Need suggestions in buying a camcorder

[jammin]

Went to Best Buy recently to look at camcorders and came out more confused compared to before I went in. So many choices. Brand name versus non-brand name, ones with hard drives versus mini-disc versus DVD Camcorders.

My Requirements
1. Easy of use
2. Decent size LCD screen
3. Must attach very easily to TV and computer
4. Good battery life.
5. Not too bulky




I don’t need the latest and the greatest just something that’s good that will last a long time

[SandiF]

Re: Need suggestions in buying a camcorder

You may find some choices here http://www.digitalcamera-hq.com/camcorders/

[halfwaytree]

Re: Need suggestions in buying a camcorder

Like everything els, by the time you get it home it will be outdated.

Kidding really, but it almost seems that way.

My cuss's husband works for Sony and he just brought one home that has the hard drive. I love the fact that you don't have to download. Just plug it in and start editing.

Mine is an older model which downloads to your computer in real time which is a real pain in the arse if you want to process video right away.

Just purchase what you need. If you are not going to be doing a lot of editing then one that records onto DVD or digital tape is fine.

I like the Sony name myself. But the other manufacturers are probably equally as good.

[jammin]

Re: Need suggestions in buying a camcorder

What do you guys think about these?


http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?...riven&h=488

[halfwaytree]

Re: Need suggestions in buying a camcorder

OK let's go down the list and see who has what.

The Sony has a little better optical zoom [img]/forums/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/70409-waytogo.gif[/img]

The Sony also has a better digital zoom which really does not matter. Try staying away from the digital zoom feature if you want to have sharp clear video.

Special effects and editing features really don't mean a lot if you have half decent video editing and picture editing software on your computer. If you don't have this software you can find places on the net to get them for free. "So I have heard" [img]/forums/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/desdentado.gif[/img]

Looks like the Cannon has a slightly better warranty.


Well those are the top three brands you have here anyway. You probably would be happy with any of them to tell you the truth.

For me it would be a toss up between the Cannon and the Sony. I would probably go with the Sony myself, the only reason being I like the Sony name. I have had very good results with my Sony and I have taken countess hours of video with no problems, so I know they build a good product.

[jammin]

Re: Need suggestions in buying a camcorder

Thank Milo Man


I do notice that the Sony does have a smaller screen size 2.5 versus the 2.7 that most Camcorders have.

I went to Circuit City today to look at a couple Camcorders. I didn't realize that the maximum record time for the mini DVD was only 60 minutes. I was comparing them to the Hard Drive camcorder modules that have up to 8 hours of record time.

I saw a Hitaschi(sp) combination hard drive/DVD module for $599. It is the same size as the regular camcorder but give you the added choice of recording either on its hard drive or a mini DVD. It also has a one touch dubbing feature "to burn" video from its hard drive to a mini DVD. I thought that was cool but I don't think I am willing to spend that much on a Camcorder however.

[halfwaytree]

Re: Need suggestions in buying a camcorder

Yes jammin, the hard drive feature is a plus for sure. I love, love, love it! Wish I had that feature on mine. Saves time and like you say gives you hours of recording time. No worries about changing mini DVDs or tapes etc... . Just comes down to what price range you are considering I guess.

When you make your mind up please let us know what you decided on and how it's working out for you.