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Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera (Blue)


  • 014 4  I first got this camera the end of July . My family was going to the Eastern Caribbean , so I wanted a underwater camera to take pictures of our snorkling adventures . I picked it up from UPS around the 20th of July . We tested it out at the pool and it seemed to be working ( I read the instructions on how to clean and let dry ) . We went on our vacation in October and we were at St . Thomas on a cruise . The camera broke 15 minutes into our trip . We had to buy another camera in St . Thomas , thank goodness that it works ( Fujifilm FinePix Z33WP 10 MP Waterproof Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom ( Green ) by Fuji ) . . I came back from the trip and called sanyo on our 90 day guarantee and they said it expired the 7th of october , since I ordered it with amazon on the 7th of July . First of all I didn't get it until the end of July from Amazon and second of all , I was on a cruise with no phone connections to tell them it was broke . They are not standing behind there product ! ! I called the sanyo fix - it department and they said it would be 40 to 109.00 dollars for labor ! ! Not worth it . . . This is a horrible company and I would never go back . I told them that I was going to write on every blog about this camera and they told me they don't care . I am so furious . . . . Please don't by this product . .
    • 002 4  Very light ! Very small ! Good video quality for a $199 consumer level camcorder . Not the greatest in low light situations , but on a bright sunny day or in good lighting conditions , the video quality is great . Menus and settings are easy to figure out . Battery life is quite short , about an hour . Extra battery is less than $20 though . I don't plan to take it under water ( 4.5 feet max for 1 hour max ) and go through the procedure the manual advises after taking it under water , but the waterproof feature makes me feel better about using it outdoors if it rains or if water splashes on it . Looking forward to taking it out on a jet ski or inner tube when the weather warms up . If you need a low end , consumer level camcorder , you'd probably like this one . I'm glad I got it . Did I say it works great with a Mac ? Just plug it in , pick two options from the menu , and you have videos in your iPhoto library .
    • 009 4  After very little use and still being within the warranty space the camera failed to work . I was instructed by thier service dept . ship it to a testing lab to have it checked . I was rudley informed by them that I had damaged the camera which voided the warranty and would not fix or replace . There wasn't a scratch on it went it was sent ! ! ! I challenged the charge that I had dropped it and they ought to know because they have hundreds of these camers sent to them ! ! ! They actually wanted to know if I wanted to have the broken camera sent back for a shipping cost of $ 38.00 or they will discard it . Just like a bad restaurant , I'll just never return to sanyo .
    • 023 4  It looks like very cool product and easy to use . I shot only couple of times in the swim pool . water got inside . It was broken . there are 1 year parts warranty , but labor only cover 90 days . I sent to the repair center . ( there are only 2 repair centers in US . ) It will charge $179 for the labor fee . I have no choice , have to throw it .
    • 180 4  bought this for hawaii trip . pictures were decent ( my cameras clarity is far better but this was expected ) . the view finder flips over so we were able to center ourselves when taking our own pictures which was nice . loved that we did not have to worry about sand ruining it and were able to rinse it off and go . exceeded my expectations with underwater filming and photos . great little product , very durable . gave it 4 stars because everyone else seemed to have difficulty focusing it and the pictures would come out so blurry or not at all .
    • 198 4  I am an avid sea kayaker . I need a waterproof camera to get good photos and video for my website . I have used a Pantax Optio 6mp water resistant camera for several years to good advantage . But the Optio did not take good quality video . I have just returned from a seven day , 138 mile trip down Florida's Suwannee River . The Xacti spent the trip in the pocket of my life jacket . I shot many photos and more than an hour of video with the camera ( some of these have been posted to my website Yackman.com ) . I found the camera easy to use , and it seems to take both good still shots and video . It's small size makes it difficult to maintain a steady video shot , but I am learning . I found the battery life to be shorter than expected , but that is probably because I left the camera on standby mode for too long . I have since bought additional batteries to take care of that problem . I really like this camera .

  • 016 4  I'm an aquatic biologist and I specifically bought this camera for the purpose of taking pictures and video while on the job . I had the camera a couple weeks and the pictures it took were wonderful until I took it snorkeling . We were in water less than 2 feet deep and the camera was shut properly . I took roughly 5 minutes of video and was replaying the video on shore when the camera shut down . I figured it was the battery . The next morning I pick up the camera and it had water behind the lens . It took SEVERAL weeks of emailing and phoning Sanyo before I was able to talk to someone about having the camera repaired or replaced ( under warranty # . I sent it to one of their 2 authorized repair shops who had it for several weeks . Finally they came to the conclusion that it was user error and that the camera was waterproof . I followed all of the instructions in the manual . I ensured that the camera was sealed tight before use and it still got water in it . I know it was not user error . I am still trying to appeal the repair shop # a Sanyo contractor ) decision . Please think twice before buying this camera if you have any intention of using it in water . Sanyo has , by far , the worst customer service I know of . Consumer beware . . .
    • 081 4  Great product for the money . Fits in your pocket , great still pictures and video . I was hesitant at first to use it under water for fear that my pictures I had taken earlier on vacation would be ruined if something went wrong before I had the chance to download them , but was brave and video tapped my children swimming in the hotel pool . It is amazing how clear underwater video is and amazing to me that it can even go under water . Overall very happy . Money well spent !
    • 092 4  I got this to use with my son . Being watermen , and rough on gear , it is great to get something that could possibly fit the bill for both . I am not sure of its durability , this will be my second one , I bought my first one refurbished , big mistake . Sent it back and got this one . It is not the best quality you can buy for digi , but I have already dropped it , flown with it , and got it wet , and it is still going at the same quality .
    • 100 4  I had ordered the same camera from a different company and never got a response . This came faster than promised .
    • 150 4  I love my new camera its so easy to use and its awesome for filming under water ! I highly reccomend purchasing this item !
    • 160 4  I was extremely pleased with the quality of the recorder . I didn't expect it to be quite as easy to use or the quality of the videos or the photos to be this good . The only problem I encountered , which could be expected , is that in zooming , I lose the subject . Also , out in the bright sunlight , it's hard to see anything on the monitor .
    • 161 4  I think this camera is very good for the money . Took it on vacation to Puerto Rico on a snorkeling trip . it held up great , took great pictures and video .
    • 163 4  Easy to use , great pictures . The only complaint I have is the screen washes out in bright sun , and since there is no viewfinder the screen is your only option .
    • 171 4  I haven't used it a lot yet , but I do like the quality of video and still photos . Images and short videos load quickly onto my computer . Flash photos are quite good . The handle / body is a little wide for my palm . It makes me a little nervous that I might drop it while I am operating the buttons with my thumb .
    • 173 4  i had many skepticism's about buying this , however it has performed exceptionally well . It's doesn't product the highest quality the many others do but i have found that is has not let me down in any way at all , I first noticed the weigh of it which really stated that they hadn't cut corners to produce it , I highly recommend the product completely .

  • 043 4  Trying to decide between the Xacti CG10 and the Waterproof E2 ? Read on . I was trying to decide between the Sanyo Xacti VPC-CG10 and the E2 . The CG - 10 simulates HD and this camera does not . The E2 is what I bought , for a couple of reasons . My last cheaper pistol-grip cam was a Aiptek G0 - HD and it lasted about 13 months . Why ? I remember shooting some video outside and it started to rain , I thought it was light rain and continued to shoot . When I got home , the video markedly degraded and lost color ( flickered green ) . It went in the trash literally . I fear the CG10 would suffer the same fate . The CG10 has a 10 megapixel CMOS chip and the E2 has a 8 so there's some loss of video and still image quality . But , you know I shoot mostly in the 2 range anyway so 8 megapixels is fine for me . Do I ever intend to dip this in water ? No . Not the pool , not the ocean , not anything . But , I think it will do fine if I ever get caught in the rain . As for widescreen - no simulated HD here . The camera does go up to 60 fps , but again I would rarely use it and it is nice to know the E2 can do it . Did find extremely low light video was too dark . I know you are reading this everywhere , but until you see it the low light thing will be a problem . You can increase your aperture to 3.5 and don't zoom in too much in low light scenes . Yes , the optics are only X 5 zoom and lots of reviewers knock this . WHY ? ? YOU ONLY ARE PAYING ABOUT $200 for this camera ! Get real , a lens alone can easily contribute up to 50% of the manufacturing cost . Up the zoom and the $200 tag goes away . I think you get a good bang for the buck . This is my second economical camera , I think it is a good deal . Another thing with the CG10 is it generates simulated High Def files . I always had trouble editing these . It is getting better , now some of the editors do it . My computer would choke ( even though it was dual core ) . Also , HD files take up a lot of space . I like the smaller 640X480 files produced by the E2 . This is easier to edit . If you want to win an Oscar for best photography , don't buy the E2 . If you want to shoot video and see reasonably clear quality video for the informal amateur videographer , this is a great grab and go camera . HD files online , really how often do you totally give up and just play the regular resolution ? ALWAYS , youtube files stutter or stop altogether . HD files are overblown in terms of utility . Would I like them in my camera ? Sure , but the fact is they pose some problems in editing , take a long time to upload , and when they play on line we still only see them in 1 / 4 screen . BIGGEST PROBLEMS - come on Sanyo , let us do battery in-camera charging . Get real . Do away with the proprietary USB cable . Using the OK button , should be more functional - let it do directional input in the menu instead of pressing the outside ring . Really needs a lens cap , would rather have that over the cheap camera case . Don't ever hire the same person to write that manual again . Some things just aren't clear . You are getting better though over the E1 manual from what I hear , but Sanyo just hire someone that understands the US customer ! Can't we have a bit longer batter ( like 1000 mAh rather than the 720 ) or even a second li-ion battery in the box ? Again , so I will write it twice Sanyo , please in-camera charging ! BIGGEST POSITIVES - light weight , water-repellent ( not proof as eventually in the fine print you will see a need to check the seals yearly ) . Go ahead , dip it in water if you want , I am not . This camera is great for outdoors , lots of sunlight ( although LCD is poorly viewable in the sun ) . MP4 file compression is great . I like 5X zoom , face tracking , and point focusing . Motor is really quiet when zooming and you don't get the loud noise on video of the hum . Stereo sound is fantastic . Face tracking is a plus ! Nice you can swap from complex every detail menu to a simple one . BOTTOM LINE - This is for outdoor fun - camping , snow skiing , hiking , & a little rain , and a quick and light camera . If I give get a 2 year life span then I will be happy . I am sure the CG10 is a great camera too , not taking pot shots at it here . It is just the E2 is probably in the dying breed of 640x480 cameras and until we advance a bit in support online and in storage space - I'll stick with normal definition awhile .
    • 010 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I just purchased the Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 and I have to say , I'm very impressed . I bought it as an Amazon open box warehouse deal which made it even better . First , let me talk about my experience with video cameras . I have owned a couple , starting with the 8mm format back in the late 1980 ' s and then moving to digital - 8 later on . I liked taking video , but hated schlepping around a camera , so therefore , I didn't use them . Also , editing together video was a pain , having to go through a tape sequentially to import the video . A friend of mine found the Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 and I was intrigued . It was small , portable and waterproof . It looked to be a fun little camera . I've been taking some experimental videos testing the camera and here are my conclusions . MY NEEDS / REQUIREMENTS : - Lightweight and easy to carry around - Something small enough to fit in a pocket and not be a complete drag to carry around , to the point that I would dread it - Mac compatible ( this was a deal breaker ) - Easy to use - Good quality video . I have HD TVs and Blu-Ray , but realized that my videos would not be Hollywood epics . I wanted quality that was good enough for video snapshots , small fun videos PROS : - This camera is lightweight - not a pain to carry around - Mac compatible ! ! ! ! ! Not one problem in using it with iMove and iPhoto ! - MP4 ' s much easier to grab and use ! So much better than tape ! - Very nice quality when shot at the maximum quality setting . Probably not as great as some expensive cameras but I'm quite frankly , for the fun videos I shoot , the quality is really quite excellent , as an MP4 . - Good sound - Easy to use SOME SIDE COMMENTS - I have put MP4 clips on my Mac , and then copied them over to our PlayStation 3 ( using Nullriver media server on the Mac ) and we watch clips on our TV . Talk about ease of use ! This has been FANTASTIC ! - While I was not shopping for a waterproof camera , I have to admit that I'm looking forward to trying this little guy out in the water . Plus the benefit of being able to be in the rain with it , and not having to worry about water ! NOT PRO AND NOT CON - The still photos taken with the Xacti are OK . Not as good as our still cameras ( we have quite good still cameras ) . We might also be really picky about our still photos . I know someone else who has the Xacti and likes the quality of the still photos . This is where taste comes into it . - The Xacti is so small that I could easily fit it into my bag with my other camera , so not a big deal - Having said all that , depending on the situation , and how important the still photos would be to me , I could easily see myself just using the Xacti , in those cases , though I would still prefer the quality of my regular digital camera . CONS : - Low light effects the quality . The videos can be grainy in low light . This is not that big an issue for me , because I'm just taking fun little videos , so I'm fine with it . I think it's acceptable . SUMMARY This little camera is a keeper ! I would not hesitate to recommend it . My only advice is to think about what your needs and requirements are , and make your decision based on that .
    • 011 4  I just purchased the Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 and I have to say , I'm very impressed . I bought it as an Amazon open box warehouse deal which made it even better . First , let me talk about my experience with video cameras . I have owned a couple , starting with the 8mm format back in the late 1980 ' s and then moving to digital - 8 later on . I liked taking video , but hated schlepping around a camera , so therefore , I didn't use them . Also , editing together video was a pain , having to go through a tape sequentially to import the video . A friend of mine found the Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 and I was intrigued . It was small , portable and waterproof . It looked to be a fun little camera . I've been taking some experimental videos testing the camera and here are my conclusions . MY NEEDS / REQUIREMENTS : - Lightweight and easy to carry around - Something small enough to fit in a pocket and not be a complete drag to carry around , to the point that I would dread it - Mac compatible ( this was a deal breaker ) - Easy to use - Good quality video . I have HD TVs and Blu-Ray , but realized that my videos would not be Hollywood epics . I wanted quality that was good enough for video snapshots , small fun videos PROS : - This camera is lightweight - not a pain to carry around - Mac compatible ! ! ! ! ! Not one problem in using it with iMove and iPhoto ! - MP4 ' s much easier to grab and use ! So much better than tape ! - Very nice quality when shot at the maximum quality setting . Probably not as great as some expensive cameras but I'm quite frankly , for the fun videos I shoot , the quality is really quite excellent , as an MP4 . - Good sound - Easy to use SOME SIDE COMMENTS - I have put MP4 clips on my Mac , and then copied them over to our PlayStation 3 ( using Nullriver media server on the Mac ) and we watch clips on our TV . Talk about ease of use ! This has been FANTASTIC ! - While I was not shopping for a waterproof camera , I have to admit that I'm looking forward to trying this little guy out in the water . Plus the benefit of being able to be in the rain with it , and not having to worry about water ! NOT PRO AND NOT CON - The still photos taken with the Xacti are OK . Not as good as our still cameras ( we have quite good still cameras ) . We might also be really picky about our still photos . I know someone else who has the Xacti and likes the quality of the still photos . This is where taste comes into it . - The Xacti is so small that I could easily fit it into my bag with my other camera , so not a big deal - Having said all that , depending on the situation , and how important the still photos would be to me , I could easily see myself just using the Xacti , in those cases , though I would still prefer the quality of my regular digital camera . CONS : - Low light effects the quality . The videos can be grainy in low light . This is not that big an issue for me , because I'm just taking fun little videos , so I'm fine with it . I think it's acceptable . SUMMARY This little camera is a keeper ! I would not hesitate to recommend it . My only advice is to think about what your needs and requirements are , and make your decision based on that .
    • 031 4  The Xacti E2 is a good video camera & it takes lovely photos ( not printed them yet but on the telly or Mac they look good ) . very EASY to use with a basic menu or the more complex , it is able to play back videos in NTSC & PAL . It would seems that it captured us surfing ( in the sea ) without damaging the video camera ( that was the main application for the purchase ) ! After getting the camera wet i followed the simple care instructions & after i was sure the camera was dry reviewed the video clips on my Plasma telly the picture quality is good & fitted the whole screen ( not exactly HD ) but i am very satisfied & am sure when it come time to making an edit with the various clips i am going to be more than stoked ! ! ! Hit the record button before the subject starts moving and keep it going for a few more once they are done as it seems to cut of a little sooner ! I found as a stills camera the it does not shoot exactly when you want it too , so its a bit of hit and miss , I'm sure as i use it more it will improve . shoot with the sun behind you helps with the white balancing & remember that the screen is not exactly where the lens is pointing at . The one down side is the battery life is not the best , so make sure its charged properly before playing . I did purchase the Water Leash & an 8 - gig card which is still empty .
    • 037 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) There is something TERRIBLY wrong with this camcorder . Should I tell you more ? I got this Sanyo Xacti camcorder in January 2009 . The price was low and it had good features . However . . . I only used it a few times over the next few months and the videos looked bad . I thought it was my poor lighting , or technique , or something . Recently I took a bunch of still photos with it , transferred it to my PC and suddenly realized why the videos looked bad . Looking at the still photos it was obvious . THEY ARE ALL BLUE ! That's right . Every photo & video shot with this comes out BLUE . Ugly , carbon copy ink blue . I tried to color correct the photos in Windows on my PC , and some of them look ok ( Others were beyond redemption - the trees are green but so is the sky , or the sky is purple & trees blue ) , but this is not good . My little cell phone takes WAY BETTER looking photos and videos . Even my old 1 megapixel phone takes better vids & photos . The service warranty is only 90 days , so I'm stuck with a very pretty looking camcorder that is worthless . I would never pay $10.00 for this . Just a friendly warning . Avoid this camcorder at all costs . Oh , the Support at Sanyo was rude , and unhelpful as well . I sent a request for technical support , with details about the photos and videos being all blue and white . Their reply was , sorry , that's the colors it comes in . They were talking about the outside of the camcorder itself ! O-o They didn't even bother to read the details of my support request , they only looked at the title line videos are blue & white . Typical , but why bother to respond at all ? It took me a week to find out that it would cost me probably as much as the purchase price to fix it , and why would I want to do that ? I've never seen this thing take good videos or photos . I'm just avoiding Sanyo products as a rule from now on .
    • 038 4  There is something TERRIBLY wrong with this camcorder . Should I tell you more ? I got this Sanyo Xacti camcorder in January 2009 . The price was low and it had good features . However . . . I only used it a few times over the next few months and the videos looked bad . I thought it was my poor lighting , or technique , or something . Recently I took a bunch of still photos with it , transferred it to my PC and suddenly realized why the videos looked bad . Looking at the still photos it was obvious . THEY ARE ALL BLUE ! That's right . Every photo & video shot with this comes out BLUE . Ugly , carbon copy ink blue . I tried to color correct the photos in Windows on my PC , and some of them look ok ( Others were beyond redemption - the trees are green but so is the sky , or the sky is purple & trees blue ) , but this is not good . My little cell phone takes WAY BETTER looking photos and videos . Even my old 1 megapixel phone takes better vids & photos . The service warranty is only 90 days , so I'm stuck with a very pretty looking camcorder that is worthless . I would never pay $10.00 for this . Just a friendly warning . Avoid this camcorder at all costs . Oh , the Support at Sanyo was rude , and unhelpful as well . I sent a request for technical support , with details about the photos and videos being all blue and white . Their reply was , sorry , that's the colors it comes in . They were talking about the outside of the camcorder itself ! O-o They didn't even bother to read the details of my support request , they only looked at the title line videos are blue & white . Typical , but why bother to respond at all ? It took me a week to find out that it would cost me probably as much as the purchase price to fix it , and why would I want to do that ? I've never seen this thing take good videos or photos . I'm just avoiding Sanyo products as a rule from now on .
    • 045 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I love almost everything about this camera . I have taken it into the surf , to water parks , and in our pool . I have dropped it in the sand ( while putting boggie board fins on ) , and it holds up like a champ . The only issue I have with it , is that if you close the screen while recording , it is easy to bump the record button , and it stops recording . At first I thought the camera was defective , but after experimenting , I discovered that I must be bumping the button . After one day at the water park , I had messed up about 20 out of 25 clips . The battery life is only about 1 hour of recording , but I wouldn't want to make it bigger to make that longer . I just bought a spare . I just wish that there was a waterproof holder for a spare battery . Also , you can't tell from the picture , but one side of the camera is white . I have no clue why Sanyo did that . Other than that one issue of stopping recording ( which you could say is my problem ) , this is an awesome camera . I highly recommend it .
    • 046 4  I love almost everything about this camera . I have taken it into the surf , to water parks , and in our pool . I have dropped it in the sand ( while putting boggie board fins on ) , and it holds up like a champ . The only issue I have with it , is that if you close the screen while recording , it is easy to bump the record button , and it stops recording . At first I thought the camera was defective , but after experimenting , I discovered that I must be bumping the button . After one day at the water park , I had messed up about 20 out of 25 clips . The battery life is only about 1 hour of recording , but I wouldn't want to make it bigger to make that longer . I just bought a spare . I just wish that there was a waterproof holder for a spare battery . Also , you can't tell from the picture , but one side of the camera is white . I have no clue why Sanyo did that . Other than that one issue of stopping recording ( which you could say is my problem ) , this is an awesome camera . I highly recommend it .
    • 110 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I had the previous model ( VPC-E1 ) and even though it crapped out after owning it just over a year , I bought the VPC-E2 , and it crapped out after 4 months . I bought the VPC-E2 because there really is very little competition out there for a decent quality flash memory camcorder that is supposedly waterproof . I am a kayaker and I bought the VPC-E1 to be able to take the occasional video of my friends running rapids . I kept the camera in a waterproof bag , and took it out occasionally to take some video , then put it back . It would get wet , but rarely soaked . If it got splashed , the microphone would cut out , but after drying the camera for a day or two , it would work again . After 13 months of ownership , the VPC-E1 started to do funny things with the display - it showed the image on the LCD upside down for a few days , then it started to fade and eventually went to black . I had always stayed within the requirements - less than 5 feet deep underwater ( I never went more than 1 or 2 feet actually ) , never wet for more than 30 minutes before drying it off . I also never used it in salt water , never dropped it or banged it , or used it in dusty conditions . I did use it in low temperatures , but never below freezing , probably never below 40 degrees . The funny thing , is that the rest of the functions of the camera continued to work fine , you just couldn't see what you were doing because of no display . I wasn't happy with the camera failing , but I sold it on ebay for parts and put my $40 towards a VPC-E2 . It was even better than the E1 with 60 fps and a better sensor ( although I thought the video image on both was just fine ) , and the E2 seemed to have a better microphone , which worked fine after getting splashed . Neither camera takes as nice still photos as a basic sony camera , but they are acceptable - this camera takes good video , and tolerable stills . So , after 4 months of ownership ( and careful use ) the VPC-E2 also started to do funny things with the display . After using it last week , I noticed that the display was upside down ! However , when I tried to show my wife what was happening , it had corrected . Several days later , I used it again , and then it started showing the display upside down again . And yesterday , it was fine again , but while shooting some video , it suddenly powered off . I knew the battery was fully charged , and when I tried re-starting , the power-on light didn't even flicker , which it will always do when the batter is low . I swapped for another battery which I knew was fresh , and it didn't even try to power on . I hooked it up to the USB just in case , and it didn't do a thing . So , another dead Sanyo Xactic waterproof digital video camera in less than 16 months . I had been careful with it , not gotten it that wet , never more than 2 feet underwater , never for more than 10 seconds underwater , never dropped or banged or in dusty conditions . So , I'd recommend that if you want to shoot some video but really want nice stills , get a basic sony ( with the Zeiss lens , is only about $150 right now ) and a waterproof case ( $30 ) . Other cameras that come in waterproof versions include the Fujifilm FinePix , Olympus Stylus , Canon PowerShot , Pentax Optio . They all shoot decent video ( 640x480 at 30 fps ) although there is some differences in how well they handle low light and motion , but its really hard to know unless you try them . I've owned an older model of the Olympus Stylus that was alright for stills , but the video was a bit grainy , especially with motion or low light . Maybe one of these companies will make a decent digital flash memory video camera that will actually work in the conditions it is advertised to be able to handle .
    • 111 4  I had the previous model ( VPC-E1 ) and even though it crapped out after owning it just over a year , I bought the VPC-E2 , and it crapped out after 4 months . I bought the VPC-E2 because there really is very little competition out there for a decent quality flash memory camcorder that is supposedly waterproof . I am a kayaker and I bought the VPC-E1 to be able to take the occasional video of my friends running rapids . I kept the camera in a waterproof bag , and took it out occasionally to take some video , then put it back . It would get wet , but rarely soaked . If it got splashed , the microphone would cut out , but after drying the camera for a day or two , it would work again . After 13 months of ownership , the VPC-E1 started to do funny things with the display - it showed the image on the LCD upside down for a few days , then it started to fade and eventually went to black . I had always stayed within the requirements - less than 5 feet deep underwater ( I never went more than 1 or 2 feet actually ) , never wet for more than 30 minutes before drying it off . I also never used it in salt water , never dropped it or banged it , or used it in dusty conditions . I did use it in low temperatures , but never below freezing , probably never below 40 degrees . The funny thing , is that the rest of the functions of the camera continued to work fine , you just couldn't see what you were doing because of no display . I wasn't happy with the camera failing , but I sold it on ebay for parts and put my $40 towards a VPC-E2 . It was even better than the E1 with 60 fps and a better sensor ( although I thought the video image on both was just fine ) , and the E2 seemed to have a better microphone , which worked fine after getting splashed . Neither camera takes as nice still photos as a basic sony camera , but they are acceptable - this camera takes good video , and tolerable stills . So , after 4 months of ownership ( and careful use ) the VPC-E2 also started to do funny things with the display . After using it last week , I noticed that the display was upside down ! However , when I tried to show my wife what was happening , it had corrected . Several days later , I used it again , and then it started showing the display upside down again . And yesterday , it was fine again , but while shooting some video , it suddenly powered off . I knew the battery was fully charged , and when I tried re-starting , the power-on light didn't even flicker , which it will always do when the batter is low . I swapped for another battery which I knew was fresh , and it didn't even try to power on . I hooked it up to the USB just in case , and it didn't do a thing . So , another dead Sanyo Xactic waterproof digital video camera in less than 16 months . I had been careful with it , not gotten it that wet , never more than 2 feet underwater , never for more than 10 seconds underwater , never dropped or banged or in dusty conditions . So , I'd recommend that if you want to shoot some video but really want nice stills , get a basic sony ( with the Zeiss lens , is only about $150 right now ) and a waterproof case ( $30 ) . Other cameras that come in waterproof versions include the Fujifilm FinePix , Olympus Stylus , Canon PowerShot , Pentax Optio . They all shoot decent video ( 640x480 at 30 fps ) although there is some differences in how well they handle low light and motion , but its really hard to know unless you try them . I've owned an older model of the Olympus Stylus that was alright for stills , but the video was a bit grainy , especially with motion or low light . Maybe one of these companies will make a decent digital flash memory video camera that will actually work in the conditions it is advertised to be able to handle .
    • 125 4  I'll make it clear right from the beginning : I'm just an amateur photograph and I don't know a whole lot on digital cameras . I just wanted a digital camera that I could play with and take pictures and occasionally make movies for myself , nothing professional really . I did not want to spend a ton of money for a camera and after taking a look at this particular model at a store I decided to get this one . This one is very easy to use and understand ; nearly everyone can fool around with it right away . It feels great which is another thing I looked for in a camera , the buttons may be a little too small however as judging by their size someone with pretty big hands might have problem with it , especially with the zoom button . The 2.5 inch screen looks very good and is a nice size if you ask me , however you may want a bigger screen than this as it's a small camera . This is my next point , its size ; I like how it fits in my pocket or wherever I may want to have it and still bring all these great features it offers.Other customers experienced some problems with theirs particularly with the waterproof functionality , I did not and the underwater pictures I've taken are great and this function while if not a must for you it is certainly fun to experiment with , I don't want to test how far it can go underwater but I made great pictures of fish ! The 60x zoom is great and the visual quality of the camera is excellent . The battery life doesn't last really long , about two hours which I still find better than some of the other cameras I had in the past . I'm not sure how the face chaser and detection work or if they really do but I know that the shake mechanism does help ! The computer file transfers are fast and what I found great is that you can put your photos and videos easily on your iPod trough iTunes , if you have one that is . It comes with a USB cable , a battery charger , television cables and a case , this case is not all that great but you can always get another one which I will probably be doing . Mine did not come with an SD card since I bought it from a store so I had to buy one separately which is not a problem , just by one with the amount of memory you feel is appropriate for your needs . Overall am I satisfied ? I would have to say that I am because I'm an amateur who just wanted a camera that had the necessary features , felt good in my hand and of a small convenient size . I like how the camera looks , the design is great and there are a few color choices . I really liked how it is easy to use . I can't really complain about anything .
    • 128 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) This is good portable camera . I have used it underwater and the performance is quite good . It is not very easy to use . The Picture and Record buttons are difficult to press . The camera shakes when trying to press photo button . Other than ease of use , i am very happy with the picture quality . Video quality is acceptable for the price i paid .
    • 129 4  This is good portable camera . I have used it underwater and the performance is quite good . It is not very easy to use . The Picture and Record buttons are difficult to press . The camera shakes when trying to press photo button . Other than ease of use , i am very happy with the picture quality . Video quality is acceptable for the price i paid .
    • 154 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I spent a lot of time on the water paddle boarding and was looking for an inexpensive waterproof video camera . This one fits the bill . Takes great pictures and easy to use and download . Only negative comments would be that it records in MP4 format and MicroSoft's MovieMaker does not use MP4 . Had to download a format converter . The gun design is easy to use from land , but a bit hard to keep steady when surfing . Other than that , a great camera for the money . Also , it does NOT float so recommend buying a floatable strap .
    • 191 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) This is a great camera , with both an upside and downside to being small . Upside : it takes great still photos , although the shutter lag is REALLY long - the video , though not HD , is high quality ( the 30 fps mode looks as good as the 60 fps to me ) . The downside is that , being small , you can get a lot of shake in the video , and the battery so far has been good for only about 20 minutes of shooting . If you purchase one of these , buy a couple of extra batteries ( ~ $10 each on Amazon ) for backup . Haven't tested the camera's waterproof qualities yet , but the manufacturer says it's good for at least an hour up to 5 feet down .

