Previous Eluras were pretty hard to use because the buttons weren’t placed so comfortable and easy to use. The design is much better on this one, and it’s very smooth. It’s very light, measures 2.2 by 3 by 4.3 inches and weighs just about a pound with battery and a tape. Most of the buttons are placed on the right side except for the power switch which is placed on the back. Also, on the camera back there is a small joystick, which may feel a little strange, but after some getting used to it, there’s no problem.

The menu is simple and organized; connectivity includes FireWire, USB, and a stereo minijack microphone input, but no S-Video connector. The 20X lens is average, to say the least. The true wide-screen CCD sensor is probably a feature to enjoy. Of course, you can use several digital effects, like multiple faders, color masks, etc. Images can be captured on to SD cards in 1,152×864 or 640×480; you have three options for compression (standard, fine, and super fine). The camcorders’ LCD offers a clear and bright image even under bad conditions. The colours are accurate, the edges are well defined and at it’s price ($314) it offers quite a bargain.