In the market for a decent camcorder, but you don't want to break the bank? There are options available to you. Low to mid-range camcorders come with many nice options that would be perfect for anyone just starting out.
Canon has been producing quality cameras and camcorders for a very long time. Their budget F series has a few different models to choose from, including the FS10 with 8GB of memory. But, the high-end model the FS11 (around $450 to $500 retail) [See Image 1] comes with a 16GB internal memory and a built-in electronic lens cover. It's well built and will fit perfectly into your hand. Weighing only 10.7 ounces, it would be easy to take this camcorder on a hike or to the beach with the family.
This camcorder is not meant for the serious videographer. There are some problems with the zoom switch, making it hard to control, and it only comes with standard-definition (740x480) video resolution. But, overall, it's a nice starter video camera.
A better option might be the JVC Everio GZ-MG330 Hybrid Camcorder ($400 to $500 retail) [See Image 2]. It's small, inexpensive and very sleek looking. It also shoots in standard definition and sports a 2.7 inch LCD screen. It is a little heavier than the Canon model at 11 ounces, but the zoom on this camera is much better, reaching up to 35x. It has a 30GB hard drive and the ability to capture still photos. What's nice about this camcorder is that in the Ultra Fine mode, the hard drive can record over seven hours of video and, in the Economy mode, over 37 hours.
The image quality is not the best, and you need to be up close to someone to get clearly defined auto. But, for the price tag, it is still a fine machine.
Another possibility, if you're looking for a camera that shoots in HD is the Aiptek GO-HD High Definition 720p Camcorder (under $300 retail) [See Image 3]. It's been on the market for over a year, but, for right now, this camcorder is the only way to obtain high-definition video at this price. It records onto SD cards, and you can get about four hours of HD footage per 8GB card. The downside to this product is that you get what you pay for; the quality is not the greatest. Yet, this would be a good choice for anyone who wants to see how HD works on a camcorder.
Overall, in this price range, there are a few useable and decent quality camcorders available to you.