The DCR-SR85 is a standard definition camcorder from Sony that sports a 60GB internal hard drive, as well as the option of recording to removable Memory Stick cards. Along with the DCR-SR65 and DCR-SR45, the three camcorders replace last year's standard definition line from Sony. Not much has changed with the new models, except for a few internals, some design alterations, and a couple of added features. At $549 (MSRP), the DCR-SR85 is a bit pricey for a standard definition camcorder, but this higher cost is mainly due to the 60GB hard drive. The DCR-SR65, with a smaller 40GB hard drive, saves you $100. The SR42 comes with a 30GB hard drive, and significantly fewer features, and saves you around $150.

The DCR-SR85 is larger than most standard definition camcorders, including models like the JVC GZ-MG360, which also sports a 60GB internal hard drive. By no means is it an over-sized camcorder—it will still fit easily in a large purse—but compared to some of the ultra-compact devices out there, it can appear somewhat bulky. In our testing, however, we found the width of the camcorder actually made it handle better. The large plastic body on the SR85's right side, has a good form factor and fits to the shape of a palm very well. Smaller camcorders, like the Canon FS100, didn't give us quite enough to hold onto, although the portability of the Canon far exceeds that of the SR85.

For some time now, Sony has marked its territory as the choice for beginners and people looking for easy-to-use products. The DCR-SR85 mostly lives up to this mantra—it has reliable auto controls, the camcorder feels good in your hand, and it features Sony's esteemed "Easy" mode. One push of the Easy button and the SR85 turns into a fully-automated machine, which allows you to simply point, zoom, and record. The SR85 does make use of a touchscreen menu system, which is our major gripe with the camcorder's handling. The touchscreen makes it difficult to navigate menus, make manual adjustments, and select settings. It can be especially difficult if you aren't accustomed to this type of system.

There are two prominent features on the SR85 that sets the camcorder apart from the competition: a hot accessory shoe, and Sony's infrared NightShot system. The accessory shoe isn't as great as it sounds, as it only works with Sony-brand accessories (which means your stash of microphones won't work with the camcorder, although adapters are available through third-party vendors). The NightShot system will likely attract more fans—especially those who are fond of filming in the dark and don't mind the green coloration the infrared system produces.

Performance (read in-depth lab performance data at CamcorderInfo.com)
The DCR-SR85 isn't the best standard definition camcorder when it comes to video performance. It offers decent image quality in bright light, but our testing showed distortion and artifacting in a good portion of the image. Deep blues and purples weren't reproduced faithfully and chunky blocks of discoloration were prominent in these colors. The image was relatively sharp, however, but it didn't quite match the detail we saw from the Canon FS100 or FS11.

In low light, the DCR-SR85 had deep colors and a solid image. Unfortunately, however, the camcorder had a poor low light sensitivity, which means you'll need quite a bit of light for the SR85 to capture a readable image. Canon, as well as the JVC GZ-MG330, had significantly better low light sensitivities. Overall, the DCR-SR85 won't win anyone over as the best video performer in its class, but it puts on an admirable show—and if you're a Sony enthusiast it shouldn't disappoint.

Comparisons (read in-depth comparisons at CamcorderInfo.com)
The DCR-SR85 didn't show us much of an improvement over last year's standard definition line from Sony. The picture quality improved slightly, but, for the most part, we didn't see anything that blew us away. That being said, the camcorder does capture a satisfactory video image and if you're really concerned about the best video quality you should probably consider purchasing an HD model anyway.

Size and portability are becoming more of a factor with camcorders, especially with the popularity of ultra-compacts like Pure Digital's Flip series. The DCR-SR85 is actually quite large in comparison to these tiny camcorders and it is definitely something you should take into consideration. The Canon FS100 is a much smaller and more portable product, although it doesn't include any internal storage (it records solely to SD/SDHC cards). A more comparable option is the JVC GZ-MG330, which comes with a sizable 30GB hard drive, but is thinner and sleeker than the Sony DCR-SR85. Overall, we saw the GZ-MG330 as the best all-around standard definition camcorder we've reviewed this year and it is a better choice than the Sony on most levels.