Of course, smartphones can shoot video, but the quality will be very far from what a good video camera can provide. Before making a purchase, you need to determine the characteristics and functionality of the image recording device. Which camcorder to choose for capturing rafting adventures and family vacations? Is it a gift to a teenager in support of his dream of a career in film? Should it shoot in 4K? Or do you need to fit within a certain budget?
To help answer these questions, this article provides an overview of the top rated camcorders for both the aspiring filmmaker and the amateur.
However, you should not delve into the thicket of the market without clear guidelines. Every buyer should know how to choose a good camcorder.
Brands
According to experts, the best camcorder companies are:
- Canon (Tokyo, Japan). He has many years of experience in the production of equipment of this type. Recently, her VIXIA series has been gaining popularity.
- Sony (Minato, Japan). The company was not one of the largest manufacturers of video cameras until it started making digital models. Offers handheld and HD models with image stabilization.
- Samsung (Seoul, South Korea). Became the largest electronics manufacturer in 2010
- Panasonic (Osaka, Japan). First launched production of camcorders in 2010
- JVC (Yokohama, Japan) is a longtime camcorder manufacturer.
Cost
Which video camera is better to choose: an inexpensive model for 10 thousand rubles or a high-end device for 100 thousand? In this range, high-tech products are usually separated from the rest of the market by a mark of 40 thousand rubles. While quality camcorders can be found for less, most are expensive.
Lifestyle
Think about how you plan to use the camcorder. Will it always be with you so that you can start shooting at any time, or will it be used only for special occasions? Which video camera to choose for diving under water, which one for vlogging on YouTube, and which one for viewing on an ultra-high-definition TV screen? Does the future owner see himself as the next Steven Spielberg, or are too many extras boring?
Sizes
Pocket camcorders like the Cisco Flip are very popular these days. They are very compact, extremely easy to use, and the footage is easy to transfer to a computer and to the Internet. They are inexpensive, usually under $12,000.rubles. These advantages motivate many to choose pocket models, but such a decision comes with inevitable trade-offs.
The optics used in such devices are much worse than those installed in full-featured camcorders. One way to tell them apart is to compare optical magnification. If the lens has only a digital zoom and lacks an image stabilization system, then this is most likely a pocket model. These camcorders generally don't do well in low light.
Permission
How to choose the right camcorder for video? Its quality is largely determined by the resolution of the image sensor. Like TVs, digital camcorders come in standard (480p), high definition (1080p), and ultra high definition (2160p). Standard models cost less and provide video quality suitable for viewing on a computer or regular TV. HD camcorders shoot widescreen video suitable for viewing on an HDTV. 4K is 4 times better than HD but requires a UHD TV, monitor or projector to see it.
Media size
The answer to the question of how to choose the right video camera for filming can also be given by the type of storage medium. Size, weight, battery life, performance and overall user experience depend on it.
Standard definition and HD camcorders can record to hard drives, memory cards and built-in flash memory. Older formats such as mini DVDs and video cassettes have almost completely fallen into disuse. Flash memory is lighter and smaller than hard drives, but does not provide as much storage.
Main Features
Once the user has decided on the purpose of purchasing the camera, its resolution and format, you can focus on some additional basic functions. These include:
- Optical zoom. Which video camera to choose if you need to get as close to the subject as possible? You will need a model with a powerful zoom lens. Magnification is specified as a scaling factor, so a 10x optic will magnify an object by 10x. Some zoom lenses have 48x optical zoom or more.
- Image stabilization. It is necessary to avoid blurry video caused by hand shake. This is an important feature for telephoto models.
- Sensor size and lens aperture. Which camcorder to choose for shooting in low light? A model with a larger sensor transmits light better and provides a greater level of detail. Larger (faster) lenses also provide better image quality in low light conditions.
- Photography. Like cameras, some models offer features such as scene mode selection, flash, continuous shooting, and exposure control.
- Audio recording. What is the best camcorder for shooting home movies with sound? High quality models can record in Dolby Digital 5.1.
Best Model
For those who have not yet decided which camcorder to choose, the rating of the best models will help you make the right decision. It is led by Panasonic HC-WXF991K. This is a camera that makes its owner feel like a pro. With 4K resolution, you'll never have to worry about videos looking grainy or fuzzy.
UHD is the current gold standard for image capture, and both indoor and outdoor video has been praised by experts. However, the color balance is slightly shifted towards blue, which makes the recording made on a sunny day look a little gray. The rotating LCD screen is equipped with an image sensor facing the operator. This allows you to shoot not only what is happening around, but also the reaction of the operator. The touch screen does not leave fingerprints, but it simplifies access to settings and editing functions. The lens cap is automatic, so the owner does not have to worry about forgetting to open it. There is nothing more disappointing than filming unique footage and returning home to a black screen.
The model belongs to the segment of expensive video cameras. Comes with battery pack, HDMI and USB cable, AC adapter, DC cable and hood for extra lens protection and enhanced color video. There is a slot for a full size SD card and Wi-Fi, so you can transfer video without using a cord.
4K camcorder: which one to choose?
Although UHD video still hasn't reachedmaturity, it's just a matter of time. As the hardware infrastructure continues to expand to support both wired and wireless platforms, video capture devices become more affordable. In the meantime, they are still quite expensive, and the Panasonic HC-WXF991K is no exception. At a cost of just under 56 thousand rubles. this model belongs to the high class. But the UltraHD recording, the 20x optical zoom of the LEICA Decoma Lens, the functionality and editing modes make it the final choice. Not many features. There are zoom and crop effects, as well as Wi-Fi connectivity and hybrid optical image stabilization.
