In this article we provide advice and guidance on how to buy a Camcorder.

First of all we should explain what is Camcorder? According to a dictionary definition from Dictionary.com a Camcorder is "A lightweight, handheld video camera, especially one that records data in digital form onto a storage device such as a videotape, DVD or hard disk."

Essentially a Camcorder contains both a video recorder and a video camera in one integrated unit, the name is a combination of the two. In previous generations of the technology, camera and recording capability would have had to have been bought separately. The first consumer Camcorder was released in 1983 by Sony, the model was the Betamovie BMC-100Pwww.answers.com/topic/camcorder.

This guide is split into three main sections:

1. Step 1 - Camcorder Manufacturers
2. Step 2 - Assessing my Camcorder needs (including budget)
3. Step 3 Camcorder Buying approach and

In step 1 we walk through the top 3 Camcorder manufacturers on the market in the USA, just so you have an appreciation of the choice on offer. We also list their current available models.

In step 2, we provide a lot of information about the typical aspects of functionality offered by modern Camcorders.

In step 3, we consider:

1. Reading through the reviews of various Camcorders available on the market
2. Some potential suppliers of Camcorders
3. Searching for some discounts and coupons

In this step we consider the variety of Camcorder manufacturers that the consumer has to choose from. The choice is vast with CNet listing 48 manufacturers and 930 models as of January, 2010 http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/?sa=1000036&tag=centerColumnArea1.0. In this step we list the current models of 3 of the top Camcorder manufacturers, so that you can see the choice on offers.

In practice Canon, Panasonic and Sony heavily feature in “the best” and “top rated” sections of CAMCORDER related websites. These three most prevalent Camcorder manufacturers are listed below:

1. Canon http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_7842635_
2. Panasonic http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_3808726_
3. Sony http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_3808675_

Others Camcorder manufacturers: The criteria we have used is that all of the following have at least 5 CAMCORDER models listed on CNet:

1. Aiptekhttp://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_6796437_
2. Cobra Electronics http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_6761401_
3. Creative Labs http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_3809919_
4. DXG Technology http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_9056526_
5. Eastman Kodak http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_5250865_
6. Hitachi http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_5245174_
7. Isonic http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_14001434_
8. Jazz http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_7042455_
9. JVC http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_3808774_
10. KYS Systems http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_16444055_
11. Mustek http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_5250288_
12. Oregon Scientific http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_5245194_
13. Pure Digital Technologies http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_18572833_
14. RCA http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_3808729_
15. Samsung http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_3808730_
16. Sanyo http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_3808779_
17. Vistaquest http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_17954041_
18. Vivitar http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-6500_7-0.html?filter=1000036_6805308_

Canon
Here are 5 popular Camcorders from Canon:

1. Canon Vixia HF20 “’’ Canon's HF20 high definition camcorder, selling for £799, features 32GB internal flash memory and loads of extras. But all is not well in Canonville. Rather than simply build on its recent excellence, Canon retooled the HF20 with some new internals, and in the process, decimated the low light performance. Sure, it has great sharpness, but is that enough.”’’ http://www.camcorderinfo.co.uk/content/Canon-Vixia-HF20-Camcorder-Review-36314.htm# http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/canon-vixia-hf20/4505-6500_7-33483229.html
2. Canon Vixia HF200”’’ There are two unshakeable truths in the CE biz: Technology never stands still, and prices always drop. Although you’ll occasionally kick yourself in the butt when you see the HDTV you bought drop by a third in a year’s time, this overall trend is a good thing, especially for procrastinators. The new Vixia HF200 is a good example. This new entry-level AVCHD camcorder records at 24 Mbps, compared to last year’s 17, which translates to better video on your TV screen. It also has an improved image sensor, a more powerful zoom lens, plus it costs less than the 2008 HF100. Now how bad is that? This is Canon’s most affordable high-def model, and we were delighted to put it through its paces to see if it was worth the wait.”’’ http://www.digitaltrends.com/product-reviews/camcorder-reviews/flash-memory-reviews/canon-vixia-hf200-review/http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/canon-vixia-hf200/4505-6500_7-33483231.html?tag=tpr
3. Canon Vixia HG20”’’ Among our latest products is the Canon VIXIA HG20 Hard Disk Drive Camcorder. It combines the ease of recording video directly onto an internal Hard Disk Drive with the advanced AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition) format. Its 60GB Hard Disk Drive allows you to record up to 22 hours and 55 minutes of crisp, high definition video (LP Mode). It also is a dual system camcorder, with the capability of also recording video and still images to an SDHC card as well.”’’ http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=177&modelid=17382 http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/canon-vixia-hg20/4505-6500_7-33196959.html
4. Canon Vixia HV30”’’ The dramatic Canon VIXIA HV30 is the latest in our offering of HD camcorders, incorporating advanced features to bring knowledgeable and demanding videographers the ultimate in HD video and digital photo quality. The VIXIA HV30 is packed with Canon Exclusive features you won't find anywhere else. Our own Full HD CMOS sensor and advanced DIGIC DV II image processor deliver breathtaking detail and the best in color reproduction. SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization and Instant Auto Focus gives you the shot control High Definition demands. With the Genuine Canon 10x HD video zoom lens and a host of other advanced features the VIXIA HV30 is sure to be your choice in High Definition camcorders. And, with its HD and Standard Definition recording modes, you can make the move to HD without making your SD equipment obsolete.”’’ http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=177&modelid=16206http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/canon-vixia-hv30/4505-6500_7-32786397.html?tag=tpr
5. Canon XH A1 “’’ Developed using the feedback of professional cameramen, the XL H1A takes high quality HDV recording to new levels. Separate focus, zoom and iris rings – plus full audio options – give total control.”’’http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/canon-xh-a1/4505-6500_7-31986886.html?tag=tpr

