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Camcorder technology has advanced such that even 3D shooting and full HD modes are included in some of the best camcorders under 500 dollar. Such models offer several features, including manual exposure controls, wide-angle lenses and a range of recording formats.

What’s more, manufacturers build in some pretty neat, niche features, like extra optical zoom up to 40x with image stabilization and touchscreen LCD. Take care to look for audio features like speakers and in-built microphone.

Browse All Top Camcorders Under $500 »

JVC GZ-EX515

JVC GZ-EX515BUS- HD Everio Camcorder


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JVC GZ-EX515
JVC Everio GZ-VX815
Canon VIXIA HF M52
JVC Everio GZ-VX700
Sony Handycam HDR-CX260V
JVC GZ-EX515BUS- HD Everio Camcorder
JVC Everio GZ-VX815BUS HD Camcorder
Canon Vixia HF M52 Camcorder
JVC Everio GZ-VX700 High Definition AVC Camcorder
Sony Handycam HDR-CX260V Camcorder
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Release Date
Mar 2013
Feb 2013
Jan 2012
Feb 2012
Jan 2012
Optical Zoom
38.0 x
10.0 x
10.0 x
10.0 x
30.0 x
Recording Format
High Definition
High Definition
Flash Media, High Definition
Flash Media
Flash Media
Recording System
NTSC
NTSC
NTSC
NTSC
NTSC
Camcorder Type
Digital
Digital
Digital
Digital
Digital, Analog
Memory Still Resolution
8.3 MegaPixels
12.0 MegaPixels
2.07 MegaPixels
10.0 MegaPixels
8.9 MegaPixels
Recordable Media
SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card
SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card
AVCHD, SD card, flash card
AVCHD
Flash Media
Use
Video, Photo Viewing
Video, Photo Viewing
Video
Video
Video, Photo Viewing, Music

Excellent value for money

Videos were also sharper

Fantastic low light performance

You need to add in the cost of memory cards to your total package price.