Camcorder Buying Guide

Before You Shop Camcorders

Make sure it has optical image stabilization.
The only way you're going to get steady video footage when zoomed in all the way at 25x is if you get a camcorder with optical image stabilization. Since the effectiveness of optical image stabilization varies – we've always found Sony, Canon and Panasonic to have the best – make sure you test it out in the store before you buy.
Pick a format.
One of the most confusing things about digital camcorders is that there are several different media formats for recording your video footage. In a nutshell, camcorders use one of four formats – MiniDV tapes, MiniDVDs, memory cards, or built-in hard drives. All have their pluses and minuses though some are easier to use than others, especially MiniDVDs, an increasingly popular format.
This is one area where you'll likely have to do some research before you purchase your camcorder. While MiniDVD is the easiest to use, there are arguments to be made for all other formats as well. Try a few different models out in the store and consult store staff and friends before you buy.
Decide if you want a camcorder that records in Standard Definition or High Definition.
Most camcorders on the market still record in Standard Definition though the tide of High Definition camcorders is beginning to turn. While HDV camcorders are clearly the wave of the future, if you decide to get one, the only way to take full advantage of the eye-popping resolution offered by 1080i High Definition video is if you have some way of playing it back. Or in other words, if don't already own an HDTV or a computer with a high-resolution screen, you might be better off sticking to a camcorder that records in standard definition.
On the other hand, if your home theater is already HD-ready, it might be worth it to plunk down a few extra bucks and buy an HDV camcorder that can record video with stunning detail.
Find out about its ability to shoot in low light.
Since a lot of what you'll be shooting with your camcorder is likely to be in low-light situations – a child blowing out the candles on a birthday cake, a wedding reception – make sure the camcorder you're buying has a good reputation for shooting in low light. Manufacturers love to play up a low-light spec on their camcorder known as "lux" – the equivalent to the light of one candle. Some of their claims though can be misleading. The best way to find out about how well a camcorder does in low light is to read reviews, do research, and listen to word of mouth. Some of the best review sites for camcorders online are camcorderinfo.com and cnet.com.
Play with it in the store.
While this could be said for just about every product on the market, since a camcorder is going to be quite literally attached to your hand for extended periods of time, getting a feel for how it handles is vital. Along with placing it in your hand, see how simple it is to adjust the various buttons with just your fingertips and how easy it is to see the screen and access menu options. Most importantly for beginning users, see how easy it is capture video. If it takes a lot of fiddling to get your camcorder to perform its basic function, it might not be the right model for you.