Video Cameras

Digital Video Cameras

Digital Video Cameras are "twofers" - two devices in one.  A digital video camera and a VCR or DVD player/recorder.  So, if

 you're getting ready to purchase a new Digital Video Camera to use for your business (or home and business) you'll have to consider the capabilities and features of both the "camera" and the "recorder".

"The Camera"

• Resolution - if you need quality, look for cameras with very high resolution (megapixel).
• Memory or Storage - many of the video cameras also allow you to take digital stills.  For these photos especially, you'll need to think about purchasing a digital video camera that include extra memory or storage in the shape of an SD (Secure Digital), MMC (Multi-Media Card) or Memory Stick device.
• Zoom - if you just want to just shoot some video, there are a number of cameras available that simplify gathering digital video images.  However if you need to shoot your videos in "less than perfect" conditions or you need some flexibility in range - you'll need to look into more elaborate lenses and functions for your camera..
• Sound Quality - yup, it's VIDEO, but if the audio you capture does not match the quality of the video, it is likely you'll be very disappointed with the overall quality of your camera. 
• Exposure Control - again, you can "trust the camera" or, if you need images at odd times of day or desire a variety of tones or filters, you'll want the ability to manipulate the exposure rate on your camera.
• Video Format, PC and Software Interoperability - if you expect to "use" or edit your digital videos, then interoperability with your PC and its video editing and capture software become critical.  Make sure your PC meets MORE than the basic system requirements.  Also, we strongly recommend that you go to the manufacturer's web site and take a look at the FAQ's to see how many problems/questions/issues are already on the site related to the camera, software and PC itself.  If you see a bunch, maybe another camera would work better in your environment.
• Extras - swiveling LCDs with styli (letting you actually "draw" on the images!), still camera capabilities, low light shooting, very high frame rates, special software, digital video cameras are packed with extras that are tuned to many uses and needs. 
• Batteries and Battery Life - as always, make sure that the device you purchase has the power to meet your needs!

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• Size and Weight - digital video cameras come in all sizes, shapes and weights.  One of the big things to look out for when reviewing manufacturers specifications, is that often the camera weight is supplied without the battery, neck or shoulder strap, case, etc.  That 4.8 oz camera can turn into an 8 or 9 ozer in no time.
• Price - it's important too - and believe us, digital video cameras can be scary expensive as well as amazingly cheap (but remember, you get what you pay for in 9.999 cases in 10!).

The "Recorder"

• Recording Media - digital video cameras can record to a variety of media -
  •  MiniDV  - very compact cassettes that hold 60 to 90 minutes of recordings.  They supply 500 lines resolution and are fairly simple to integrate with your PC.
  • Digital8 - use standard Hi8mm tapes that are cheaper than MiniDVs.  They hold 60 mionutes of recording.
  • DVD - burn your videos onto DVDs.  The biggest advantage (besides more simple PC integration) is that each video session is captured as a separate "track" - just like the ones you're used to for the DVD's you purchase (movies) and music CDs.
  • Hard Disc - burn your videos to an onboard hard drive - very simple to use!
  • SD, MMC or Memory Stick Cards - just as with digital still cameras, some digital video cameras allow you to record directly to "memory" for PC downloads

So ready to look into digital video cameras?  Let's go -

Note:  Due to the large and diverse number of digital video cameras available - as well as the complexity of the specifications surrounding digital video cameras, we have NOT included camera specifications in the body of this page.  If you'd like to see the specs (and our "pick" by manufacturer) you can download our product matrix that brings all the manufacturers and models together at - Digital Video Camera Matrix.

We've chosen "favorite" camera from each manufacturer.  You can tell it's our "favorite" by the ¹ symbol beside it!

Digital Video Cameras Review

Digital Video Cameras*

(Rankings - best, 5 symbols, worst, 1 symbol)

* A = Amateur, R = Rookie, P = Pro

Archos

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Archos makes two digital video cameras.  Both are easy to set up for use and the 404camcorder includes a 30GB hard drive for simple video storage.

