Just because you don’t have thousands of dollars to spend on a camcorder doesn’t mean you can’t get a great one. Here are some of the best budget camcorders on the market. I've included models from every major format: Hard Disk, Flash, DVD, and MiniDV. All of these camcorders are typically priced under $400 and have all the features you need to get started shooting your own videos.
This list is updated throughout the year as new camcorders are released and reviewed. Check back throughout the year for more updates and reviews.
1. Canon FS100 Flash Memory Camcorder
The Canon FS100 records standard definition video onto flash memory cards similar to what you may use in your digital camera. Memory cards make it easy to upload video to your computer for editing and can the cards can be played back in televisions that have a memory card slot. This camcorder has a 37x optical zoom, which is pretty high for consumer camcorders and has a lot of different shooting modes such as sports, night, and fireworks, to help you shoot video in particular lighting condition.This camcorder would be an excellent easy to use option for families, or camcorder beginners.
2. Sony DVD710 DVD Camcorder
The Sony DVD710 records standard definition video onto Mini DVDs. DVD’s recorded in the camera can be taken directly out of the camera and played back in your regular DVD player, which makes the camcorder the perfect choice for people who don’t have a computer, or don’t want to use their computer for video.The DVD710 has a variety of built-in shooting modes such as landscape, spotlight, and beach & snow and can also take digital photographs at a 1 megapixel resolution which is suitable for emailing to friends and family or putting on a website (not printable).
3. Panasonic H40 Hard Disk Camcorder
The Panasonic H40 records standard definition video onto a 40GB built-in hard drive. The camcorder is an excellent choice for someone who thinks they’ll do a lot of zooming, boasting a 42x optical and 2000x digital zoom. The H40 also comes with computer software to help you edit, organize, and store your video.The H40 is an excellent camcorder choice for someone who typically records long events like school plays and concerts. The hard disk will allow you to record the entire event without having to stop recording in order switch out a tape or flash card.
4. Canon ZR930 MiniDV Camcorder
The Canon ZR930 is the latest in a line of MiniDV camcorders Canon has been making for close to a decade. The camcorder is exceptionally easy to use and is a great entry level camcorder for someone who wants to record video, but probably won’t pull their camcorder out for every single event.The ZR930 has a variety of built-in scene modes including sports, sunset, and spotlight and has a wireless remote so you can control your camcorder even when you’re on the other side of the room.