Sony Handycam DCR-SR45
Manufacturer: Sony Part number: DCR-SR45
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Sony Handycam DCR-SR45 has a good design and reasonable feature set for its price, but the video quality doesn't measure up to the rest of the package.
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Where to buy
| store | customer rating | inventory | tax & shipping | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon.com Marketplace |  | In stock | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 12/08/2009 |
 |  | In stock | as of 12/08/2009 Refurbished |
CNET editors' review
Sony Handycam DCR-SR45 price range: $267.95 - $451.79
- Reviewed by: Joshua Goldman
- Edited by: Lori Grunin
- Reviewed on: 08/04/2008
- Released on: 02/01/2008
The good: Compact, lightweight build; stores video to 30GB hard drive or Memory Stick Pro Duo cards; touch screen.
The bad: Barely passable standard-definition video quality; no optical image stabilization despite ultralong lens; Windows-only software.
The bottom line: The Sony Handycam DCR-SR45 has a good design and reasonable feature set for its price, but the video quality doesn't measure up to the rest of the package.
With the popularity of posting low-resolution video to the Web showing no signs of waning, it's easy to see why the Sony Handycam DCR-SR45 exists. It's very easy to use, goes from off to recording in seconds, is small enough to throw in a bag and go, and its internal 30GB hard drive gives you anywhere from 7 to 20 hours of recording time depending on the quality settings you choose. But even at the SR45's highest quality settings, the camcorder's standard-definition, MPEG-2 video--while OK for online sharing--doesn't look very good, and if you've gotten used to the definition and clarity of HD video, the SR45 won't be satisfying.
At only 14 ounces with battery and 3.1 inches high by 3 inches wide by 4.5 inches deep, the silver-and-black SR45 is compact and lightweight. Sony improved the body design over its predecessor's, the DCR-SR42. The power/movie/still dial sits more in line with your thumb, while the dead-center record button lets you start fast without much thought. Above it are power and activity lights topped by a Quick On button that takes the camcorder quickly in and out of a standby mode. On top sit the camera shutter button for taking stills and the rocker switch for the Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 40x zoom lens. The switch operates smoothly as does the zoom, allowing for stutter-free close-ups. However, since it lacks optical image stabilization, those extreme close-ups will require a tripod.
At the front above the lens sits a stereo zoom microphone--it attenuates with the lens to better capture the audio coming from the subject--that performed much better than expected. Under the lens is a switch to open and close the built-in lens cover. There are no mic or headphone jacks, which would be welcome, but manufacturers tend to jettison them for budget models. What you will find under a sliding door on the right side is a mini-USB port and an AV-out designed for use with the included cable. Another sliding door on top hides a Memory Stick Pro Duo card slot--it looks very similar to an accessory shoe cover, but those are rare in this price class--while a flip-down door below the main control dial hides the jack for the power cable. All the cover-ups make for a clean appearance. Also, hidden in plain sight off on the inside of the grip is the switch for the camcorder's Nightshot Plus infrared light, which lets you capture creepy night-vision video of people sleeping or whatever else you choose to shoot in complete darkness.
You access all menus through the 2.7-inch wide-aspect touch-panel LCD. Despite the use of tiny onscreen icons to navigate settings, the screen was very responsive and accurate to tapping. There are two menu systems: a Home menu to get to all feature settings and an Options menu to get directly to the available functions for video and still images, such as focus, white balance, and recording modes. It might take awhile to remember when and how to use the menus, but again the screen is so responsive that flying through the menus to find what you need goes fairly fast. There's also a set of four buttons lining the left LCD bezel that come in handy when recording overhead or at a low angle: home, zoom in, zoom out, and start/stop recording.
Maybe I've become spoiled by the sharpness and detail of HD video, but as with many budget standard-def camcorders I find the SR45's video quality disappointing. Nor does it appear to have improved from the SR42. Video looks soft and displays quite a bit of noise and artifacts until you scale down to YouTube-size dimensions. Anyone planning on full-screen playback on even a small TV will likely be unhappy with the results. If you still live completely in a low-resolution world or simply want to capture the moment no matter how it looks, the SR45 will suffice. But you might get better photos out of your camera phone. On the upside, it performs pretty well, with responsive autofocus, pretty good white balance, and quickly adjusting autoexposure.
