Camcorder adds 3D

Many interesting new features are being packed into camcorders. At the high end, models such as the Sony NEX-VG10, $2,000, can use interchangeable SLR lenses. Among the entry-level models, the Panasonic HM-TA1, $165, can double as a webcam for your computer.

Panasonic has been betting big on 3D, including it in many plasma HDTVs. So it wasn't surprising when the company introduced the HDC-SDT750 (at right), $1,400, with 3D capabilities. It's one of our top-rated HD camcorders. It has excellent HD quality. Its 3D recordings lacked sufficient depth to be convincing. The model comes with a 3D lens accessory that fits over the 12x optical zoom lens, so that you can switch between shooting 3D and 2D. Here's another nice feature: It includes an electronic viewfinder, which most camcorders don't have.