What type of Digital Camcorder do you recommend?

[Kristi2k]

This is a generic question for now, since I'm a newbie to this.

I want it to be MiniDV or DVD writable, decent quality movies and under $800. Any suggestions? I've looked around, Canon, Sony, etc and am wondering what your experiences with camcorders are.

This will be to record memories, nothing professional.

 

[John P]

Go someplace that carries a bunch of models and see what type of body you prefer to use - which one feels most comfortable to you. Most 1 CCD camcorders in your price range will give you about the same quality output. Also think about bulkiness and weight - you will tend to use the camera more if you can comfortably carry it in a fanny pack (like the Canon ZR series).

After a lot of research a few years ago I decided on the Sony DCR-PC120 and have been happy with it, although it is a bit out of your price range. However, I prefer the body type of the Canon ZR50MC that I picked up from Amazon for $330 (couldn't pass that deal up - Amazon gold box deal a few years ago). In ideal lighting conditions you can't tell the difference between the two cameras output. The Sony does better in low light, etc... The 22X optical zoom on the Canon is very cool though. I know a couple people who bought Canon ZR45MC's and liked them.

I don't have much experience with the DVD-Recordable ones.

 

[LethalWolfe]

I would stay away from the DVD-based camcorders. They look better than VHS but compared to MiniDV camcorders they look much worse.

If you are starting from square 1 I would hit www.cnet.com and find 3 or 4 cameras that catch your eye then focus your search to just those 3 or 4 selections.


Lethal

 

[bluntman]

I just bought a Sony TRV33, great little camcorder. I was looking at a Canon ZR70 due to it 22x zoom but the form factor of the Sony is what did it for me, that and the reports of the ZR70 having some difficultly with low light situations. Sine $800 is your budget limit, you my want to look at the new Panasonic camcorder, the first one with 3 CCDs UNDER $1000! It's a miniDV camera too.

I'd stay away from the DVD camcorders too.

 

[Zoinks]

This will help:

http://www.camcorderinfo.com/
http://www.dvspot.com/

They have many forums and reviews to read through.