Sanyo Xacti VPC-CG10

Sanyo Xacti VPC-CG10

In an attempt to create a new category of devices, Sanyo dubbed its latest Xacti camcorder models "dual cameras," designed to be equally adept at shooting movies and still photos. With the VPC-CG10, the company certainly got the design and features correct; going from capturing videos to stills and back again takes little thought and you don't feel like you're missing out on anything by getting a combo device. Well, at least not until you're waiting for the thing to focus or you've looked at its photos. Unlike the slim, boxy Flip-style camcorders, the CG10 uses Sanyo's familiar pistol-grip body. The upside is that the design gives you a 5x optical zoom lens and a big, high-quality rotating LCD--perfect for when you want to be in the video or need to shoot above or below your eye level. The lens adds to the overall size, but it's still a lightweight and pocketable device. However, the grip is wide, so smaller hands may have a tough time using it comfortably. Also, while it can be held and controlled with the left hand, the placement of the screen makes it easier to use in the right. On back of the screen is a stereo microphone, which did a very good job of picking up audio, though its handling of wind noise is not great, which is typical of its class.