Which Camcorder Should I Buy?

Choosing a Camcorder: Price vs Features

Sifting through the hundreds of camcorders (also called PVRs or personal video recorders) currently on the market can be a daunting task. Evaluating your video needs and budget will make finding the perfect camcorder far simpler. Here are some of the important specs you will want to consider followed with some of the best camcorders on the market today.

Optical Zoom Vs. Digital Zoom

Optical zoom is far more important than digital zoom. The larger the optical zoom capacity the better shooting quality you will have from a distance. Conversely, the larger the digital zoom, the greater loss of image quality there will be if you use it. In fact digital zoom is virtually useless; it is an illusion created by manufacturers to make you believe that you are getting more for your money. You should only pay attention to the quality of optical zoom for any given camcorder.

MiniDV Camcorders

Camcorders that use 8mm and Hi8 cassettes are larger and heavier than compact models that use other forms of recording media. Another virtue of MiniDV type media is that they allow longer recording time, usually one cassette can record 120 minutes of footage. MiniDV's are generally more versatile and less expensive than compact DVD camcorders. You can find cheaper compact PVRs than a high end miniDV camcorder but your video quality will probably suffer.

DVD Camcorders

These models (also called Mini DVD camcorders) are very compact, and because they record in digital format, you can quickly search through your footage without having to forward and rewind cassettes. Most mini DVD disks are compatible with your home DVD player as long as it is a fairly new model. The problem with this type of recording media is that it is harder to edit and the disks themselves are more expensive with a shorter recording time as low as just 20 minutes. Don't be confused by the similarity of the terms... a mini DVD is just a small DVD disc, while MiniDV refers to the "mini digital video" format.

Flash Memory

Hard disk, flash or compact memory (Memory Stick, SD/MMC cards, etc.) can be the sole recording format for a camcorder, or they can be options on the MiniDV and DVD units. Flash media gives you the option of storing still pictures, and because you can eject the flash media cards and quickly pop them into your computer, they make for easy transferring of your video to the web or email. Camcorders that use this feature as the only method of memory require that you have a DVD burner if you wish to create a hard copy. Otherwise you will have to store your videos on your computer or buy additional cards. The virtue of the hard disk or flash memory is that it makes for an ultra compact camcorder, some weighing less than a quarter of a pound.

Connectivity

Camcorders vary in their ability to play back images. Some connect to your TV or DVD player with standard A/V cables, and others offer S-Video output. If you want to transfer videos easily to your computer, look for one that offers a USB connection. Firewire is faster than USB, but not all computers have Firewire ports.

Camcorder Recommendations

• JVC GR-D350 Camcorder - This is a great camera for someone who doesn't need anything too fancy and is on a budget. At around US$200 it is perfect for someone who wants to just point and shoot without any fuss. It has decent optical zoom, uses a miniDV format which is versatile enough to connect to your TV as well as a computer, however there is no flash memory included for this model.
• Canon DC40 DVD Camcorder - This is a mini DVD camcorder also includes an SD card, and is priced around US$540. You can play your footage directly on your home DVD player after recording with little hassle. It also includes A/V, S-video and USB output ports. Optical zoom is 10X. This camcorder has a number of special effect features and superb image quality for a camcorder in this price range.
• Sony Handycam DCR-HC46 - This compact miniDV, street priced at US$569, sports 12x optical zoom as well as a decent image stabilization feature. It includes FireWire and a USB port along with an A/V dock allowing you to easily view footage on your TV screen. Sony Handycam DCR-HC46 produces excellent image quality without breaking the bank.
• Sony DCR-DVD505 - This DVD camcorder is one of the best in its class, priced at US$999. It has 10x optical zoom and plenty of new technology. It offers optimum automatic controls and excellent still image features. This camcorder is Bluetooth compatible, has A/V, S-video and a high speed USB port in addition to allowing you to play your footage directly through your DVD player.
• Canon XH A1 - This is by far one of the best miniDV format camcorders on the market today. At US$1450, it's a semi-professional grade camera that has extensive manual options as well as automatic controls allowing you to simply point and shoot when you prefer. Image stabilization is advanced, allowing you to shoot while moving without causing shaky video producing top of the line image quality. It includes 16mB of memory, FireWire, USB, A/V 1 and A/V 2 outputs.

I recentlly purchased the Hitachi HS300A for about US$600. It has 25X optical zoom, image stabilizer, and can record to a DVD or the internal 80GB hard drive. The SD card slot allows me to take still photos, and it has a quick 1-second startup.

Camcorder Research Resources

Be sure to do your homework before choosing a camcorder. A hasty purchase can mean the difference between a device that is a breeze to use or a complete disappointment, causing you to miss out on the events you're trying to preserve. Here are some sites that offer extensive info on hundreds of different camcorders on the market, along with actual consumer reviews:

• CamcorderInfo.com gives succinct ratings for dozens of camcorders along with their price ranges. Then just click on any device of interest and get a full review of that particular product along with a helpful consumer message board.
• C|Net Reviews provides an invaluable buying guide for those in the market for the perfect camcorder including reviews, specs and an explanation of terminology.
• PC World offers thorough reviews on all types of camcorders including price comparisons, shopping and customer forums.

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