Are there any good digital camera and HD camcorders combined in the $300 range?

[legocitytruck]

Are there any good quality digital camera and HD camcorders combined in the $300 range? Are there any in this price range that are pocket sized? What do you all recommend?

 

[jpeyton]

The Panasonic Lumix ZS3 might be up your alley.

 

[alimoalem]

I really don't know much about this little thing, but this JVC Picsio GC-FM1 for $178 (on Amazon) looks good on paper. It records 30fps at 1080p, 60fps at 720p, and takes 8MP photos. Idk how accurate Cnet is, but they don't give it a great review.

They do, however, give the Kodak Zi8 a good review. It also records 30fps at 1080p, and it takes 5MP photos. It's also cheaper (according to Amazon - $150)

Both are pocket HD camcorders, but the JVC is not nearly as bulky.

Let me make it clear that I have no experience with these.

 

[Gooberlx2]

The Panasonic Lumix ZS3 might be up your alley.

I'm very much considering this.

My old Canon S230 recently died :'(

The ZS3 is still pocketable (just slight larger overall than the S230), but has way more features and much longer zoom. Plus 720p video, with ability to zoom while recording (so far a rarity among compact cameras).

 

[Athadeus]

My ZS3 is working great so far, though I haven't put it to any real use yet (only had it a week). It is more jacket pocketable than pants pocketable. You can do it, but apparently it might stress the casing or something and be bad for the unit over time. I got a LowePro Rezo 30 to go with mine.

You'd probably be more satisfied with the quality of a unit that is primarily a digital camera with video capability rather than the other way around at your price point. Unless you're planning on shooting video more often.

 

[Greg04]

Are there any good quality digital camera and HD camcorders combined in the $300 range? Are there any in this price range that are pocket sized? What do you all recommend?

Ditto on the ZS3. Here's my gallery after only a few days with it...

http://greg09.zenfolio.com/p424211550

http://greg09.zenfolio.com/p424211550/h1f36738a#h1f36738a

 

[legocitytruck]

Thank you for the input, it seems the Panasonic ZS3 is the only choice that fits my needs and budget. Are there any other choices for similar or slightly less money.

 

[AnitaPeterson]

Canon TX1 - if you can find it.
Beautiful, compact, sturdy - like a Swiss watch.

I'd recommend the Canon SX20, as an alternative. Unless it's too bulky for you.