Affordable 1080p HD Camcorders
You don't have to decide between a low-cost low-quality "HD" camcorder and a high-end, ludicrously expensive HD camcorder. There are mid-priced, reasonably satisfying high-definition camcorders out there, you just have to know where to look.
JVC HD300
from $479.99
|
The JVC Everio HD300 is a stylish, comfortable high-definition camcorder that records video in the popular AVCHD video format. AVCHD allows for longer, higher-quality videos and smaller file sizes, increasing the recording capacity of the camera's memory. Keep in mind, however, that many common software packages still have difficulty editing or playing back AVCHD content. The HD300 carries a 60GB hard disk drive, and a number of well-meaning though trivial features, like the "laser-touch" scroll pad. It's one of the most affordable, full 1080p camcorders available. Don't expect too much, and you won't be disappointed. |
Samsung H100
from $449.00
|
The Samsing H100 is a compact high-definition camcorder that keeps things slim by recording its 1080p video directly to Secure Digital High Capacity cards. There are no tapes, discs, or hard drives; it's all done with those diminutive memory cards. This makes the H100 extraordinarily compact and lightweight, perfect for shooters who want high quality but don't want to lug around a heavy, awkward camcorder. The H100 uses H.264 video compression, so shooters can fit about an hour and a half of video on an 8GB SDHC card, which can easily be swapped out for fresh media. Or, you could buy a 32GB SDHC card that would hold nearly six hours of video. |
Sony HDR-CX100
from $389.00
|
The Sony HDR-CX100 is also quite small, allowing users to record their video to removable MemoryStick memory cards or to 8GB of internal flash memory that's included with the camcorder. The CX100 can record in full 1080p, high-definition resolution, and spices things up with a very forward-thinking 2.7-inch LCD touchscreen display that eliminates the need for most physical buttons. The CX100 has shooting features that are both useful, like Face Detection auto focus, and fun, like the Smile Shutter. Like the JVC HD300, the CX100 utilizes AVCHD video technology. |
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