  • 051 4  Love it ! Takes great pics , videos seem good quality . Need to get a back up battery so one is always charged . Haven't used the camera underwater yet but as soon as the weather is warm enough we will have it in the pool ! Easy enough for the kids to operate and play back .
    • 182 4  took this to a family gathering last weekend and everyone thought it was very cool that we could splash around in the pool and capture all the fun in video . Could be a little quicker on the boot and captue of still images - but overall a great item i'm glad i got .

  • 087 4  Very small cute camera . It comes with a carrier which is cool . The quality is not great but good enough . Have not tried to use it under water yet . Very easy to use .
    • 190 4  It takes good pictures . A bit difficult to get to the menu items ( i.e . turn on or off the flash , change iso , enable macro . . .

  • 095 4  So we have had our E2 for 2 weeks over a year and it has been to a couple foreign locales and worked w / o issues . Picture quality is fine outside and overall the camera works well . The shape I find to be pretty comfortable and easy to use . We have taken into the water a couple times and always it has worked after taking it out cleaning it up . Last weekend , after using it for some photos earlier in the day , we took it out to take some more . Hit the power button and you get a loud buzz and clicking until you pull the battery . Seems like the focus system failed and the camera is basically dead . Trying to figure out if we can do a software reflash or something that might resurrect it , but I am very skeptical . Plugging it into the computer everything seems solid , but as soon as you go to camera mode it's crash time . We pretty much baby this thing . . . it has its own padded case and other than using it a couple times a year it stays there . I would love to give the camera two thumbs up , but seeing it bite the dust so shortly after the warranty expired is too tough to swallow . I could understand if it spent too long in the pool or otherwise was kicked around , but it seems like it just gave up or didn't shut down safely . Not much better picture quality than some of the cheap flip camcorders out there so I would say stick with the bog boys like Canon and Panasonic for a camcorder and grab one of the lower cost Flips for fun .
    • 028 4  I purchased this camera for my son who has gotten to be quite good and making short films , etc . Within 2 months it malfunctioned . It took several e-mails to Sanyo to figure out where to send it to get assessed and fixed and we have not seen it since . I have made several phone calls to the servicing center who stated they were waiting on a part from Sanyo but they had no idea when it would be coming and they noted their recurrent issues with the company . I TRIED to contact Sanyo's customer service department and got multiple voice numbers . I even tried putting in random extensions in an effort to get a live person . When I finally got to someone he said he would call the servicing center and call me right back . 5 hours later a got a message and when I called him back , he told me that the part was going to be shipped but he had no idea how long it was going to take . When I asked hime to just send me a new camera and keep the one waiting for the part , he told me he couldn't do that . When I asked to speak to his supervisor , he sent be to another extension and guess what ? Yes , another voice mail . I left my message asking for a call ASAP but of course no came . So , if you want to roll the dice , then go ahead and get this camera but I wouldn't do it . I have never written a review like this but like people at the town hall meetings across the country , I couldn't take it anymore and my only recourse against this complany is to let the word out about how poorly this company treats it's customers . I will tell anyone I know : Never buy a Sanyo product ! ! !
    • 036 4  I like it lot . The pros overweight cons hands down . Pros : 1 . Compact ; 2 . Waterproof ; 3 . Well-built ; 4 . Descent quality daylight photos and videos ; 5 . Cheap memory cards ; 6 . Easy and customizable UI ; 7 . Great close-ups ; 8 . Still shots while recording video - awesome ! Cons : 1 . You can not see display in bright light or underwater . You do not have optical viewfinder either ; 2 . Flash is a joke ; 3 . Battery life is short . You will need 1 - 2 extra batteries when you travel . Fresh battery will give you 1 hour of recording w / o playback or flash ; 4 . Special USB cable - do not lose it ; 5 . Could use wider angle lens ; 6 . Bundled software is bugly and outdated ; To the people who have trouble reading SD card w / o cable - your card reader most likely does not support HDSD cards . Grab one that does . You won't need this cable at all , unless you plan to use the camera as a web cam .
    • 042 4  I purchased this camera to shoot video from my boat . I've been very satisfied with it's compact size , the video quality , and the audio quality . The camera is easy to use and has a wide variety of scene settings to handle most uses . I'm quite impressed at how the fireworks modes captures fireworks videos . Unfortunately after owning the camera for five weeks , well within the warranty period , the microphones stopped working correctly . After contacting Sanyo I found there are only two repair centers in the US that are qualified to repair Sanyo products . I shipped the camera to one of them for repair , but the part they need to repair the camera is on back-order leaving me without my new camera for an upcoming vacation and quite disappointed with Sanyo . Update : I finally received my camera back as good as new , five weeks after sending it in . On the invoice it says , It took 29 days for parts . The part they replaced was the joint where the screen attaches to the camera , which is the part that will receive the most wear and tear on this model . Based on my experience and some of the reviews I've read , this is one of those items you may want to consider purchasing an extended warranty as it probably won't last much past the manufacturer's warranty , that is if it makes it that far , and any repair not covered by warranty will cost more than the camera . Despite all the problems , I still think it's a fun camera at a great price with the unique ability to go underwater and I would still recommended it . At least until a more reputable manufacturer comes out with something comparable .
    • 074 4  I bought this camera a few weeks before our family took a cruise to the Bahamas . The camera is small and light enough that I had it with me all the time ; I got a lot of great video on the trip that I might have missed with a larger or heavier camera . I haven't taken the camera underwater , but using it on small boats and around the pool made me happy that it is waterproof - you don't have to worry about it getting wet . The first thing I did when I got the camera was add a cloth lanyard so that I could wear it around my neck ( the bottom of the camera has sort of a loop for this ) . There is also a threaded socket to allow mounting on a tripod . The included cover is sort of a padded nylon bikini that velcros around the body of the camera . It did a good job of protecting the camera from bumps and scrapes and can be kept on the camera while it is hanging from the lanyard . The video I have shot is of good quality and the 8 megapixel stills are as good as my other point and shoot cameras . The camera comes with Adobe Premiere Elements 4 software in the box to allow you to make your own DVD movies . The ease of use and design of the camera are great - you can use it with either hand . I got a lot of questions and compliments on the camera from other people ; the cool factor of the camera is very high .
    • 085 4  Having owned camcorder's since they first came around years ago , I've gone through the purchase of updating every 5 - 7 years and each time , they've gotten smaller and promote themselves as mobile and bring anywhere . Problem is that by and large , they get left behind . The beauty of the Sanyo Xacti is that it is so easy to drop in your pocket and go , that there is no longer an excuse not to have the camcorder with you . Even the charger is small and mobile and takes up no room in your luggage . Sure , it's not HD but the price is great , the quality for recording those fun moments with the kids or whatever you choose , this camcorder was the one that stood out in all the reviews I read prior to purchasing . I'm very happy with it , it's a breeze to use and the transfer of your video over to your computer ( I'm on a Mac ) couldn't be simpler or quicker . I highly recommend the Xacti E2 for anyone looking for a great fun camcorder at a very affordable price .
    • 104 4  This is my 2nd Xacti Camera as my kids keep borrowing my other 6 mp Xacti videocam . We've used it underwater while vacationing in Hawaii ; in Seattle on our Kayak trip ; I've used it to take underwater shots of our kois ( fish ) in the backyard . What I like with this camera is it's pistol-grip design which is very suitable for underwater shots ( couldn't fathom some are critical of this design ) . Overall , you get a pretty decent videos and 4X6 prints out of this camera . I own a Nikon D80 and a high-speed 35mm Casio ( Exilim EX-F1 ) but I find myself relying more on my Xacti for ordinary pictorial needs .
    • 158 4  Great waterproof camera and easy to use . You will not believe the underwater video . Its only 60fps but the clarity and color is amazing . I originally came across this underwater camera at the apple store ( online ) and was surprised of the price point . Quickly shopped online and amazon.com had it $20 less . I've been looking for a camera that could take underwater pics for a long time but was too cheap to spend $300 + . This one takes great video too ! The only drawback is a slow shutter response but you get to work with it soon enough . Better than most others . . .
    • 166 4  THis product works well , and is good for a basic camera or camcorder . However , even on the highest quality setting , the quality of the videos isn't that great and it is difficult to take clear underwater pictures . Maybe it was just the water I was in ( even though it was in a pool ) , but the pictures always looked a bit blurry or cloudy .
    • 172 4  First day's opinions . . . Build quality is decent . Has to hunt for focus in low / mixed lighting . No hiccup when taking a pic while video'ing ( nice ! ) . For the life of me I can't see where to imprint the date / time on the image itself ( I know about the print options but I need the imprint to travel with the pic ) . Proprietary computer connector makes it less versitle . So far I'll give it a try . . . it's going back if no date / time stamp .

  • 102 4  I bought this to go on a cruise and man was it a great idea . I take this thing everywhere . Its so small you dont even notice it in you pocket . You can pull it out and in 5sec you are ready to shot . My friend dont like hanging out with me now because I always have the cam out reminding they how dumb they look . I take it snowboarding all the time it works great . Some people complained about the bottons being hard to push but can even do it with my gloves on . Underwater quality is cool haven't gone under 2ft yet just stay close to surface but it will stay submerged with no probs I bring it kayaking all the time and it will sit in some water at the bottom of my bag and be fine . It is very durable it come with a case thats not bulky at all works well . I take it hiking and it take great pics even while you recording , its in my bag every day . So there has to be one down side , The low light quality isn't very good but I knew that when I bought it . I use this for all kinds of outdoor event and thats what it is for . Posting video or pics are a brezzzze . Ive owned this cam for six mounths and have used it tons and its still working great . Battery life is about an hour of but if bought tow more at only $12 bucks apiece online . The 8 gb sd card give you tons of memory til you dump it on you PC . Hope this review help you out peace .
    • 035 4  I am 12 years old . My twin brother and I received this as a gift . I like this small camera because it's handy , easy to use , and portable . It's not an HD 1,000 dollar camera but it records with pretty good quality . My brother and I use it in our videos that we make all the time for our friends to see and it has worked like magic . The LCD screen looks good and can flip over for the actor to see himself being recorded . The battery lasts about 1 hour of continuous use . Although i've noticed that the battery is already starting to have less and less of it's charge . If you were to buy it I would say get a couple extra batteries so you won't have to keep putting the battery back on it's charger and wait like 1 hour and a half for it to get fully charged so you can use it again . The best thing I like about this camera is that it is waterproof , not just resistant to a little water getting on it , it can go under water ! I looked at the manual and found out that if you want the camera to last long , then you shouldn't take it lower than about 4 feet . Overall the camera works great ! and I can't wait to make our next video with it and put it on youtube !
    • 061 4  I have tried many digital cameras over the years and this one is one of the iffy ones . This camera does take good pictures , just not all of the time . My Sony DSC-S85 4.1M camera takes good pictures every time . The movie mode is good , but movies tend to stutter and look odd at times . Not a bad camera , but overall not that great either . Also , this camera is awkward to hold , would have been better if the buttons were along the top . The door where the battery and SD card goes also gets in the way when connecting to the PC . I am returning it and getting the Canon SD770IS .

