How to Shop for a Camcorder That Uses DVD Media

These days, digital camcorders are going tapeless. DVD camcorders are excellent for filmmakers on a budget who also seek convenience. Follow these steps to help you shop for a camcorder that uses DVD media.

Instructions

1. Confirm that DVD is the best media for you. Each format has its own pros and cons. DVD is cheap and you can simply pop it out of your camcorder and into the DVD player for immediate playback. However, it's a bit more difficult to edit on a PC, and recording times are relatively short unless you downgrade the recording quality.

2. Set a budget. There's no point in browsing higher end models when you are on a low budget. Narrow down your options so you can scrutinize the right models closely.

3. Decide on features. What do you want your camcorder to do? Make a list of important features. Will you be filming indoors? Outdoors? Sports? Do you want excellent audio? Editing features? Do need something with good low-light performance and image stabilization?

4. Choose accessories. Factor the essential accessories into your budget. Do you want a tripod? A carrying case? An extra battery? Think about where you'll be taking your camcorder and what you'll need.

5. Browse the Internet. This is the best place to start since it's vast and free. Begin with a quick Web search: Simply type in "DVD Camcorder" and browse the results.

6. Compare and read reviews. Once you've narrowed down your choices to a few models, begin searching for specific reviews. Find a magazine article with an in-depth review of your camcorder. Visit vendor Web sites to read user reviews and testimonials.

7. Visit a retail store, and take some camcorders for a test spin. See how they handle: Is the screen visible in daylight? Are the controls easy to navigate? Does the picture look good?

8. Go back online and compare prices and warranties. Order from the vendoror store that gives you the best deal.

Tips & Warnings

• When comparing specifications, look for a camcorder with many effective pixels on a larger CCD, a low lux rating, a high optical zoom and some sort of image stabilization.

• You can buy a cheaper used camcorder off of an auction site or from a vendor if you don't mind running the risk of an as-is product.

• There are three main types of DVD: DVD-RAM with high capacity but lower compatibility, DVD-RW with rewrite ability and DVD-R which can't be erased once filmed.

• Beware of digital zoom ratings. They are usually outrageously high and misleading. Instead, pay attention to the optical zoom.

• DVD camcorders tend to be larger than other formats.