Panasonic
Here are 5 popular Camcorders from Panasonic:

1. Panasonic HDC HS100”’’ The HS100 is a hybrid model that records full-HD images onto either an SD (or SDHC) Memory Card or the built-in 60-GB hard disk. A 32-GB SDHC Memory Card** can hold around 12 hours of recorded video clips, and the 60-GB hard disk can hold around 23 hours (both in HE mode). This gives the HS100 a total capacity of around 35 hours of full-HD recording. The HS100 can copy recorded video images from the SD Memory Card to the hard disk, or vice versa, with easy operation.”’’ http://www.panasonic.co.uk/html/en_GB/1257719/index.html http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/panasonic-hdc-hs100/4505-6500_7-33089573.html
2. Panasonic HDC HS250”’’ Bring out all the beauty of your memories with the HDC-HS250K from Panasonic. This 120GB camcorder delivers full high-definition images and contains six times as much information as standard images. For shooting once-in-a-lifetime scenes, this HD camcorder's a great choice.”’’ http://uk.shopping.com/xPO-Panasonic-HDC-HS250http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/panasonic-hdc-hs250/4505-6500_7-33529396.html
3. Panasonic HDC HS300 “’’ The HDC-HS300 is Panasonic's new flagship camcorder. In addition to a wide range of manual controls, the Panasonic offers a manual control ring and a retractable viewfinder, something pros can appreciate. The new touch screen LCD is a nice touch, as well, though its far from iPhone-quality. With up to 15 hours of high definition video on the 120GB hard drive, the HS300 is among the most intriguing camcorders of the year.”’’http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/panasonic-hdc-hs300/4505-6500_7-33529325.html
4. Panasonic HDC SD100 “’’ The SD100 is highly resistant to impact because it records onto SD and SDHC memory cards and thus has no moving mechanism. This plus the compact size make the SD100 ideal for casual, walk-about shooting fun. After a day of shooting, users can simply take the SD Memory Card from the SD100 and slip it into the card slot on a Panasonic PZ800, PZ700 or PY700 VIERA TV, or a BD50 or BD30 Blu-ray DiscTM Player*, and enjoy easy, instant large-screen viewing of stunning HD images.”’’ http://www.panasonic.co.uk/html/en_GB/Products/HDC-SD100/Overview/1257856/index.html;jsessionid=0a6d28f130d6da4b430cba4f4152a34fd4c3beebe7b2.e34Pah8Ma3eQci0SchuOchuRaxv0n6jAmljGr5XDqQLvpAe?trackInfo=true# http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/panasonic-hdc-sd100/4505-6500_7-33089574.html
5. Panasonic HDC TM300 “’’ The TM300 is a twin memory model that records Full HD images either on its 32GB internal flash memory or an SD (or SDHC) Memory Card. A 32-GB SDHC Memory Card can hold around 12 hours of recorded video clips (in HE mode). The TM300 can copy recorded video images from the SD Memory Card to the internal memory, or vice versa, with easy operation.”’’ http://www.panasonic.co.uk/html/en_GB/Products/Camcorders/HD+Camcorders/HDC-TM300/Overview/1973727/index.htmlhttp://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/panasonic-hdc-tm300-black/4505-6500_7-33529327.html?tag=tpr

