Panasonic HDC-SD900 review

Both cameras have effective image stabilisation, but we found the SD900’s video was steadier than the HF G10’s when walking around. Panasonic’s camcorder doesn’t have the Canon model’s Powered IS stabilisation, though, which gives you rock solid handheld shots without a tripod.

Unlike Canon’s camcorder, the SD900 has no built-in memory, so you’ll need to use an SDHC or SDXC memory card. A couple of 16GB cards should be sufficient for even the keenest videographer, providing two hours and forty minutes of recording (on the highest detail settings) for around £35. The HF G10 is only available with 32GB of built-in memory, an unnecessary extra cost given it already has two memory card slots.

Panasonic’s SD900 is a well-priced camcorder. It may have the same lens and sensor as the cheaper SD800, but the high-resolution screen, electronic viewfinder and excellent manual controls are worth the extra money if you need more fine control over composing your shots. While its low-light footage and build quality can’t quite match the Canon HF G10’s, its video quality in more favourable lighting conditions is far superior. Compared to the Canon camcorder, Panasonic’s HDC-SD900 looks like a bargain.