Choosing a camcorder
Step 1: pick a format
Step 2: decide which features you need
Step 3: check out the extras
Step 4: get the complete package
MiniDV. MiniDVD. Megapixel. With so many choices, choosing the right camcorder can be a daunting task. By focusing on what you want to do instead of getting caught up in technical specs, selecting the best model gets easier. Whether you’re a soccer mom looking to record your children's games or a budding filmmaker trying to break into “the business,” we can point you to the perfect camcorder.
Step 1: pick a format
These days, camcorders record on disc, tape and even flash memory. In the end, however, it all boils down to what you want. Is it easy playback, expanded editing options or the highest quality picture and sound? Here are a few examples:
Want the convenience of tossing a disc in your DVD player? Try MiniDVD.
These camcorders record digital video on 3" discs, which can be played in any DVD player. You can also insert them into your computer for editing or copying. Like DVD movies, you can access each scene individually without rewinding or fast-forwarding—simply choose from among the displayed images. Some models also let you edit while the disc is still in the camcorder.
Want to record high-quality footage and be able to edit on your computer? Check out MiniDV or Digital8® camcorders.
These compact camcorders record digitally on little tapes. With a USB or Firewire cable, it's easy to transfer footage to your computer for editing, emailing and/or saving to a disc. The sound and picture quality are comparable to DVD movies. You can even watch your tape directly from the camcorder by connecting it to your TV with A/V cables.
Want tons of storage without the hassle of discs or tapes? Consider a hard disk drive camcorder.
These camcorders record onto a built-in hard disk drive, making them amazingly small with the added convenience and savings of not having to buy tapes or discs. Snap thousands of digital stills or record hours of high-quality video and still have storage to spare.
Want an incredibly small camcorder with multimedia capability? Look for camcorders that record footage on flash memory.
Because the recording medium is so small, this camcorder can fit inside your purse or pocket. Generally they can record videos, pictures and music for a convenient all-in-one solution.
Want a low-cost way to record family events? Then look for a Hi8 or VHS-C camcorder.
These analog formats record on mid-size tapes, offer decent picture and sound quality and a few editing options. They are easy to use and very affordable. To watch your video, simply connect your camcorder to your television or buy a VCR adapter to play the tapes in your VCR.
More about camcorder formats
Step 2: decide which features you need
Digital still mode: Camcorders with digital still mode capture images on memory cards just like digital cameras. Although the resolution is often lower than a typical digital camera, you can’t beat the convenience of carrying one device to do two jobs. Look for a megapixel camcorder for superior video quality as well as superior digital stills. These camcorders record far more visual information in every shot, which translates into richer colors and a clearer picture. If you want to print digital stills, a camcorder with more megapixels will provide better picture quality.
Optical zoom: Optical zoom gets you closer to your subject for a more detailed picture. This type of zoom uses actual lenses, just like a film camera, so you get clear pictures regardless of how far away your subject is.
Built-in light: The easiest way to get better picture quality is having a built-in light. It's ready whenever the lighting isn't adequate, which is probably more often than you think—consider how many birthdays someone special will be blowing out candles in the dark.
Step 3: check out the extras
Once you’ve decided on format and features, check to see which models have these extras, which make using your camcorder easier.
Color viewfinder: When you’re recording, it’s easy to look through the LCD screen to watch the action, but that drains battery power quickly. A color viewfinder gives you the opportunity to see exactly what you’re shooting, but saves on battery power.
LCD size: LCD screens range in size from 2” to 3.5” and provide access to a view of the action while filming and the menu for changing settings. Larger screens are easier to see and read.
Step 4: get the complete package
Once you’ve picked your camcorder, you need to be sure to get all the goods that will make it great.
Tapes or discs: Be sure to stock up so you don't run out during important events. Camcorders often don’t come with any tapes or discs, so pick some up.
Case: A good case protects your camcorder and keeps all of your accessories together, so there’s no searching for a tape when you’re ready to film.
Battery and charger: Important moments don't wait—pick up an extra battery and charger so you’ve got the power for whatever comes your way. The battery included with the camcorder typically doesn’t last very long.
Tripod: A tripod make your movies look less shaky and frees your hands to direct.
Memory card: If your camcorder records digital still images, pick up a 64MB or 128MB card so you can capture plenty of still shots.
( 
)
Thank you for voting. If your vote meets our 