  • 135 4  This is a great little camera . The only problem we had was that the battery compartment didn't seal so 5 minutes into our swim it quit . Ruined the camera and the battery . Amazons great customer service got me another one shipped out the next day in time for our next snorkel trip . YEAH Amazon ! ! ! ! ! ! ! The 4 minutes of video I was able to get was great . Ill update this review after our dive today . The second camera arrived as Amazon promised in time for the second snorkel trip . This camera worked well . It went through 2 dives of about 45 minutes each and 2 soaks in a bucket of fresh water without a problem . I got some great video and pictures its just to bad the first camera didn't fair as well . You take your chances with this camera . 1 out of 2 worked as described . If you are going to buy this , but from Amazon . They have a no hassle return / replacement / refund process .

    • 137 4  nice portable unit . the menus are confusing and moving between menus - from deleting a file back to an operational mode requires a reboot . . . if there's a way to get there i can't find it in the menus . Battery life seems short to me . in bright sunlight the display monitor easily washes out and is difficult to see . I don't plan to take it in the water & ' test ' waterproofing - that was something nice to have if caught in the rain or other accident . Windows media player can't always open and play video files from this unit , but Real Player seems to handle them all easily . mostly satisfied with it .
      • 050 4  We bought this camera specially for our vacation , it was a cruise in the Carribean , we wanted to have some video from whale watching in Samana and underwater swimming on coral reefs . The first day was OK , but on the second day all lense got covered with water from inside , we couldn't picture anything for future memories , we were very upset - it was just the beginning of our cruise . Whatever video clips we had a chance to take during our first day came out nice , maybe the brand itself is OK , but it was our bad luck with that specific item .

    • 147 4  This works great , but the picture quality is about what you'd expect from a non-HD camera - - pretty poor , but it is waterproof . It's so cheap , you don't mind the kids playing with it . If you need a camera for the pool and for kids , this is it .
      • 141 4  Nice camera . Compact and easy to use . The video quality indoors isn't great , but it's passable , and the picture quality is good , even using the built-in flash . Nice camera at this pricepoint .

    • 151 4  I purchased this waterproof camcorder and it was great . Used it at our pool and took it on a Baltic Cruise last year . It rained during our whole tour in Estonia however because the camcorder is waterproof I had all the video and pictures I wanted ! ! No one else could use their cameras because of the rain . We take good care of all our electronics so this was never mishandled . All of a sudden the pictures on the screen became distorted . . . kind of like it was set to the septia position . I could tell it was a short because moving it around I could get it to work . However that was short lived and it is now stuck in the distorted position . Because the warranty is only 90 days labor and 1 year parts it had no more warranty left . I sent it to Customer Care and they wanted $25 to diagnose the problem . . . . $96 labor and then the parts were another $98 bucks . I told them to just ship it back and not to fix it because this camcorder is an older model and it can be purchased used for much less . Also Sanyo has the CA 9 which is the same style however HD quality ! I will purchase a new one however this time will PURCHASE A WARRANTY . IF YOU BUY THIS CAMERA PURCHASE AN EXTENDED WARRANTY THAT LASTS SEVERAL YEARS . This way you are covered if something happens . I usually purchase one but did not on this camera and wish I did . It is a great value and the waterproof is well worth having ! !
      • 070 4  I purchased the Xacti E2 for my wife on her birthday . She is an accomplished diver and admitted sun bunney , as are our 2 daughters . I was amazed to see this item and read of its capabilities . . . not to mention suspicious . Now this will NOT replace a $300.00 Ikelite case on a $500.00 machine , but short of that comparo it shines like a Diamond in the morning sun . While we have not yet tested it at or near its max depth , it sure ' meets the bell ' all the way there . Still photos are easy and quick , and the audio overlay is excellent . It is important here to remember how economical this item really is . for any on-the-go mom of any age kid ( s ) owning this is an affordable and viable option to do double duty ; still and video camera that is durable enough for all the beach trips , sailing , fishing , soccer , etc . Obviously if you want to print 24 X 36 photos you will need 13 + MP , but for the average ' Joe ' who rarely prints above 4 X 6 this is a STEAL ! The Video is simply excellent and the same for the audio and there respective controls , etc . As an avid photog and the proud father of 2 great girls and the husband of a woman who cares not for equipment care , she has totally enjoyed the product for its perceived durability , features / benefits , and user-friendly ergonomics . Buy this and you will not be disappointed .

    • 155 4  I spent a lot of time on the water paddle boarding and was looking for an inexpensive waterproof video camera . This one fits the bill . Takes great pictures and easy to use and download . Only negative comments would be that it records in MP4 format and MicroSoft's MovieMaker does not use MP4 . Had to download a format converter . The gun design is easy to use from land , but a bit hard to keep steady when surfing . Other than that , a great camera for the money . Also , it does NOT float so recommend buying a floatable strap .
      • 075 4  This is an amazing camcorder as well as a camera . Two in one . No more taking a camera and a Camcorder . Easy to use , just has lots of options that you need to take the time to read , but after that , watch out . Videos and Photos - - - all in one . Easy to download onto your computer as well as share with other friends and family . And it's small . Fits right in your purse or pocket for men : D . The only thing I would suggest if you are using it all day , is to have a back up battery for it . Ours ran out and I didn't have a backup and was disappointed . Other than that , it's worth buying this product .
      • 108 4  I would reccommend this camera to eveyone the qualityb is exceptional for the price . I took it on a carribean diving trip and loved it .
      • 116 4  I received this video cam for X-Mas . It is GREAT ! Easy to use , very portable , and great for travel . The only negative thing I can say is that that battery does not last very long . I had to get a second as back up ! ! ! LOL . I LOVE THIS CAM . would recommend it to anyone !
      • 118 4  I love this camera ! I bought it for white water rafting , and couldn't be happier . It's super easy to operate with one hand , allowing you to hold on to the raft with the other hand . Video quality is amazing for the price , and it's very durable . I bought a kayak paddle leash to attach it to the raft , just in case it droped overboard , since it is only waterproof to 5 feet . I went through 4 batteries on a 9 day raft trip , so buy a couple back-ups if you won't be near an outlet for recharging .

    • 165 4  To take a pic you have to really hold down the button hard and the button has two levels . . . the first level is the camera getting ready to take the pic , then you have to press down more to take the actual pic . Whenever I hand this camera to someone new , their first two attempts don't work . You have to stop and tell them no dude , you really have to press it down hard for a second . That part is annoying and some of the pis have too much color , which sometimes looks cool but if I didn't have the option to adjust the color in Windows photo Gallery I'd have to buy a new camera . But I do like its water resistance , and SDHC memory cards .
      • 127 4  I have a 3K Sony VX2000 with a 2K water housing and the video image from the Exacti actually compares to the Sony , with tons more portability and much less set up . The Mpg4 video and the 8 megapixel stills are perfect for any home type images or uploads to youtube . Make sure you rinse the camera off well , especially at the joint where the viewfinder flips out after each use . You can shoot all day with three batteries and an 8 gig card . This is the best camera I have ever owned for personal use , hands down .

    • 167 4  This is an awesome little camera . Anybody who surfs or hangs out at the beach should have one . Its so small you can just stuff it in the front of your wetsuit and head out . If you hang out in the channel you just get great photos and movies without any worries , because you can use all the buttons just like you could on land . The picture is really clear and you can get some great photos or vids all you have to know is left button pic right button movie . Its so small and easy to use it's not tough to get waves while using it . Just a glimpse into the here and now , and not a second lookback to waterhousing , especially for movies its just too easy to use . Then when you get in you just literally rinse the sand and saltwater off in the showers . It isn't the highest extreme quality product , obviously for the price you're not getting lots of zoom and I don't know what else but I've been just fine with the pic quality . Just that the design leads you to wonder if all camcorders are gonna end up being water resistant , kinda like sport watches . And if they can make this little product work so well in the ocean , then they probably can make some super HD master camcorders too that would go for like 2K . And if you have a laptop with an SD slot , you're pretty much already there . Oh yeah and its good enough to be your only camera too because the specs are fine . Me and my boy just went to A day with Thomas at the train station and we got some insane great pics there too . Things like this really do exist now adays . Enjoy it !
      • 052 4  I purchased this camcorder on a whim , simply because it was on sale for a great price , and I was going on vacation where I would be snorkeling . The camera worked great underwater in the ocean , underwater in the pool , and splashed by water in the ocean . There are only 2 setbacks . The buttons for taking pictures and videos are small , and too close together for my big fingers , and I sometimes push the wrong button . Not a big issue on vacation , but it could be if you are trying to catch action pics . The only problem I had underwater was not being able to see the screen , so I just had to point in the direction of what I wanted , and hope . I still got some nice video while snorkeling . There are better options out there I'm sure , but for the price , I was quite pleased .
      • 143 4  The camera is not HD quality but price is great for a waterproof camera . I initially feel skeptical about the picture and video quality as I couldn't find any sort sample picture or video out there . But after using it for a trip , I'm totally satisfied with it . Not giving 5 stars because the menu items are not very self-intuitive . And the start-up time of the camera is rather slow .
      • 175 4  I bought the Sanyo Xacti because it was fairly compact , has decent specs , is water proof and had several good reviews from other users . I don't use it a whole lot but when I do I find that it is easy to use and captures pretty good video . The drawback I've found is when you playback the video through the camcorder itself , the audio is not real good . Fortuneately it is good when you play it back through a tv or a pc . Navigating the menu's is relatively easy once you get the hang of it . It would be nice if Sanyo supplied a carry case that attached to your belt . The waterproof feature is a plus . I don't plan to film under water . . . . but if you happen to get caught in a torrential downpour you'll have peace of mind that it will weather the storm .

    • 177 4  Pocket sized waterproof camcorder / camera with shock proof sd memory and nearly instant on . . . Too good to be true I thought . Try to take it away from me ! ! ! ! We do alot of boating and beach weekends , underwater shooting is lots of fun ! ! You even get muffled stereo sound underwater , the kids can't stop laughing at themselves . Picture stablizer works well on moving boat to smooth things out . Adobe Premier editing software is realy nice and not a starter version . Stills are as good as my 10mp Sony camera , low light shots suffer a little , as do most afordable digital cameras .
      • 030 4  I purchased 3 of these , 1 from Amazon and 2 from the Apple Store . Not one of the 3 would work , even after calling tech support . Great concept for a camera , just too bad they don't work .
      • 089 4  This camera is very hot . I bought it for my 16 year old daughter who constantly steals my camera and she absolutely loves it . The handle and the ease to which you can shoot pictures or movies is simple and fast . The picture quality is awesome and it is very light weight . It is the perfect vacation camera .

    • Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I just came back from a ski trip to Colorado with my family . Temp reached 12 deg F . Camera worked great . Dropped it in the snow a couple of times , brushed it off , and kept on recording . Could not operate the controls with thick ski gloves on , but could with my cold weather gloves and glove liners . The image on the screen looked grainy in low light conditions but the recording looked good when reviewed on my laptop . The still images are OK , but not as good as the ones I took with my Canon SD800IS . [ Which I also dropped in the snow ( yikes ! ) but quickly wiped off and didn't seem to have damaged the camera ( go Cannon ! ) ] However , the Canon was designed for still capture and the Sanyo for video . Recorded video on the Canon is horrid . The resolution range is 640 x 480 60 frames per second down to 320 x 240 15 fps ( for uploading to YouTube etc ) . I had considered getting a Flip camcorder . The Sanyo is bit more expensive than the Flip cameras , but when when you include a waterproof case for the flip , the price for the E2 is lower . My sister-in-law brought a Flip camera on the trip and the Sanyo's video was much better . The 5x optical zoom is worth the extra price . The camera turns on quickly . For even faster recovery , you can also put it in to sleep ( power save ) mode by pressing the power button briefly instead of holding it for a full second . According to the manual , it uses almost no power in this mode . It will also go into sleep mode when you close the screen . Opening the screen wakes it up . I wasn't a heavy camera user , but the only time I ran out of juice was when I used the camera for two days in a row without charging . Coming from a tape based camera , this is a VAST improvement . Oh , and it comes with a battery charger that has a flip out plug . Fantastic for travel . I hate having to use a cord to plug a unit into an outlet . The 5 foot waterproof limit isn't much , but I didn't intend to take it diving . It worked well in the snow , and I expect it to survive trips to the beach . Blue was $20 cheaper than white for some reason . I had purchased it from Amazon , not one of the related sellers , so the price was much lower than currently available ( I paid $167.98 ) and took advantage of free shipping . I am 100% satisfied with my purchase . It fit my needs perfectly . I have not installed the included software yet . I'll update this review when I do .
      • 013 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I first got this camera the end of July . My family was going to the Eastern Caribbean , so I wanted a underwater camera to take pictures of our snorkling adventures . I picked it up from UPS around the 20th of July . We tested it out at the pool and it seemed to be working ( I read the instructions on how to clean and let dry ) . We went on our vacation in October and we were at St . Thomas on a cruise . The camera broke 15 minutes into our trip . We had to buy another camera in St . Thomas , thank goodness that it works ( Fujifilm FinePix Z33WP 10 MP Waterproof Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom ( Green ) by Fuji ) . . I came back from the trip and called sanyo on our 90 day guarantee and they said it expired the 7th of october , since I ordered it with amazon on the 7th of July . First of all I didn't get it until the end of July from Amazon and second of all , I was on a cruise with no phone connections to tell them it was broke . They are not standing behind there product ! ! I called the sanyo fix - it department and they said it would be 40 to 109.00 dollars for labor ! ! Not worth it . . . This is a horrible company and I would never go back . I told them that I was going to write on every blog about this camera and they told me they don't care . I am so furious . . . . Please don't by this product . .
      • 024 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I have had this camera about 3 weeks . I bought it for watersports , kayaking , rowing , sailing . Main interest was in stills , being water resistant and small , easy to handle . On land I am very happy , I've played with the video , still learning the editing software , you can see my first youtube posting here i've dropped the camera twice and it still works just fine . I've not had much problem figuring out the menu , I've taken some after dark photos and am quite pleased . We've been on the water once , kayak on SF Bay . I secured the camera to myself with a longer lanyard and left it on the sprayskirt for easy access . It was rough enough that day that I took several small waves over the spary skirt , thoroughly drenching the camera . I had paddling gloves on , thin , but full finger with a gripping material on the palm / fingers . I had no problem in 45 ° f chill picking up the camera , opening it and working the buttons . I could use the smaller menu button to change setting , and the ring that controlled zoom was likewise easy to use with the gloves on . The stills I am getting are great . My only irritation is with the sun behind me , I can't really see the video viewer , I have to make an educated guess of where I am aiming , but the camera still works fine . I bought an additional battery and a 2gig card .
      • 026 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) after reading the reviews and contemplating whether to buy or not , at $199 with free shipping ( previously at $300 ) , this should be a good deal for a WATERPROOF camcorder . The package arrived quickly . Have just used it for a week and been happy with the performance . Video shots were great ( but dont expect for a professional quality coz this is not the equipment for such ! ) Pictures were great too , but again if you expect for high quality pictures , then get a good nikon or cannon SLR camera with at least 18 - 200mm zoom lens . Being a waterproof camcorder is a plus , and just what i needed - just in time for the snow and splashes this summer , I dont need to worry if it gets wet . I dont want to be technical and profound with my comments . This is just one of the toy that will be outdated in a year or so anyway . What's important is you capture the memories in a handy & snappy way , and with wonderful pictures . Well , I just hope Sanyo made a lens cover fot this , and a better case . Now : Aug 2009 . My unit is not working . Used in the a 3ft pool for few minutes . When u turn it on again , the date / time will show up in the screen , red light keeps on blinking . That's it . The only way to turn it off is to remove the battery .
      • 027 4  after reading the reviews and contemplating whether to buy or not , at $199 with free shipping ( previously at $300 ) , this should be a good deal for a WATERPROOF camcorder . The package arrived quickly . Have just used it for a week and been happy with the performance . Video shots were great ( but dont expect for a professional quality coz this is not the equipment for such ! ) Pictures were great too , but again if you expect for high quality pictures , then get a good nikon or cannon SLR camera with at least 18 - 200mm zoom lens . Being a waterproof camcorder is a plus , and just what i needed - just in time for the snow and splashes this summer , I dont need to worry if it gets wet . I dont want to be technical and profound with my comments . This is just one of the toy that will be outdated in a year or so anyway . What's important is you capture the memories in a handy & snappy way , and with wonderful pictures . Well , I just hope Sanyo made a lens cover fot this , and a better case . Now : Aug 2009 . My unit is not working . Used in the a 3ft pool for few minutes . When u turn it on again , the date / time will show up in the screen , red light keeps on blinking . That's it . The only way to turn it off is to remove the battery .
      • 066 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I just came back from a ski trip to Colorado with my family . Temp reached 12 deg F . Camera worked great . Dropped it in the snow a couple of times , brushed it off , and kept on recording . Could not operate the controls with thick ski gloves on , but could with my cold weather gloves and glove liners . The image on the screen looked grainy in low light conditions but the recording looked good when reviewed on my laptop . The still images are OK , but not as good as the ones I took with my Canon SD800IS . [ Which I also dropped in the snow ( yikes ! ) but quickly wiped off and didn't seem to have damaged the camera ( go Cannon ! ) ] However , the Canon was designed for still capture and the Sanyo for video . Recorded video on the Canon is horrid . The resolution range is 640 x 480 60 frames per second down to 320 x 240 15 fps ( for uploading to YouTube etc ) . I had considered getting a Flip camcorder . The Sanyo is bit more expensive than the Flip cameras , but when when you include a waterproof case for the flip , the price for the E2 is lower . My sister-in-law brought a Flip camera on the trip and the Sanyo's video was much better . The 5x optical zoom is worth the extra price . The camera turns on quickly . For even faster recovery , you can also put it in to sleep ( power save ) mode by pressing the power button briefly instead of holding it for a full second . According to the manual , it uses almost no power in this mode . It will also go into sleep mode when you close the screen . Opening the screen wakes it up . I wasn't a heavy camera user , but the only time I ran out of juice was when I used the camera for two days in a row without charging . Coming from a tape based camera , this is a VAST improvement . Oh , and it comes with a battery charger that has a flip out plug . Fantastic for travel . I hate having to use a cord to plug a unit into an outlet . The 5 foot waterproof limit isn't much , but I didn't intend to take it diving . It worked well in the snow , and I expect it to survive trips to the beach . Blue was $20 cheaper than white for some reason . I had purchased it from Amazon , not one of the related sellers , so the price was much lower than currently available ( I paid $167.98 ) and took advantage of free shipping . I am 100% satisfied with my purchase . It fit my needs perfectly . I have not installed the included software yet . I'll update this review when I do .
      • 067 4  I just came back from a ski trip to Colorado with my family . Temp reached 12 deg F . Camera worked great . Dropped it in the snow a couple of times , brushed it off , and kept on recording . Could not operate the controls with thick ski gloves on , but could with my cold weather gloves and glove liners . The image on the screen looked grainy in low light conditions but the recording looked good when reviewed on my laptop . The still images are OK , but not as good as the ones I took with my Canon SD800IS . [ Which I also dropped in the snow ( yikes ! ) but quickly wiped off and didn't seem to have damaged the camera ( go Cannon ! ) ] However , the Canon was designed for still capture and the Sanyo for video . Recorded video on the Canon is horrid . The resolution range is 640 x 480 60 frames per second down to 320 x 240 15 fps ( for uploading to YouTube etc ) . I had considered getting a Flip camcorder . The Sanyo is bit more expensive than the Flip cameras , but when when you include a waterproof case for the flip , the price for the E2 is lower . My sister-in-law brought a Flip camera on the trip and the Sanyo's video was much better . The 5x optical zoom is worth the extra price . The camera turns on quickly . For even faster recovery , you can also put it in to sleep ( power save ) mode by pressing the power button briefly instead of holding it for a full second . According to the manual , it uses almost no power in this mode . It will also go into sleep mode when you close the screen . Opening the screen wakes it up . I wasn't a heavy camera user , but the only time I ran out of juice was when I used the camera for two days in a row without charging . Coming from a tape based camera , this is a VAST improvement . Oh , and it comes with a battery charger that has a flip out plug . Fantastic for travel . I hate having to use a cord to plug a unit into an outlet . The 5 foot waterproof limit isn't much , but I didn't intend to take it diving . It worked well in the snow , and I expect it to survive trips to the beach . Blue was $20 cheaper than white for some reason . I had purchased it from Amazon , not one of the related sellers , so the price was much lower than currently available ( I paid $167.98 ) and took advantage of free shipping . I am 100% satisfied with my purchase . It fit my needs perfectly . I have not installed the included software yet . I'll update this review when I do .
      • 079 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Good value for the $175 price . I purchased the camera as a birthday gift . The video quality is better than my 3 + year old Xacti C5 . The photos are decent , but still not as good as most other digital still cameras , especially in low-light . The waterproof shell , however , makes the camera much larger that previous Xacti cameras , but it is still relatively small . While the video is only 640x480 and HD would be preferred , the HD Xacti cameras cost a lot more . I have only tried the underwater capabilities in the sink , but I can't wait for the summer to take it to the beach and in the water . edit : I had to edit my review after actually using the camera underwater . My first trip taking it snorkeling , the camera stopped functionally minutes after I entered the water . By time I swam out to the reef , I was no longer able to take any photos or video . I purchased a second Xacti E2 since it was less expensive than getting it fixed . This one also broke after the first time taking it into the water . So in conclusion , don't take this camera in the water , or it will break . On land , it's a pretty good camera .
      • 080 4  Good value for the $175 price . I purchased the camera as a birthday gift . The video quality is better than my 3 + year old Xacti C5 . The photos are decent , but still not as good as most other digital still cameras , especially in low-light . The waterproof shell , however , makes the camera much larger that previous Xacti cameras , but it is still relatively small . While the video is only 640x480 and HD would be preferred , the HD Xacti cameras cost a lot more . I have only tried the underwater capabilities in the sink , but I can't wait for the summer to take it to the beach and in the water . edit : I had to edit my review after actually using the camera underwater . My first trip taking it snorkeling , the camera stopped functionally minutes after I entered the water . By time I swam out to the reef , I was no longer able to take any photos or video . I purchased a second Xacti E2 since it was less expensive than getting it fixed . This one also broke after the first time taking it into the water . So in conclusion , don't take this camera in the water , or it will break . On land , it's a pretty good camera .
      • 096 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I got this camera in my bday last year , and , since I am outdoors a lot , I LOVED it at first sight . I could take it to snorkeling trips , and take pics even if it was raining outside . The pic quality is great , the videos have awesome quality , sound and pic . The perfect deal yeah ? NOOOO The flip visor is a loss in this camera . It is poorly designed and it WILL break . Just google and read reviews of people that own it for more than 6 months . My camera broke after 6 months , and worse , at sunset time at the top of Mauna Kea in Hawaii , so I lost both my camera and pics / videos of this unique moment . The warranty was for one year , so I thought , I am fine , they will fix it . BE AWARE : parts are covered for one year , but labor is covered for 6 months . . . labor to fix the camera costs a new camera . I am not the kind of person that likes to buy disposable things , so I dont think it is worth to spend $200 in sth that will last 6 months , better invest your money in a olympus water proof cam that has an awesome image / video / warranty / costumer service . Costumer service at Sanyo is another drama , it sucks ! Big ! Terrible experience , and never buying Sanyo again .
      • 097 4  I got this camera in my bday last year , and , since I am outdoors a lot , I LOVED it at first sight . I could take it to snorkeling trips , and take pics even if it was raining outside . The pic quality is great , the videos have awesome quality , sound and pic . The perfect deal yeah ? NOOOO The flip visor is a loss in this camera . It is poorly designed and it WILL break . Just google and read reviews of people that own it for more than 6 months . My camera broke after 6 months , and worse , at sunset time at the top of Mauna Kea in Hawaii , so I lost both my camera and pics / videos of this unique moment . The warranty was for one year , so I thought , I am fine , they will fix it . BE AWARE : parts are covered for one year , but labor is covered for 6 months . . . labor to fix the camera costs a new camera . I am not the kind of person that likes to buy disposable things , so I dont think it is worth to spend $200 in sth that will last 6 months , better invest your money in a olympus water proof cam that has an awesome image / video / warranty / costumer service . Costumer service at Sanyo is another drama , it sucks ! Big ! Terrible experience , and never buying Sanyo again .
      • 101 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I bought this to go on a cruise and man was it a great idea . I take this thing everywhere . Its so small you dont even notice it in you pocket . You can pull it out and in 5sec you are ready to shot . My friend dont like hanging out with me now because I always have the cam out reminding they how dumb they look . I take it snowboarding all the time it works great . Some people complained about the bottons being hard to push but can even do it with my gloves on . Underwater quality is cool haven't gone under 2ft yet just stay close to surface but it will stay submerged with no probs I bring it kayaking all the time and it will sit in some water at the bottom of my bag and be fine . It is very durable it come with a case thats not bulky at all works well . I take it hiking and it take great pics even while you recording , its in my bag every day . So there has to be one down side , The low light quality isn't very good but I knew that when I bought it . I use this for all kinds of outdoor event and thats what it is for . Posting video or pics are a brezzzze . Ive owned this cam for six mounths and have used it tons and its still working great . Battery life is about an hour of but if bought tow more at only $12 bucks apiece online . The 8 gb sd card give you tons of memory til you dump it on you PC . Hope this review help you out peace .
      • 109 4  At the time I received this camera , there were few waterproof digital camcorders on the market - - but things have changed radically since then . There are a lot of cameras that take both underwater ( that can go much deeper ) and above water stills and video on the market today . I wanted this camera to take camping , so that I would have something I could use outside , even if it was raining , at water parks , in swimming pools , rafting , and tubing . I have used the camera underwater , but I'm always wary of the fact that it can't go too deep and that even dropping it in the deep end of a swimming pool may be enough to cause it to leak . If I were to buy a waterproof camera today , I most definitely would purchase something that could go deeper . Many of the new cameras on the market in this category can also take high res . video ( including newer models by Sanyo ) . The video quality if OK for standard definition . My Flip Ultra actually took better standard res . video than this camera can ( particularly in low light . I am am very pleased with the still images that the camera produces in well lit , outdoor environments ; and it takes standard and widescreen stills . Be warned , it does not do well in low lighting situations ; if you think you will using it a lot to take videos indoors or at night I don't reccomend it ( the images can be very noisey ) . Although the camera has a flash , there is no red eye reduction , so unfortunately in most of the stills I took in low lighting conditions my subjects often look like the children of Dracula . The flash range is also rather limited , so make sure to get close to your subjects . The flash works well for backlit subjects as a fill , though , and I frequently use it for that . I have also had problems when swapping out batteries to get the camera to power on again ; though I am not certain if this is just a quirk of my camera or of all the E - 2s . The bottom line is that this is serviceable camera that works well for outside photography and wet weather conditions . If you want high defintion or something that can go into deeper water , definitely shop around .
      • 119 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I was shopping for a small hand held video camera for my 11 year old daughter . I had looked at the Flip at Target and other various cameras at Best Buy when my friend told me she was buying this particular camera for her daughter as well . She told me they had spent the summer using a friend's camera underwater in their pool and they had such a good time she decided to buy her own . I had never heard of this particular brand and I had not considered a waterproof camera before , but now I was getting excited because this was an added benefit since we had just put in a swimming pool . Great looking camera , appeals to the young and not so young as well ! Easy to use , though we have yet to try it under water ( it is Winter right now ) . Added benefit is that my daughter often captures family fun that I often miss because my camera is not charged , or I don't think to have it ready . . this is much more spontaneous and great since we are capturing memories much more often now . My daughter's goal is to make her own home movie , so this is also helping her stay up on technology learning new things every day . My advice , shop around . You can get a lower price on Amazon or other online businesses , versus the mega stores which I found the prices to be much more elevated . Shipped quickly , exactly as described , VERY happy with this purchase and so glad my friend told me about it , otherwise I would most likely have purchased an inferior product and had been disappointed !
      • 120 4  I was shopping for a small hand held video camera for my 11 year old daughter . I had looked at the Flip at Target and other various cameras at Best Buy when my friend told me she was buying this particular camera for her daughter as well . She told me they had spent the summer using a friend's camera underwater in their pool and they had such a good time she decided to buy her own . I had never heard of this particular brand and I had not considered a waterproof camera before , but now I was getting excited because this was an added benefit since we had just put in a swimming pool . Great looking camera , appeals to the young and not so young as well ! Easy to use , though we have yet to try it under water ( it is Winter right now ) . Added benefit is that my daughter often captures family fun that I often miss because my camera is not charged , or I don't think to have it ready . . this is much more spontaneous and great since we are capturing memories much more often now . My daughter's goal is to make her own home movie , so this is also helping her stay up on technology learning new things every day . My advice , shop around . You can get a lower price on Amazon or other online businesses , versus the mega stores which I found the prices to be much more elevated . Shipped quickly , exactly as described , VERY happy with this purchase and so glad my friend told me about it , otherwise I would most likely have purchased an inferior product and had been disappointed !
      • 123 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Now that I've had this camera for about 4 months now and have used it A LOT , I can definitely give it a solid 3 stars . Here's what I wanted : * something easy to carry : I've got a baby under 1 and a toddler and that means carrying a lot of diapers , extra clothes , and STUFF . I wanted something that I could easily slip into my jacket pocket and not be another camera in a bag . I carry my Canon SLR around in a separate bag so the video camera had to be small . * something that could get wet : we own a sailboat and are on the water a lot . We snorkel a lot . My kids throw water a lot . * something that took decent enough pics and video : there are times when I just don't wanna bring the SLR so the camera had to be better than my iphone in terms of pic quality . Here's how I think it's held up : * very easy to carry , very lightweight . I end up taking this everywhere . * I've had no problems with it while snorkeling . I wash it well after each use and it's been good to me in terms of functioning after each use under water . The video underwater is not bad as long as you're in good light and the water is fairly clear and you're close up . The zoom is pretty much useless on this camera . I rarely use it . * As many reviewers have mentioned , good lighting is a must for better pics . I took this camera to a surprise bday party with ok lighting and even after changing all the settings for low light , I had to trash all the footage because it looked that crappy . There are times when I have taped my baby crawling around the living room and am really disappointed with how grainy it looks . There are other times when I'm impressed by how clear it looks in natural , sunny light . I know how to use it well but when I've asked a stranger to take a pic for me , they find it extremely awkward . I've had a few pics with several heads cut off or no pic at all ( they think they've taken it but it doesn't shoot ) . I used to own a 3 chip video camera so I'm spoiled but with the kind of stuff I'm carrying ( kids , diaper bag , etc ) and the kind of things I do ( being on water / having water thrown at me ) I know that I'm using this way more than I ever would have with my nicer , heavier and bigger camera . I will upgrade later when the kids are older and I don't have to carry as much stuff for them but for now this suits me just fine .
      • 124 4  Now that I've had this camera for about 4 months now and have used it A LOT , I can definitely give it a solid 3 stars . Here's what I wanted : * something easy to carry : I've got a baby under 1 and a toddler and that means carrying a lot of diapers , extra clothes , and STUFF . I wanted something that I could easily slip into my jacket pocket and not be another camera in a bag . I carry my Canon SLR around in a separate bag so the video camera had to be small . * something that could get wet : we own a sailboat and are on the water a lot . We snorkel a lot . My kids throw water a lot . * something that took decent enough pics and video : there are times when I just don't wanna bring the SLR so the camera had to be better than my iphone in terms of pic quality . Here's how I think it's held up : * very easy to carry , very lightweight . I end up taking this everywhere . * I've had no problems with it while snorkeling . I wash it well after each use and it's been good to me in terms of functioning after each use under water . The video underwater is not bad as long as you're in good light and the water is fairly clear and you're close up . The zoom is pretty much useless on this camera . I rarely use it . * As many reviewers have mentioned , good lighting is a must for better pics . I took this camera to a surprise bday party with ok lighting and even after changing all the settings for low light , I had to trash all the footage because it looked that crappy . There are times when I have taped my baby crawling around the living room and am really disappointed with how grainy it looks . There are other times when I'm impressed by how clear it looks in natural , sunny light . I know how to use it well but when I've asked a stranger to take a pic for me , they find it extremely awkward . I've had a few pics with several heads cut off or no pic at all ( they think they've taken it but it doesn't shoot ) . I used to own a 3 chip video camera so I'm spoiled but with the kind of stuff I'm carrying ( kids , diaper bag , etc ) and the kind of things I do ( being on water / having water thrown at me ) I know that I'm using this way more than I ever would have with my nicer , heavier and bigger camera . I will upgrade later when the kids are older and I don't have to carry as much stuff for them but for now this suits me just fine .
      • 189 4  Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) Having just returned from Japan , I must say our kids had a ball with this waterproof super light home movie camera . My 7 year old had it under his pillow for most of the trip ! This 8 MP Digital wonder that fits in your palm , gave us wonderful home movies . The ease of editing and bright picture stands out as a pleaser in every way . This camera is just plain fun for all . This is a best buy in every way ! We give this can a high five , all the way . Now we must take it to Africa ! ! ! NABU
      • 199 4  This was my first camcorder and I wanted to see what I could get in the way of a waterproof / submergible one for under $200 . Lesson learned : you get what you pay for . Pros : decent DVD quality , decent menu interface and ergonomics , very compact , stylish design , SD memory cards and compact file sizes , files are very YouTube , iMovie friendly , screen swivels nicely to 180 degrees , 8MB camera stills while shooting , decent flash , and best of all IT IS WATERPROOF down to 5 ' and for up to 60 min ! Cons : very shaky even w / steady mode enabled , not much of a wind buffer on the mic , very noisy in low-light situations , no infra-red / night shot mode , screen is hard to see under water or in bright daylight , to many button presses to delete a single file , BATTERY LASTS APPROX . ONE HOUR , SO YOU MUST HAVE A BACKUP BATTERY , the pistol grip takes a while to get used to for good aiming , and my packaged shipment didn't contain the AV cables . All things being said , I've decided to keep the this puppy . It's a good first camcorder and I'm really looking forward to getting more snorkeling and snowboarding footage without worrying about the camera getting wet or submerged .

    • Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Pros : - Good Pictures during sunshine - Video is good only in bright lighting - Comfortable in hand - Battery life is awesome , and I love the sleep / power save feature - Face chaser is neat Cons : - Video sucks in low light , but you get what you pay for - The menu interface is weird to navigate through - Battery compartment gets a little hot when you use it for a long time Review : All in all it's a great camera , I already own a video camera and nice camera for pictures . Main purpose of this camera is purely for taking pictures on outdoor activities and watersports . For that purpose it outshines anything in it's price range . SUPER COMPACT , love this camera . No issues with it yet !
      • 047 4  this camera seemed fine at first , however was not water proof at all . worse yet sanyo seemed not to care at all when i called for support . they were unwilling to do anything to help me with my now not working camera exempt tell me it was 6 days outside of the warranty and i could send it away to find out how much it will cost to repair . i strongly recommend that no one buys this camera who intends on using it under water . im extremely dissapointed with both sanyos customer service and their product . not to mention my vacation is now over and i have no diving video to show .
      • 152 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Pros : - Good Pictures during sunshine - Video is good only in bright lighting - Comfortable in hand - Battery life is awesome , and I love the sleep / power save feature - Face chaser is neat Cons : - Video sucks in low light , but you get what you pay for - The menu interface is weird to navigate through - Battery compartment gets a little hot when you use it for a long time Review : All in all it's a great camera , I already own a video camera and nice camera for pictures . Main purpose of this camera is purely for taking pictures on outdoor activities and watersports . For that purpose it outshines anything in it's price range . SUPER COMPACT , love this camera . No issues with it yet !
      • 153 4  Pros : - Good Pictures during sunshine - Video is good only in bright lighting - Comfortable in hand - Battery life is awesome , and I love the sleep / power save feature - Face chaser is neat Cons : - Video sucks in low light , but you get what you pay for - The menu interface is weird to navigate through - Battery compartment gets a little hot when you use it for a long time Review : All in all it's a great camera , I already own a video camera and nice camera for pictures . Main purpose of this camera is purely for taking pictures on outdoor activities and watersports . For that purpose it outshines anything in it's price range . SUPER COMPACT , love this camera . No issues with it yet !
      • 195 4  I BOUGHT THIS PRODUCT WHEN MY OLDER MODEL VIDEO CAMERA BROKE . I THINK IT IS A VERY NICE , COMPACT CAMERA . EXCELLENT PRICE AND WITH AN 8GB SD CARD U CAN RECORD 8 HRS OF VIDEO AND TAKE STILL PICS . PERFECT FOR A FAMILY WHO TAKES ALOT OF PICS AND LIKES TO TAPE HOLIDAYS , SPECIAL OCCASIONS , ECT .

