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Re-activateMini camcorders (also called pocket camcorders) are portable, easy to use, and less expensive than regular camcorders. But there are some tradeoffs for those pluses, and video quality varies among different models and makes.
On last week's "Into Tomorrow with Dave Graveline" radio show, Consumer Reports associate editor and camera expert Terry Sullivan discussed how we test mini camcorders and gave some tips about how to choose one.
CR tests mini camcorders on features including picture quality in both normal and low light conditions and ease of use, says Terry in this Sound Byte podcast. And while video quality can vary, so can audio quality—and for sound, none of our current tested models was rated better than Good. If that's a concern, keep in mind that you'll get better sound on most regular camcorders.
Our top-rated mini camcorder is from JVC ($180), but we also like models from Sony, Kodak, Samsung, Panasonic, and Toshiba. You can get model information, more buying advice, and Ratings for all camcorders at Consumer Reports Online (Ratings available to subscribers only).
—Carol Mangis
About Sound Bytes
Every week, Consumer Reports experts produce a short (less than two minutes in length) audio segment which cover a wide variety of issues regarding consumer electronics and technology. These small "sound bites" can be heard on Into Tomorrow with Dave Graveline. The Sound Byte that is featured in the Consumer Reports Electronics Blog is a segment that aired on last weekend's Into Tomorrow over-the-air broadcast.
About Into Tomorrow
Now in its 15th year, Into Tomorrow with Dave Graveline covers the Latest in Consumer Electronics & Technology available today and... into tomorrow. The show airs on over 160 AM and FM radio stations around the U.S., on SIRIUS XM Satellite Radio, radio stations in Germany, Bermuda, New Zealand, Canada and several other sources including Mobile Broadcast Network, BeOS Radio, Sprint Radio, TiVo, and many others—every weekend. "Into Tomorrow" is also heard around the world on the Armed Forces Networks in several other countries. You can also catch all Into Tomorrow episodes on the Web. (The most recent show is usually added about three or four days after it has been broadcast on the radio.)
—Carol Mangis
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