A major issue with the CX12 is that one-handed operation is simply not possible if you have small hands. This is because the distance between the record button and the mode switch, zoom toggle and photo button are too far for your thumb to reach, which leaves the rest of your fingers to hold up the video camera if you want to record then zoom. Alternatively you could also use two hands, with zooming and recording shortcut buttons located next to the touch screen LCD.

For connectivity there’s an HDMI port, proprietary A/V port, DC-in and docking port which is located at the bottom of the camera. Since there is no USB on the CX12, accessing your photos and video must be done via the included dock which has a 5-pin mini USB port and also allows you to charge and output video. In a nice little touch, both the A/V port, HDMI and DC in are covered by plastic, spring loaded covers rather than the usual rubber covers found on most video cameras. At the front of the camera there’s also a manual focus control if you choose to be creative with your filming.

An external proprietary flash hot shoe sits on top of the CX12 which Sony calls its, “Active Interface Shoe” is protected by a spring loaded cover. Accesories are widely available for the interface.

Since this is a Sony product, the CX12 accepts MemoryStick Duo cards with a 4GB and 8GB cards included in the box to get you going. The only problem is that you can only record up to 28 minutes of video at the highest resolution before you run out space and that doesn’t include any photos you decide to take along the way.