Sony
Here are 5 popular Camcorders from Sony:

1. Sony Handycam HDR CX12 “’’The Sony HDR-CX12 is the company's second-generation high definition camcorder that records solely to MemoryStick cards, replacing last year's HDR-CX7. The handling has improved immensely with the addition of a "Cam Control dial" that frees you from relying entirely on the touch screen operation. The complete lack of internal memory may still certainly dissuade some customers.”’’http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/sony-handycam-hdr-cx12/4505-6500_7-33089288.html
2. Sony Handycam HDR CX12E “’’The Sony HDR-CX12E camcorder is an ultra-slick and stylish palm-sized Handycam from Sony which boasts tremendous picture taking abilities. With the ability to take 10.2 megapixels still images, it ensures memories are captured and preserved in stunning detail. Presented with quality camera features, it boasts Sony’s Face Detection Technology that applies to both video and still image recording, detecting up to 8 faces anywhere in the frame. With Face Detection, it automatically adjusts focus, exposure and colour for the most natural results.“’’http://www.digitalrev.com/en/sony-handycam-hdr-cx12e-camcorder-4010.html http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/sony-handycam-hdr-cx12e/4505-6500_7-33317091.html
3. Sony Handycam HDR CX7 “’’ Grand performance on a small scale. Record high definition video directly to Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media with the super small and lightweight HDR-CX7 high definition Handycam® camcorder.”’’ http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&productId=8198552921665089063&langId=-1http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/sony-handycam-hdr-cx7/4505-6500_7-32427827.html
4. Sony Handycam HDR SR11”’’Model number: HDR-SR11 Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars Series highlights: 5.6 MP ClearVid™ CMOS sensor, BIONZ™ image processor, 1920 x 1080 video, 10.2 MP still image capture, Face Detection technology for video, hybrid recording, 60GB HDD, 3.2" touch panel.”’’ http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665291500http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/sony-handycam-hdr-sr11/4505-6500_7-32775808.html
5. Sony Handycam HDR SR12”’’ Series highlights: 5.6 MP ClearVid ™ CMOS sensor, BIONZ ™ image processor, 1920 x 1080 Video, 10.2 MP still image capture, Face Detection technology for video, hybrid recording, 120GB HDD, 3.2" touch panel.”’’ http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&productId=8198552921665291496&langId=-1http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/sony-handycam-hdr-sr12/4505-6500_7-32775806.html

Now that you have awareness of some of the Camcorder Manufacturers we now explore the various aspects of Camcorder functionality. We have written the following specification with a power user in mind, somebody who likes to have a fair amount of functionality, but is not a professional user. For this range the Camcorder will cost between $300 and $800.

Functionality is listed below and will be explored in detail throughout this step.

1. Price - Between $300 and $800
2. Video format - 1080i high definition mode or 720p standard definition
3. Lens type - 10x or greater zoom controlled with a switch or lens ring, electronic or optical image stabilization
4. Ports and connectivity - FireWire (IEEE 1394 interface), RCA Connector (A/V), USB 2.0, S-Video, accessory shoe mounting, microphone terminal and headphone terminal
5. Sensor - 1/6” or larger Charge Coupled Device (CCD), minimum 680K pixel effective video resolution for standard definition and a minimum of 2 megapixel effective resolution for HD
6. Photographs - A medium level of resolution suitable for 4x6 inch photos
7. Minimum illumination rating - 7 lux or below
8. Media - MiniDV cassette, mini DVD-Read/ReadWrite/+ReadWrite/RAM, flash memory card, (SDHC, Memory Stick, Hard Disk
9. Exposure controls - Automatic, exposure shift, programmed scene modes, backlight mode, low-light mode
10. Focus Controls - Automatic or manual options via a dial on the camcorder body
11. Viewfinder and Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) - Color viewfinder and 3” or preferably larger color LCD

Now you have considered all of the above you are ready to consider step 3, an approach to purchasing a Camcorder.

