For about $50 more than the VDR-D210, the Panasonic VDR-D230 DVD camcorder offers an array of additional features but ultimately delivers the same level of mediocre performance. This mid-range model offers the excellent 32x optical zoom and optical image stabilization system that we admired on the entry level model. It lacks the three CCD optical setup of the high end VDR-D310, though, as well as the superior Leica Dicomar lens. Instead, the VDR-D230 offers the same single chip imager as the VDR-D210, a 1/6 inch CCD with 680K effective pixels for video. The resulting video is acceptable for most home video uses. The VDR-D230 produces good color reproduction, although we did detect some video noise, even in favorable lighting conditions. Despite the employment of MagicPix low light mode for dimly lit situations, the video can become choppy and washed out.

As with the rest of the Panasonic DVD camcorder range, the VDR-D230 offers a choice of DVD recording formats. The unit records to 3-inch mini discs in either write once DVD-R discs, rewriteable DVD-RW or rewriteable DVD-RAM discs. It is also compatible with Dual Layer DVD-R discs. The camcorder will automatically find a blank space on a disc when recording and if you select a format that is compatible with your home DVD player or recorder, you can play finalized discs directly from the camcorder.

Among the additional features offered on the VDR-D230 is a memory card slot compatible with SD and SDHC memory cards. The digital still functions on this DV camcorder remain extremely limited, though. The unit is PictBridge compliant so you can print directly from the camcorder to a compatible digital printer. Print size, layout, date and other settings can also be made with the camera. With no built in flash and with a maximum stills resolution of just 640 x 480 pixels, though, you won't want to ditch your dedicated stills camera any time soon.

The cold accessory shoe does allow for some expansion possibilities and the VDR-D230 does offer a 2.0 mini USB port for hook up to a PC. When employing the Soft-Skin mode, the camcorder does a good job at detecting skin tones and automatically softening the focus to make faces look more flattering. The 2.7 inch LCD screen is ideal for framing and viewing footage shot in 16:9 widescreen mode and the one-touch navigation system makes this an ideal camcorder for novice users.

Unless the very basic stills capability of this unit is important to you, we'd recommend opting for the entry level VDR-D210 instead. Despite boasting extra features over the less expensive DVD camcorder, we felt the Panasonic VDR-D230 offers less value for money.

Pros: 32x optical zoom and an optical image stabilization system, limited stills capability.
Cons: Only average performance in good lighting, poor performance in low light, more expensive than the VDR-D210

Warranty
90 days, labor; 1 year, parts