Pocket camcorders: Compare features & prices

Side-by-side comparison

Recording format.
Flash memory camcorders record to an internal memory storage, while memory card camcorders require an additional card to record to.

Internal memory
The camcorder's internal memory allows you to save recordings without inserting an additional memory card.

Optical zoom
The higher the number, the more you can zoom in with the lens. 5 means 5 times magnification.

LCD size (inches)
The size, diagonally across, of the LCD screen

Weight (g)
Includes the device, the recording media, battery and hand strap.

Maximum resolution
720p is considered high definition (HD) resolution, while 1080p is even more detailed "full-HD" resolution.

Maximum frame rate
The frame rate determines how smooth the footage will be - it's the number of frames per second the camcorder can capture. 60fps is smoother than 30fps, though you may have to accept a reduced resolution to use faster frame rates.

Video lamp
Provides additional light when the scene is dark

Waterproof
Some pocket camcorders are waterproof, allowing you to take them to depths of around 3m. They will also be dust-proof, and sometimes able to withstand reasonable drops.

Face detection
Face detection helps keep individuals properly focused and contrasted within your shots - it can be used in video and still photo capture.

Autofocus
Not all pocket camcorders offer an autofocus that changes its focus as you pan the camcorder and change subjects - some instead have fixed focus lenses which attempt to keep as much of the picture in focus as possible.

Still photo function
Not all pocket camcorders let you capture still photos. Those that do will not match the quality you can get with a proper digital camera.

Memory card slot
A memory card slot allows you to insert a memory card.

USB plug in device
Some pocket camcorders have a USB plug built in, letting you connect the camcorder to a computer without the need for any wires.

USB cable supplied
A USB cable lets you connect the camcorder to a computer.

HDMI connection
An HDMI connection lets you connect the camcorder to an HDTV to watch footage in the best quality - you will need an HDMI cable, which may not be provided with the camcorder.

USB charging
USB charging lets you charge up the camera when connected to a computer.

Start-up time (s)
The length of time, in seconds, from switching on the camcorder to it being ready to take a video.

Daylight image quality
Video quality under daylight light recording conditions.

Artificial light video
Video quality under artificial light recording conditions.

Dim light video
Video quality under dim light recording conditions.

Overall video quality
Total video quality under various light conditions.

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