Cost - $$$

The Archos 404camcorder with 30GB hard drive is priced at $300.00, the Helmet Camcorder is priced at $149.95.  Download our product matrix to view the specifications of the cameras Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Need some training videos on your Web site?  Want to show product or service functions that can best be illustrated using video?  A digital video recorder will help you do all of these things and more - much more simply than attempting to transcribe analog files to your PC or Web site.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The 404camcorder is a multi-purpose device (music/video recorder and player, photo viewer) designed for consumer use - getting started and capturing video is a breeze.  The helmet cam attaches to Archos media players to turn them into camcorders quickly and easily.

Works With - YYYY

The 404camcorder supports, MPEG4 and WAV recording and MPEG-4, WMV, H.264, MPEG-2, WMA, MP3, Protected WMA, WAV, AAC, AC3, JPEG, BMP and PNG playback file formats and "synchs up" with both Windows and Macintosh computing systems.  The helmet cam records in MPEG-4 format only.

Support - ppp

Archos' 404camcorder and the helmet camcorder carry a one year warranty.  The technical support area on their web site includes an online, electronic support "helper" ARCHOS calls Archimedes, manuals and a FAQ.  If you need more help, email is your only option.

Features - iii1/2+

The 404camcorder is a slick little device for capturing audio and video as well as playing back the same.  Also a photo viewer.  USB and A/V connectivity and the really nice part - a 30GB hard drive for storage (not a flash card or tape).  The helmet camcorder is an interesting way to record video when attached to an Archos media player.

Overall Rating - %%%1/2

The 404camcorder is not a high end camera by any means, but a slick little multi-purpose device for those daily video and audio capture requirements.  The helmet camcorder is an interesting way to capture video "hands free".

Argus Camera

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Argus makes one digital video camera.  The camera is straightforward to set up for your use.  Storage on it is flash (64MB) or SD/MMC memory based, so no tape is required.

Cost - $$$$

Argus' QuickClix 3270dv is priced at $124.99.  Download our product matrix to view the specifications of the camera Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Need some training videos on your Web site?  Want to show product or service functions that can best be illustrated using video?  A digital video recorder will help you do all of these things and more - much more simply than attempting to transcribe analog files to your PC or Web site.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Argus QuickClix 3270dv is simple to use. Just point and shoot.

Works With - YYY

The QuickClix 3270dv supports standard JPEG and MPEG4 file formats and USB system connections.

Support - pppp

Argus offers a one year warranty.  Their support site offers FAQs, drivers and online manuals.  If you need more help you can contact customer support using an "800" number or email.

Features - iii

Basic functionality, still images at 2048x1536 and 1024x768 resolution, auto white balance, 1.5" screen, with a built-in flash.

Overall Rating - %%%1/2

A basic DV camcorder at a competitive price.

Canon

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Canon makes a solid line of digital video cameras.  They include models that use MiniDV, DVD and hard disk for capturing and storing your video.  It's only when you start loading software onto your PC and connecting your camera to it to download videos and still images that things become just a bit more complex.

Cost - $$$$

Canon makes eighteen digital video cameras and one "body kit" (no lens included) that range in price from $249.00 to $8,999.00 (professional HD camera).  The are competitively priced based on features and functions.  Download our product matrix to view the specifications and pricing of their complete line Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Need some training videos on your Web site?  Want to show product or service functions that can best be illustrated using video?  A digital video recorder will help you do all of these things and more - much more simply than attempting to transcribe analog files to your PC or Web site.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Canon digital video cameras are simple to use.  Just point and shoot (or use manual focus if you desire).

Works With - YYY1/2

All of the Canon cameras comply with standard TV video formats and those that support still imaging also support industry standards DCF and DPOF for file storage and printing respectively.

Support - pppp

Canon offers a one year warranty.  The Canon support site is feature rich with lots of good information to help you if you have a problem.  You can also email or call technical support ("800" number support is available from 8 AM to 8 PM Eastern Monday through Friday).