The Sony Handycam DCR-SR45 is better than most entry-level HDD camcorders. Its compact, lightweight build is great for grab-and-go videos. The 30GB hard drive allows for plenty of storage, plus you can save video and stills to Memory Stick Pro Duo cards up to 8GB. And it's easy to operate thanks in part to a responsive, 2.7-inch touch-screen LCD. Sadly, it's only the video quality that doesn't live up to the rest of the package. But if you don't care about that, neither do we.
User reviews
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Great Hard Disk Hybrid Camera
by Juan_o_Mejia on March 31, 2008
Pros: 40X optical zoom; night shoot; 30G memory
Cons: stabilizing function at max zoom not the best
Summary: This is a great camera with lots of features. The biggest selling point would have to be the 40X optical zoom, however at its max its quite unstable so you ...
Summary: This is a great camera with lots of features. The biggest selling point would have to be the 40X optical zoom, however at its max its quite unstable so you definitely need a tripod. If you dont care much about extras and want just a basic Hard Disk cam at a better price with better stabilizing tech, buy the Panasonic comparable model... its extremely stable even at full 42X zoom. Anyway, you are able to take pics with this camera as well, but chances are you already have a digital still cam which does a better job. This model comes with night shot which is always a good addition, and for those in the know, you can add an IR filter in order to use the night shot in plain daylight. The touch LCD is also a nice addition, but it would have been nice if they included a stylus... that you you wouldnt leave your finger prints on the screen. Its pretty compact and light weight. The focus is a bit sensitive in my opinion, especially in full zoom at which point its better to switch to manual... again the Panasonic is better in this department. There's still more to this camera, but at the price range despite its minor drawbacks, its definitely worth it.
6 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
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HDD...Means No Disks Required (need flash cards)!!
by suprflyt on September 9, 2008
Pros: Knowing you do not need to be carrying around MiniDV tapes or MiniDVD is a bonus. With over 400 minutes of record time available on the 30GB HDD even when set to HQ and also the ability to zoom (2000x) in on most anything, within reason, means fun!!
Cons: Image stabilization works well if you are not zoomed in, but if you are planning on using the zoom feature make sure to use a tripod or a steady stick because the focus will not stay. The small wide aspect touchscreen will take some learning also.
Summary: Even though this is not a hi-definition Hybrid camera it still makes a very nice camera to bring where ever you want to go.
The night shoot I found works ...Summary: Even though this is not a hi-definition Hybrid camera it still makes a very nice camera to bring where ever you want to go.
The night shoot I found works pretty well if you want to have some night fun (sitting around the fire ring I was very surprised), there is a but and that is the auto-focus does have some difficulties if you move too quickly.
The microphone works very well also in picking up voices when zooming in and out. Not sure how it really works, but it does!!
The touch screen menus follow the Sony line pretty well...if you have used previous Sony touch screen cameras you will know. The only thing is the screen is really sensitive and large fingers will have problems!
Battery life doesn't surprise me very much at all...about an hour and 45 minutes of continuous use is what I have been able to get with the standard battery. So, purchase the larger or additional battery if you know power is going to be a problem.
If you are looking for a camera to take hiking, camping, road-tripping or to have around the house to catch those moments and not worry if the tape or DVD is full then this would be a very good choice for an average $400!3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Small, lightweight, 30GB HD... you can't go wrong!
by Stick2006 on August 18, 2008
Pros: I really like the Photo Capture ability, comes in handy. I love the small size and the easy to use touch screen which is very responsive. The menu is very nice and everything is easy to find once you use it a few times. The zoom is smooth.
Cons: The zoom is smooth but gets real jittery when you use it from long distances. The pictures can be pretty blury at times. The video could be better especially for the price but even still it's a sweet camcorder.
Summary: I found the video quaility to be pretty good in HQ mode, you might not get as much recording time but it's pretty good quaility. As for the pictures, ...
