As more and more consumers snap up high definition televisions, it's only natural that they want their home movies in high definition (HD) too. HD camcorders come in all shapes, sizes and price points. We've selected the best HD camcorders across a range of features and prices. See A Beginner's Guide to HD Camcorders for more on high definition camcorders.
1. Canon Vixia HF S10
Canon's Vixia HF-S10 a high-end, high definition model that records to 32GB of internal flash memory or to an optional SDHC memory card. The Vixia HF200 boasts the highest quality recording supported by the AVCHD format in a package that's easy to take anywhere. A 10x optical zoom lens, face detection, and a wealth of advanced features make the HF-S10 a top pick for those shopping for an HD flash camcorder.
2. Panasonic HDC-TM300K
Panasonic's HDC-TM300K records 1920 x 1080 video in the AVCHD format to 32GB of internal flash memory and to optional SDHC memory cards. This lightweight HD camcorder offers a 12x optical zoom, a touch-screen LCD and face detection. One of the strengths of the TM300K is its ability to appeal to both advanced camcorder owners and those who want to grow into the model's more advanced features.
3. Sony Handycam HDR-XR520V
Sony's Handycam HDR-XR520V records 1920 x 1080 video in the AVCHD format to a huge 240GB hard disk drive. In addition to its generous storage capacity and high quality video capture, the XR520V packs another surprise: a built-in GPS receiver. You can use the receiver to pull up a map of your current location on the camcorder's LCD while you film, or use it to locate your videos on a map when you're all done.
4. Kodak Zi8
If you're looking for a low cost HD pocket camcorder, Kodak's Zi8 leads the field. It records 1920 x 1080p video at 30 frames per second (fps) to an SDHC card. This easy-to-use model offers more features for the price than its competitors without sacrificing its simple interface. You'll find a 2-inch LCD, a flip-out USB plug, several video recording settings and a removable battery.
5. Canon Vixia HV40
While many consumers have flocked to solid state formats like hard drives and flash memory, experienced video users still demand the desktop editing benefits and high quality found in the HDV format. Canon's Vixia HV40 records 1920 x 1080 video to MiniDV tape and features a 10x optical zoom lens, 2.7-inch LCD, and the option to record standard definition footage as well.
6. Sony HDR-CX100
Sony's HDR-CX100 packs 8GB of internal flash memory and a 10x optical zoom lens. This Full HD AVCHD camcorder records 1920 x 1080 video at 16Mbps and can store about an hour of video at the highest quality to its internal memory (you can boost capacity with an optional memory card). The CX100 is a bit bulkier and boxier than other flash camcorders, but it's feature-set and quality make it a good value for the price.
