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We live in a beautiful world where documenting the precious moments of life has now become a mandatory practice. Previously, when a sweet moment passed by, it could only be remembered in the memories of those living it, whereas now, we have the chance to save it and savor it forever.
The ever-evolving world of video production has gifted us with the opportunity to rewind our precious moments with the click of a button and relive them. However, as fascinating as this technology is, it requires one to be updated with a ton of information that aids in purchasing the perfect product.
Buying a digital video camera can be hard, therefore, we have for you a detailed post with all you need to know on the matter. It has some excellent recommendations as well, that are sure to pique your interest. To find out more about these, keep on reading!
Contents
Review of the Best Digital Video Cameras
Here are the much-anticipated products we know you want to see. These are overall some of the best you can find in the market. We’ve categorized them into sections so you can find the one most suitable for you. The brands featured are the most trusted and reputable ones. You can’t go wrong with these. So, keep on reading!
Best Overall: Panasonic 4K HC-WXF991K
PROS
- Abundance of features
- Excellent picture quality
- Digital zooming is useful and works great
- Comes with in-camera editing and effects
- Works wonderfully in low lighting conditions, as well
CONS
- Complicated to use
- Audio input isn’t the greatest
- Inconvenient instructional manual
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers were impressed with the performance of Panasonic 4K due to multiple reasons. One of these reasons is the incredible design it features. It looks great and is highly functional. It might be a little difficult to navigate at first, and the instructional manual is lengthy. However, you’ll learn pretty quickly once you get the hang of it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us for having an exceptionally great picture quality. It is hard to believe this is a digital camera, as the results are truly great, compared to many DSLR cameras. Moreover, it has features which make it comparable to much higher-end products. Image stabilization and digital zooming are useful features that make a great impact on the pictures and videos you shoot.
Who Will Use This Most
This could be great for the outdoors. The incredible picture quality it provides shines better when used to capture outdoor pictures. Furthermore, it performs great for low-light conditions as well. It has excellent image stabilization, thus you don’t have to worry about your hands shaking, as this device has you covered.
Bottom Line
All in all, it’s a great camera. When thinking of an average consumer, the picture quality it provides, in addition to all the other features, is truly exceptional. It has a stunning design, which not only looks great but works as well as more expensive products. Thus, it is a worthy investment.
- Ultra sharp 4K ultra HD recording, plus in camera editing for 1080p displays
- Electronic Viewfinder EVF emulates a semi Professional recording experience; Dedicated HDR button...
- Leica Decoma Lens optical 20x zoom, 5 axis hybrid optical image stabilization; Image sensor 1/2.3...
Runner-up: Sony FDR-AX33
PROS
- Easy to use
- Excellent image quality
- Compact and lightweight
- Great image stabilization
- Comes with many accessories
CONS
- Tripod isn’t tall enough
- Not the smoothest touchscreen
- Not the best for low lighting conditions
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are very impressed with the functioning of this product. The design and size are perfect for shooting videos. It has great 4K video quality. The compact size and lightweight design also allow one to film for longer intervals without it being hard to handle or carry.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us for its excellent video shooting capabilities. The image stabilization and quality are great as they aid in creating the most wonderful videos. The overall construction of the product is comfortable enough to be handled for longer amounts of time, which is an added bonus.
Who Will Use This Most
Sony FDR-AX33 would be particularly great for shooting 4K videos. The image stabilization and quality make it an excellent tool. It works particularly well for well-lit conditions and outdoor filming during the day. There aren’t many cameras in the market which measure up to the standard this has set.
Bottom Line
This product is a worthwhile investment. The image quality and stabilization are, phenomenal. It is great for shooting videos. Furthermore, it comes with many accessories which make it a great deal overall. The product itself is compact and lightweight. All in all, it makes for a great camera.