Summary: I found the video quaility to be pretty good in HQ mode, you might not get as much recording time but it's pretty good quaility. As for the pictures, I put them on Windows and my ipod touch and both are pretty good, more so on the ipod. I do admit that some of the pictures look kind of blury in Windows but once I get them to my Ipod they look much better. I like the Nightshoot feature, came in handy a few times and it will again I'm sure. Really love the 30GB hard drive, more than enough room for some pictures and videos.The 30GB hard drive is more than enough space for an avrage day, specially when you're backing them up on a PC or discs. The very lightweight and smallness of the camcorder makes it easy to take it anywhere. It's an all around great device.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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SO easy to use and the touch screen is sweet
by bmarsh5 on November 13, 2008
Pros: So easy to use and smooth
Cons: Quality could be a little better, but no biggie
Summary: NICE
Summary: NICE
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great Little camera
by stpr_Joel on August 19, 2008
Pros: Great picture and Great Features
Cons: No real film editing software
Summary: I bought this camera for filming filming our own TV show. It has worked great the picture looks DVD quality and the the digital camera portion really comes in handy. ...
Summary: I bought this camera for filming filming our own TV show. It has worked great the picture looks DVD quality and the the digital camera portion really comes in handy. I would recommend buying it to any one who is looking for a great for not a huge amount of money
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Super little cameras
by kayne1--2008 on August 4, 2008
Pros: The feature set and price.
Cons: Manual lens cover. Still picture quality is terrible.
Summary: What's with all the HD criticism! Not everyone has got HD yet thankfully. It takes video better and more conveniently than my Sony Cyber-shot which is all I need.
Summary: What's with all the HD criticism! Not everyone has got HD yet thankfully. It takes video better and more conveniently than my Sony Cyber-shot which is all I need.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A Solid Very Good Camera
by cjohnbrown on June 13, 2008
Pros: Hard Drive, Day Shots, Size
Cons: Shots in Low Light, No place to attach light, Battery Life could be better, Pictures
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great Camcorder
by kredlin01 on June 9, 2008
Pros: awesome picture quailty, good in low light
Cons: not the best image stabalizer
Summary: This camcorder is awesome for your everyday recording. You get awesome, crisp and clear picture quality. I also enjoy the nightshot which will brighten up a darkened room.
Summary: This camcorder is awesome for your everyday recording. You get awesome, crisp and clear picture quality. I also enjoy the nightshot which will brighten up a darkened room.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Awful! Required service after 10 minutes of use.
by stlouielady on December 29, 2008
Pros: Small size is great to travel with.
Cons: Bought in July for a trip I was taking in October. Didn't use on the trip, and the first use was Christmas morning. Ruined my Christmas morning, because after 10 minutes of use, the picture went blurry, and can't be fixed without sending to Sony.
Summary: In order for me to be able to use this now, I have to send back to Sony for repair (after 10 minutes of use). They require $129 to even ...
Summary: In order for me to be able to use this now, I have to send back to Sony for repair (after 10 minutes of use). They require $129 to even look at it. Because I cannot afford to have it repaired, I have wasted my money purchasing this. I should not have rushed into this purchase.
1 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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You get what you paid for...
by GMP0809 on October 24, 2009
Pros: Compact and very handy, a 30G hard drive is all you'll need
Cons: Video quality is not as clear and the Photo feature is really poor, my cell phone takes better shots.
Summary: I bought a video camera to replace my old compact videocam using mini-tapes, I figured with a 30G memory this is well enough, with 3Mbps it thought it would be ...
Summary: I bought a video camera to replace my old compact videocam using mini-tapes, I figured with a 30G memory this is well enough, with 3Mbps it thought it would be satisfying, but it isnt that impressive, the video quality is poor even on tripod. The worst feature is the photo, I usually dont use the video camera to take still pictures, but when I ran out of batteries on my digital camera, I was forced to use this video camera, and I got bad, poor quality images, my cell phones takes better quality photos, I would really like to return this Handycam if they'll take it back.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sony
- Part number: DCR-SR45
- Description: You're always making memories, why stop capturing them? The DCR-SR45 Handycam camcorder is ready when you are, with a built-in 30GB Hard Disk Drive (HDD) for storage and up to 20 hours of recording time (LP). A generous 2.7" Touch Panel LCD Monitor keeps all the controls at your fingertips, while a 40x Optical / 2000x Digital Zoom keeps all the action up close and personal. And when it comes time to share your memories, it couldn't be easier than with the One Touch Disc Burn capability and the Memory Stick Duo media slot. The DCR-SR45 brings simplicity back to video sharing.