Those who are serious and decide which camcorder to choose for shooting movies should not be stingy. The Panasonic HC-WXF991K shoots in UltraHD quality, appreciated by professionals. The camcorder records video in 4K at 30 fps (MP4 only) or 1080p at 60 fps, and even captures stills at 25 MP. It also features a now rare viewfinder and makes shooting in bright light easier, given the inevitable glare on the 3-inch LCD touchscreen.
Users love the 20x optical zoom, hybrid image stabilization, and 5-channel microphone that record in impressive quality without the need for additional equipment. Unfortunately, battery life isn't the best at around 2 hours or less when shooting in 4K, but the battery charges quickly.
4K shooting is the main advantagemodels. This in itself ensures that the camcorder will be in demand in the future.
Panasonic HC-V770 HD
According to users, the manufacturer of one of the best models in the ranking managed to find the right balance of functions, equipment, design, cost and convenience. Therefore, for those who decide which camcorder to choose, expert reviews recommend the Panasonic HC-V770. The model has all the modern connectivity and features you need to capture beautiful shots. There's a 20x optical zoom with a 4-motor lens, HDR high dynamic range video capture, a backlight sensor (BSI) that suppresses noise, and a FullHD slow motion function. Thanks to Wi-Fi and NFC, you can instantly connect to your smartphone, live stream and control the camera from your mobile device. There are also plenty of creative filters and effects, as well as high-quality sound recording. The video camera does not stand out with any one characteristic, but hits the mark in all directions.
Best model for beginners
The camcorder market has traditionally been dominated by Sony and Panasonic. Before the era of smartphones, they produced a wide range of models for different purposes. Currently, the market for budget versions of these devices has shrunk significantly and only a few low cost camcorders are available. Indeed, what's the point of buying them if the phone can do the same? So how do you choose a good quality camcorder that doesn't burden your budget at the same time?
Among the models thatoffering real savings, the Sony HD Video Recording HDRCX405 Handycam is considered by experts to be the best option for teens. The camcorder shoots in FullHD resolution at 60 fps and has a 30x optical and 60x digital zoom. The model is equipped with a 2.7-inch LCD display with face detection, 9.2-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, image stabilization system and intelligent auto mode. The technology is quite simple, but certainly a prime candidate for purchase, especially for novice users.
Which video camera to choose for home?
Besteker offers the Chinese model at an unbeatable price: consumers can get a superior HD quality product for less than 3,500 rubles. The model ranks high in the ratings and won the bestseller title in the Amazon Camcorder category.
Why so many Besteker HDs are sold is clear when you look at the specifications of the device. The 24MP CMOS sensor and 1080p resolution deliver incredible footage, while the stabilization system, built-in microphone and 270° rotatable LCD screen make the offer even more enticing. This lightweight camcorder fits comfortably in your hand and comes with a nice carrying case for easy transport. Finally, a 1250 mAh lithium-ion battery provides nearly 3 hours of continuous shooting.
Best action camera
YI 4K Sports and Action is equipped with a 155-degree wide-angle lens and a new generation chipAmbarella A9SE75. The model records video in 4K format at a speed of 30 fps, and also shoots 12-megapixel photos. Creative people can enjoy a variety of modes, including single frame, slow motion and continuous shooting.
The camera itself sports a sporty style that includes a 2.2-inch high-resolution 330dpi high-sensitivity touchscreen protected by Gorilla Glass. The rechargeable 1400mAh Lithium-Ion battery with 4.4V boost voltage allows you to record up to 120 minutes of 4K video, so you don't have to worry about missing the action. The camcorder also has a built-in image stabilization system, a 3-axis gyroscope and a 3-axis accelerometer that detect and compensate for changes in tilt and movement.
Best Zoom: Canon VIXIA HF R82
If the operator often finds himself thinking that his digital video camera could get a little closer to the subject, this model will be an excellent investment. Whether the user is in the back row at a sports match or away from a rare animal in a nature reserve, the 57x zoom range will allow you to shoot. The camera has a telephoto lens with a focal length range of 32.5-1853mm, and an optical stabilizer ensures that the footage is not blurry. The DIGIC DV 4 video processor lets you shoot in HD resolution, displaying scenes on the bright LCD touch screen. This lightweight camera records up to 12 hours of video on a 32GB internalflash drive, which can be supplemented with an SD card. The footage can be easily shared via Wi-Fi and NFC.
Canon VIXIA HF G20 HD
According to users, Canon has always supported the development of technology for camcorders. One of its latest models, the VIXIA HF G20 HD, is one of the best camcorders around. She certainly impressed many buyers. The model is equipped with a 1/3” CMOS image sensor that delivers impressive high-definition resolution. There is an image stabilization system, 10x zoom, 3.5”touch screen. With 32 GB of internal memory with two memory card slots, the model is capable of recording for at least 12 hours.
JVC Quad Proof GZ-R440D EnvrioR
This is an example of how to choose the right Full HD camcorder for outdoor use. The model is capable of shooting in 1080p resolution, so the footage will be quite bright and clear. The reviewers rate the overall clarity and quality of the video as average, although color reproduction is at a high level.
The camcorder is waterproof and shockproof. Although the LCD touchscreen is open and seemingly vulnerable, it continues to function properly after being hit. The screen is less responsive than competing models, but menus are easy to navigate. The GZ-R440D is equipped with a 40x optical zoom lens. Digital zoom is also available and can be handy, but it degrades video quality. A full-size SD card is required for extended shooting, and there's 4GB of internal storage as a last resort. There is also the possibility of video editing, which not all models offer. All in all, this is an inexpensive camcorder with extensive features.