Features - iiii

Canon delivers solid digital video features and functions at a competitive price.  They support all of the capabilities you'd expect - still imaging, electronic storage (SD/MMC cards), PC connectivity (USB and FireWire), wireless controllers.  DC models use DVD to capture and store video, the HG10 uses a hard drive.  Canon also has eight cameras that support HD - the XL H1 and XL 2, XL G1, XL A1, HV10, HG10, HV20 and HR10.

Overall Rating - %%%%

Solid digital video recorders at a competitive price.  That's Canon in a nutshell.

Chicony

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Chicony makes twelve "multi-purpose" video cameras that are also MP3 players, voice recorders, web cams and digital still cameras.  They are very easy to set up and utilize USB 2.0 to connect to your system.

Cost - $$$$

We were unable to find pricing for any of the Chicony cameras.  Download our product matrix to view the specifications of their complete line Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Need some training videos on your Web site?  Want to show product or service functions that can best be illustrated using video?  A digital video recorder will help you do all of these things and more - much more simply than attempting to transcribe analog files to your PC or Web site.

Ease of Use - @@@@

Basic, very easy to use "point and shoot" video cameras.

Works With - YYY1/2

Chicony cameras support NTSC/PAL TV standards and MPEG and JPEG image standards.

Support - pp

Chicony's cameras have a one year warranty.  Good luck if you're having trouble.  The web site has a basic FAQ and downloads.  You can call their U.S. office (no '800' number) and hope you'll get some help there.

Features - iii+

Although these cameras perform a number of functions - MP3 player, web cam, voice recorder, still and digital imaging, their capabilities are actually quite limited.  Focus, resolution, range, storage, connectivity are all very limited.

Overall Rating - Incomplete

Basic consumer devices that, we would surmise, are priced at the low end as well.  You'll have to REALLY want them to find them in the U.S.

Genius

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Genius makes eight digital video cameras.  All are easy to set up and use.

Cost - $$$$

We could find pricing for only two of the Genius cameras - the G-Shot DV5133 at $124.99 and the G-Shot DV815z at $239.00.   Download our product matrix to view the specifications and pricing of their complete line Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹

These are basic video/still image digital cameras that store the images on Secure Digital memory cards.  Fixed focus lens and other limitations make that you won't get a ton of "extra" productivity if you use these cameras.

Ease of Use - @@@@

Very basic, very usable.

Works With - YYY

USB connectivity along with audio and video.

Support - ppp

Genius video cameras carry a one year limited warranty.  The web site includes a FAQ and manuals.  If you need more help, email is your only option (to Taiwan).

Features - iii1/2

The Genius cameras are small form factor, multi-purpose cameras.  They are capable of video, still digital photos, playing MP3 files, recording voice and acting as a web cam.  However, due to the fact that they do so much, they are not flexible nor robust from a video camera perspective.

Overall Rating - %%%+

If you're looking for a small form factor, inexpensive, multi-purpose camera, the Genius products will fill the bill.

Hitachi

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Hitachi makes six digital video cameras that record to DVD, hard drive, Blu-ray disc or SD memory card.  They are easy to setup and Hitachi includes a Quick Mode that lets you access a simplified menu system.

Cost - $$$$

Hitachi's cameras are priced from $299.99 to $1,299.99 (HD/Blu-ray).   Download our product matrix to view the specifications and pricing of their complete line Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

The ability to burn your video direct to DVD, Blu-ray disc or hard drive is a big plus and can save a ton of time when you've got to move the video around between computers or systems.  Hitachi includes the capability to move files from hard drive to DVD with "1 touch".

Ease of Use - @@@@

Quick Mode lets you by-pass most of the complexity of operating the cameras, but still use the effectively.

Works With - YYYY

Hitachi's cameras are Windows and Macintosh compatible as is the video editing software included on almost every model.