General
- Product Type Camcorder
- Digital Zoom 2000 x
- Optical Sensor Size 1/8"
- Optical Sensor Type Advanced HAD CCD
- Min Illumination 0 lux
- Digital Video Format MPEG-2
- Special Effects Sepia, Pastel, Monotone, Old Movie
- Image Stabilizer Electronic (Super Steady Shot)
- Digital Scene Transition Black fader, White fader
- Min Shutter Speed 1/4 sec
- Max Shutter Speed 1/4000 sec
- Shooting Modes Digital photo mode
- Shooting Programs Snow, Beach, Candle, Sunset, Sunrise, Fireworks, Landscape, Spotlight, Sports mode, Portrait mode, Twilight mode
- White Balance Custom, Presets, Automatic
- White Balance Presets Indoor, Outdoor
- Exposure Modes Program, Automatic
- Exposure Metering Spot, Matrix
- Camera Flash None
- Widescreen Video Capture Yes
Main Features
- Camcorder Effective Still Resolution 0.3 megapixels
- Color Support Color
- Face Detection Yes
- Still Image Format JPEG
- Remote Control None
- TV Tuner None
Memory / Storage
- Floppy Drive None
- Digital Storage Media Hard disk drive - Built-in - 30 GB
- Image Storage JPEG 640 x 480, JPEG 640 x 360
- Media Type Flash card, Hard disk drive
- Recording Speed HQ, LP, SP
Lens System
- Type Zoom lens - 1.9 mm - 76 mm - F/1.8-4.1
- Focal Length 1.9 mm - 76 mm
- Lens Aperture F/1.8-4.1
- Optical Zoom 40 x
- Lens system type Zoom lens
- Min focal length 1.9 mm
- Lens Manufacturer Carl Zeiss
- Max focal length 76 mm
- Auto Focus TTL contrast detection
- Filter Size 30 mm
- Focus Adjustment Manual, Automatic
- Zoom Adjustment Motorized drive
Additional Features
- Self Timer Yes
- Low Lux / Night Mode Yes
- Digital Still Camera Function Yes
- Search Modes Index search, Face index search
- Additional Features Face detection, Auto power save, Built-in speaker, Histogram display, PictBridge support, Touch-screen control, USB 2.0 compatibility, Backlight compensation, Digital noise reduction, Dolby Digital AC-3 (2 channel) recording
- Remote control None
- Software Drivers & Utilities, Sony Picture Motion Browser
Viewfinder
- Viewfinder Type None
Display
- Type LCD display - TFT active matrix - 2.7 in - Color
Digital Player (Recorder)
- Type None
Microphone
- Type Microphone - Built-in
- Microphone Features Zoom, Wind noise reduction
Connections
- Connector Type 1 x USB, 1 x Composite video/audio output, 1 x S-Video output, 1 x Control-L (LANC), 1 x DC power input
- Expansion Slot(s) 1 x Memory Stick PRO Duo
Audio Input
- Audio input type Microphone
- Microphone type Built-in
- Microphone Operation Mode Stereo
- Microphone Technology Electret condenser
System Requirements for PC Connection
- Operating System Support MS Windows Vista, MS Windows XP Professional, MS Windows 2000 Professional
- Peripheral Devices USB port, CD-ROM drive
Miscellaneous
- Cables Included A/V cable, USB cable
Power
- Power Device Power adapter - External
Battery
- Supported Battery Sony NP-FH40
- Supported Battery 1 x Li-ion rechargeable battery - 680 mAh ( Included )
Viewfinder / Display
- Display Form Factor Rotating
- Display Format 123,200 pixels
Physical Characteristics
- Width 3 in
- Depth 4.4 in
- Height 3 in
- Weight 12.3 oz
Manufacturer info
- Sony
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Sony products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.sonystyle.com
- Address:
16765 W. Bernardo Dr., San Diego, CA 92127 - Phone: 1-877-865-SONY
- Email: contact@sel.sony.com
- Fax: 941-768-7790
