MiniDV is currently the most popular format for consumer digital camcorders. MiniDV camcorders are typically more affordable than their HDD and DVD counterparts. Each MiniDV tape will typically hold an hour of footage at normal recording speed and quality.
MiniDV tapes are available for purchase at not only electronic and camera stores, but also at drugs stores and grocery stores, making them easy to find while your on vacation.
There are literally hundreds of MiniDV camcorders available; both in standard and high-definition. Here are a few of the best MiniDV camcorders available on the market today.
The Canon HV20 records 1080 high-definition video onto a MiniDV tape. The HV20 has a 10x optical zoom and a 2.7-inch widescreen LCD. In addition to recording high-definition video the HV20 can capture 2.96 megapixel still photos onto an SD memory card.
The Sony HDR-HC5 MiniDV camcorder records high-definition video onto a MiniDV tape. The HC5 has a professional-quality Carl Zeiss lens, 2.7-inch touch panel LCD, and will tale 4 megapixel still photos.
The Canon HV10 is an extremely compact camcorder that records high-definition video onto MiniDV tapes. The HV10 records in true 1080 high-definition video, has a 2.7-inch LCD, and can take 3.1 megapixel still photos.
The Sony DCR-HC28 records standard definition video onto a MiniDV tape. The HC28 is an inexpensive camcorder and would make a good choice for families, or consumers who do not plan on using their camcorder excessively. The HC28 has a 20x optical and 800x digital zoom as well as a professional quality Carl Zeiss lens and 2.5-inch LCD.
The Panasonic PV-GS320 records standard definition video onto a MiniDV tape. The GS320 has a 10x optical and 700x digital zoom. The GS320 uses 3 CCDs and a Leica Dicomar lens for highly detailed video. The camcorder has a 2.7-inch widescreen LCD and can take 3.1 megapixel still photos.