What are the best things to look for on a new camcorder?

Question

i am looking for a new camcorder to replace my old one that can not hook up to the computer. i would like to find an hd camcorder that records to a small dvd. but what are some key things to look for?

Answer 1

One of the most important is Optical Image Stablization. This feature will smooth out your bumps and bounces when you're handholding it. Make sure you're not just getting Digital Image Stablization, which is a cheap, ineffective alternative that comes with most camcorders.

Another important feature to look for is the Optical Zoom capability (you want at least 10X). Again, don't fall for the 300X (or more) Digital Zoom feature, which uses an ineffective computerized zoom technique.

The last (and probably most important) thing to look for would be the media format that it records in, but it seems like you've already decided to go with the small DVD format. Keep in mind that these small DVD will only store about 15 or 20 minutes of high quality video per disc, which may or may not suit your needs. Hard Drive based camcorder can store hours at a time. MiniDV can store 60-90 minutes per tape.

Good luck on your new camera!

Answer 2

IMO mini dv will be around for a while longer, but internal drives are smart.  Consider the fact that with mini dv every tape is an archive whereas internal hard drives are definitely not.  I would not recommend dvd.  

mini dv tapes range from about 60 mins to 120mins.  they are available in even longer lengths but I think longer tapes are more susceptible to tape error.  

Hard drive camcorders can hold way more.  60 Gbs = about 20 hours in LP.  recording in High Definition would use more space/memory.  

to get the MOST recording time, hard drive camcorders are the way to go (and they/'re even expandable now with extra memory cards).  

Answer 3

power source and optics  

Answer 4

i agree with every word on the previous answer, if you can buy SONY you wouldnt go wrong on consumer level camcorders, they have the better lenses. in europe pixmania.com may be cheapest. I wouldnt recommend small disc type camcorders. If you prefer miniDV then check that your PC has a Firewire port.

Answer 5

If you want some general information on choosing a Camcorder take a look at the article “Choosing A Camcorder” at http://www.ClickDigitalProducts.com/arti... it indicates the benefits and disadvantages of the different types of camcorders and the current  Best Buys for the different Camcorder types.

You can also register for a free copy of VideoMaker magazine from this same web page which you might also find useful.

There are more Camcorder related articles at http://clickdigitalproducts.com/articles... which you might also find helpful.