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Top 5 Gizmos

Top 5 Best HD Camcorders for under $200

by on November 12, 2013

Affordable camcorders under $200 are aplenty but only a few are really worth even investigating. So what features make them stand out? Honestly, it all depends on what you are searching for but there are three things that any half-decent camcorder needs and there are many under $200. First, it always helps to have a viewfinder especially to maintain a steady shot. Second, optical zoom works hundred times better than digital so more the better. Finally, a camcorder without image stabilization isn’t worth purchasing as it only becomes harder as you zoom higher.

1. Sony 16GB DCR-SX85

With a 3 inch LCD touch screen display and image stabilization, the Sony DCR-SX85/B is the perfect budget camcorder. It comes with a 16GB flash drive, lithium ion batteries, 60x optical zoom with 70x extended zoom, plenty of picture controls, grid display, an advanced sensor and Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens. The built in zoom mic helps capture audio even from afar with Dolby Digital clarity for a lush soundscape.

2. Panasonic HC-V100 HD

The Panasonic HC-V100MK is an intelligent camcorder with 42x optical zoom and image stabilization. Using its unique algorithm, it maintains high resolution even in full zoom and with quick charging capabilities, have the camcorder ready for action in under 1 hour for a full charge. Other attractive features include a 32.5mm wide angle lens, still photography with 2.1MP, Power OIS for automatic blur reduction and shake correction.

3. Sony HDR-CX210

Sony HDR-CX210 offers Full HD quality recording at 1920 by 1080 resolution with still photography at 5.3MP. This camcorder uses SteadyShot with active stabilization even on full zoom, which coupled with the wide angled Carl Zeiss lens makes for standout picture quality. Get a maximum of 25x optical and 30x extended zoom on a 2.7 inch rich touch screen. It even lets you select subjects to follow using the Tracking Focus.And once done just copy everything to an external HDD without going through a PC.

4. Panasonic HDC-SD80

The Panasonic HDC-SD80 is a compact camcorder with just 25X optical zoom and 30X extended zoom that can record videos in full HD while taking still pictures at 5.3 megapixels. It does a splendid job even in low light conditions thanks to an Exmor CMOS sensor. Add to this the bright 2.7 inch LCD screen and you get the perfect way to keep watch over everything in the field of view. Some additional features include DC in Jack, Built-in mic, image stabilization, noise reduction, touch sensitive screen.

5. Panasonic HX-WA3

For the active person in you, the Pansonic HX-WA03H is a dustproof, waterproof, freezeproof ergonomically designed camcorder packed with plenty of power and longevity. This Full HD camcorder can take pictures at 16 megapixels and utilizes a pistol grip design that lets you film even when you find it hard to keep balance. The Flip-out LCD screen with Full HD and high optical zoom combined together with its rugged construction and sleek designs makes this the perfect traveler’s companion.

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