- Capture 4K/24P/30P video that far exceeds HD resolution
- Zeiss lens w/ balanced optical Steady Shot image stabilization
- Direct Pixel read out for smooth edges and color gradation.Iris Diaphragm:6 blades
Best for the Money: Canon VIXIA HF R800
PROS
- Vibrant and realistic images
- High-capacity battery package
- Lightweight and portable body
- Great optical image stabilization
- Has an excellent advanced zoom
CONS
- No USB charging
- Software is difficult to navigate
- Sensitive mic picks up extra noises in the environment
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers found this product to be a useful investment. Most people were surprised at seeing such great quality results with realistic images in this price range. It is truly hard to beat. The optical stabilization and great zoom were the most popular features amongst people for the great impact they had on the image quality.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us for having a very inclusive price range. It truly is a great investment, especially considering the price tag. You can’t beat it at this price. With the excellent features and image quality that is comparable to higher-end products, this truly is a magnificent product you can’t go wrong with.
Who Will Use This Most ?
Canon VIXIA would be perfect for those on a budget looking for a great-quality camera, which is the perfect size to be portable and easy to handle. It captures the most realistic images and has great image stabilization. It is ergonomic and features an advanced 57x zoom, which is rare to have in a camera.
Bottom Line
This product would be a great investment. The external design is well-constructed to look and feel great in the hands. It is easy to grip and has an ergonomic design. It is also easy to carry around and shooting with it is a great experience. Not only does it look great, but the image quality is exceptional, as well.
- A 3.0-inch capacitive touch panel LCD screen that is bright and clearly visible, even outdoors in...
- SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer helps correct camera shake quickly, so even handheld video taken...
- The 57x advanced zoom allows you to create videos with dynamic variety, and is less likely to...
Best Digital Video Camera Under $200: AKASO EK7000
PROS
- Affordable
- Lightweight and compact
- Durable and water-resistant
- Comes with a battery and a charger
- Can be controlled through a remote
CONS
- Weak micro USB ports
- Videos with muffled sound at times
- Not the best in low-light conditions
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers were surprised at the great performance of this unit. At this price point, most people expected very grainy and flimsy video documentation. However, that isn’t the case at all. This product proves its worth in the outdoors and is one of the best ones to record with.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The durability and convenience that AKASO EK7000 provides are what caught our eye. With this price range, you shouldn’t expect high-end performance, but it truly outdoes itself and continues to be one of the best ones you can lay your hands on.
Who Will Use This Most
This would be a great product if you want a dash camera or are performing outdoor activities such as snorkeling or cycling and need to film. Its waterproof, durable nature makes it perfect for such things. It is built for the outdoor environment and can handle every obstacle thrown at it with ease.
Bottom Line
Overall, it is great for anyone who has a low budget. It is a good investment, and with this price tag, you can’t really beat this product. The brand has great customer service and is a reputable one, thus, it is a safe bet. The brand is known to create quality products and this is another one of those.
- EK7000 2017 Version -- Capture your moment in 4K ultra HD with AKASO action cam. Featuring 4K/2.7K...
- Remote control with the 2.4G wireless remote. When you are cycling, gliding, zip-lining or...
- Charger and 2x 1050 mAh rechargeable batteries. The camera comes with a charger as well as 2...
Best Professional Digital Video Camera: Panasonic 4K HC-VX981K
PROS
- Good built-in mic
- Great quality images
- Excellent optical zoom
- Features in-camera editing
- HDR option suppresses blown highlights and shadows to make crisper videos
CONS
- Expensive
- Low battery life
- Poorly written manual
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers were ecstatic about the product they invested in. They were floored by the image quality and stabilization. The optical zoom and HDR were the favorite features, especially credited by people for great quality images and videos. They were also impressed by the ergonomics of the design and its overall aesthetic.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us for being an exceptionally well-designed product. This is as close to perfect image quality in digital cameras one can get. This is truly one of the best ones you can get your hands on. Furthermore, the brand is trustworthy and well-reputed globally. This is one of their masterpieces that won’t disappoint.
Who Will Use This Most
Panasonic 4K HC-VX981K would be great for people beginning with their photography careers or newbies wanting to learn or practice new techniques and tricks. This is a great beginner’s professional camera. It is slightly high-priced, but the end result is well worth the investment one makes in this product, especially in the long run.
