Before You Buy a Camcorder Better picture quality and easier editing may finally make the camcorder a product you can use in daily life, not just on special occasions. As with much electronic gear, a lot of the news about camcorders regards digital. Still more expensive than analog models, digital camcorders have begun to push aside high-band analog camcorders, which once offered the best picture quality. In addition to very high-quality images, digital's advantages include superb sound, compactness, easy use, and lots of features.
Most models range from cigar-box size to pocketbook size.
With the right hardware and software, it is relatively easy to connect a camcorder to a computer for editing. The latest digital camcorders can fill this niche as well. What's available Sony dominates the camcorder market, with several models in a number of formats. Other top brands include JVC, Panasonic, RCA, and Sharp. A few 8mm and Hi8 models have a slower LP speed, which doubles recording time.