In step 3, we provide our recommended approach to buying a Camcorder. The approach we take is that you should always have a firm understanding of your requirements (step 2), you should always carefully study independent reviews and should always look for the best deals you can get. We have divided step 3 into 3 parts, listed below:

1. Reading through the reviews of various Camcorders
2. Potential suppliers of Camcorders
3. Searching for some discounts and coupons

Camcorders Reviews When buying a Camcorder it is vital that you undertake sufficient research. Our advice is to read as many independent reviews as your time permits. Listed below are some recommended websites ,these contain many reviews and would prove to be an informed part of your Camcorder buying decision.

CNet http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-camcorders/?sa=1000036&tag=centerColumnArea1.0 In excess of 930 Camcorder reviews from a very well known technology review website.

Camcorder Info http://www.camcorderinfo.co.uk/ There is always an abundance of information and reviews on the Camcorder Info website. There are in excess of 1000 Camcorders reviewed, Camcorders is all this site does.

PC Magazine http://www.pcmag.com/category2/0,2806,2347,00.asp Many reviews of and information on Camcorders from PC Magazine, a respected name in the IT/Gadget industry.

Test Freaks http://www.testfreaks.com/digital-camcorders/ Over 1250 Camcorder reviews, a mixture of technical evaluations and sorted by ratings make this an interesting site for people to visit when purchasing a Camcorder.

Potential suppliers of Camcorder systems

Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Camcorders-Camera-Photo/b/ref=sv_p_5?ie=UTF8&node=172421 Amazon always have a wide selection of Camcorders for sale from a range of suppliers within the Amazon store, it’s always worth checking out for Amazon Coupons and discounts too.

Bestbuy http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Cameras-Camcorders/Camcorders/abcat0403000.c?id=abcat0403000 Bestbuy have an abundance of Camcorders on sale and also tend to offer competitive pricing, which could lead to you finding a good deal on a Camcorder.

EBay http://photography.shop.ebay.com/Camcorders-/11724/i.html?_nkw=camcorder&_catref=1&_fln=1&_trksid=p3286.c0.m282 A worldwide trading auction site, which has a choice and variety of new and old Camcorders for sale. You can either try to bid for a bargain and/or there is also the opportunity to “buy now”.

Searching for some coupons and discounts You should now be in a position where you:

1. Understand what a Camcorder is (introduction)
2. Understand some of the available manufacturers (step 1)
3. Understand your functionality requirements from a Camcorder (step 2)
4. You will have read some reviews of your favoured products (step 3) and
5. Will have an idea of where to buy your Camcorder from (also step 3)

You are now ready to try and find the best price with the benefit of coupons and discount.

Mahalo is an excellent place to go to find coupons and I can recommend all of the following pages to find coupons for Camcorders – Camcorder Coupons | Canon Camera Deals | Panasonic Coupons | Sony Coupons | The Flip Coupons

Another method of finding a low price is through price comparison sites, the following all feature Camcorders:

1. Bizrate http://www.bizrate.com/camcorders/
2. Dealtime http://www.dealtime.com/xPP-camcorders
3. Pricegrabber http://cameras.pricegrabber.com/camcorders/p/47/

We provide some sample pricing for the Panasonic HDC TM300 as at January 24, 2010. Prices for this were

1. Bizrate - $1064.95</ref> http://www.bizrate.com/camcorders/products__keyword--panasonic+hdc+tm300__sort--5.html </ref>
2. Dealtime - $1045.00http://www.dealtime.com/xPO-Panasonic-Panasonic-HDC-TM300-High-Definition-Flash-Memory-Camcorder-with-32GB-Internal-Memory-3MOS-Sensor
3. Pricegrabber - $1099.00 http://cameras.pricegrabber.com/camcorders/Panasonic-HDC-TM300-flash-card/m730648457.html/search=Panasonic+HDC+TM300/st=product/sv=title

Conclusion We are satisfied that if you follow the advice in this guide you will find a camcorder suitable to your requirements (step 2) and also one that you have read the reviews for (step 3) and also one that is economically priced as possible (step 3). If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to provide one on the opportunities to comment provided in this page.