Support - pppp

Hitachi video cameras carry a one year warranty.   The tech support area on the Hitachi web site is rich with information including:  downloads, a tech library, installation guides, troubleshooting help and FAQs.  If you need more help you can email tech support or call them on their "800" number Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM Central time.

Features - iiii

Hitachi's cameras can be divided into 3 categories - those that capture video to DVD or SD memory card, those that capture video to DVD, hard drive or SD memory card and are HD capable, and those that capture video to Blu-ray disc and SD (one includes a hard drive as well) and are HD capable.  Hitachi adds electronic image stabilization and Dolby audio capture on the HD cameras.

Overall Rating - %%%%

Solid cameras with lots of "ease of use" features.

JVC

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

JVC's digital video cameras are easy to set-up and use.  Again, we're much more concerned about connecting to the PC and PC software than operating the camera itself.

Cost - $$$$

JVC makes eighteen digital video cameras that range in price from $199.99 to $15,695.00.  They are competitively priced based on features and functions.  Download our product matrix to view the specifications and pricing of their complete line Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Need some training videos on your Web site?  Want to show product or service functions that can best be illustrated using video?  A digital video recorder will help you do all of these things and more - much more simply than attempting to transcribe analog files to your PC or Web site.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The JVC digital video cameras are simple to use.  Just point and shoot (or use manual focus if you desire).  The 270 degree rotating LCDs and remote controls on some of the models are a real plus in usability.

Works With - YYYY

All of the JVC cameras comply with standard TV video formats.   DCF and DPOF support is available on most cameras.

Support - ppp

JVC offers a one year parts warranty and 90 day warranty on labor.  The tech support area on the JVC web site includes a FAQ, manuals and software downloads.  If you need more help, your only recourse is an online form.

Features - iiii+

JVC delivers solid consumer and professional digital video features and functions at a competitive price.  They support all of the capabilities you'd expect - still imaging, electronic storage (SD/MMC cards), PC connectivity using both USB and FireWire standards.  They've added some nice software features like video email and sound effects on some of the higher end cameras.    The Everio and HD series Digital Media Cameras include 30GB or 60GB hard drives (along with an SD/MMC memory card slot) to make capturing and storing video even simpler (as well as transferring it to your PC).  The professional cameras include the ability to interact with standard studio editing equipment as well as computing systems and include a number of three CCD systems for high quality video output and HD TV support. A number of cameras also include remote controls.

Overall Rating - %%%%

JVC makes a good line of digital video recorders for the "consumer".  They have "fun" capabilities like Web cams, sound effects, etc.  The most impressive line from JVC is definitely the Everio line with built-in hard drives so you can save a ton of video without tapes and changing tapes!

Mustek

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Mustek makes seven combo video cameras for the consumer.  They are simple to set up for use.

Cost - $$$$

Mustek's seven cameras are priced from $87.50 to $129.99.   Download our product matrix to view the specifications and pricing of their complete line Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹

These are basic video/still image digital cameras that store the images on Secure Digital or MultiMedia Card memory cards.  Fixed focus lens and other limitations make that you won't get a ton of "extra" productivity if you use these cameras.

Ease of Use - @@@@

Very basic, very usable.

Works With - YYY

Some cameras have NTSC/PAL compatibility, some record in AVI format others in MPEG4 (MP3, JPEG and WAV support are also available).

Support - ppp1/2+

Mustek cameras carry a one year warranty.  The web site includes download areas for software and drivers, as well as a FAQ, user manuals and tutorials.  If you need more help, you can reach Mustek technical support via email, online chat or telephone (no "800" number, you'll pay long distance charges where they apply) Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4:45 PM Pacific.

Features - iii1/2

Just the basics you'd expect in a digital video camera at these prices.  The cameras include CCD sensors with 2 to 12 megapixels and can act as web cams and digital still cameras as well.   They also, in some cases, include software from Ulead (one or more - Video Studio SE, Photo Explorer SE, Photo Express, Cool 360) and Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Overall Rating - %%%1/2

Don't need high quality?  Want a camera you're not afraid to lose?  Mustek's cameras just might be for you.