    • The most obvious is a change of sensor . E1 uses 6MP CCD 1 / 2.5 sensor E2 uses 8MP CMOS 1 / 2.5 sensor . E2 adds a 60 frames per second movie option ( E1 was limited to 30 frames per second ) E2 adds face recognition mode . E1 has no such face detection mode E2 adds a dedicated ' underwater ' mode among several others . E1 did not have a specific ' underwater ' mode . First , I tried both the new 60 frames per second mode and the old 30 frames per second mode and I decided that I will be using 30 frames per second , I actually like the quality of 30fps mode better . I then tried the photography mode . I took most photographs inside in tricky low-light incandescent and florescent light conditions , because I know these give ANY camera , including DSLRs such as my Canon 40D $1300 camera , the most problems . I upped the ISO to 200 and then to 400 . You can see samples I posted here . BTW the macro mode on this baby goes to 1 cm ! ! ! ! I don't know if E1 had such super-macro to 1 cm . I found the photo quality acceptable and similar to that of other point-and-shoots using the same 1 / 2.5 and similar sensors . I felt that ISO400 was acceptable . I have not tried ISO 800 and 1600 yet . E2 has following ISO range : in photo mode 50 - 1600 in video mode : 100 - 3200 in high sensitivity mode ( 3200 I don't believe you can select , but it does it ) . The image stabilization feature is tricky , it is EIS , Electronic Image Stabilization , not Optical Image Stabilization , so when you use it , it crops a little bit on sides of your video and photographs , depending on which mode of EIS you use . The sound is stereo and the quality is acceptable . The camera is tiny btw , I fit mine in case logic case I had from my Canon A75 camera . I tried this camera underwater in my pool , both video and photographs . All worked fine , even shoots photographs with flash underwater , which makes for very freaky results . - - - Finally , some people complained that Sanyo has their own unique USB cable which is a pain if you lose it or don't have it with you , and cannot read it in ordinary card reader . WRONG . I did not even bother taking the proprietary Sanyo USB cable from camera packaging . The card works easily in my HP ( windows vista ) desktop's card reader . I downloaded PICASA 3 which I recommend . Picasa 3 will find , download , and play all photos and every video you shoot with this camera easily and quickly , just take the SD card , put it in your card reader and Picasa will do the rest . Very easy , so don't need to bother with this cable that comes with it . Problems : Battery life is not impressive . Battery is tiny . I am used to Fuji F30 ' s 500 shots per charge . This battery sucks . I charged the battery fully . I then took 80 photographs ( some with flash ) , 4 or 5 2 - minute videos and my battery showed 70% gone . You need a second battery , and hopefully there are some with more juice in it that the Sanyo one that comes with the camera . I also wish the lens would start at 28mm and not 38mm as it would make easier to take pictures / videos of oneself without need to stretch your body away from the camera . Also my belief is that the flash only operates in photo mode and not in video mode . However , it is much better than its only competitor , Panasonic SW20 , which does not have any flash at all I will add more photos later .
      • 001 4  Before purchasing E2 I was torn between E1 and E2 but decided to go with a new model . There were no reviews on E2 other than a single one for Euro / Japanese / Canadian version of E2 called CA8 and that review blasted the camera's new sensor . Nevertheless , with Amazon's liberal return policy , I decided to take my chance and to get E2 instead of E1 . After all , it is a second generation of this waterproof camera , and I thought the second generation is typically better . If you are trying to decide between E1 and E2 , here are the major differences : The most obvious is a change of sensor . E1 uses 6MP CCD 1 / 2.5 sensor E2 uses 8MP CMOS 1 / 2.5 sensor . E2 adds a 60 frames per second movie option ( E1 was limited to 30 frames per second ) E2 adds face recognition mode . E1 has no such face detection mode E2 adds a dedicated ' underwater ' mode among several others . E1 did not have a specific ' underwater ' mode . First , I tried both the new 60 frames per second mode and the old 30 frames per second mode and I decided that I will be using 30 frames per second , I actually like the quality of 30fps mode better . I then tried the photography mode . I took most photographs inside in tricky low-light incandescent and florescent light conditions , because I know these give ANY camera , including DSLRs such as my Canon 40D $1300 camera , the most problems . I upped the ISO to 200 and then to 400 . You can see samples I posted here . BTW the macro mode on this baby goes to 1 cm ! ! ! ! I don't know if E1 had such super-macro to 1 cm . I found the photo quality acceptable and similar to that of other point-and-shoots using the same 1 / 2.5 and similar sensors . I felt that ISO400 was acceptable . I have not tried ISO 800 and 1600 yet . E2 has following ISO range : in photo mode 50 - 1600 in video mode : 100 - 3200 in high sensitivity mode ( 3200 I don't believe you can select , but it does it ) . The image stabilization feature is tricky , it is EIS , Electronic Image Stabilization , not Optical Image Stabilization , so when you use it , it crops a little bit on sides of your video and photographs , depending on which mode of EIS you use . The sound is stereo and the quality is acceptable . The camera is tiny btw , I fit mine in case logic case I had from my Canon A75 camera . I tried this camera underwater in my pool , both video and photographs . All worked fine , even shoots photographs with flash underwater , which makes for very freaky results . - - - Finally , some people complained that Sanyo has their own unique USB cable which is a pain if you lose it or don't have it with you , and cannot read it in ordinary card reader . WRONG . I did not even bother taking the proprietary Sanyo USB cable from camera packaging . The card works easily in my HP ( windows vista ) desktop's card reader . I downloaded PICASA 3 which I recommend . Picasa 3 will find , download , and play all photos and every video you shoot with this camera easily and quickly , just take the SD card , put it in your card reader and Picasa will do the rest . Very easy , so don't need to bother with this cable that comes with it . Problems : Battery life is not impressive . Battery is tiny . I am used to Fuji F30 ' s 500 shots per charge . This battery sucks . I charged the battery fully . I then took 80 photographs ( some with flash ) , 4 or 5 2 - minute videos and my battery showed 70% gone . You need a second battery , and hopefully there are some with more juice in it that the Sanyo one that comes with the camera . I also wish the lens would start at 28mm and not 38mm as it would make easier to take pictures / videos of oneself without need to stretch your body away from the camera . Also my belief is that the flash only operates in photo mode and not in video mode . However , it is much better than its only competitor , Panasonic SW20 , which does not have any flash at all I will add more photos later .
      • 003 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( White ) ( Electronics ) I was made a believer when I got my first xacti , the xacti CG65 . The video quality on that was very good . I produced a few very good quality DVDs using the CG65 and got quite a few compliments . A lot of my friends were surprised at how clear the videos turned out to be . But then I have a chance to go to several beaches and took at lot of videos as well . Although I was very happy with the videos I thought about how things would be better if I had a waterproof camcorder . On black friday this thought was realized . Amazon put this camera on sale for $199 . It was a deal I couldn't pass up . I then sold the CG65 to a friend which he gladly took . The E2 came in quickly from Amazon . Just this past weekend , I had a chance to really test it out at the xmas party . I am tranfering the videos now and sad to say I am disappointed . In videos I took with high ISO settings , there is a lot of vertical / horizontal banding . Even in my 19 monitor its so visible and its definitely annoying . There is also a problem with the image stabilization on this camera . On the top of the screen whenever I would move the video from 1 side to another , there is this flickering . In the CG65 , the videos are very good regardless if its low light or good light condition . This one needs a just right light condition to work just like the CG65 . The bottomline is I am not impressed and in fact I am returning this camera . Maybe the change from CCD to a CMOS sensor is the culprit ? I dunno . But definitely I miss my CG65 . The still shots are a bit better than the CG65 but the red eye problem is worse on this camera . I used to have just the red eye problem with my CG65 . In this E2 camera , there is also the red eye + cat eyes problem . Makes my subjects look like a bunch of aliens lol . So there you go . If you are considering this camera , maybe look at the predecessor E1 instead as it had the CCD sensor . Now I have to find a CG65 on ebay or unless I can find an E1 that I can try out . But definitely , skip the E2 . When you look at the E1 and the E2 and ask , how come the E1 is still more expensive that the E2 considering E1 is the older model ? You now know the answer . There is something cheap in this E2 .
      • 004 4  I was made a believer when I got my first xacti , the xacti CG65 . The video quality on that was very good . I produced a few very good quality DVDs using the CG65 and got quite a few compliments . A lot of my friends were surprised at how clear the videos turned out to be . But then I have a chance to go to several beaches and took at lot of videos as well . Although I was very happy with the videos I thought about how things would be better if I had a waterproof camcorder . On black friday this thought was realized . Amazon put this camera on sale for $199 . It was a deal I couldn't pass up . I then sold the CG65 to a friend which he gladly took . The E2 came in quickly from Amazon . Just this past weekend , I had a chance to really test it out at the xmas party . I am tranfering the videos now and sad to say I am disappointed . In videos I took with high ISO settings , there is a lot of vertical / horizontal banding . Even in my 19 monitor its so visible and its definitely annoying . There is also a problem with the image stabilization on this camera . On the top of the screen whenever I would move the video from 1 side to another , there is this flickering . In the CG65 , the videos are very good regardless if its low light or good light condition . This one needs a just right light condition to work just like the CG65 . The bottomline is I am not impressed and in fact I am returning this camera . Maybe the change from CCD to a CMOS sensor is the culprit ? I dunno . But definitely I miss my CG65 . The still shots are a bit better than the CG65 but the red eye problem is worse on this camera . I used to have just the red eye problem with my CG65 . In this E2 camera , there is also the red eye + cat eyes problem . Makes my subjects look like a bunch of aliens lol . So there you go . If you are considering this camera , maybe look at the predecessor E1 instead as it had the CCD sensor . Now I have to find a CG65 on ebay or unless I can find an E1 that I can try out . But definitely , skip the E2 . When you look at the E1 and the E2 and ask , how come the E1 is still more expensive that the E2 considering E1 is the older model ? You now know the answer . There is something cheap in this E2 .
      • 005 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I currently own the Flip Video Ultra Series Camcorder and have been very pleased with it for the most part . I wanted to upgrade to a camera that had a sharper focused image , optical zoom with image stabilization but was still flash based . Went with the Xacti VPC-E2 and could not have been more displeased . The fit and finish on the Xacti VPC-E2 is very good and the menu system is easy to use . . . . the only problem : Horrible Indoor Movie Quality ! If had to rate the overall quality ( indoors & outdoors ) of recorded movies on a scale of 1 to 10 I'd give the Flip Video Ultra Series an 8 but I'd only give the Xacti VPC-E2 a 5 at best . Where the Flip blew the Xacti away was on indoor videos . The Xacti had to bump the ISO up to 1600 which introduced tons of noise or graininess into the video . I tried manually holding the ISO down to between 100 and 200 which did clear up the noise issue but then the picture was so dark that you couldn't make out any faces . On outdoor videos the Xacti was just slightly better than the Flip . The video wasn't really that much better except for the fact that the Flip was constantly adjusting it's white balance where as the Xacti was more consistent . Overall I like the design of the Xacti over the flip but in the end it's all about the movie quality with me . I've decided to return the Xacti and have bought the Kodak Zi6 HD Pocket Video Camera . It doesn't have the 5x optical zoom or image stabilization but from what I've read the HD is supposed to give me sharper images . I've had the Kodak Zi6 HD Pocket Video Camera for about 2 hours and I can tell you that I am already much more pleased with the video . There's been reviews of poor build quality on the Kodak but I would say it has very good build quality but not quite as good as the Xacti .
      • 006 4  I currently own the Flip Video Ultra Series Camcorder and have been very pleased with it for the most part . I wanted to upgrade to a camera that had a sharper focused image , optical zoom with image stabilization but was still flash based . Went with the Xacti VPC-E2 and could not have been more displeased . The fit and finish on the Xacti VPC-E2 is very good and the menu system is easy to use . . . . the only problem : Horrible Indoor Movie Quality ! If had to rate the overall quality ( indoors & outdoors ) of recorded movies on a scale of 1 to 10 I'd give the Flip Video Ultra Series an 8 but I'd only give the Xacti VPC-E2 a 5 at best . Where the Flip blew the Xacti away was on indoor videos . The Xacti had to bump the ISO up to 1600 which introduced tons of noise or graininess into the video . I tried manually holding the ISO down to between 100 and 200 which did clear up the noise issue but then the picture was so dark that you couldn't make out any faces . On outdoor videos the Xacti was just slightly better than the Flip . The video wasn't really that much better except for the fact that the Flip was constantly adjusting it's white balance where as the Xacti was more consistent . Overall I like the design of the Xacti over the flip but in the end it's all about the movie quality with me . I've decided to return the Xacti and have bought the Kodak Zi6 HD Pocket Video Camera . It doesn't have the 5x optical zoom or image stabilization but from what I've read the HD is supposed to give me sharper images . I've had the Kodak Zi6 HD Pocket Video Camera for about 2 hours and I can tell you that I am already much more pleased with the video . There's been reviews of poor build quality on the Kodak but I would say it has very good build quality but not quite as good as the Xacti .
      • 007 4  I've been looking for an inexpensive compact digital camcorder for a long time , for my snow and water sports , until I found Xacti E2 . The compact size make it easy to fit in the jacket pockets whiling riding . The authentic Water-proof and shaking control are critical for shooting while moving on the snow or under water . Video and sound quality is not a big concern for me , but I know it's at least as good as other regular camcorders at this price range . To my surprise , the night video quality is also very good , clear and no much noise point . Battery life is also good at low temperature ( my cell phone battery usually stops working very soon after I get onto slope ) So far , I'm very satisfied with it . There are only a few minor UI issues I don't like . e.g . the buttons of camera and video taping are small and so close , that I cannot operate while wearing snow gloves . Also , no button to switch flash , so I have to change setting by menu each time . So overall , I would strong recommend it for sport purpose .
      • 008 4  I was looking for a camcorder that was portable and that I could rely upon regardless of the weather . I also didn't want to spend too much money , yet at the same time didn't want the picture / video quality to be awful . The Xacti VPC-E2 answered my prayers and with a great discount it fell right into my price range . The Xacti VPC-E2 is great because its compact and waterproof . I took it for a snowboarding trip and took videos all day while it was snowing and the Xacti didn't skip a beat . The buttons are easy to use and it even comes with string attachment so you can carry it on your wrist if you'd like . There are also a decent amount of settings within the camcorder and camera settings although the quality of the face chaser wasn't up to par of my digital camera . The resolution on the viewer of the Xacti doesn't have the best resolution which is the only reason I gave it 4stars , but once you load it up to your laptop or computer the resolution is a lot better and comparable to the $1000 camcorders out there . I agree with the other reviews that the case is not that protective , but it does cover the lens part , so it does do its job . All in all , its size is great and so is the fact that I don't have to worry about rain or snow . It's a bit pricey , but I was able to buy it through Amazon at a great price ( ~ 200 ) . I got the white one and it does look a bit like a toy though . . .
      • 012 4  I bougth the Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder at Amazon January 2009 . I was happy at the beginning . It seemed a good product . However , after just one week , it stopped working completely . We were filming in the pool . It was in the middle of my vacation so I was not very happy . When i came back from my vacation , i called Sanyo . They finally asked me to send it for repair to a company called Skokie , which i did . About a week later , Skokie called me and said that water got inside . Unfortunately , it is not covered under warranty ! ! ! I was shocked . It does not make sense . This is supposed to be a waterproof camera . I spoke with a supervisor at Skokie . I also called back Sanyo and spoke to a couple of persons including a supervisor called Dan . They all said that they can not do nothing . It passed their waterproof tests they said , so they assume i must have done something wrong ( which i did not ) and won't repair it under warranty . In fact , they are quoting 366 $ for repair ! Almost twice the value of the camera . . . I am extremely disapointed by the camera , but a lot more by the service i received . I bought the camera because of the good reviews and because i did not want any problems . I will probably have to throw it away and buy another one , for sure not a Sanyo . Think again before purchasing it .
      • 015 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( White ) ( Electronics ) I'm an aquatic biologist and I specifically bought this camera for the purpose of taking pictures and video while on the job . I had the camera a couple weeks and the pictures it took were wonderful until I took it snorkeling . We were in water less than 2 feet deep and the camera was shut properly . I took roughly 5 minutes of video and was replaying the video on shore when the camera shut down . I figured it was the battery . The next morning I pick up the camera and it had water behind the lens . It took SEVERAL weeks of emailing and phoning Sanyo before I was able to talk to someone about having the camera repaired or replaced ( under warranty # . I sent it to one of their 2 authorized repair shops who had it for several weeks . Finally they came to the conclusion that it was user error and that the camera was waterproof . I followed all of the instructions in the manual . I ensured that the camera was sealed tight before use and it still got water in it . I know it was not user error . I am still trying to appeal the repair shop # a Sanyo contractor ) decision . Please think twice before buying this camera if you have any intention of using it in water . Sanyo has , by far , the worst customer service I know of . Consumer beware . . .
      • 018 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I am not a professional photographer or videographer so I can't give you my opinion on the technical specifications , but I can at least tell you how it works for the average user . The Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 is lightweight and compact . Like others have stated before , the included camera bag is useless so I store and carry it in an extra digital camera bag I have . It takes clear still images , even though the processing speed is long . Moving / action pictures come out clearly and focused . The audio and video recording come out clear . However , I did have issues when zooming into items . It became difficult to hold the camera steady . Any slight movement while zooming very closely moves the camera view away from the image you are trying to record . Even though zooming in gave me problems sometimes , the zooming power is amazing . The battery life is approximately 45 to 60 minutes . An added bonus was receiving Adobe Elements 4.0 for editing and organizing your images - this program alone is quite costly . I strongly suggest to get a high capacity SD card since it will hold more pictures and videos . I tend to loose SD cards if I carry more than one so I purchased a 16GB card to be on the safe side . I strongly suggest to get the following items : Extra batteries : Lenmar DLSAL20 Lithium-ion Digital Camera / Camcorder Battery Equivelent to the Sony DB-L20 Battery 16GB SDHC card : Transcend 16 GB SDHC Class 6 Flash Memory Card TS16GSDHC6 Tripod : Quikpod QPAK-COMPOD Compod Slim Extendable Handheld Tripod ( Black )
      • 019 4  I am not a professional photographer or videographer so I can't give you my opinion on the technical specifications , but I can at least tell you how it works for the average user . The Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 is lightweight and compact . Like others have stated before , the included camera bag is useless so I store and carry it in an extra digital camera bag I have . It takes clear still images , even though the processing speed is long . Moving / action pictures come out clearly and focused . The audio and video recording come out clear . However , I did have issues when zooming into items . It became difficult to hold the camera steady . Any slight movement while zooming very closely moves the camera view away from the image you are trying to record . Even though zooming in gave me problems sometimes , the zooming power is amazing . The battery life is approximately 45 to 60 minutes . An added bonus was receiving Adobe Elements 4.0 for editing and organizing your images - this program alone is quite costly . I strongly suggest to get a high capacity SD card since it will hold more pictures and videos . I tend to loose SD cards if I carry more than one so I purchased a 16GB card to be on the safe side . I strongly suggest to get the following items : Extra batteries : Lenmar DLSAL20 Lithium-ion Digital Camera / Camcorder Battery Equivelent to the Sony DB-L20 Battery 16GB SDHC card : Transcend 16 GB SDHC Class 6 Flash Memory Card TS16GSDHC6 Tripod : Quikpod QPAK-COMPOD Compod Slim Extendable Handheld Tripod ( Black )
      • 020 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I was unsure about this camera when I researched it . It looked too good to be true . . . A very small video camera and point and shoot camera that is waterproof , takes underwater photos and video and is delivered for under $180 ? Well some reviews were not very favorable talking about grainy picture quality in low light but others were glowing . Just about everyone said it was a good bang for the buck so I ordered it thinking I would send it back if I didn't like it . . . first of all I do like it . . . It's compactness is second to none . . . not much bigger than my smartphone or a tape on my old camcorder . . . no more carrying a big bag around to sporting events . . . even the small ones you buy today won't fit in your pocket as this one does . And the more time I use it . . the more I like it . Quality and workmanship is great . Everyone I show it to is impressed also . . When using it in the out of the box configuration with adjustments set on Auto it worked great in good natural light but the first time I shot in indoors with low lighting I was very disappointed . I was just about to send it back and then and only thing started reading the manual and adjusting the ISO and white balence and I got back the great picture quality . This adjustment only takes seconds so well worth the time . I have not used it underwater yet so I can't say anything about that yet but , from what I have seen so far , this is a keeper . The only thing that kept it from getting 5 stars is the minor distraction of the auto setting not being truely an Auto setting and the fact that the little carrying pouch to protect and keep the screen clean that comes with it didn't have a belt loop . . very minor issues . The only other thing this camera is missing is that it isn't a smart phone as well . . . : 0 ) I would have given it a 5 star if it included a simple cell phone it would have been a 5 star . A smart phone would have it in the 7 - 10 range out of 5 . . . can we do that ? Buy it and familiarize youself with the settings from the get go and practice with it a little in different lighting situations and you will unlock this cameras full potential .
