In recent years, camcorder prices have dropped significantly. Developments in digital technology have allowed manufacturers to create smaller, higher quality products at affordable prices. Nevertheless, as consumers scour the ocean of available products, many wonder what model to choose. What are the differences? The advantages? The disadvantages?

In the world of camcorders, Panasonic stands as one of the most reliable and well-respected manufacturers in the industry. From their most basic DVD camcorder such as the VDR-M50, to their prosumer miniDV products such as the AG-DVX100A, they cover a wide range of options. Choosing the type of Panasonic camcorder to purchase depends entirely on its intended use and your comfort level with digital technology.

DVD camcorders are a relatively new breed. As their name suggests, these cameras record information directly to a DVD disc. The disc can then be played in standard players or on a computer. Although this is one of the easiest ways to record sound and images, due to the type of compression that is used, the overall quality is usually far less than the miniDV format. Nevertheless, if convenience is what you are looking for, a Panasonic camcorder will usually offer automatic controls, simplifying the whole shooting process.

Although miniDV uses a tape to record information, it is an entirely digital format. The quality of information recorded to the miniDV tapes relies entirely on the hardware of the camcorder. For example, the size and number of CCDs (or sensors) within the camera has a direct effect on image resolution. Much like with traditional photography, the quality of the lens used will also have an impact. It is therefore important to properly research what a camera offers prior to making the investment.