Camcorder buying guide

A camcorder is a device that records images in a manner that is similar to that of a digital camera. A series of images is captured by collecting light from a subject and focusing it on a photosensitive substance inside the device. In an old movie camera, that substance was film. With digital camcorders, it's a light-sensitive imaging sensor (or multiple sensors), which converts the light into electric signals. The camcorder then internally converts those signals into video data, which it stores in one of a variety of media formats, such as a hard drive or memory card. Audio is captured and recorded simultaneously.

Unlike analog camcorders of the past, digital camcorders allow you to do a lot more with videos than simply play them back on your TV. You can edit and embellish them with music using your computer, then play your productions on your DVD or Blu-ray player or PC. You can also e-mail recordings or upload your video clips to sites such as YouTube. Many video-editing-software suites also allow you to combine your video with digital stills, graphics, and text.

Several recording formats are available: Internal hard drives, on-board flash-memory, or removable flash-memory cards like those you'd use in a digital camera, are the most common formats. Like MP3 players, many pocket models include on-board flash memory. Some models combine two storage options, such as a hard drive and memory card, for added flexibility.

Camcorders that capture high definition (HD), which offers the highest video quality, have become the norm. Companies still make SD models, but we suspect those will ultimately be phased out.

Some full-sized models are also becoming smaller and lighter, especially those that store video onboard and on removable flash-memory cards. But to reduce the "footprint" of the camcorder, some models have eliminated features such as a viewfinder. If you'll be watching your video on an HDTV, it's worth considering an HD camcorder, but be prepared to pay more for one.

The ability to capture HD-quality video is probably within your reach. In fact, most models are priced between $600 and $900, although you'll still find some models that cost more than $1,000. Many models we've rated have very good overall quality and produce either excellent or very good picture and audio quality. Most are also easy to use.

Many consumer HD models have a 10x to 30x optical zoom, although some have more, as much as 50x zoom. At maximum zoom, most camcorders display some image vibration because of hand shake or other factors. To compensate for that, all include an image stabilizer, which can do an excellent job.

One additional difference you'll find with HD camcorders is that they will generally have an HDMI output, which stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface. This interface is designed to be the best way to connect your camcorder to an HD television.

A major distinction between standard-definition and high-definition camcorders is the resolution they capture. HD models look just like conventional standard-definition models but use a higher-resolution image sensor and more-advanced recording technology, and they record in a widescreen format (or 16:9 aspect ratio). HD video contains much more detail than standard video, but you'll be able to see it only on an HDTV. If you hook up an HD model to your standard-def TV, you'll see video, but not the highest quality.

Almost all HD models can record video in 1080i, the same high resolution as much HDTV programming. Some can even shoot in 1080p, which is the same format used on Blu-ray discs. Only a few models record in 720p, an alternative HD broadcast format. Note that HD recordings take up much more space than standard-def video, so you'll fit less video in a given amount of storage; 720p files are not quite as large as 1080i, though. Some formats that record in HD, such as AVCHD, need HD-capable hardware, such as a Blu-ray disc player, to play back recordings. Also, you'll find pocket camcorders that can capture HD-resolution video, some even in 1080i, but will compromise the video quality in other ways, such as lower frame rates.

You can also connect directly to an HDTV. Some HD models give you the option of recording in standard definition, which enables you to store more video. That also provides for broader playback compatibility if you want to share recordings with others. You can also downconvert HD video either within the camera or after you've transferred it to a computer.

Another consideration is the recording medium a camcorder uses. Flash memory is the standard format, although some models still store video on hard drives.

With digital formats using Secure Digital (SD/SDHC/SDXC) or Memory Stick memory cards, the amount of video you can record at the highest quality level varies depending on the card's capacity, which can range between 4GB and 128GB or more. As with hard-drive models, you must be comfortable using a computer to transfer or archive your video. But there are some camcorders that include internal, nonremovable flash memory. Capacity for internal flash storage can range between 8GB and 64GB. Some models include both types of flash memory: memory card and internal flash memory.

