Digital camcorders are now very popular among photography and video enthusiasts. The analog version of the camcorder is considered obsolete due to some of its shortcomings. It does not have provisions for editing and uploading to the computer. Again, camcorders are now more effective than cameras as they can perform dual functions of video camera and video recorder. Another advantage is that it can be used to take photos and videos. The output quality is excellent and able to retain the same quality even after multiple digital transfers. There are various types of digital camcorders available today with different features. The most remarkable phenomenon of digital camcorders is that they have become easier to use over time. Large LCD screens, for example, help the user to have a clear view of objects as well as preview recorded images. Optical image stabilization is another easy-to-use feature that can absorb shock in the shooting process. The electronic stabilizer is to preserve the quality of the output.
Image resolution is a very important factor. The images will have to be clear and bright. There are three main components in camcorders, namely the lens, the camera, and the recorder. It is better to choose a camcorder with a high optical zoom than one with a high digital zoom. Most modern products will have 10x optical zoom or better. Mini-DV, Digital-8, Micro-MV and DVD camcorders are the types of digital camcorders widely used today. Among them, Mini-DV enjoys more popular appeal. With a resolution of 750 x 576 pixels (PAL) and 720 x 480 pixels (NTSC), it is capable of achieving a compression ratio of 5:1. Micro-MV, on the other hand, can encode data in MPEG-2 format to achieve a higher compression ratio, but finding the right editing software is a difficult option. Digital-8 comes with full-size tapes, but its format is similar to Mini-DV. The latest DVD camcorders are for those who don’t want to edit their videos.
There are many brand name products available in the markets for buyers to choose from. Some of them are affordable even for people on a shoestring budget. HD Pocket camcorders are considered good for their price. Canon Vixia HG20, JVC Everio G2-HD40, Sony Handy cam HDR-XR100 and Samsung HMX-H105 are some of these products that can deliver high definition results. With optical zoom between 10x and 15x and digital zoom between 120x and 300x, these camcorders have received praise from product reviewers. There are also expensive products. The JAZZ 11.0 Megapixel Camcorder is a state-of-the-art product with the most advanced features. The Canon Vixia HV40 High Definition Mini-DV Camcorder with 10x Zoom is among the latest and most innovative products. Similarly, the Panasonic AGDV x100B3CCD 24P Mini-DV Cinema Camcorder and the Sanyo VPC-HD700 Xacti 7MP MPEG4 are also sophisticated digital camcorders.
Evolving technology is creating wonders in the world of camcorders. The newest models with the most innovative features are introduced frequently. Therefore, it is difficult for a product to retain its originality for a long time. Such developments contribute to tougher competition for superiority in global markets.