Best Camcorders - 0 to 13 x Optical Zoom, AVC Recording Format

'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. '

'Smart Auto essentially enables low light mode in poor illumination, although a macro mode will also appear when appropriate.'

'Because of the lens placement, you don't have the hold the camcorder up to your face as you do with traditional camcorders, so there's less strain on your arm. '

'capacious SD/SDHC flash storage cards'

'As is usually the case nowadays, video can be edited on the camera and uploaded directly to YouTube -- perfect for capturing those embarrassing v-blogs before you sober up and your social filter kicks in.'

'Excellent set of manual features.'

'It's beautifully done overall, and Canon gets a tip of the hat for this new design, although nothing beats the accuracy of the joystick (it may not be as cool, but it works!). '

'Generally well-designed interface'

'The HF S21 also includes an electronic viewfinder, and it is Canon's only new camcorder to include such feature. '

'Audio capture was decent--more than adequate for casual shooters, but in the middle of the pack among the camcorders we tested.'

'Audio capture was decent; more than adequate for casual shooters, but in the middle of the pack among the camcorders we tested.'