Few companies have introduced new camcorders that record onto tiny, built-in hard drives. Most now record to flash memory instead. However, hard-drive camcorders are easy to use since the drive is internal and protected. There's also no recording media to buy or carry along. Like DVDs, hard drives are random access, but they're even faster. Models generally have between 80 and 220 gigabytes of capacity, providing hours of recording at the highest-quality. Some models can use removable memory cards to provide even more storage. This type of camcorder attaches via USB to a computer and appears as a mass-storage device. This means you can drag and drop files to transfer them. This format is very flexible, with an easy connection to a computer; no special computer drivers are necessary. Video and photos are already in computer-compatible file formats that transfer quickly, so no conversion is necessary. With this type of camcorder, you should be comfortable using a computer to transfer or archive your video.

Several manufacturers offer "hybrid" camcorders that combine different formats in one unit.

Inexpensive standard-definition and high-definition pocket camcorders and slightly more expensive sports-oriented camcorders either include internal, non-removable flash memory or store video on removable memory cards. These models are lightweight, compact, and easy to use but have very few features.

In our tests, we found that these types of camcorders were convenient for sharing videos over the Internet. Pocket camcorders of HD video picture quality are beginning to approach the video quality of middling-performance full-sized HD models. Sports-oriented models often have HD-resolution and include rugged and waterproof featuers, but lack viewfinders and LCDs.

This type of viewer is common on all camcorders. Some come in a wider aspect ratio (16:9), often called a wide-screen LCD, that is similar to the ratio found on many HDTVs. (You'll also find that some higher-priced camcorders include touch-screen LCDs.) LCDs are also useful for reviewing video that you've shot and can be easier to use than an eyepiece viewfinder. Some LCDs are hard to use in sunlight, a drawback of models that have only a display and no eyepiece.

Screens vary from 2½ to 4 inches measured diagonally, with a larger screen offered as a step-up feature on higher-priced models. Because an LCD viewer uses batteries faster than an eyepiece viewfinder does, you don't have as much recording time when the LCD is in use.

This camcorder feature automatically reduces most of the shaking that occurs while you hold the camcorder as you record a scene. Most stabilizers are either electronic or optical, although some models have both. Either type can be effective; though mounting the camcorder on a tripod is the surest way to get steady images. If you're not using a tripod, try holding the camcorder with both hands and bracing both elbows against your body.

This control, which goes by different names depending on the manufacturer, provides you with point-and-shoot simplicity. The camcorder automatically adjusts the color balance, shutter speed, focus, and aperture (also called the "iris" or "f-stop" with camcorders).

This camcorder feature adjusts for maximum sharpness. Some models include a manual-focus override that can be helpful in problem situations, such as low light.

This is typically a finger control--press one way to zoom in, the other to widen the view. The rate at which the zoom changes depends on how hard you press the switch.

Typical optical-zoom ratios range from 10:1 to about 50:1--or are described in the specifications as having 10x optical zoom or 50x optical zoom. The zoom relies on optical lenses, just like a film camera (hence the term "optical zoom").

Many camcorders also include a digital zoom to extend the range to 400:1 or more, but at a lower picture quality than optical zoom gives.

Some camcorders can capture 3D photos or 3D video, or both. In order to do this, the camcorder may capture two different images (or use software to create them), representing the different perspectives of the left and right eye. The differences between those two images create a sense of depth. Your brain combines the two images into one seamless 3D image when you wear special glasses, which are capable of presenting each eye with its own separate view, or when you view them on a special 3D LCD that uses applied "parallax barrier technology."

Some models include built-in projectors (also known as pico projectors). The feature, which first appeared on Nikon Coolpix digital still cameras, is now incorporated into some high-def camcorder models from Sony. Each includes a tiny projector embedded on the back of the flip-out LCD, which Sony claims will be able to project a 60-inch diagonal image.

Although most camcorders now do not include this feature, some higher priced models still have an electronic viewfinder that allows you to compose a shot without needing to use your display. This can conserve battery power and is helpful in bright light situations that wash out the LCD.

Although it's still a niche market, the number of camcorders with Wi-Fi capabilities is growing. It allows you to wirelessly transfer your photos and video to your computer, quickly back them up on a hard-drive, or upload them directly to a social networking website.

Some models include a USB cord that is attached to the camcorder's body. It's either stored in the body of the unit, or can be tucked into the camcorder's handle.

Models that are rugged and waterproof have bodies that claim to resist moisture and withstand falls.