Panasonic

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Panasonic's digital video cameras (consumer models) are easy to set-up and use.  Again, we're much more concerned about connecting to the PC and PC software than operating the camera itself.  Professional models are more complex - and powerful.

Cost - $$$$1/2

Panasonic makes fourteen "consumer" digital video cameras that range in price from $215.00 to $999.95. Panasonic also makes twelve professional cameras priced from $1,595.00 to $48,000.00.  They are competitively priced based on features and functions - we especially like the fast shutter speeds.  Download our product matrix to view the specifications and pricing of their complete line Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Need some training videos on your Web site?  Want to show product or service functions that can best be illustrated using video?  A digital video recorder will help you do all of these things and more - much more simply than attempting to transcribe analog files to your PC or Web site.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Panasonic digital video cameras are simple to use.  Just point and shoot (or use manual focus if you desire).  The integrated remotes on most of the cameras are nice "usability" tools.

Works With - YYY1/2

All of the Panasonic cameras comply with standard TV video formats.   Many of the consumer models also support still imaging standards such as DCF and DPOF for file storage and printing respectively.

Support - pppp

Panasonic offers a one year warranty.  The tech support area of the Panasonic web site includes a FAQ and downloads.  If you need more help you  can email or call technical support ("800" number support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

Features - iiii+

Panasonic delivers solid consumer digital video features and functions at a competitive price.  They support all of the capabilities you'd expect - still imaging, electronic storage (SD/MMC cards), PC connectivity.  They've added some nice features like fast shutter speeds and frame by frame advance with remote. They offer HD cameras as well as cameras that write to DVD.   For the professional, Panasonic offers a wide range of form factors, video capture methods and capabilities to meet most professional video requirements.

Overall Rating - %%%%+

Panasonic makes a quality line of consumer cameras with fast shutter speeds and frame by frame advance modes.  Their products are inventive and flexible and you'll most probably find one that fits the requirements of your business and pocketbook.

Polaroid

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Polaroid's video cameras are very simple to set up and begin using.

Cost - $$$$

Polaroid's CSA-00301S/CSA-00302S 1.3MP camera for children is priced at $79.99, the CAA03040S 3.0MP camera is $109.99.  We were unable to locate U.S. pricing for the Studio 4.  For available information on this camera see our product matrix -  Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Need some training videos on your Web site?  Want to show product or service functions that can best be illustrated using video?  A digital video recorder will help you do all of these things and more - much more simply than attempting to transcribe analog files to your PC or Web site.

Ease of Use - @@@@

Polaroid's digital video cameras are simple point and shoot devices- USB and Video connectors for your TV/PC.

Works With - YYY1/2

The Studio 4 camera supports PictBridge direct printing, and MPEG 4 video formats.

Support - ppp

Polaroid offers a one year warranty on their camera.   The tech support area on the Polaroid web site includes a searchable knowledge base, downloads and user guides.  If you need more help, email is your only option.

Features - iii

Basic cameras, one for children - that range from 1.3 to 3.0 megapixels, include 16MB internal memory and SD memory card slots as well as LCD screens.

Overall Rating - %%%+

VERY basic digital video cameras.

Samsung

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Samsung's digital video cameras are easy to set-up and use.  Again, we're much more concerned about connecting to the PC and PC software than operating the camera itself.

Cost - $$$$

Samsung makes seven cameras with prices ranging from $179.99 to $799.99.   For available information on them see our product  Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Need some training videos on your Web site?  Want to show product or service functions that can best be illustrated using video?  A digital video recorder will help you do all of these things and more - much more simply than attempting to transcribe analog files to your PC or Web site.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Samsung digital video cameras are simple to use.  Just point and shoot (or use manual focus if you desire).  The integrated remotes on most of the cameras are nice "usability" tools.

Works With - YYY1/2

All of the Samsung cameras comply with standard TV video formats.   Some of the Samsung cameras support PictBridge standards for printing still images.

