Samsung HMX-W200

Samsung HMX-W200

The Samsung HMX-W200 ($159.99 list) is a pocket camcorder built to withstand forces that are often deadly to delicate electronics. You can drop it or submerge it, and it'll keep plugging along. This compact camcorder can also record 5-megapixel still images, and includes numerous video filters that let you enhance the records of your beach adventures without laboring with video-editing software. Its rugged features may set it apart from the crowd, but poor video quality, questionable ergonomics, and some reliability issues prevent it from being a standout video device. There are better cameras available, some of which deliver the same underwater performance and shock protection. Design and Features The W200 is essentially a rectangular block, with the lens on its rear and controls on the front. Intended for one-handed operation, it measures 4.5 by 2.4 by 0.8 inches (HWD) and weighs about 4.5 ounces, so it fits comfortably in your palm. This makes it only slightly larger and heavier than the similarly rugged Kodak PlaySport Zx5 ($179.95, 4 stars). It is rated to survive a 6.5-foot drop and can be submerged in up to ten feet of water. The 2.3-inch LCD looks good, is bright enough to be visible outdoors on sunny days, and its 230k-dot resolution makes it almost twice as sharp as the display on the PlaySport.