A discussion of the design of the Panasonic HDC-HS250.
Lori Grunin
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
The HS250 lacks an EVF, one of the things which distinguishes it from the HS300. The mode dial also feels kind of small, given the size of the camcorder.
Oddly, Panasonic chose not to include a Quick Menu button on the HS250, folding the options into the main menu. However, it uses the same touch screen, which I found relatively nonresponsive.
The AV, component, and mini HDMI jacks as well as the USB connector sit inside the LCD recess. Unlike its siblings, the switch to enable manual settings lives there, too, instead of on the lens barrel.
