HD Camcorders Provide the Ultimate Picture Quality
If you own or you're considering a High Definition TV, then High Definition camcorders should be at the top of your shopping list. Just as in televisions, camcorders that provide "Full HD 1080" deliver a High Definition picture with a full 1080 scanning lines, so you get more than four times the detail of Standard Definition. You also get a larger color range and a widescreen picture, too. Depending on the model, HD camcorders can record onto DVDs, internal hard disks, or MiniDV cassettes.

DVD Camcorders Offer Simplicity and Convenience
DVDs are everywhere these days, making them an excellent choice for camcorders. Simply record directly to the DVD; then play it back in any compatible DVD player (or in the DVD drive on your PC). DVDs are highly durable—an important consideration for saving your precious family memories. You have instant access to any clip, without needing to fast forward or rewind. Plus, you can do in-camera editing (delete scenes, move them, etc) while on the go.

Hard Disk Camcorders Deliver PC-Friendly Recording
If you're comfortable with computers, you'll love hard disk camcorders. They store your memories on internal 30GB, 40GB, or 60GB hard disk drives, with capacity for up to 40 hours of video (60GB drive, Long Play mode). This means you can record an entire vacation or little league season, without the need for extra tapes or disks. You also have the same instant access as with DVDs, and you can easily transfer and edit your footage on a PC with compatible software

MiniDV Camcorders Use the Most Popular Digital Format
In addition to being ultra-compact, MiniDV camcorders can record images of amazing quality. The affordable MiniDV tapes are only 1/12th the size of VHS cassettes, and they're available in convenience stores, drug stores, and supermarkets. Because MiniDV is so popular, there's also a wide range of compatible Windows and Macintosh software ready to edit your MiniDV tapes. It's a proven way to relive your special moments again and again.

The following table outlines the key benefits and main differences among the primary recording formats available on the market.

Format	DVD	HD	Hard Disk	MiniDV
Key benefits	Compatible with DVD players	Full HD 1080 picture quality	No media; PC-friendly	Ultra-compact; digital quality
Digital Quality	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Available in High Definition	Selected models	Yes	Selected models	Selected models
Recording media	3-inch (8-cm) DVD	MiniDV, DVD, or hard disk	Internal hard disk	MiniDV tape
Max. recording time	Up to 110 minutes	Varies by media	Up to 40 hours (60GB drive)	Up to 63 minutes
Approx. media cost	$3 to $4	Varies by media	N/A	$4 to $7

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