Bottom Line
This product features all you can ask for. It produces great quality images, has excellent stabilization, and a perfect optical zoom. It is a great investment, and even though it is expensive, it is worth every penny it costs. The brand is reputable globally and has a loyal following. They have great customer service, as well.
- Get in Close and Detail: 18.91 Megapixel MOS sensor plus 20x Zoom LEICA Decomar Lens (4.08-81.6...
- 1/2.3-Inch BSI Sensor: The Back Side Illumination Sensor has a large effective area with 8.29M...
- 4K Recording and In-Camera Editing: Ultra-sharp 4K Ultra HD recording, plus in-camera editing for...
Comparison of the Best Digital Video Cameras
What is a Digital Video Camera and What is it Used For?
In technical terms, a digital video camera is a product that captures motion pictures and encodes it into data that is later decoded or transcoded. A simple definition would be: it is a tool used to capture motion in the current environment and save it in digital memory to be viewed later.
Panasonic 4K HC-WXF991K
The basic parts of a digital video camera are the lens, image sensor, and storage components. These work in conjunction to capture and store the video in data form in a memory card.
How to Choose a Digital Video Camera
Technical terminologies can be really confusing, especially for someone who doesn’t know what they are looking for. Here are some features of digital video cameras you should consider prior to investing and committing to one product.
Storage
The amount of storage the product has makes a world of difference. If you don’t have good storage space, where will you store the videos you plan on shooting?
Price
There are many options now in the market that cater to every price range. Just set a budget for yourself, and you’ll surely find a product suited to your needs. However, always get the highest quality you can afford within your budget.
Low-Light Performance
Your camera should be able to perform well even when the lights aren’t the brightest. It should function well in natural lighting and at night when lighting is mostly artificial.
Image Stability
Even the most professional photographers and videographers depend on this feature to get a stable video. Therefore, having good image stability is crucial to investing in a video camera.
Benefits of Investing in a Quality Digital Video Camera
If you’re still on the fence about whether you should invest in this type of product, perhaps these benefits will help you make up your mind.
Better Quality Documentation
Investing in a quality digital video camera will ensure better-quality videos and pictures. It is true that smartphones nowadays come with great cameras, however, they can’t beat the image stabilization and professional look it gives to the images or videos.
Long-Term Investment
A camera isn’t by any means a recurring purchase. It is a once in a long-time investment. You won’t be purchasing it over and over again. Thus, investing in a good, quality digital video camera is a good option.
Convenience
You can find one in your price range with the features you like; thus, it is highly customizable and convenient for everyone, given the variety of cameras available in the market.
Types of Popular Models
There are multiple types of cameras. Now, how do you decide which one is for you? Well, the one perfect for you will fit your needs for the product. You need to analyze the purpose you’re buying a camera for and then decide which type will work best for you out of the following;
Cinema Camera
If you plan on working on a feature film or doing a project related to the cinema, you should opt for a cinema screen. These will help you capture the best quality footage suited for the big screen.
Action Camera
For those of you on the go and wanting to record something dynamic, such as outdoor sports activities, which perhaps require you to be hands-free, then these types of cameras should be your preference. They are built to be durable and sturdy, and are capable of handling the external environment.
Pocket Camcorders
If you want a simple, cheap fix and just are looking for a second camera to record daily activities, then a pocket camcorder would be great. It is convenient to travel with and doesn’t break the bank.
Professional Video Camera
Professional video cameras are meant to shoot high-quality videos such as those to cover official events. These have good sound quality and should serve the purpose well.
Conclusion
It would suffice to say that a digital video camera is a worthy investment and a long-term one. You’ll be able to capture priceless memories and cherish them for the time to come.
When investing in this product, make sure you don’t impulse-buy from an infomercial you saw or just grab the first product you come across. Be sure to dig a little deeper, consider all the details that matter to you, and then make a purchase to support your needs.
The products mentioned in this post are some of the best on the market from reputable brands and are surely the safest route to take. Remember all the aspects to consider before buying and you will be good to go.