Features and functions

Digital camcorders come with a bewildering array of specifications and features – some really matter, others don't.

After choosing the format you want, think about the features and functions you need, and make sure the model you're interested in has them all. Some models are packed with features you may never use, so there's no point paying for them.

Here's what to consider before you buy:

Important considerations

Size (shape)

Smaller digital camcorders are shaped so the body sits into the palm of your hand. These palm-sized models are very handy for travelling, but are prone to camera shake, making the image-stabilisation feature very important. Bigger models tend to give better results. Note that professionals still use quite large cameras.

Try out the models you're interested in. Check whether you can comfortably hold them and reach the main controls (such as the zoom). This is especially important if you're left-handed, as most cameras are easier to use with the right hand.

Zoom

Most camcorders have an optical zoom with 10x magnification or more. Some go up to 35x. They also have a "digital zoom" feature offering much higher rates of magnification, but this makes the picture grainy. The crucial figure is the "optical zoom" – the magnification provided by the lens. The greater the zoom, the more camera shake will affect your footage so opt for image-stabilisation or use a tripod.

Image stabilisation

A feature that stabilises the picture and minimises camera shake – useful for slow pans and while zooming.

Accessory shoe

This allows you to attach things like an external microphone, a video light or a photo flash to the camcorder, adding versatility to your filming. Without one, your options are limited.

Sound

Most models have a stereo microphone, and two stereo audio tracks, allowing you to, for example, record music and/or narration in addition to the original sound recordings. Built-in microphones generally don't perform well – it's usually better to use an external microphone if there's a connection for one.

A wind filter screens out wind noise, which usually improves the quality of audio recordings. This may be an automatic function or one you can switch on and off.

Night shooting

Many camcorders struggle in poor light conditions. Models with an infra-red lamp can make recordings in complete darkness, but this only works well with objects less than 3m away and usually produces a monochrome (black-and-white or black-and-green) picture. A video lamp can help with low-light quality.

Manual controls

While camcorders have automatic presets for different filming situations such as indoor, bright light, or sports filming, manual function offers more control over aperture, shutter speed, and white balance. This gives you more scope for creativity.

Time code

This feature gives each picture frame an invisible digital marking that allows you to edit very accurately.

Spare batteries

Some batteries will run out in just over an hour – and if you haven't got spares, you're stuck. Spare standard batteries are around $60 to $150, and longer-lasting ones can cost up to $350 or even more.

Video editing software

All digital camcorders allow limited editing on camera but for more advanced effects it's better to upload the footage to a computer and work on it there. With the right software you'll be able to edit your own movies, add music, soundtracks and voice-overs, along with titles and special effects.

The video is stored on your computer's hard drive as it is downloaded from the digital camcorder. When editing is complete, this version can be converted into several different file types for storing on CD, DVD, tape, or even emailing to others.

Video files contain a lot of data (216MB per minute of DV video), so you do need a fairly modern computer with lots of RAM, a powerful graphics card and a big hard drive.

Also worth considering

Image sensor

The image sensor is the device that converts the optical image into the digitised electrical signals that are recorded. The more pixels the image sensor has, the better the potential picture quality. There are two types – CCD and CMOS – but the type isn't important for picture quality.

Memory card

An alternative to storing images on tape, DVD, or hard drive. This allows you to operate the digital camcorder like a still digital camera. You can use the card to store and retrieve photos and short video clips. Most camcorders have a slot for an SD, mini-SD, or MS Duo memory card.

Monitor

Camcorders have LCD colour monitors with adjustable brightness. The monitors can be swivelled to face forward so you can film yourself. Most LCD monitors are the same size, around 2.5 inches.

Viewfinder

In order to make camcorders more compact, many no longer have a viewfinder, instead relying on the LCD monitor. For those that do have a viewfinder, most have a dioptre-adjustment feature (similar to binoculars), allowing you to adjust the viewfinder to your eyesight so you can use it without your glasses.

Long-play (LP) mode

Use this setting to record at reduced speed so you can fit more on a tape. The sound quality may suffer, but the image quality is usually just as good.

Remote control

Most camcorders have a remote. They generally offer most playback functions plus additional ones, some of which may be available via the remote only.