JVC Picsio GC-FM1 Camcorder Review

JVC GC-FM1 versus Sony MHS-PM1
• The Picsio has slightly superior video performance, though both record 1080p video. • Both record to memory cards and have internal, rechargeable batteries. • Both are equally easy to use for the most basic operations, but confusing to navigate further. • The Webbie is more durable and more reliable: ports are covered and buttons and switches have more solid construction.
	Flip UltraHD Comparison	(Page 13 of 17)	Kodak Zx1 Comparison

The JVC Picsio GC-FM1 and the Sony Webbie MHS-PM1 are two of the only ultra-compact models that support 1080p recording. Most of the competition maxes out at 720p. Of course, native recording is 1440 x 1080, but all files are output as 1920 x 1080, in a similar fashion to HDV recording on traditional consumer camcorders. In terms of video performance, the FM1 achieves superior results compared to the Webbie. It was sharper, and had better-looking motion and colour.

The PM1, on the other hand, is a more attractive piece of consumer electronics and has that convenient swivel lens for self-recording. The ports have a sturdy cover, which should lengthen the life of the camcorder, and the Webbie has no flimsy tele-macro switch to hinder focus. The resolution isn't as high, so your videos and photos aren't as sharp, but we think that's a small price to pay for a more reliable product. (Especially considering that most videos recorded on these cams are headed towards a low resolution destination like YouTube.) Both camcorders are easy to fly on auto-pilot and more annoying to navigate when you try to delve deeper.

If you like the look of either of these cams, that will probably be the deciding factor for you. If you don't like the look, you're probably likely to spend your money elsewhere.

	Comparison Specs
	JVC GC-FM1	Sony MHS-PM1
Price	£163	£199
Primary Recording Media	SD/SDHC memory cards	Memory Stick DUO Pro
Secondary Recording Media	34MB internal memory	12MB internal memory
Image Sensor	1/3.2-inch CMOS	1/2.5-inch CMOS
Effective Pixel Count	Unknown	2.07 Megapixels
Mic Input	None	None
LCD	2-inch	1.8-inch with 230,000 pixel display
Viewfinder	None	None
Weight	100g with battery	120g with battery
Dimensions	53 x 97 x 17mm	55 x 103 x 24mm
HD	Yes	Yes
Frame Rates	1080/30p, 720/60p, 480/60p, 240/30p	1080/30p, 720/30p, 480/30p
Compression	MPEG-4 AVC/H.264	MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
Maximum Bitrate	Unknown	Unknown
Optical Zoom	None	None
Battery	Internal lithium-ion rechargeable (rechargeable via USB)	Removable lithium-ion rechargeable (rechargeable via wall-plug adapter)

Noise at 60 lux Auto
JVC GC-FM1 100% Crop	Sony MHS-PM1 100% Crop