Panasonic HDC-TM80K HD Twin Memory Camcorder
Available at Amazon

The Panasonic HDC-TM80K HD Twin Memory Camcorder is an affordable option for those who want a good quality video camera with a lot of features. This unit is compact and easy to carry, and comes loaded with several specialty modes to improve your video based on the shooting conditions at the time. The optical image stabilizer, zoom mic and wind noise canceller make it ideal for shooting outside on vacation or at sporting events. With the built-in 16 MB of memory and the option to add a memory card for additional storage, you will never have to worry about running out of recording space.

This video camera is made by Panasonic, and comes in black.

Features

• Intelligent 42x Zoom and HYBRID Optical Image Stabilizer
• 33.7mm Wide Angle Lens
• Zoom Mic and Wind Noise Canceller
• 16GB built-in memory
• SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card Recording
• Still Picture Recording at 3.0 Megapixels
• Scene mode
• Soft-skin mode

Pros

• This camera normally sells for $499.00, but is currently on sale for $217.99 for the black model and $229.95 for either the red or silver models, making it an economical price for a full-sized model, and one of the best video camera values available today
• The extremely compact size makes it easy to carry with you anywhere
• It shoots still photos in addition to video
• It has several specialty modes that automatically adjust shutter speed, aperture, and focus to optimize your images in a variety of shooting conditions, making it a good option for someone who wants a good quality video without a lot of work

Cons

• Many users complained about the software being difficult to load and use
• Many users felt the images were grainy
• The still photos weren’t of the best quality
• The lens cap must be manually closed, and if left open can lead to a scratched lens
• There is a newer model of this camera available, the Panasonic HDC-SD80K SD Based Hi-Def Camcorder with 42x Intelligent Zoom. It currently sells for $297.00.

• Panasonic HDC-TM80K HD Twin Memory Camcorder (Black)
• List Price: $499.00
• Price: $239.00
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Sony HDR-CX160 High-Definition Handycam Camcorder
Available at Amazon

The Sony HDR-CX160 High-Definition Handycam Camcorder is an affordable way to capture your memories in a high definition resolution. When played back on an HDTV via HDMI cable, you will be amazed at the clarity and detail of your video. And it is still small enough to tuck away in a pocket or purse. With a 6 hour recording time on the 16 GB embedded Flash memory and the ability to take still photos, this is one of the best video cameras out there for those who want a multi-functioning camera.

This video camera is made by Sony, and comes in black.

Features

• 1920×1080 Full HD 60p Recording w/3MP still image
• 16GB embedded Flash Memory for up to 6 hours of recording
• Wide Angle G lens to capture everything you want
• 42x Extended Zoom to get even closer to the action
• Back-illuminated “Exmor R” CMOS sensor for superb low-light video
• Optical Steady Shot image stabilization w/ Active Mode
• 3.0” touch-screen Clear Photo LCD Plus display
• Tracking Focus follows selected subjects in/out of the frame

Pros

• On sale for $398, marked down $449.99, it is currently one of the best video camera deals available
• The Event Browse software groups your photos and videos together for easy reference
• The Highlight Playback feature creates professional looking movies, complete with transitions and music, out of your video clips
• The USB cable is built in and stores neatly in the camera strap
• It takes still photos
• It is extremely small and easy to carry

Cons

• The battery placement is awkward and blocks the start/stop button.
• The still photos are lower resolution that the video images, and some users say you would be better off using your cell phone
• The image stabilization doesn’t work well when panning the camera on purpose, and causes the video to be jerky
• The built-in USB cable is very short, making it inconvenient to connect the camera to desktop computers

• Sony HDR-CX160 High-Definition Handycam Camcorder (Black)
• List Price: $369.00
• Price: $403.99
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• 

Flip UltraHD Video Camera – Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation)
Available at Amazon

The Flip UltraHD Video Camera is a great, economical video camera for anyone who wants a compact and easy to carry model that shoots great HD video. It is a breeze to use and can hold up to 2 hours of video at a time, so you’ll never run out of room while you’re out and about. The built-in USB connector is a handy feature that ensures you’ll always be able to download your video. The camera has image stabilization to keep your video steady when you aren’t. And it comes with its own easy to use FlipShare software, available for PC or Mac, so you can share your video memories quickly. For the price, this is one of the best video camera values available.

This video camera is made by Flip Video and is available in black or white.

Features

• 8GB of built-in memory
• Shoot up to 2 hours of better-than-ever HD video
• Capture vibrant HD video (720p / 60fps) on the super-simple user interface
• Keep your video steady with image stabilization
• Built-in USB arm connects to your PC or Mac
• Organize, create and share your videos with FlipShare software
• Rechargeable battery pack, wrist strap, soft protective case, and user guide included

Pros

• At just $154.95 for black and $143.99 for white, you can’t beat the price on this quality video camera
• The FlipShare software, for both PC and Mac, is simple to use and provides easy video sharing
• This camera takes great video outdoors
• It is small and even slimmer than previous models, making it easy to carry with you at all times
• It is easy to use right out of the box

Cons

• Parent company Cisco has decided to discontinue making Flip cameras, and has stated they will stop supporting them December 31, 2013
• It does not shoot good images in low light
• It has no lens protection and the lens is easily scratched
• The built-in battery can’t be replaced, and can only be charged by plugging it into a computer that is powered on
• There is a similar video camera available, the Flip MinoHD. It is cheaper, currently on sale for $73.99, marked down from $99.00. It has most of the same features as the Flip UltraHD, but it only has 4GB of built in memory and holds only 1 hour of video.

