There's no question that the MiniDV camcorder format is joining VHS-C and other tape-based formats in the proverbial dust bin of history. But according to Time Magazine, some people are still using it to film feature-length movies.

Some technologies that get passed over by the latest and greatest still manage to retain a following - mostly artistic types dedicated to keeping some old fashion techniques alive.  In the Time piece, it seems the film-makers went to MiniDV for budget reasons, not aesthetic ones. If you're in the market for your own budget camcorder, check out our list of the best.

(Photo via Wiki Commons under a GNUFD License.)

Everyone likes saving money, particularly during the worst recession since the Great Depression (perhaps you've heard of that?). Well, even in lean times, you still have memories to capture. And remember: every dollar you spend helps resuscitate our moribund economy. That's why we're pleased to present our list of the Best Budget Camcorders.

Bear in mind that this list, like the one for Pocket Camcorders, HD Camcorders and Flash Camcorders, are updated on a rolling basis to reflect model changes and new reviews.

Happy shopping!

(The JVC GZ-MS120. Image courtesy JVC)

Sony's HDR-TG5V is a high definition camcorder with a built-in GPS receiver and 16GB of flash memory. Encased in a sturdy titanium housing, it's pitched toward frequent travelers and the tech savvy, but with a price point of $1,000 does it deliver enough features to justify the cost? Read the review and find out, lest the suspense kill you.

Eye Fi is an SD card with a neat trick up its sleeve: it wirelessly transmits video from your camera or camcorder to your computer and, as of today, to a Facebook account. The Eye Fi video card is available in two configurations: the Eye Fi Share Video ($79) sends both JPEG photos and video files to a computer on a wireless network and to one of 25 sharing sites such as Kodak Gallery or YouTube. It's a 4GB card.

The Eye Fi Explore ($99) adds the ability to send photos over Wayport wireless hotspots (one year free, after that you'll need a subscription) as well as the ability to "geotag" (add location data) to the video files you're capturing.

Eye Fi caught people's attention for its wireless photo capabilities, but it only recently added video. I was a fan of the original Eye Fi card for still pictures and will be testing the video card shortly. The nice thing about the Eye Fi concept is that it automates two important functions - getting video off your camcorder and backing that video up to an online service (even though you should make a high quality backup on a DVD or external drive).

(Photo courtesy Eye Fi)