A key player in the camcorder market. Canon's Vixia high-definition camcorders, which record to media cards and flash memory, consistently offer good to very good performance.  Select models offer Wi-Fi connectivity and all models are now compatible with Eye-Fi SD memory cards. Canon does not offer inexpensive pocket video cameras.

Coby offers a line of inexpensive, compact digital and high definition pocket video cameras, which record to internal flash memory and SD memory cards.  These basic video cameras are simple to use and allow easy uploads to the web.

DXG offers a wide range of inexpensive high-definition and standard-definition compact and pocket camcorders, some waterproof models, and a trendy Luxe collection in a variety of designs. 

GoPro offers a special-purpose sports-oriented line of high definition waterproof HD Hero video cameras. The cameras include a range of accessories that allow mounting to various flat or curved surfaces, bicycle helmets, surfboards, etc.  Optional accessories include a 3D kit and a Wi-Fi Backpack.  

JVC’s Everio line of high-definiton compact camcorders record to internal flash memory and media cards.  Some models include built-in Wi-Fi, which allows Live Monitoring using a Smartphone.  JVC no longer offers pocket models.

Although Kodak has been a well-known name in digital cameras for many years and while its pocket video cameras are still available in stores, the future of Kodak-branded models is uncertain.

Panasonic offers a wide range of high-definition models that record to media cards and flash memory. The brand consistently produces good to very good models. Panasonic offers a high-end model that can record in 3D with an optional 3D conversion lens, some less-expensive models that offer a 2D-to-3D converter feature, and pocket video cameras.  Models tend to be very easy to use.

RCA was among the first brands to offer inexpensive pocket video cameras.  It currently offers a wide range of Small Wonder high-definition pocket video cameras that record onto MicroSD cards. 

Samsung offers a variety of high-definition low-to-midpriced camcorders that record to SD-format memory cards.  It also recently introduced a new sports-oriented pocket video camera that is waterproof and dust proof.

Sanyo has been acquired by Panasonic and no longer offers Sanyo-branded camcorders.

Sony is the leading camcorder brand and offers the largest selection of high-definition models, some that have recently topped our Ratings. It offers several inexpensive Bloggie pocket camcorders that record to flash memory, and has more recently introduced several sports-oriented Action Cams.  It also offers an extensive line of high-definition Handycam models that record to internal flash memory and Memory Stick and SD/SDHC memory cards.  Sony offers a high-end 3D-capable model and several models with an integrated projector. 

While Toshiba has discontinued its standard-sized high-definition camcorders, it still offers a line of high-definition Camileo pocket camcorders that record to internal flash memory.   

  
Vivitar offers a wide range of inexpensive pocket camcorders that record to flash memory or SD memory cards, including standard-definition and high-definiton models. Included in its line are waterproof models, 3D-capable models, and Wi-Fi-capable models.

An HDTV can make the most of the higher-resolution video quality from a high-def camcorder. But keep in mind that it will probably cost you more than a comparable standard-def camcorder. If you want the best possible video and it's worth the money to you, this is the way to go.

The recording format you choose determines not only how much you'll be spending for memory media, but also how much recording time you'll get.

In the store, try different camcorders to make sure they fit your hand and are comfortable to use. Most camcorders are designed so that the most frequently used controls--the switch to zoom in and out, the record button, and the button for still photos--are readily at hand. Make sure that the controls are convenient and that you can change recording media and remove the battery without any trouble.

Most measure about 3 inches on the diagonal but some are larger. Some viewers suffer from too much glare, making them difficult to use outdoors in bright sun. Check the display in the store to make sure you're satisfied with the usability of any model you're considering. But take note: Most LCDs look fine indoors. But in full, midday sunlight, viewing performance will vary greatly from model to model.

Chances are you won't always be shooting in bright light. In our tests using the default mode, we found models varied in quality when shooting in dim light. Most full-sized HD camcorders captured at least good quality video in low light, but some had excellent quality. You should note that many camcorders have settings that can improve performance but can be a challenge to use.

In our camcorder tests, we also consider how accurately the built-in microphone records and whether or not the sound file is free from noise or hiss. Pocket models often lack decent audio quality. A few advanced models include a jack for using an external microphone, which can improve your video's sound quality and offers an alternative to using the model's built-in microphone.