• Flip UltraHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation)
• List Price: $129.00
• Price: $229.85
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Kodak PlaySport (ZX5) Waterproof Pocket Video Camera Bundle
Available at Amazon

The Kodak PlaySport (ZX5) Waterproof Pocket Video Camera Bundle is one of the best video camera options available on the market today. This camera comes with a bundle of the most popular accessories such as a remote control, tripod, memory card, case, and HDMI cable, all for less than what many cameras cost. This camera is compact and easy to use, and takes 5 MP HD still photos, in addition to the full 1080p HD videos. It is waterproof to 10 feet, shockproof and dustproof, so you can take it on your next adventure, without worrying about damage.

This video camera is made by Kodak and is available with the accessory bundle in Burton (blue) and black.

Features

• Shockproof, dustproof, and waterproof up to 10 ft
• Kodak’s Share button lets you choose your favorite sharing destination, e-mail address, or Kodak Pulse Display
• Full 1080p HD videos and 5 MP HD stills, with auto focus
• Built-in digital image stabilization
• Bundle includes remote control, tripod, memory card, case, and HDMI cable
• 4.0 optical zoom
• Built-in lithium ion battery

Pros

• Originally priced at $199.95, the Burton (blue) bundle and the black bundle are currently on sale for less (Amazon cannot reveal the lower price on the webpage), making them one of the best video camera values available on the market today
• The camera has good image stabilization, making it ideal for use on vacation and for shooting sporting events
• The compact size means it can go anywhere
• It’s sturdy and impact resistant, so you won’t have to worry about dropping it
• Takes excellent video outdoors and in high light situations
• It takes good quality underwater images, and is great for water enthusiasts

Cons

• It has small openings that are easily corroded by salt water, so care must be taken to properly clean the camera after use in the water
• Indoor shots and low light video tends to be grainy and of poor quality
• The built-in battery can’t be replaced when it wears out

• Kodak PlaySport (ZX5) Waterproof Pocket Video Camera Bundle (Includes Remote Control, Tripod, 4 GB Memory Card, HDMI Cable, and Camera Case) - Burton Bundle (2nd Generation)
• List Price: $199.95
• Price: Too low to display
• Read Reviews
• 

What to Look For, How to Pick Them & Recommendations

Panasonic HDC-TM80K HD Twin Memory Camcorder
Available at Amazon

Video cameras are available with many different features, sizes, and prices. They are a convenient way to preserve family vacations, your child’s first steps, soccer games, or friends’ parties. This website reviews the best video cameras and provides advice and tips on getting the best video camera for your needs. Read on for reviews, usage tips and buying tips.

What you should look for in a video camera depends on what you are going to be filming. There are many options and price ranges available, and it is important to weigh your options to make sure you choose the right camera for you. You need to decide how easy to use your camera needs to be, how durable, does it need to be waterproof, how compact should it be, and what kind of software should come with it.

With the variety of options, size and price ranges available today, you shouldn’t have any problems finding a quality video camera that does what you want, for a price you are happy to pay.

What to Look For in a Video Camera

What you’re looking for in a video camera is a model that takes high quality images of your desired subjects. You may want to look for additional memory, software editing and file sharing options, which will make it easier to record and share your memories with others. Other features you may want to look for include:

• Does it have image stabilization
• Does it have “one-touch” video sharing software
• How easy is it to charge the battery
• The main features to focus on are:
• How much memory does it have
• What kind of image quality does it take
• Is it shock resistant or waterproof
• How easy is the camera and software to use

With this information, it won’t be hard to pick the best video camera to suit your needs.

The Best Video Cameras

The following is a list of the current top 4 video cameras. These are affordable cameras with a variety of available features. They will all do the job when it comes to easily and conveniently recording your videos. These video cameras have enough options for you to find exactly the camera that will do what you want.

Kodak PlaySport (ZX5) Waterproof Pocket Video Camera Bundle

This bundle is an excellent buy for one of the best video cameras available today. With everything you need to take great video today, this camera and its accessories cost less than most other cameras alone. It’s also shockproof, dustproof, and waterproof, making it an excellent option for your next vacation.

Flip UltraHD Video Camera – Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation)

This compact video camera is perfect for when you’re on the go. Easy to use, it’s small enough to easily fit in a pocket or purse. Image stabilization helps keep your videos from being jumpy. The built-in FlipShare software works on either PC or Mac. It should be noted, however, that Flip Video Cameras are no longer being produced and will not be supported after December 31, 2013.

Sony HDR-CX160 High-Definition Handycam Camcorder

With an amazing 6 hour built-in recording time, you’ll always be ready to record with this Sony video camera. Compact and easy to carry, it still has an easy to see 3 inch LCD display screen. This camera also comes with the software to quickly and easily edit professional looking videos out of your footage.

Panasonic HDC-TM80K HD Twin Memory Camcorder

This professional looking camera offers a ton of built in features for a reasonable price. Improve your video quality with built-in stabilization, zoom mic, and specialty modes to enhance your images. It comes with 16GB of built-in memory and a memory card expansion slot so you’ll always have room to store more video.