JVC GR-X5 review

A 64mm (2.5-inch) flip-up LCD monitor covers the GR-X5's back -- a placement more reminiscent of a still camera than a camcorder. The LCD serves as the sole viewfinder. Flipping it up exposes a four-way controller pad and a few buttons for common functions, including menu activation, white balance, fades and wipes, and LCD backlight. Also on the back are FireWire and USB ports for downloading video and stills respectively.

With your right index finger, you can reach the zoom toggle and the shutter-release button, which takes photos

Under the hand strap, the MiniDV tape hatch occupies the right side of the camera. Set into the door are a speaker and an SD/MMC memory-card slot. Another unusual aspect of the GR-X5's design is that the door opens towards the front of the camera.

Atop the camera are simple power/mode and cassette/memory-card switches, as well as a button for starting video recording

Manual controls are located on the left side of the camera. They include a dial and buttons for adjusting exposure, selecting an autoexposure mode and switching between automatic and manual focus. The battery snaps into a well on the left side and charges on-camera. Charging while shooting is possible only with an optional accessory charger.

When it comes to usability, JVC did its homework with this camera. While some compact three-chip competitors are controlled mainly via complex and confusing menu navigation systems, the GR-X5 provides a balance of external controls and switches for the most commonly used functions and a straightforward menu system for more esoteric settings. That said, the four-way controller pad on the back of the camera was too small and difficult to manipulate for our big fingers.

Finally, JVC should be congratulated for including a full set of connections, most notably a standard hotshoe and jacks for headphones and an external mic.