The only other review on this camcorder mentioned that you can't view your video. That is not true. One of the best features of this item is that you can use it as a mini-vcr/tv, with sound! The buttons and lcd menus are conveniently placed and easy to understand. I figured out how to use most of the options just by playing with the camera for awhile.
The cover over the front of the tape ejector mechanism seems flimsy and I am somewhat cautious when I open it, thinking that it may break easily. However, the ejector mechanism and the rest of the mechanics of the camcorder seem very robust.
I love the fact that I didn't pay a mint for this camera and still got a lot of great features with a very good picture. There is no image stabilization, but that is more a matter of what you want to pay for.
Update: Less than a year after I bought this Camcorder, I was on vacation, filming my nephew and niece. The camcorder made a funky noise and I knew it was eating the tape. I cautiously cleared the tape from the mechanism, but to no avail. Something had gone out of adjustment and the video quality went in the toilet. I called the two Sharp repair centers in our area and found that a camcorder cannot be repaired for less than $200. Lesson learned - don't buy a cheap camcorder.

Recommended: No

Amount Paid (US$): 160
Recommended for: Budget Buyers - Best Values to Fit the Budget