The JVC GR-D350 delivers good-quality video images and better manual controls than you might expect from a low-price model. As the entry-level unit in JVC's line of MiniDV camcorders, the GR-D350 will appeal to point-and-shoot enthusiasts as well as budget consumers seeking a selection of manual controls to bolster the pure automatic mode.

Unfortunately, there are a few handling problems with this digital camcorder. While the manual focus is relatively easy to engage, other controls such as white balance, exposure and shutter speed require navigating menus via an awkwardly placed touchpad. Gain is limited to simply turning the automatic gain on or off. This is fine if you intend to employ manual controls only on occasion. On the other hand, manual control enthusiasts will find the process frustrating. Thankfully, the GR-D350 takes care of the guesswork when in automatic mode and handles with ease.

The video quality is pleasing for a budget unit. The GR-D350 has a 1/6-inch CCD that delivers 340,000-pixel resolution for video, along with a powerful 32X optical/800X digital zoom supported by digital image stabilization. In well-lit shooting conditions, images appear sharp with little video noise present, even when the colors are oversaturated. For general home recordings of family gatherings and vacations, for example, the video quality of the GR-D350 is hard to beat at this price, although the low-light performance is less impressive compared to some competing models.

JVC includes some interesting extra features on the GR-D350. One example is the Data Battery function, which displays readouts for the remaining battery life and recording time. The battery meter even lets you know how much time is left if you use the 2-1/2-inch color LCD viewscreen or the GR-D350's color viewfinder.

The GR-D350 offers limited digital stills capability. You can capture stills to MiniDV tape, but there is no memory card slot. Nevertheless, for an entry-level MiniDV camcorder, the GR-D350 offers solid performance at a great price.

Pros: Solid entry-level specs, low price, accurate automatic controls
Cons: Awkward navigation of manual controls, no memory card slot

Warranty
90 days labor, 1 year parts