The GZ-MG21 is the entry-level model in JVC's Everio line, and its internal hard disk means that you'll never have to worry about running out of blank MiniDV tapes or 3-inch recordable DVD. This light and compact digital camcorder features a 20GB hard drive that can record 4 hours 50 minutes of MPEG2 video in the highest-quality recording mode or 25 hours in the lower-quality economy setting.

The GZ-MG21's 1/6-inch, 680,000-pixel CCD is identical to the imager on the more expensive GZ-MG37, and both models have identical 32X optical/800X zoom functions supported by digital image stabilization. The two models also offer widescreen recording. As you would expect, the quality of images is the same, which is unfortunate. Despite the convenience of the hard disk, the overall picture quality can be disappointing, roughly on par with that produced by much less expensive MiniDV models.

There are plenty of advantages to a removable media-free camcorder, of course. The GZ-MG21 has virtually no moving parts other than the hard disk, so there is no motor noise to be picked up during video recordings. The lack of moving parts also means there is less chance of damaging the camcorder as a result of drops or hard knocks. JVC has even included a Drop Detection feature that automatically cuts the unit's power in the case of a drop or fall, preventing any potential damage to the hard disk. Another advantage is that once you've purchased a hard-disk camcorder like the GZ-MG21, you'll never have to buy blank DVD or tapes again.

The joystick LCD control makes the GZ-MG21 a simple unit to operate, and the ultracompact frame means you can carry it just about anywhere. An SD memory card slot is included, and you can record digital stills to both memory card and the internal memory. The JVC Everio GZ-MG21 is a very functional and user-friendly digital camcorder, and it serves as an ideal introduction to the world of hard-disk video recording.

Pros:  Least-expensive Everio hard-disk model, good storage capacity, no motor noise
Cons:  Unimpressive video performance

Warranty
90 days labor, 1 year parts