      • 021 4  I was unsure about this camera when I researched it . It looked too good to be true . . . A very small video camera and point and shoot camera that is waterproof , takes underwater photos and video and is delivered for under $180 ? Well some reviews were not very favorable talking about grainy picture quality in low light but others were glowing . Just about everyone said it was a good bang for the buck so I ordered it thinking I would send it back if I didn't like it . . . first of all I do like it . . . It's compactness is second to none . . . not much bigger than my smartphone or a tape on my old camcorder . . . no more carrying a big bag around to sporting events . . . even the small ones you buy today won't fit in your pocket as this one does . And the more time I use it . . the more I like it . Quality and workmanship is great . Everyone I show it to is impressed also . . When using it in the out of the box configuration with adjustments set on Auto it worked great in good natural light but the first time I shot in indoors with low lighting I was very disappointed . I was just about to send it back and then and only thing started reading the manual and adjusting the ISO and white balence and I got back the great picture quality . This adjustment only takes seconds so well worth the time . I have not used it underwater yet so I can't say anything about that yet but , from what I have seen so far , this is a keeper . The only thing that kept it from getting 5 stars is the minor distraction of the auto setting not being truely an Auto setting and the fact that the little carrying pouch to protect and keep the screen clean that comes with it didn't have a belt loop . . very minor issues . The only other thing this camera is missing is that it isn't a smart phone as well . . . : 0 ) I would have given it a 5 star if it included a simple cell phone it would have been a 5 star . A smart phone would have it in the 7 - 10 range out of 5 . . . can we do that ? Buy it and familiarize youself with the settings from the get go and practice with it a little in different lighting situations and you will unlock this cameras full potential .
      • 022 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) It looks like very cool product and easy to use . I shot only couple of times in the swim pool . water got inside . It was broken . there are 1 year parts warranty , but labor only cover 90 days . I sent to the repair center . ( there are only 2 repair centers in US . ) It will charge $179 for the labor fee . I have no choice , have to throw it .
      • 029 4  I purchased this camcorder / point and shoot camera on a black Friday deal for $199 . What a great deal it was . In other words , I may be in love ! For starters , let me tell you what I was looking for : - Small camcorder - something that would fit easily in my pocket , ready for the quick opportunity - Easy to use - I'm not a video engineer - Records to TV resolution , as well as an easy upload to youtube - Still camera incorporated , good enough to compare to a dedicated point and shoot so I don't have to carry too much stuff . One of my hobbies is photography , and I have a Canon D20 that I use frequently . But that's bringing out the big guns for shooting something that just appeals to me on a whim . I realized that a camcorder / point-n-shoot might not satisfy the photographer in me , so I also got a good deal on a Nikon Coolpix on black Friday . The Coolpix is still in it's box , and will likely be returned . OK , now about the Sanyo E2 . This appears to be a relatively new camcorder , as there aren't a whole lot of reviews - or even a group on flickr . So when I purchased the thing , it was an impulse buy . . . I did a little research , found nothing substantial ; but still , $199 for a MSRP $399 camcorder sounded too good to pass up . The boxes showed up on Monday : a Nikon Coolpix and the Sanyo . I was most curious about the Xacti , so I opened it first . I charged the battery , went through the set up , and stuck it in my pocket . After getting used to the idea of a camcorder a bit , and taking numerous pictures of my pets and my husband ( my dog runs when I get it out of it's crappy case - more on that later ) , I am so pleased with my results that I don't feel the need to even open the Coolpix and play with it . The E2 has a nice feel to it , looks good in the blue color I got , and generally , is a pleasing piece of geekery . On top of that , it takes serviceable pictures , decent video , and is fun to use . The interface is really workable , with a simplified menu and a more complex one when you need it . It doesn't seem to like my 8GB Transcend SD card , but the 4GB SanDisk hasn't failed me yet . The battery life is not great on this thing . I was warned by other reviewers to purchase a secondary battery ( I did ) , and I would recommend this to anyone . Although this Xacti is waterproof , be aware that it's not a scuba camera . That doesn't bother me because I can't swim ; but to those who think they can go further than 5 feet , be aware that this camcorder won't do better than that . It's more like waterproof . So if you want , take it in the shower ( heh ) , or by the pool , or in the rain without worries . PROS Satisfies all my requirements for a pocket carry camcorder / camera Better picture quality than I expected Easy to use interface for deleting , changing presets , etc . Waterproof - can take it with me in rain with no worries Fast start up CONS No lens cap Crappy wrap around case Doesn't like my 8GB Transcend SD card Battery life is not good This thing has lived in my pocket for a week , and more often than not , it's been my own reluctance to pull out a camera than my confidence in the camera to do its job that prevented me from taking more pictures or videos . I like the idea that I can photo or video anything that suits my fancy at a moments notice . Way good bang for your buck !
      • 032 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) This camera takes passable pictures and videos . It does have a few annoying problems . There is a considerable delay between when you press the shutter button and when a picture is taken . Also , there is no viewfinder and it is difficult to make out what's on the display in sunlight . Finally , the LCD screen needs to be extended while you're using the camera where it can easily be damaged . However , what isn't mentioned in the listing and which may be the biggest drawback is the warranty . The device is sold with a 90 - day parts and one year labor coverage . After speaking with a Sanyo customer service manager and service technician I learned the following : The cost for labor is about as much as to buy the camera , about $150 . There isn't even a 1 - day grace period for the labor coverage . If Sanyo determines the damage was caused by water getting into the ( waterproof ) camera then the warranty is voided . I wasn't expecting a great camera for use around the pool . However , if I knew about the draconian warranty policies , possibly needed because this camera sees lots of reliability problems , I would have looked elsewhere .
      • 033 4  This camera takes passable pictures and videos . It does have a few annoying problems . There is a considerable delay between when you press the shutter button and when a picture is taken . Also , there is no viewfinder and it is difficult to make out what's on the display in sunlight . Finally , the LCD screen needs to be extended while you're using the camera where it can easily be damaged . However , what isn't mentioned in the listing and which may be the biggest drawback is the warranty . The device is sold with a 90 - day parts and one year labor coverage . After speaking with a Sanyo customer service manager and service technician I learned the following : The cost for labor is about as much as to buy the camera , about $150 . There isn't even a 1 - day grace period for the labor coverage . If Sanyo determines the damage was caused by water getting into the ( waterproof ) camera then the warranty is voided . I wasn't expecting a great camera for use around the pool . However , if I knew about the draconian warranty policies , possibly needed because this camera sees lots of reliability problems , I would have looked elsewhere .
      • 039 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I loved this camera when I first got it . I brought it on a tubing trip down a river with a load of friends ( there were like 12 of us that day I guess ? ) , and got some great pictures and video with it . The closeups were awesome , the zoom was nice . I did take a few underwater pictures , but not many . I love the way it fits in your hand ! Very easy to hold in action situations . But then . . I brought it home and was playing around in the pool we have with it , following this little wind-up toy we have that swims around . I was going from above water to underwater every couple minutes , and not leaving it under for more than 30 seconds at a time . The pool was only 3.5 ft deep , and it never touched the bottom , but after about 20 minutes , it died , while underwater . Fearing the worst , I quickly picked it up and checked to make sure the battery cover tab was pushed down ( which creates the seal with the gasket ) . It was , so I got out and toweled it off , and pulled the battery compartment open . There were drops of water on the inside , like there had been a slow leak happening . Bummer . . So I let it dry for a few hours ( about 8 hours ) without touching it , the battery or anything . I put the battery on the charger after I was sure it was dry , and the charger lit up like it was charging it . After the charger light went off , I put the battery in the camera , and tried it . Nothing happened . Dead camera . So I got in touch with Amazon about returning it ( these guys are great about returns ! ) , and brought it to the UPS store to return it . The girl at the UPS store said that was the THIRD ONE THAT WEEK that was being returned , all because of water damage . Now that said , this camera is obviously supposed to be waterproof , but I think you'd be chancing it to keep it underwater for longer than 20 - 30 seconds at a time , which is pretty lame since it claims to be waterPROOF , not resistant . I'm sure it would also be a great one to bring to the beach to keep sand from getting in the works of it also , but I noticed that a little did get in the hinge between the screen and the camera body itself , making a grinding noise occur when it was adjusted until I washed it out . So , I can't recommend this camera , because there's another one just like it by the same company and priced less and doesn't claim to be waterproof , because obviously neither one of them are .
      • 040 4  I loved this camera when I first got it . I brought it on a tubing trip down a river with a load of friends ( there were like 12 of us that day I guess ? ) , and got some great pictures and video with it . The closeups were awesome , the zoom was nice . I did take a few underwater pictures , but not many . I love the way it fits in your hand ! Very easy to hold in action situations . But then . . I brought it home and was playing around in the pool we have with it , following this little wind-up toy we have that swims around . I was going from above water to underwater every couple minutes , and not leaving it under for more than 30 seconds at a time . The pool was only 3.5 ft deep , and it never touched the bottom , but after about 20 minutes , it died , while underwater . Fearing the worst , I quickly picked it up and checked to make sure the battery cover tab was pushed down ( which creates the seal with the gasket ) . It was , so I got out and toweled it off , and pulled the battery compartment open . There were drops of water on the inside , like there had been a slow leak happening . Bummer . . So I let it dry for a few hours ( about 8 hours ) without touching it , the battery or anything . I put the battery on the charger after I was sure it was dry , and the charger lit up like it was charging it . After the charger light went off , I put the battery in the camera , and tried it . Nothing happened . Dead camera . So I got in touch with Amazon about returning it ( these guys are great about returns ! ) , and brought it to the UPS store to return it . The girl at the UPS store said that was the THIRD ONE THAT WEEK that was being returned , all because of water damage . Now that said , this camera is obviously supposed to be waterproof , but I think you'd be chancing it to keep it underwater for longer than 20 - 30 seconds at a time , which is pretty lame since it claims to be waterPROOF , not resistant . I'm sure it would also be a great one to bring to the beach to keep sand from getting in the works of it also , but I noticed that a little did get in the hinge between the screen and the camera body itself , making a grinding noise occur when it was adjusted until I washed it out . So , I can't recommend this camera , because there's another one just like it by the same company and priced less and doesn't claim to be waterproof , because obviously neither one of them are .
      • 041 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I purchased this camera to shoot video from my boat . I've been very satisfied with it's compact size , the video quality , and the audio quality . The camera is easy to use and has a wide variety of scene settings to handle most uses . I'm quite impressed at how the fireworks modes captures fireworks videos . Unfortunately after owning the camera for five weeks , well within the warranty period , the microphones stopped working correctly . After contacting Sanyo I found there are only two repair centers in the US that are qualified to repair Sanyo products . I shipped the camera to one of them for repair , but the part they need to repair the camera is on back-order leaving me without my new camera for an upcoming vacation and quite disappointed with Sanyo . Update : I finally received my camera back as good as new , five weeks after sending it in . On the invoice it says , It took 29 days for parts . The part they replaced was the joint where the screen attaches to the camera , which is the part that will receive the most wear and tear on this model . Based on my experience and some of the reviews I've read , this is one of those items you may want to consider purchasing an extended warranty as it probably won't last much past the manufacturer's warranty , that is if it makes it that far , and any repair not covered by warranty will cost more than the camera . Despite all the problems , I still think it's a fun camera at a great price with the unique ability to go underwater and I would still recommended it . At least until a more reputable manufacturer comes out with something comparable .
      • 044 4  I've used my camera for some time now , the zoom works really good , the still camera is of good quality and the video records smoothly . Pros : Being waterproof has served me really well for snowboarding , can't wait to try it underwater . Drawbacks : The still images taken when shooting video are low quality its better if you take the video and strip the frame by using any other software . The battery ( as with any other electronic ) will not last long ( 45 - 50 minutes of video ) The buttons are to small for using them with gloves ( not a big deal , but becomes bothersome when you are in the snow and have to remove your gloves to take pics ) , so its hard to take pictures or video when using them , also the zoom buttons and the menu buttons are hard to reach . Aside of that so far this camera has proven really good
      • 048 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I bought this camera for filming underwater while on vacation in Cuba . It certainly did the job , but I found the camera a bit awkward to use and not as intuitive as I would have liked . The controls you would like easy access to are hard to find ( for example , switching it from AUTO to UNDERWATER mode ) and you have to flip from menu to menu to find the options . I found the zoom button too small to find quickly while swimming in the ocean . As well , in lower light situtations , the quality of the image is really quite poor ( example . . . on the plane at night with only the overhead light ) . On the plus side , you can take still photos and can also save a still from an existing movie clip . The LCD screen is large and can be rotated for easier viewing while recording or watching playback . For the price ( 149.00 ) , the camera is an ok investment for underwater photography .
      • 049 4  I bought this camera for filming underwater while on vacation in Cuba . It certainly did the job , but I found the camera a bit awkward to use and not as intuitive as I would have liked . The controls you would like easy access to are hard to find ( for example , switching it from AUTO to UNDERWATER mode ) and you have to flip from menu to menu to find the options . I found the zoom button too small to find quickly while swimming in the ocean . As well , in lower light situtations , the quality of the image is really quite poor ( example . . . on the plane at night with only the overhead light ) . On the plus side , you can take still photos and can also save a still from an existing movie clip . The LCD screen is large and can be rotated for easier viewing while recording or watching playback . For the price ( 149.00 ) , the camera is an ok investment for underwater photography .
      • 053 4  First I had the E - 1 and loved it . Now they upgraded it making it even better with the E - 2 . This is an excellent camera for travel . Compact and very durable . Works underwater , resists dust , sand , grit , high humidity . Solid state design saves photos and movies to convenient SD card . Highly recommended !
      • 054 4  Just my feedback after 1 month of usage . I would like to add I got a 16G SDHC for this camera . Another purchase here in Amazon.com . Features on video recording ( my main purpose of buying a v . cam ) 1 . Anti shake I feel is good , 6 out of 10 rating . 2 . Lighting , in the location of no natural sunlight , a fluorescent light fare much better than yellow light . When it gets dark , the picture seems to be grainy . 3 . Video format : there are like 5 settings , I only uses the 640x480 30fps SHQ ( it think is stds for Super High Quality ? ) . W / that format , I can store about 10 hours on 16G card . The 640x480 HQ gives about 15 hours . The rest of format I find no use of . 4 . There's no flash working when in recording mode . 5 . Battery life for the camera is about 2 hour of constant recording , pausing for occasion photo shoot . 6 . During recording , you can take photos , however , depending on your video format setting , the resolution on the photos is automatically corrected . Say my setting , 640x480 at SHQ , during recording , I can only take a 2 MB pixel photo ( and no flash ) . If you set to 640x480 60 fps , it gets down to about 500k pixel . 7 . Booting up and shutting down is fairly quickly , about 2 seconds maybe , tho you have to hold down the button until you see the screen comes alive or the LED blink ( unlike the canon PS SD400 , you just hit the power button and the camera is on ) 8 . B / c of the water proof feature , the button to activate recording and photo shoot are very clumsy , you have to press really hard for it to activate . Again , unlike SD400 , the buttons are light touch . 9 . Output out to my laptop , the USB cable is proprietor by Sanyo . Don't lose it . I have no card reader so I plug the USB cable into the camera . USB plug is next to the battery so every time you need to plug the usb , you have to open the battery compartment . Again , I think it's for waterproof reason . 10 . Output using Picasa 3.0 , the download speed is about 9.5 to 10 mb / second . 11 . Power will be drain during upload to Picasa b / c the USB doesn't charge the camera . Only way to charge it is to unload the battery and plug in the housing charger . 12 . Connect the camera to our tv is very easy with the red , yellow tv connector for tv viewing . 13 . Photo mode w / recording stopped is at 8 mega pixel . However , pictures gets quite grainy when it's low light ( I think it's due to CMOS technology and not CCD ) , anti shake for photo shoot is terrible too when it's low light , when it's bright , it's excellent . And no Red Eye function , almost all photos shoot are with red eyes . ( use Picasa to auto remove them ) , one feature I wish they have . 14 . Menus are pretty easy , buttons are pretty easy , nothing complicated . 15 . This thing is light , to about the weight of a cell phone . 16 . 1 thing I get around for this camera to stand by itself it thru tripod , and the square base that comes w / tripod for quick releases , I use that as the stand ( on countertop , etc ) , as well as a better feel for not dropping the camera . 17 . 2 suggestion to make this good . 1 . USB to charge the battery when uploading files , 2 . Red Eyes reduction , make the flash light goes 3 times . 18 . All and all , this cannot really be use as a great camera for the buttons are clumsy , so a hard press would often move / shake the camera and gets blurry images , no red eyes reduction and CMOS tech makes it grainy in low light . Canon SD400 don't do that at all . 19 . As a video camera , for $185 , I think it's good . 20 . Didn't have a change to try out the waterproof , it's winter time here and I haven't got a chance to go to Hawaii yet .
      • 055 4  This product has some great features and is water resistant . Unfortunately , the camera is not rated to go very deep - its only good for protecting your camera if you are swimming on the surface . The real problem with this camera is that is practically useless indoors . Unless you are outside on a very bright day , your picture will be muddled with scan lines and severe pixellation . It is not worth the $200 I paid for it .
      • 056 4  While looking for an entry level and highly portable camcorder to record the meyhem on our weekend off-road motercyle excursions , I targeted the Xacti VPC E2 versus other comparable brands because of reviews and its features . Recieved the package on time and in perfect condition . For the price , I was impressed with the ruggedness of the unit and its relatively compact and light form factor . The very first video / pics I shot were in a snow storm , which turned out well considering I have no experience shooting video and spent no time at all setting up the camera . Over the next few days I shot various videos and pics indoors , this is where I realized the camera's video limitations . Similar to some other folks , I found the indoor video quality to be less than perfect and interestingly worse @ 60 fps ( indoor ) . However , with a little tweaking on the settings , the indoor photos I captured were better than my point and shoot 5MP HP R707 . The camera ergonomics take a little getting used to as do the feel of the buttons but the menu is easy to navigate and find what is needed . The main 4 - way selector button is not in a very good position and somtimes you have to stabilize the camera with the other hand to use the button , but the thing is so small I guess they really couldnt have put them anywhere better . I found that adjusting the settings ( particularly the ISO ) for an indoor environment provided very acceptable results for photos and . . well , viewable video . Though I wasnt really dissapointed , since my primary intention for this is outdoor use in all kinds of bad weather . Note that video on the TV will look much better than on a computer screen due to the resolution . DVD playback looks fine . Pros : Price per feature ratio , rugged , lightweight / compact design , digital media storage , weather-proof properties , readily transfer and view the video to a PC or upload to the web without any special software - it couldnt get any easier with this unit . Can edit photos and videos in the field . Decent control over camera settings . Cons : Can only assign limited functions to the shortcut button . Battery life is very poor - havent had a charge last more than an hour or so . Throw the case away - I gave it to my dog to chew on . The software is outdated and cranky , I had to encode my video to my PC's HDD first , then burn that to the DVD to get it to work . Indoor video quality could be better . Summary : Very nice camera for the price , as long as your expectations are on par with its capabilities .
      • 057 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) After disasters with leaky gaskets on other underwater camera enclosures , it is a pleasure to have the seals built in to the VPC-E2 . Its novel shape makes it easy to handle while snorkeling and the standard land-based shots are fine . Although its rated waterproof to only about 5 feet , I'm surprised that it is the only Xacti with waterproofing , because that sort of durability makes it great to carry around where it might get rained on or splashed . The underwater picture quality is very good . I've taken to chasing fish ( visually ) with the camcorder running , then , back home , I'll save and print the best frames from the session . A few concerns : I haven't been able to find any useful information about replacing the waterproof seals . The manual says it should be done annually , but I don't know how much it might cost and whether or not it has to be sent to Sanyo . The design minimizes external buttons , but that tends to make changing settings require many trips to the menu ( for example , turning the flash on and off ) . You can't really do that while you're floating around in the ocean . It's an unique camera . A very good choice for outdoors people and entirely capable for day-to-day work . The video / still combo is a great idea . Whether or not you like it probably depends somewhat on your lifestyle .
      • 058 4  After disasters with leaky gaskets on other underwater camera enclosures , it is a pleasure to have the seals built in to the VPC-E2 . Its novel shape makes it easy to handle while snorkeling and the standard land-based shots are fine . Although its rated waterproof to only about 5 feet , I'm surprised that it is the only Xacti with waterproofing , because that sort of durability makes it great to carry around where it might get rained on or splashed . The underwater picture quality is very good . I've taken to chasing fish ( visually ) with the camcorder running , then , back home , I'll save and print the best frames from the session . A few concerns : I haven't been able to find any useful information about replacing the waterproof seals . The manual says it should be done annually , but I don't know how much it might cost and whether or not it has to be sent to Sanyo . The design minimizes external buttons , but that tends to make changing settings require many trips to the menu ( for example , turning the flash on and off ) . You can't really do that while you're floating around in the ocean . It's an unique camera . A very good choice for outdoors people and entirely capable for day-to-day work . The video / still combo is a great idea . Whether or not you like it probably depends somewhat on your lifestyle .
      • 059 4  Overall , a good product for the price . We got this for our 11 year old daughter to record video with her friends . She really enjoys the camera and found it very simple to use . We plan on using it to record special family events also . This is not high quality video , but it is fine for our use . We have not tried it underwater yet . You should be aware that storing all your movies on your computer takes a lot of capacity and is probably not a good idea . For example , my daughter recorded 3 minutes and 32 seconds of friends playing Rockband . That file is 115 MB . That means 1 hour of recording would be roughly 2 GB . Depending on how much you record , I would recommend either getting an additional external hard drive or more likely , keeping works in progress which you are editing or saving enough video to move to a DVD . A blank 2 hour DVD costs roughly 50 cents . My 8GB ( about 4 hours ) memory card purchased with this camera cost $20 . Pros Simple to set up and use . Small size is easy to keep in a pocket . No expensive tapes to buy . Reasonable quality for the price and type . You can shoot a still shot while recording video . You can playback directly to a TV , download to a computer or burn it to a DVD through the computer . Cons Buy a second battery at the start . Battery life is less than 1 hour and there is no AC adapter to plug in and keep the camera running . The battery must be removed from the camera and placed in a separate charger . Doesn't come with any memory card to start . Power switch is awkward and easy to turn off while operating the camera .
