Shopping for a DVD Camcorder

DVDs have replaced VHS tapes as the preferred recording method for movie and video playback captured on camcorders and cameras. While the tape-based miniDV camcorder is the most popular style of camcorders these days, the DVD camcorder is running a close second. No more forwarding and rewinding tapes, no more detangling those tapes and no more worrying about breakage and degraded quality. Playback is easy, just the matter of taking the DVD out of the camcorder and placing it into a PC drive or your DVD machine at home.

Today, DVD camcorders can capture high definition (HD) images, though such camcorders are expensive. The technology is advancing at a rapid clip, so you might want to hold off on buying one of these HD DVD camcorders until kinks get worked out and newer developments will enhance current features. Keep in mind however, that DVD formats can be damaged if dropped or scratched, and video capture time is currently limited. Several different formats for DVD camcorders are available in the market today, including DVD-R, which allows for one time usage, to the DVD-RW, or rewritable, which allows for overwriting current images or files. The DVD-RAM utilizes both formats, but is only available for Panasonic and Hitachi camcorder models.

When shopping for a DVD camcorder, also keep in mind their connectivity to other electronic devices in your home. The DVD player you use in your living room or the one on your computer hard drive need to be able to read them in order to play them. Most computer and DVD player modems, if less than three years old, will probably play both DVD-R and DVD RW CD's, but most camcorders need to be 'finalized' before your computer will read it. For many years, it was also thought that DVD's were indestructible, but such is not the case. Actual shelf life for a DVD is anywhere from five to fifteen years, but in moist, tropical climates, that shelf life can be reduced to about three years. To prevent losing valuable photos, movies and other precious moments, always make sure to back up your digital files to several different locations whenever possible.

Panasonic, Canon and Samsung make the most popular brands of DVD camcorder models out there. When shopping for a DVD camcorder, make sure to compare brand name model functions and price ranges. Don't opt for fancy accessories or extras if you don't think you'll ever use them. For general, basic models, be prepared to spend anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to five hundred dollars, depending on needs. After you've narrowed down your search to a few different brands or models, check on forum and discussion boards to gauge other people's experiences with certain DVD camcorder models. Shopping for a DVD camcorder can be fun, but remember that you can't always go just by design or price. Check out the specs on any DVD camcorder style or model to make sure it comes with just what you need.