Coming soon: Camcorders in a wider range of resolutions

Our shoppers are out in stores, buying a new batch of camcorders that show a greater diversity in image resolution—mostly upward.

We’ll post test results on the batch to our camcorder Ratings (available to subscribers) later in the spring. Meantime, here’s some of what's new about the group. We’ve included prices where those are available; all are suggested retail. 

• More high-def models. The number and variety of full-HD (that is 1080p format) models has increased. Those we’re shopping for include the Canon Vixia HF-S10 ($1300), JVC GZ-HD320 ($800) and Sony HDR-CX100 ($600).

• More camcorders that use solid-state recording media—as in flash memory or a hard drive. HD examples include the Samsung HMX-H105 ($800), one of the first solid-state hard-drive camcorders from Samsung. Standard-def examples include the Panasonic SDR-H80 ($450) and Sony DCR-SX41 ($330).

• The first upconverters. JVC is out with the first-ever camcorders that can upconvert—that is, process standard definition images to a kind of “pseudo HD” in 1920x1080 resolution. The model in question: the GZ-MG 680 ($550).

• More "You-Tube-type" camcorders. At the other end of the continuum of price and features lies casual videocams, which offer a combination of low price, simple ease-of-use and image quality that’s lower than the typical full-sized model but fine for, say, sharing online. We’ve covered some of these compact, inexpensive ($100 or so)  models in the past, such as the Pure Digital Flip, RCA Small Wonder, and Kodak Zi6. Now more manufacturers have stepped into this market, and we plan to add a new category to our Ratings to accommodate them.

Comments

[Bill Connors]

There seems to be a trend toward flash memory camcorders. But I have yet to see one that can match the video quality of mini-dv (tape) camcorders. Please address this in coming camcorder reports.Thanks.

[rcobb]

Posted by: Theta | May 6, 2009 2:36:20 PM

Same question: Any time frame as to when the new camcorders listed above will be posted on the camcorder ratings page?

[Theta]

Any time frame as to when the new camcorders listed above will be posted on the camcorder ratings page?

With Mother day sales out now, it would be great to see where some of the aboved mentioned camcorders stand against one another.

Thanks!