Product MPN
Key Features
Each type indicates the method of recording, and the type of tape that the camcorder uses. Make sure the recording format of your camcorder is one that will play on the device you want to watch your recording on.
Recording Media
Hard Drive
NTSC is the format used by American color television broadcast. PAL is the format used across much of Europe and many other parts of the world. PAL camcorders are not compatible with USA NTSC TVs. Make sure the camcorder you purchase is compatible with the color TVs you want to play your recording back on.
Of the two types of zoom available, optical and digital, optical zoom is far more important. Optical zoom uses the camcorder's lens to magnify part of the image without losing any image quality. Digital zoom also enlarges images, but loses some of the image quality.
LCD / Viewfinder
The LCD screen is measured diagonally in inches. A larger LCD panel is desirable for easier recording as well as better viewing when you play back your videos on the camera.
Some camcorders include a small LCD screen that displays the image that is being recorded.
Display Type
With LCD Screen
The viewfinder is the device on the camcorder that displays the recorded image as it is being recorded. Standard viewfinders display everything in black and white, but viewfinders with color displays are available on some more expensive camcorder models.
Color Viewfinder
Without Color Viewfinder
Lens
Digital zoom takes part of the image and expands it. While this produces a larger image, it sacrifices the quality of the image. Optical zoom allows for enlarging the image without losing quality.
Digital Zoom
Without Digital Zoom
Of the two types of zoom available, optical and digital, optical zoom is far more important. Optical zoom uses the camcorder's lens to magnify part of the image without losing any image quality. Digital zoom also enlarges images, but loses some of the image quality.
Memory Photography
Many camcorders are capable of taking still pictures, much like a digital camera. These pictures can usually be stored directly on the camcorder's tape, but some newer model camcorders include a flash memory card for storing the still images separately.
Digital Still Shot Mode
With Still Shot Capability
When choosing memory, cost, capacity, and compatibility are all major factors to be considered. Make sure the type of memory you purchase is compatible with the camera you are purchasing.
Memory Card Support
Memory Stick
Interfaces
Output Interfaces
S-Video, Composite (Video), Audio (RCA), FireWire / DV / i.Link, Headphones Jack
Power Supply
This indicates how long the camcorders batteries will last, in hours.
Battery Life
Up to 5.33 Hours
Camcorder batteries are rechargeable, usually with enough life for several years of use before needing replacement. All camcorders come with an AC adapter for charging, and do not require use of the battery if an outlet is nearby for use with the AC adapter.
Battery Type
Proprietary Lithium
Dimensions
Miscellaneous
Included Accessories
USB Cable, A/V Cable, Shoulder Strap, 16 MB Memory Card, Lithium Propriety Battery, AC Power Adapter, Remote Control, Lens Hood, Microphone