Support - ppp

Samsung offers a one year warranty.   The tech support area on the Samsung web site includes a FAQ and software downloads.  If you need more help, email is your only recourse.

Features - iii+

Samsung delivers basic features and functions in their cameras.  They offer an HD capable camera, two cameras that write to DVD, three that write to SD/MMC card and one that is a Mini DV model.

Overall Rating - %%%+

Basic, competitively priced digital video cameras - period.

Sanyo

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Sanyo's cameras are simple to set up and Sanyo includes "talking navigation" to help you use the cameras for the first time.  USB and S-Video connectivity is simple to "plug-in".

Cost - $$$$

Sanyo makes seven, small form factor cameras priced from $246.00 to $759.99.  For available information on them see our product  Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Need some training videos on your Web site?  Want to show product or service functions that can best be illustrated using video?  A digital video recorder will help you do all of these things and more - much more simply than attempting to transcribe analog files to your PC or Web site.

Ease of Use - @@@@

Just "point and shoot" with these cameras and save to SD card (up to 2 or 8GB).

Works With - YYYY

All of the cameras are PC and Macintosh compatible and support MPEG-4 and PictBridge standards.

Support - pp1/2

Sanyo offers a one year warranty.  The Sanyo web site includes a FAQ and product manuals.  If you need more help, email is your only option - unless you just want to contact your regional service center and skip dealing with Sanyo completely.

Features - iii1/2

Sanyo's cameras are DV cameras - save to SD media cards with still image and video capture as well as (in all but the HD1 mode) the ability to act as a web cam as well.  Software for video editing included.

Overall Rating - %%%1/2

Basic DV cameras - small, useful, but not laden with tons of features.

Sony                                           

Shop Sony Handycam Camcorders direct from the official Sony store

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Sony's digital video cameras are easy to set-up and use.  Again, we're much more concerned about connecting to the PC and PC software than operating the camera itself, but if you don't want to do "stills" or anything elaborate on your PC, the cameras are easy.

Cost - $$$$1/2

Sony makes ten HD cameras priced from $899.99 to $3,699.99.  They also make twenty cameras that use hard drive, DVD, MiniDV or Hi8 tapes at prices from $229.99 to $2,999.99.  The cameras offer great features at competitive prices.   Download our product matrix to view the specifications and pricing of their complete line Digital Video Camera Matrix.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

Need some training videos on your Web site?  Want to show product or service functions that can best be illustrated using video?  A digital video recorder will help you do all of these things and more - much more simply than attempting to transcribe analog files to your PC or Web site.

Ease of Use - @@@@1/2

The Sony digital video cameras are simple to use.  Just point and shoot (or use manual focus if you desire).  The integrated remotes on most of the cameras are nice "usability" tools.  We give them and extra 1/2 for their "swivel LCD screens" and touch panels.  Very cool and useful too.

Works With - YYY1/2

All of the Sony cameras comply with standard TV video formats, they also offer five HD models as well.   If they support still imaging standard such as DCF and DPOF for file storage and printing respectively, they do not articulate that fact anywhere in their documentation - a real negative for PC and printer interoperability.

Support - pppp

Sony  digital video cameras carry a one year warranty.  The tech support area on their web site includes FAQ's, downloads as well as a searchable knowledgebase.  If you need more help, you can contact Sony technical support via email or at their "800" number.

Features - iiii1/2

Sony, by far and away offers some of the most interesting features and functions available.  Touch screen LCDs, swivel LCDs,  capture to DVD and hard drive, HD recording - and that doesn't even count the robust software capabilities and shooting modes that are available.  Added to Carl Zeiss lenses, the Sony cameras are well put together and highly functional devices. 

Overall Rating - %%%%1/2

O.k., we love the Sony cameras.  The line-up is full-featured and competitively priced.  If you can think of a use for a digital camera, Sony has one that will more than fulfill that need.  If we were to pick one maker of digital video cameras - Sony would be the one.