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.
Canon HV20 High-Definition Camcorder
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.
Sony HDR-HC5 High Definition Camcorder
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.
Canon HV10 High Definition Camcorder
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.