For a street price of $500 the GR-DF550 offers what most camcorders at this price range cannot: a 1/4.5 CCD, decent still photo sizes, and a wealth of other features including auto gain controls and S-Video and mic ports in an extremely small yet comfortable package. The main (and significant) reservation with this camcorder is its low light performance. Without the automatic gain functions that it houses, the GR-DF550 cannot be used in low light.

The GR-DF550 provides its user with a plethora of options. This camcorder’s small frame encases features and control functions that are rarely offered by camcorders twice its size. However, that small size makes it a bit cumbersome to handle. Knowledgeable users that have patience to deal with the awkward button placement and extensive menu system will enjoy the manual control set.

In conclusion the GR-DF550 is a decent camcorder that could use some work. While we’re not sure about that yellow color issue, we do know that the camcorder is sluggish and not the easiest to operate out there. The DF550 is worth a look, but personally we think there are more compelling camcorders out there for the same price (from Canon, Panasonic, and Sony).