How to Test a Camcorder for Color Performance

Unless you record in black and white, the color quality of a camcorder's images is probably important to you. Here is a short guide to help you choose the best camcorder for your budget and purposes based on color quality.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Television

1. Test the camcorder. If you have your choices narrowed based on other criteria, go to an electronics store and request a test recording. Compare resulting color quality.

2. Determine how you’ll use the camcorder. A camcorder that will be played back on a 60-inch television requires more resolution than one played on a smaller screen.

3. Look for a camcorder that works well in low light. The measure of this is the lux rating. A lower lux rating indicates higher sensitivity to light.

4. Color quality is related to resolution. Skin tones, for example, are more accurate with a higher resolution because higher resolution captures a more precise array of colors.

5. Buy an HD setup. If you want the very highest quality, you’ll need an HD camcorder, but don’t forget to use HD cables and an HD display to minimize any loss of quality.

6. Check the LCD screen. This view is often indicative of how the video will look. However, because most video isn’t played back on LCD screens, you should also test on a television or computer.

Tips & Warnings

• When choosing a camcorder, consider other factors that affect its desirability. How does it feel to wield the camcorder? Is it small enough to be easily carried?
• For most amateur users, quality is not as great an issue as content. Remember that before you buy any professionally rated material.
• Don’t buy a camcorder without doing a test recording and playing it back on a television or computer. Take notes if you won't be viewing its competition immediately after playback.
• Don’t bring your checkbook, credit card or a big wad of cash to the store. Research, then buy.