoors (with all lights on) showed the camera to do a poor job. We're not just talking about noise, but blockiness too. It was totally unwatchable. I also shot some additional indoor footage during the day - a large indoor building with lots of light - very watchable but noticeable grain. Note that footage was viewed directly on a HD Television using the HDMI connection - on the viewfinder you might think the footage was fine.

The reviews were mixed - mainly regarding comments on indoor usage - but I thought I'd take a chance. Alas the camera went back, and I replaced it with a Sanyo FH1aSanyo VPC-FH1A Full HD Video and 8 MP Digital Photos (Black) (also from Amazon). Its indoor performance is excellent!