The SC-MX10 is part of Samsung's line of flash memory camcorders (the other two models, SC-MX10R and MX10P seem to be identical except for color differences). Using flash memory lets a manufacturer build cameras that have increased speed of use and superior durability when compared to tape and DVD-based models (which require complex inner mechanisms) and HDD camcorders (which are prone to damage from bumps and falls). But this is a general advantage applicable to all flash-based camcorders, not just Samsung's – which are lagging behind in every area behind those of more established manufacturers.



The 1/6-inch 0.68 megapixel CCD produces noisy images in most conditions. The video suffers from compression artifacts and lack of dynamic range, and deteriorates fast in low-light.



Video is recorded on SD/SDHC cards, in MPEG2 format, which is the norm for standard definition flash memory, DVD and HDD camcorders. There are three quality settings, but even the best of them provides compression that is poorer than that of tape-based DV.



The 2.7-inch LCD has an unusually small resolution of just 112,000 pixels, and there is no viewfinder. The 34x optical zoom lens is pure marketing material. In the real world, using a 34x zoom anywhere close to its maximum magnification on a camera this small results in extremely strong shake that renders footage useless. Activating the digital image stabilization only makes matters worse, because it results in aggressive resolution loss. To be fair, Samsung is far from being the only manufacturer using long zooms to attract customers.



FullAuto mode is what most owners of this camcorder will be using, and its autofocus is quite good. Autoexposure, on the other hand, is poor.



A joystick is the chosen manner of control for this camcorder. A button activates manual focus, and you do the rest with the joystick, but thanks to the really low resolution of the LCD and viewfinder you can never be sure if your shot is in focus. Shutter speed can be controlled from inside the camcorder's menu with choices from 1/60 to 1/10000 . Exposure is strictly automatic.



The grip swivels, making sure you can have a safe, comfortable grip on your precious MX10 no matter what the angle you're holding it at is.



The MX10 has an integrated microphone, but not much else in the way of audio controls or support for external microphones. It is obviously a camcorder trying to get by on looks and the hype of flash memory.