Sony HDR-TD10

*Est. $1,500
Reviewed
December 2011
Sony HDR-TD10

Pros
  • Shoots 3D video
  • Strong optical zoom, even in 3D mode
Cons
  • Not as good in 2D mode as rivals
  • 3D screen makes some users queasy
  • Some manual controls not available in 3D mode
  • Heavy
  • Editing software isn't Mac-compatible

If you want a 3D camcorder right now, the Sony HDR-TD10 is one of your few options -- but not all experts are convinced that 3D home video is ready for primetime. The Sony uses two lenses with two CMOS sensors to achieve the 3D effect -- you can hook it up to your 3D TV with an HDMI cable to watch -- and the camcorder's LCD screen also shows footage in 3D with no glasses required (although some experts and users say it makes them queasy or headachy to look at it). But testers at CamcorderInfo.com find the other full 3D camcorder on the market, the JVC Everio GS-TD1 (*Est. $1,600), offers more manual controls and record modes in 3D (although the Sony has a longer zoom in 3D mode -- 10x versus 5x). You can also shoot in regular high-definition 2D, but testers say the Sony doesn't do this as well as competing camcorders like the non-3D Canon Vixia HF G10 (*Est. $1,400). The Sony is heavy and pricey, too, so experts say it's not a good choice unless you really want a 3D camcorder right now.

Experts at CamcorderInfo.com do the best job testing all aspects of the Sony HDR-TD10 and comparing it with its major competitors. ConsumerReports.org and its British counterpart, Which? magazine, also objectively test the TD10 and rank it against its peers, although ConsumerReports.org doesn't offer much discussion about the camcorder. Amazon.com is a good place to find owner reviews, both positive and negative.

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Where To Buy
Sony HDR-TD10 High Definition 3D Handycam Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom (Silver)

 (24 reviews)
Buy new: $1,599.00 $983.44   28 Used from $765.00

In Stock.

 
Featured StoresStore RatingNotesTotal Price
CrutchfieldCrutchfield rated 4.84 (4855 reviews)4,855 store reviewsIn Stock. $1499.99 before $400.00 savings$1,099.99
B&H Photo-Video-Pro AudioB&H Photo-Video-Pro Audio rated 4.78 (7684 reviews)7,684 store reviewsIn Stock. Ships Free,Ships Today! $0 Pay Avail! Sony AuthDealer$879.00
AmazonAmazon rated 3.43 (1800 reviews)1,800 store reviewsIn Stock. Get free shipping on orders over $25.00$1,207.37
 

Our Sources

1. CamcorderInfo.com

After a detailed test, Jeremy Stamas concludes that the Sony HDR-TD10 works well for a 3D camcorder -- but 3D camcorders in general have a long way to go. He doesn't recommend it "unless you're really pumped about jumping on the 3D bandwagon right this instant."

Review: Sony Handycam HDR-TD10, Jeremy Stamas, Aug. 3, 2011

2. ConsumerReports.org

The Sony HDR-TD10 is one of more than 50 full-featured HD camcorders tested by ConsumerReports.org. Each camcorder is rated on its photo, video and audio quality, low-light capability, autofocus, image stabilization and other features, and then ranked from best to worst.

Review: HD Camcorder Ratings and Reliability, Editors of ConsumerReports.org

3. Which? magazine

This British magazine, similar to ConsumerReports.org, tests 123 full-featured camcorders, including the Sony HDR-TD10. Testers rate the camcorders' video, audio and photo quality and usability before picking best buys.

Review: Camcorders, Editors of Which? magazine

4. Amazon.com

Over a dozen customers have reviewed the Sony HDR-TD10, awarding it an average of 4 stars out of 5. Most find the 3D footage impressive, but we did find complaints about the included editing software. Some users say looking at the glasses-free 3D LCD screen makes them dizzy, headachy or sick.

Review: Sony HDR-TD10 High Definition 3D Handycam Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom (Dark Gray), Contributors to Amazon.com

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