      • 060 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I have tried many digital cameras over the years and this one is one of the iffy ones . This camera does take good pictures , just not all of the time . My Sony DSC-S85 4.1M camera takes good pictures every time . The movie mode is good , but movies tend to stutter and look odd at times . Not a bad camera , but overall not that great either . Also , this camera is awkward to hold , would have been better if the buttons were along the top . The door where the battery and SD card goes also gets in the way when connecting to the PC . I am returning it and getting the Canon SD770IS .
      • 062 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) If you're thinking about buying a camera / camcorder - DON T waste your money on Sanyo's Xacti VPC-E2 . It will fail and will cost more to get it fixed then what you paid for it . Our camera was ordered on 12 / 2 / 09 and was given as a Christmas gift . It was used for 10 minutes while floating in the water on vacation in St Thomas . Then - the camera DIED ! ! ! ! I had owned the camera for about 100 days . I used it twice . I contacted Sanyo for service . They have a 90 warranty on parts and labor . After that your only choice is to send it to one of 2 repair companies in the US . Parts are covered for one year from date of purchase - BUT ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! your labor will end up costing you MORE then what you paid for the camera . It's a joke ! It will cost me less if I throw the camera in the trash . And DON'T waste your time contacting Sanyo either - they will not budge . Apparently this has been a common problem . Sanyo's poor customer service has backed their customers into a corner . Don't fall into their trap ! ! I wish I had read the POOR reviews more carefully . S . Jones of Michigan
      • 063 4  If you're thinking about buying a camera / camcorder - DON T waste your money on Sanyo's Xacti VPC-E2 . It will fail and will cost more to get it fixed then what you paid for it . Our camera was ordered on 12 / 2 / 09 and was given as a Christmas gift . It was used for 10 minutes while floating in the water on vacation in St Thomas . Then - the camera DIED ! ! ! ! I had owned the camera for about 100 days . I used it twice . I contacted Sanyo for service . They have a 90 warranty on parts and labor . After that your only choice is to send it to one of 2 repair companies in the US . Parts are covered for one year from date of purchase - BUT ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! your labor will end up costing you MORE then what you paid for the camera . It's a joke ! It will cost me less if I throw the camera in the trash . And DON'T waste your time contacting Sanyo either - they will not budge . Apparently this has been a common problem . Sanyo's poor customer service has backed their customers into a corner . Don't fall into their trap ! ! I wish I had read the POOR reviews more carefully . S . Jones of Michigan
      • 064 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( White ) ( Electronics ) Saved up to buy this camera , unfortunately have to buy a whole new camera . I thought reviews were good on this one . - It's awfully slow to snap a picture , the only way I could get a shot of my baby was in video mode-why it works instantly in this mode and not picture mode is beyond me . - Some pics came out good , others really grainy ( in any lighting ) . - Menu was rediculous . - Warranty sucks ; used underwater only a few times after very carefully checking seals and depth . Was working fine in the water but when I got out the screen flickered , came on again , then went blank . Wiped and let dry out for over 24 hours , wouldn't turn on even with a new battery . Had to send it in for repair , but labor alone costs more than a new camera ! Lasted almost 90 days . Won't be buying anymore Sanyo products !
      • 065 4  Saved up to buy this camera , unfortunately have to buy a whole new camera . I thought reviews were good on this one . - It's awfully slow to snap a picture , the only way I could get a shot of my baby was in video mode-why it works instantly in this mode and not picture mode is beyond me . - Some pics came out good , others really grainy ( in any lighting ) . - Menu was rediculous . - Warranty sucks ; used underwater only a few times after very carefully checking seals and depth . Was working fine in the water but when I got out the screen flickered , came on again , then went blank . Wiped and let dry out for over 24 hours , wouldn't turn on even with a new battery . Had to send it in for repair , but labor alone costs more than a new camera ! Lasted almost 90 days . Won't be buying anymore Sanyo products !
      • 068 4  I purchased one of these cameras 3 weeks ahead in preparation for my son's two year birthday party . While I did not get it through Amazon ( my mistake , as it was far cheaper here ) , it promptly arrived within two days . Upon opening and reading the manual first , I proceeded to plug in the battery carefully following the instructions . According to the manual , I should see the charger's red light go out when the battery is fully charged . Several hours later the red light was still on ( it should have gone out no more than 2 hours after an initial charge ) so I gave it some more time . After 5 hours , I decided to let the thing charge overnight . I wake up and the light is STILL on , so I called the vendor from where I purchased it from . They said that this was a warranty issue and they are simply a 3rd party vendor but asked me if I either wanted to return it , or suggested that I call Sanyo . I said most likely the battery or charger is defective so I called Sanyo's Warranty Department and after describing the problem , they determine that it is a defective battery and will ship a replacement out to me . Almost 2 weeks later , nothing . So I call Sanyo and the first person I spoke with tells me this is a parts issue and gives me their Parts Department number ( apparently , Parts is on the other side of the U.S . ) . So after the phone tree from h - - - , the woman who answers then tells me it's a Warranty issue and routes me back to the first number . I told her that Warranty had sent me to them but she adamantly stands her ground . So I'm back to Warranty and this time , I get the absolutely rudest phone rep I've ever experienced in my life . She would cut me off at every turn and then tells me that I have to take this up with the company I bought it from . Now keep in mind I'm keeping my cool as I've always felt that getting rude gets you nowhere . She promptly hangs up on me . I call the vendor that I got it from ( a major , well-known computer company ) and they too are puzzled at Sanyo's response . So the rep there tells me not to worry , she'll call Sanyo on my behalf and get this straightened out . About 20 minutes later she calls back saying , wow , I just spoke to one of the rudest people I've ever run into . . . and tells me that she's referring this to her supervisor who will call Sanyo . A couple of minutes later the senior customer support guy tells me that he'll be calling Sanyo Customer Support , but wants me to stay on the line while he talks to them . He gets through and ANOTHER Sanyo rep puts up a major fight but the senior rep is persistent telling Sanyo that they sell their products in good faith and that this is clearly a warranty issue . The Sanyo rep then says that they will ship out a battery but in the meantime ( it is now 3 days before my son's party ) , in desperation , I purchase several batteries from Amazon as a backup . BTW , I never did receive the replacement battery from Sanyo and I will never purchase another one of their products regardless of how good they may or may not be .
      • 069 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I purchased the Xacti E2 for my wife on her birthday . She is an accomplished diver and admitted sun bunney , as are our 2 daughters . I was amazed to see this item and read of its capabilities . . . not to mention suspicious . Now this will NOT replace a $300.00 Ikelite case on a $500.00 machine , but short of that comparo it shines like a Diamond in the morning sun . While we have not yet tested it at or near its max depth , it sure ' meets the bell ' all the way there . Still photos are easy and quick , and the audio overlay is excellent . It is important here to remember how economical this item really is . for any on-the-go mom of any age kid ( s ) owning this is an affordable and viable option to do double duty ; still and video camera that is durable enough for all the beach trips , sailing , fishing , soccer , etc . Obviously if you want to print 24 X 36 photos you will need 13 + MP , but for the average ' Joe ' who rarely prints above 4 X 6 this is a STEAL ! The Video is simply excellent and the same for the audio and there respective controls , etc . As an avid photog and the proud father of 2 great girls and the husband of a woman who cares not for equipment care , she has totally enjoyed the product for its perceived durability , features / benefits , and user-friendly ergonomics . Buy this and you will not be disappointed .
      • 071 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I bought it for the purpose of taking fun outdoor videos and this camera is meant to do that and do it pretty well . When reviewing this product I read many of the comments compaining of the not so high quality of the images and videos , specifically under poor light environment . This camera delivers excellent quality , though I haven't tried it in poor light , but I believe it's not about quality as much as it's a waterproof fun camera . If you want a professional camera , go get one . Functionality : 1 ) I was surprise by the number of options available in this camera in both video and still picture modes . For basic to intermidiate use , this camera is more than what I needed . 2 ) Menu and operation is quiet easy , I recommend one goes through the options and refer to the user manual and set the camera defaults to suit his usage before going out to the trip . 3 ) I bought a 16GB SDHC Class 6 flash memory card and it only require me to plug it in . 4 ) The higher the quality the bigger the file size . Recording only few minutes of video resulted in a 20MB MP4 file using the 30fps SHQ video recording mode . I am very happy with this product and would recommend it to anyone who wants to keep memories of some outdoor fun times with the family and friends . Not to mention at the pool or IN the pool times as well : ) I'll reply to comments and questions if required .
      • 072 4  I bought it for the purpose of taking fun outdoor videos and this camera is meant to do that and do it pretty well . When reviewing this product I read many of the comments compaining of the not so high quality of the images and videos , specifically under poor light environment . This camera delivers excellent quality , though I haven't tried it in poor light , but I believe it's not about quality as much as it's a waterproof fun camera . If you want a professional camera , go get one . Functionality : 1 ) I was surprise by the number of options available in this camera in both video and still picture modes . For basic to intermidiate use , this camera is more than what I needed . 2 ) Menu and operation is quiet easy , I recommend one goes through the options and refer to the user manual and set the camera defaults to suit his usage before going out to the trip . 3 ) I bought a 16GB SDHC Class 6 flash memory card and it only require me to plug it in . 4 ) The higher the quality the bigger the file size . Recording only few minutes of video resulted in a 20MB MP4 file using the 30fps SHQ video recording mode . I am very happy with this product and would recommend it to anyone who wants to keep memories of some outdoor fun times with the family and friends . Not to mention at the pool or IN the pool times as well : ) I'll reply to comments and questions if required .
      • 073 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I bought this camera a few weeks before our family took a cruise to the Bahamas . The camera is small and light enough that I had it with me all the time ; I got a lot of great video on the trip that I might have missed with a larger or heavier camera . I haven't taken the camera underwater , but using it on small boats and around the pool made me happy that it is waterproof - you don't have to worry about it getting wet . The first thing I did when I got the camera was add a cloth lanyard so that I could wear it around my neck ( the bottom of the camera has sort of a loop for this ) . There is also a threaded socket to allow mounting on a tripod . The included cover is sort of a padded nylon bikini that velcros around the body of the camera . It did a good job of protecting the camera from bumps and scrapes and can be kept on the camera while it is hanging from the lanyard . The video I have shot is of good quality and the 8 megapixel stills are as good as my other point and shoot cameras . The camera comes with Adobe Premiere Elements 4 software in the box to allow you to make your own DVD movies . The ease of use and design of the camera are great - you can use it with either hand . I got a lot of questions and compliments on the camera from other people ; the cool factor of the camera is very high .
      • 077 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Okay I've been using Flips for a few years . Loved the Ultra and the Mino , but I swapped up to the MinoHD . Bad move on my part . The video on the MinoHD is amazing as long as you are holding the cam still or on a tripod . I needed something for a snowboarding vacation that could handle the bumps and jolts down the slope . Sure the video isn't the best ever but compared to the MinoHD inability to be walked with this thing does pretty good . I do like the multiple settles so I can tweak the way I want . Used my Roxio DVD software and burned a few movies , playing on our 50 Panasonic plasma they look pretty good . Actually better than on the PC monitor . Wouldn't have paid $200 + for this cam , but the gold box $150 wasn't bad . BTW the terrible time with the 8gb transcend card I bought with it . I switch to Lexmar with better results . Overall a fun cam that does tons of stuff . 4.5 stars for effort .
      • 082 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Positives : Cheap price , starts recording fast , small , build quality is good , and the video imports easily to my mac . Cons : Doesn't do well in low light , battery last 1 hour and 7 minutes , video is 4X3 . Overall this is a good camera to capture quick video of our kids , my wife keeps this in her purse at all times and loves it . Again this camera works poor in low light but is really great for spontaneous recording of our kids .
      • 083 4  Positives : Cheap price , starts recording fast , small , build quality is good , and the video imports easily to my mac . Cons : Doesn't do well in low light , battery last 1 hour and 7 minutes , video is 4X3 . Overall this is a good camera to capture quick video of our kids , my wife keeps this in her purse at all times and loves it . Again this camera works poor in low light but is really great for spontaneous recording of our kids .
      • 084 4  I had read all the reviews before buying the product and they were largely favorable . I can certainly add my voice to that group . The Xacti comes out of the box and into service right after charging the battery . It was easy to use and takes outstanding still pictures as well as very high quality video . I have never been a video buff but I felt that I wanted to try to get more into it when considering all of the great tools now available for manipulation of video . I now find myself remembering to bring the Xacti and having video memories available . I had read some people thinking the battery life could be a problem . I have not experienced that and I wonder whether the concerns might not stem from the difference between the sleep setting and the off setting . The Xacti can be be turned off with a long push of the on / off button but it can also be suspended with a short duration push of the on / off button . It seems at least plausible that some people think it is off when it is not actually . Certainly just a theory .
      • 086 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Very small cute camera . It comes with a carrier which is cool . The quality is not great but good enough . Have not tried to use it under water yet . Very easy to use .
      • 090 4  Most hikers have either point-and-shoot digital cameras ( which have a setting for videos ) or a digital camcorder . The point-and-shoot cameras , though , don't allow you to zoom in and out during your video . Well , this Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 allows you to do that - obviously because it is mostly meant for videos . But even most camcorders aren't waterproof . This one is ! And for such a great price . I never even found out before I bought this camcorder that it records audio , takes pictures in several different settings , takes sequential pictures in some of those settings , and takes videos in ( I think ) every setting , as well as being able to take pictures while taking a video ! This is something extremely helpful for hikers - most don't want to get their camera wet , which limits their routes . But now they don't have to be worried ! Great camera , great price ! I would suggest this to anyone who doesn't want to spend a lot of money on a camera !
      • 091 4  The quality of the still photos and the video was surprisingly good for this lower end camcorder . The underwater photos that we took snorkeling were very clear and of decent quality . Sometimes it was hard to control movement because the current is moving you , but that may come with more experience snorkeling and using the camera . For underwater you definitely need the waterproof neoprene strap , which I bought with the camera . I had no problem with the battery , and had a spare charged up in case . However , there are some things I did not like about the camera . There was no eyepiece viewer and it was very difficult , sometimes impossible , to see what you were shooting in bright sunlight . I also found it more difficult to find my subject , especially if it was moving . This was it's biggest drawback - - finding and staying on a moving subject without an eye viewfinder . There were also times that I did not know the record was still on so I got a number of clips of garbage . The zoom button was also difficult to maneuver , it would be much better to have it going from left to right rather than up and down , and have it as an independent button that could be moved with your thumb . It was in an awkward position for one finger to control it and it was also difficult to zoom a little bit at a time . I found I often over zoomed . All in all , it is a decent camera and I am happy with the purchase .
      • 098 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I use this camcorder for vids on my jet ski , pictures in the snow , vids of lightning storms . It's a wherever you are camcorder / camera . The picture quality is excellent . I have pictures of Lake Bistineau's Cypress trees in the morning framed in a 5 1 / 2 by 8 1 / 2 format . The camcorder has been in the water , in the rain and snowed on and still works great . I take it everywhere !
      • 103 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) This is my 2nd Xacti Camera as my kids keep borrowing my other 6 mp Xacti videocam . We've used it underwater while vacationing in Hawaii ; in Seattle on our Kayak trip ; I've used it to take underwater shots of our kois ( fish ) in the backyard . What I like with this camera is it's pistol-grip design which is very suitable for underwater shots ( couldn't fathom some are critical of this design ) . Overall , you get a pretty decent videos and 4X6 prints out of this camera . I own a Nikon D80 and a high-speed 35mm Casio ( Exilim EX-F1 ) but I find myself relying more on my Xacti for ordinary pictorial needs .
      • 105 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) It is an excellent camara . . . The 8M pixel still pics is great . I have lots of pics with red eyes though , but I can live with that . The 2 M pixel video works very good for day shots . . Night video comes out pixelated but I am still extremly happy with it . .
      • 106 4  It is an excellent camara . . . The 8M pixel still pics is great . I have lots of pics with red eyes though , but I can live with that . The 2 M pixel video works very good for day shots . . Night video comes out pixelated but I am still extremly happy with it . .
      • 107 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I would reccommend this camera to eveyone the qualityb is exceptional for the price . I took it on a carribean diving trip and loved it .
      • 112 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I got it for $150 odd knowing this was an older version to the current model which sells at $300 . For the traveller who needs to get underwater pics and vids . . this one just fits the bill . Under the water the pics come out well depending on the sun over the water ! ! ! The LCD is not that great under the water as the visibility is pretty bad particularly with sun light which is when u get the good pics : ) . On land you cant complain . . the pics are pretty good . Only things which i ll complain about is the delete button - well its not there . . its there inside a menu . . so cannot quickly delete photos and videos . . also the scene selector could have been a simple dial / button . . istead this is also hidden inside the menu . All in all as a dual for $150 this is a good camera / camcorder for the price .
      • 113 4  I got it for $150 odd knowing this was an older version to the current model which sells at $300 . For the traveller who needs to get underwater pics and vids . . this one just fits the bill . Under the water the pics come out well depending on the sun over the water ! ! ! The LCD is not that great under the water as the visibility is pretty bad particularly with sun light which is when u get the good pics : ) . On land you cant complain . . the pics are pretty good . Only things which i ll complain about is the delete button - well its not there . . its there inside a menu . . so cannot quickly delete photos and videos . . also the scene selector could have been a simple dial / button . . istead this is also hidden inside the menu . All in all as a dual for $150 this is a good camera / camcorder for the price .
      • 114 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( White ) ( Electronics ) good thing about the portable camcorder is . it's water proof . . . that's it . i hate it's picture quality . i bought sony webbie month before i bought this one from here only . sony's picture quality is really good . why can't sony come with a waterproof webbie . . . ? ?
      • 115 4  good thing about the portable camcorder is . it's water proof . . . that's it . i hate it's picture quality . i bought sony webbie month before i bought this one from here only . sony's picture quality is really good . why can't sony come with a waterproof webbie . . . ? ?
      • 117 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I love this camera ! I bought it for white water rafting , and couldn't be happier . It's super easy to operate with one hand , allowing you to hold on to the raft with the other hand . Video quality is amazing for the price , and it's very durable . I bought a kayak paddle leash to attach it to the raft , just in case it droped overboard , since it is only waterproof to 5 feet . I went through 4 batteries on a 9 day raft trip , so buy a couple back-ups if you won't be near an outlet for recharging .
      • 121 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Purchased this camera for my son to use to make movies and use for school projects . So far the only problem was when he transfered the movies to his laptop ( mp4 format ) he could not edit them in Windows Movie Maker . Installed the adobe editing software that came with the camera and he is now able to edit his movies .
      • 126 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I have a 3K Sony VX2000 with a 2K water housing and the video image from the Exacti actually compares to the Sony , with tons more portability and much less set up . The Mpg4 video and the 8 megapixel stills are perfect for any home type images or uploads to youtube . Make sure you rinse the camera off well , especially at the joint where the viewfinder flips out after each use . You can shoot all day with three batteries and an 8 gig card . This is the best camera I have ever owned for personal use , hands down .
      • 130 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) This is an excellent camcorder for its price . I took it on vacation to Dominican Republic and it performed much better then I expected . I was very skeptical about it after reading all reviews , especially all complains about image quality , image stabilizing and waterproofing . Well , I can honestly say that I do not share those complains . Sure , the image quality is not the same as thousand dollars camcorder , but it is not bad ! In bright light it is very good , and indoors or in the evening , you just have to adjust white balance and reduce ISO ( light sensitivity ) as much as possible without getting image too dark . BTW , you will not be able to change ISO in many more expensive camcorders , so you are stuck with what ever ISO is selected for you by camcorder and if it's too high the image become vary grainy . Surprisingly , photos came out really good in the bright light . Mostly I used my DSLR for photos , but in the ocean I was using SANYO and pictures came out surprisingly good . Image stabilization was not a factor for either video or photo . I did not see any difference with or without it . Now in regards to waterproofing - my camera still in working condition after I used extensively in the ocean - sometimes for 30 - 45 minutes straight . The only issue I discovered , the screen ( and sometimes the lens ) gets fog patches inside , but they went away after 5 - 10 minutes drying . They did not affect the actual filming since they appear only after I got out the water . It also looked like they did not appear inside the camera - only behind the protective glass . Battery life was no issue . When I did not use the camera - I turned it off - I did not leave it in sleep mode . Battery lasted trough out the day . I did purchase the second battery , but I never used it . Overall , I'm happy with the camera . It performed much batter then expected . I used in places where I would never even think to use a regular camera without permanently damaging it . It is small enough to take it everywhere . For those who complained about menu structure and difficulty pressing buttons , think about it - this is a waterproof camcorder - the less buttons , the better . So everything has to be packed into the one menu . One thing that I would change is to have ability to have more functions assigned to shortcut buttons . Also , how would you expect to charge it without removing the battery ? Add another port and sacrifice the waterproofing ? I also believe that the warranty is very poor for this product - 90 days labor is less then for a lot of refurbished products ! Reading reviews on SANYO service - it is not acceptable . That's why they are not a first class company , which is a shame since they have very unique products . But based on my experience with this camcorder ( and thanks god no experience with SANYO customer service ) - definitely 5 stars .
