The miniDV format uses a tiny cassette which is about half the size of an 8mm camcorder cassette. On this, you can record one hour at normal speed. This is important for making edited copies. If you have a computer equipped with an IEEE 1394 input, you can copy video from your digital camcorder onto your computer, and use your computer to edit your video programs or post videos to the Internet. The digital standard also happens to be a noticeable step up in quality even from Hi-8, which was until now the highest quality for home video.
Digital recording permits a greater colour bandwith for greater accuracy in colour rendition.
To complicate the choice, Sony has recently come out with a competing format, Digital8, which records digitally onto standard 8mm cassettes. The quality is similar to miniDV, and it provides the advantage that, if you already have analogue 8mm tapes, you can play them on the Digital8 camcorder. Ultimately, this format loses out on the fact that the larger tape makes for a bulkier and heavier camcorder. Size matters a lot in camcorders. If you are travelling, one of Sony's camcorders, while not huge, is something you will notice hanging around your neck.