The Canon ES55 is an entry-level camcorder targeted at casual shooters and video newbies operating on a budget. Its sub-$400 list price will surely attract the attention of first time camcorder shoppers, and its features will allow future experts to learn the art of making video without having to spend thousands of dollars on a camcorder. Canon's ES50 (BP-945) is the younger sibling to the ES55. The ES50 retails for $349. It is just like the ES55, but excludes image stabilization and photo modes.

First, the drawbacks. I don’t really like the layout of this particular model, and it has one of the worst zoom controls of any similarly priced unit. It also records on 8mm tape. While this may be better than VHS-C in terms of basic quality and recording time, it still leaves a lot to be desired when compared to Hi8 and Digital 8. Having said all of this, the ES50 is a bargain with a MSRP of $349.00, and a street price of around $100 less. And, furthermore, this camera may well have the best features for the money of any of the lower priced models. Its battery code is : Canon bp-945

The ES55 (Canon bp-945) is a sleek, sharp-looking camcorder. It fits nicely in the right hand and its weight is distributed well, making it easy to hold comfortably in one hand while shooting for extended periods of time. Your right thumb can easily operate the large Record/Pause button and standby toggle.

Canon has always had some of the most powerful optical zooms available, and this unit is no exception. But, to offer a 500X digital zoom is absolutely ludicrous. On the other hand, there are other features on this unit that can be used very effectively. There are some nice special effects available, in addition to a digital fader and titler. This model is also equipped with a time base corrector, which will help make up for the shortcomings of the 8mm format, bp-945 battery. A time base corrector digitally processes the video signal resulting in a more stable, better quality image. Canon has made it easier for you to take advantage of all of these features by including “custom keys” so you can preset the camera to use different configurations and then access the setting with the touch of a button.

Canon ES55
8mm Camcorder
Format: 8mm
Lens 22:1 optical zoom (500:1 Digital), 3.6-79.2mm
Image Sensor 1/4" CCD, 270,000 pixels
Viewfinder color eyecup, no LCD
Focus auto and manual
Maximum Shutter Speed 1/1000
Exposure auto or manual with FlexiZone
White Balance auto
Image Stabilization electronic
Digital Effects art, black & white, sepia, negative, mirror half, mirror full, mosaic, pastel, emboss, color key-red/green/blue/yellow , 16:9, cinema, slow shutter, strobe
Inputs 1/8-inch mike
Outputs Mini-jack output of RCA video and
mono RCA audio
Edit Interface none
Other Features Built-in video light
Dimensions 3-3/4"(H) x 4"(W) x 6-3/4"(D)
Weight (sans tape and battery) 1 pound, 7-1/8 ounces

Video Performance (approx.)
Horizontal resolution (camera) 200
Horizontal resolution (playback) 150
Battery: rechageable BP-945, BP-945

Performance Times
Pause to Record 2 seconds
Power-up to Record 6 seconds
Fast-forward/Rewind (120 min. tape) Approx. 13 minutes