      • 131 4  This is an excellent camcorder for its price . I took it on vacation to Dominican Republic and it performed much better then I expected . I was very skeptical about it after reading all reviews , especially all complains about image quality , image stabilizing and waterproofing . Well , I can honestly say that I do not share those complains . Sure , the image quality is not the same as thousand dollars camcorder , but it is not bad ! In bright light it is very good , and indoors or in the evening , you just have to adjust white balance and reduce ISO ( light sensitivity ) as much as possible without getting image too dark . BTW , you will not be able to change ISO in many more expensive camcorders , so you are stuck with what ever ISO is selected for you by camcorder and if it's too high the image become vary grainy . Surprisingly , photos came out really good in the bright light . Mostly I used my DSLR for photos , but in the ocean I was using SANYO and pictures came out surprisingly good . Image stabilization was not a factor for either video or photo . I did not see any difference with or without it . Now in regards to waterproofing - my camera still in working condition after I used extensively in the ocean - sometimes for 30 - 45 minutes straight . The only issue I discovered , the screen ( and sometimes the lens ) gets fog patches inside , but they went away after 5 - 10 minutes drying . They did not affect the actual filming since they appear only after I got out the water . It also looked like they did not appear inside the camera - only behind the protective glass . Battery life was no issue . When I did not use the camera - I turned it off - I did not leave it in sleep mode . Battery lasted trough out the day . I did purchase the second battery , but I never used it . Overall , I'm happy with the camera . It performed much batter then expected . I used in places where I would never even think to use a regular camera without permanently damaging it . It is small enough to take it everywhere . For those who complained about menu structure and difficulty pressing buttons , think about it - this is a waterproof camcorder - the less buttons , the better . So everything has to be packed into the one menu . One thing that I would change is to have ability to have more functions assigned to shortcut buttons . Also , how would you expect to charge it without removing the battery ? Add another port and sacrifice the waterproofing ? I also believe that the warranty is very poor for this product - 90 days labor is less then for a lot of refurbished products ! Reading reviews on SANYO service - it is not acceptable . That's why they are not a first class company , which is a shame since they have very unique products . But based on my experience with this camcorder ( and thanks god no experience with SANYO customer service ) - definitely 5 stars .
      • 132 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) This camera / video is excellent ! ! I bought it to take on our ski trip because it combined camera , video and waterproofing . It was perfect ! The capability of snapping stills during videos was fantastic . The picture quality was great ! ! The price is extremely reasonable considering the functions and portability . I have been using this camera over six months and it is great . I haven't had the opportunity to film underwater , yet ; I have read that you have to make sure the camera is properly sealed and locked before getting it wet . I didn't give it 5 stars because of misc minor issues . . . awkward hold , no viewfinder and in bright sunlight the LCD is difficult to see image , menu is a bit of a pain . . . although , I have been figuring out things on an as needed basis and not reading the manual for the best procedure ( perhaps this is my own issue ) .
      • 133 4  This camera / video is excellent ! ! I bought it to take on our ski trip because it combined camera , video and waterproofing . It was perfect ! The capability of snapping stills during videos was fantastic . The picture quality was great ! ! The price is extremely reasonable considering the functions and portability . I have been using this camera over six months and it is great . I haven't had the opportunity to film underwater , yet ; I have read that you have to make sure the camera is properly sealed and locked before getting it wet . I didn't give it 5 stars because of misc minor issues . . . awkward hold , no viewfinder and in bright sunlight the LCD is difficult to see image , menu is a bit of a pain . . . although , I have been figuring out things on an as needed basis and not reading the manual for the best procedure ( perhaps this is my own issue ) .
      • 134 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) This is a great little camera . The only problem we had was that the battery compartment didn't seal so 5 minutes into our swim it quit . Ruined the camera and the battery . Amazons great customer service got me another one shipped out the next day in time for our next snorkel trip . YEAH Amazon ! ! ! ! ! ! ! The 4 minutes of video I was able to get was great . Ill update this review after our dive today . The second camera arrived as Amazon promised in time for the second snorkel trip . This camera worked well . It went through 2 dives of about 45 minutes each and 2 soaks in a bucket of fresh water without a problem . I got some great video and pictures its just to bad the first camera didn't fair as well . You take your chances with this camera . 1 out of 2 worked as described . If you are going to buy this , but from Amazon . They have a no hassle return / replacement / refund process .
      • 136 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) nice portable unit . the menus are confusing and moving between menus - from deleting a file back to an operational mode requires a reboot . . . if there's a way to get there i can't find it in the menus . Battery life seems short to me . in bright sunlight the display monitor easily washes out and is difficult to see . I don't plan to take it in the water & ' test ' waterproofing - that was something nice to have if caught in the rain or other accident . Windows media player can't always open and play video files from this unit , but Real Player seems to handle them all easily . mostly satisfied with it .
      • 138 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( White ) ( Electronics ) The camera is basically an upgrade of the E1 . I originally purchased the E1 3 years ago for a snorkeling vacation . The video and jpegs were superb . Both the E2 and E1 are daytime cameras . They perform best in bright light and sunshine . If you plan to use it indoors for either still or video you should look elsewhere . The E2 has a 60 frame per second HR feature whereas the E1 only has 15fps . The E2 performs very well in brightly lit situations in both Jpeg and video . The jpegs are razor sharp . I was happy with the video quality too . The flash on both E1 and E2 function poorly . They only work well as a fill flash when the lighting is outdoors during the daytime . I bought the E2 for its waterproof capabilities . I recently test drove the Flip Video Ultra HD and was blown away by its quality during the day and night . The camera has a waterproof case that must be purchased separately . Check out the Olympus and Pentax waterproof cameras before making a commitment to Sanyo .
      • 139 4  The camera is basically an upgrade of the E1 . I originally purchased the E1 3 years ago for a snorkeling vacation . The video and jpegs were superb . Both the E2 and E1 are daytime cameras . They perform best in bright light and sunshine . If you plan to use it indoors for either still or video you should look elsewhere . The E2 has a 60 frame per second HR feature whereas the E1 only has 15fps . The E2 performs very well in brightly lit situations in both Jpeg and video . The jpegs are razor sharp . I was happy with the video quality too . The flash on both E1 and E2 function poorly . They only work well as a fill flash when the lighting is outdoors during the daytime . I bought the E2 for its waterproof capabilities . I recently test drove the Flip Video Ultra HD and was blown away by its quality during the day and night . The camera has a waterproof case that must be purchased separately . Check out the Olympus and Pentax waterproof cameras before making a commitment to Sanyo .
      • 140 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Nice camera . Compact and easy to use . The video quality indoors isn't great , but it's passable , and the picture quality is good , even using the built-in flash . Nice camera at this pricepoint .
      • 142 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) The camera is not HD quality but price is great for a waterproof camera . I initially feel skeptical about the picture and video quality as I couldn't find any sort sample picture or video out there . But after using it for a trip , I'm totally satisfied with it . Not giving 5 stars because the menu items are not very self-intuitive . And the start-up time of the camera is rather slow .
      • 144 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I bought this for my boyfriend . He goes on a lot of fishing trips . I thought this would be perfect . Its waterproof and as big as a deck of cards . He could fish and this would be so small it fits right in his pocket and it wouldnt matter if it got wet ! I got it in blue cause it was cheaper . We also used it in a hot tub loll . . . works awesome ! ! It was completely submerged and we never had a problem with it .
      • 145 4  I bought this for my boyfriend . He goes on a lot of fishing trips . I thought this would be perfect . Its waterproof and as big as a deck of cards . He could fish and this would be so small it fits right in his pocket and it wouldnt matter if it got wet ! I got it in blue cause it was cheaper . We also used it in a hot tub loll . . . works awesome ! ! It was completely submerged and we never had a problem with it .
      • 146 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) This works great , but the picture quality is about what you'd expect from a non-HD camera - - pretty poor , but it is waterproof . It's so cheap , you don't mind the kids playing with it . If you need a camera for the pool and for kids , this is it .
      • 149 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( White ) ( Electronics ) I love my new camera its so easy to use and its awesome for filming under water ! I highly reccomend purchasing this item !
      • 156 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) This camera has taken better pictures , and 100 times better video than my $500 Sony Digital 8 camcorder ! follow this link to a video I shot over the weekend at Wet & Wild ! See the image quality for yourself ! Please forgive my amateur videography ! [ . . . ]
      • 157 4  This camera has taken better pictures , and 100 times better video than my $500 Sony Digital 8 camcorder ! follow this link to a video I shot over the weekend at Wet & Wild ! See the image quality for yourself ! Please forgive my amateur videography ! [ . . . ]
      • 162 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Easy to use , great pictures . The only complaint I have is the screen washes out in bright sun , and since there is no viewfinder the screen is your only option .
      • 164 4  I bought the camera for a fun device to shoot relatively low quality video by , and in , the pool . Got it around Christmas time last year , so our first chance to use it in the pool was long after the return period was over . Lo and behold , about the second or third time it went into the pool water got into the unit . Since this is waterproof and has an easy to see hatch cover ( if red shows , it is not latched , black , you're good to go ) I was surprised when the device had water throughout . Now , though the unit is dry , it still has rust inside so my hope for salvaging it isn't high . My pool is less than 5 feet deep at the middle , so it's not a depth / pressure issue . The thing just is not built to be used in water ( or , perhaps more for use in a bathtub than an outdoor pool ) . Skip it and look for something else . Update : Just charged the battery and the camera still works , after getting water inside ( and drying out , of course ) . Go figure . Gets an extra star for durability .
      • 168 4  I bought this camcorder for trips to the beach and vacations to be able to take in the water . I have yet to use it under water , but I have taken it to the beach and out in the waves . It is nice to be able to do that with no worries about ruining the camera . It takes great quality video outside and in good light . The additional option of 8MP pictures is a nice plus as well . My only two gripes would be video quality in low light and ergonomics . It is definitely meant to be used outside . I can say that it did take good video even in overcast conditions , but not inside my house . I also found that the controls were a bit small and that the camera itself is not particularly comfortable to hold if you have larger hands . It feels alright with the screen down , but you can't see what you are shooting that way . Once you flip the screen out , your fingers have very little to grip . I had to use two hands to keep the camera steady and operate the buttons . Sanyo needs to consider giving the front of the camcorder some notches for fingers ( preferably some kind of rubber for added grip ) . If you want a nice , inexpensive camcorder that can also take great pictures for use outside in & around water , you can't beat this one . If you are looking for a camcorder that is good for recording indoors or in low light , you would want to go with something else . If you want one that can go deeper than 5 feet and aren't concerned as much with taking pictures , consider the VPC WH1 which shoots up to 10 feet under water at 720p HD . I will update my review after my vacation as to the underwater capabilities . * UPDATE * It takes amazing underwater video . I was snorkeling and took it down past the recommended 5 ft depth ( probably around 8 feet ) with absolutely no problems . Again , it takes great quality pictures and video when used outdoors . My only complaint remains the shape .
      • 169 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) The camera is great for the price , noisy , but good . The software Adobe Premiere Elements 4.0 that came wih it is seriously ruining my life right now . I have been reduced to tears numerous times trying to use it and then having it freeze up and all the editing I have done is wasted . I bought the camera to have someone record a wedding reception I couldn't attend and it turns out it's the only video anyone took . The couple and family are begging me for copies and I can't help them because of the software . It saves it as an extension that is not compatable with anything else , and converting , it freezes up before you can do anything . I downloaded patches , no good . I'm at a loss . I'm seriously afraid of losing precious video that has already been erased from the memory card . If anyone has any ideas i'm all ears , please ! Easy to use camera though .
      • 170 4  The camera is great for the price , noisy , but good . The software Adobe Premiere Elements 4.0 that came wih it is seriously ruining my life right now . I have been reduced to tears numerous times trying to use it and then having it freeze up and all the editing I have done is wasted . I bought the camera to have someone record a wedding reception I couldn't attend and it turns out it's the only video anyone took . The couple and family are begging me for copies and I can't help them because of the software . It saves it as an extension that is not compatable with anything else , and converting , it freezes up before you can do anything . I downloaded patches , no good . I'm at a loss . I'm seriously afraid of losing precious video that has already been erased from the memory card . If anyone has any ideas i'm all ears , please ! Easy to use camera though .
      • 174 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I bought the Sanyo Xacti because it was fairly compact , has decent specs , is water proof and had several good reviews from other users . I don't use it a whole lot but when I do I find that it is easy to use and captures pretty good video . The drawback I've found is when you playback the video through the camcorder itself , the audio is not real good . Fortuneately it is good when you play it back through a tv or a pc . Navigating the menu's is relatively easy once you get the hang of it . It would be nice if Sanyo supplied a carry case that attached to your belt . The waterproof feature is a plus . I don't plan to film under water . . . . but if you happen to get caught in a torrential downpour you'll have peace of mind that it will weather the storm .
      • 176 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Pocket sized waterproof camcorder / camera with shock proof sd memory and nearly instant on . . . Too good to be true I thought . Try to take it away from me ! ! ! ! We do alot of boating and beach weekends , underwater shooting is lots of fun ! ! You even get muffled stereo sound underwater , the kids can't stop laughing at themselves . Picture stablizer works well on moving boat to smooth things out . Adobe Premier editing software is realy nice and not a starter version . Stills are as good as my 10mp Sony camera , low light shots suffer a little , as do most afordable digital cameras .
      • 178 4  This is a very nice all around camera / digital recorder . Water proof is a plus . Very clear photos . The only complaint I have is that it is a bit slow for the camera to take pictures . But then again , this is not meant for professional use . All in all , I love it .
      • 179 4  Since I use mainly HD video cameras I wasn't expecting too much from this little waterproof camera ( buying it for that reason ) . I've been pleasantly surprised at the nice video it takes , as well as the photos . It struggles a bit in low light , as many cameras do . The size and shape are also very comfortable .
      • 183 4  We purchased this camera to take along on our honeymoon in the Dominican Republic . Primarily , I wanted something to take snorkeling , but I found myself using the camera as an all-purpose camera as well . It's nice to know that as it started to rain , there was no need to worry about the camera . The video is good quality for TV and a great quality for web . The camera is easy to use with very little learning curve . I purchased an 8 GB SDHC card to go with it and found that was plenty for goofing around the resort during the day . We'd download and clear it each night to a laptop and start fresh again the next day . Some cons . . . The menu is a little quirky and the battery does not last very long at all . Some of the button placement could have been improved to make shooting easier , but that's minor . It's probably just a matter of me getting used to it . Also , no lens cap or cover . I knew this when I purchased it , but it's still a con . All in all , for a couple hundred dollars , this camera gives a LOT of bang for the buck . I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a versatile vacation camera .
      • 184 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Small , compact . Great for slipping in your pocket . I used it for Disneyworld and it worked fine except for the darker shots . With no light , it didn't really show many details . But for outdoor shots - quick and easy . Picture quality is OK - about the same as my Super 8mm . Don't expect super , clear video . It's acceptable .
      • 186 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) Good quality images , feels good in hand , still pictures are good quality . All around a great product .
      • 188 4  What attracted me to this camare was the design and the dual use , but after 1 week of use I was very disappointed , the picture quality is mediocre and the video is good but only in outdoors and during the day , don't try to use it in low light conditions because both video and picture quality are disappointing ; video shows a lot noise and be careful with the flash because there's no red-eye flash option , so be ready for a photoshop session trying to reduce all the red-eyes in your pictures . In day light pictures are good but really soft , I tried some outdoor pictures and I only was able to print 4 x 6 pictures with good quality , once again if you want more details in your shots you would have to spend some time with photoshop to make your photos look sharp . The reason because I chose this camera was because I need it something more portable than my DSLR , I liked the design and the waterproof was something extra ; my previous camera was a Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ3 and the quality was much better than the Xacti . I exchanged it for a Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 and I'm very happy , the pictures are sharp and it also shots 720p video for only $20 more . Stay with the xacti if you're looking something for your kids , is easy to use and fun or if you like hiking , fishing , etc and what you need is a camera that withstand the elements . . . but even in that case Olympus has better options
      • 193 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) I'm glad I bought this little fun camcorder with a great price at Amazon Warehouse before it went out of stock . It is very solidly build , feels good in your hand ( either you're left or right handed ) . To my surprise it also comes with a nice Adobe Premiere Elements 4 software for video editing . First of all don't compare this camcorder with those mini DV or DVD camcorder . This isn't made for that . If you want higher video quality , this isn't for you . What make this Sanyo camcorder shines is it's small and compact size , waterproof function , decent video clips ( MP4 format ) outdoor or under water , uses popular cheap SD memory cards , easily download files into your computer , ipod , PSP or you tube . It is truely a fun camcorder for your family and travel activities , rain or shine . It now stays in my pocket all the time . My advise is to get a couple extra batteries and SD cards , so you can shoot nonstop .
      • 194 4  I'm glad I bought this little fun camcorder with a great price at Amazon Warehouse before it went out of stock . It is very solidly build , feels good in your hand ( either you're left or right handed ) . To my surprise it also comes with a nice Adobe Premiere Elements 4 software for video editing . First of all don't compare this camcorder with those mini DV or DVD camcorder . This isn't made for that . If you want higher video quality , this isn't for you . What make this Sanyo camcorder shines is it's small and compact size , waterproof function , decent video clips ( MP4 format ) outdoor or under water , uses popular cheap SD memory cards , easily download files into your computer , ipod , PSP or you tube . It is truely a fun camcorder for your family and travel activities , rain or shine . It now stays in my pocket all the time . My advise is to get a couple extra batteries and SD cards , so you can shoot nonstop .
      • 196 4  This review is from : Sanyo Xacti VPC-E2 Digital Camcorder and 8 MP Digital Camera ( Blue ) ( Electronics ) On our last trip to Hawaii I told my husband I wanted ONE camera / camcorder that would take really good video & pictures . I was tired of carting the big SLR on vacations and then not wanting to get it wet / sandy so we'd also bring a cheap digital and a camcorder . Ridiculous ! We'd come home with bad low res digital photos of 99% of the trip and 1 or 2 ' staged ' photos from the SLR and virtually no video . We came home , checked on Amazon and ' voila ' the perfect camera had just been released . I've been using it for 4 months now and LOVE it . I usually keep it in my purse and it's been great for those impromptu moments at the park or just around town . Great pictures ( ok , not as good as my Nikon D40X but really good ) and very good video ( better than our 3 year old Sony DVD403 camcorder ) . Looks great on the computer and even on the 50 plasma screen . I highly recommend this for anyone who wants one ' everything ' camera . We've taken it on a couple of beach trips and the underwater feature is ridiculously cool . I even let my 3 year old take it in the ocean and it's totally indestructible .
      • 197 4  On our last trip to Hawaii I told my husband I wanted ONE camera / camcorder that would take really good video & pictures . I was tired of carting the big SLR on vacations and then not wanting to get it wet / sandy so we'd also bring a cheap digital and a camcorder . Ridiculous ! We'd come home with bad low res digital photos of 99% of the trip and 1 or 2 ' staged ' photos from the SLR and virtually no video . We came home , checked on Amazon and ' voila ' the perfect camera had just been released . I've been using it for 4 months now and LOVE it . I usually keep it in my purse and it's been great for those impromptu moments at the park or just around town . Great pictures ( ok , not as good as my Nikon D40X but really good ) and very good video ( better than our 3 year old Sony DVD403 camcorder ) . Looks great on the computer and even on the 50 plasma screen . I highly recommend this for anyone who wants one ' everything ' camera . We've taken it on a couple of beach trips and the underwater feature is ridiculously cool . I even let my 3 year old take it in the ocean and it's totally indestructible .
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