Best Camcorders - SP Recording Speed, 64 to 500 GB HDD Size, true Digital Still Shot Mode

'Smarter-than-average autofocus .'

'best video quality'

'Given the low, low prices, the small, low-resolution LCD screen is understandable. '

'The Panasonic HDC-HS60 is surprisingly small for a 120GB camcorder.'

'crisp and clear focus'

'overall size small'

'We were pleasantly surprised by the smooth and speediness of the zoom function and the clarity of the footage we got.'

'high-quality video'

'You press and hold the center button to select the dial's operation: manual focus, exposure compensation, aperture or shutter, mic level and automatic gain control limit--which caps the signal boosting in low light to minimize visual noise. '

'The new touchscreen system is intuitive and good for beginners, but we did find it a bit frustrating for navigating the camcorder's long menu system.'

'the display is clear and viewable even in quite bright conditions.'

'Video looks sharp and clear in most lighting'

'the main zoom is large and the record button comfortably placed for the more traditional HandyCam posture.'

'nice, large zoom rocker switch'

'The new GZ-HM1 HD Everio offers a full slate of technologies to optimize picture quality and an array of manual controls for creative flexibility. '

'Special shooting modes for capturing subjects lit by a spotlight or other specific sources can be helpful.'

'unique shooting functions'