High Definition Camcorder Memory Options

We have become spoiled with the new digital high definition camcorders that are now available to us. It wasn't long ago when the only format available with camcorders was VHS. Basically all cameras came equipped to accept the now familiar large bulky video tape that we all once used. The only decision you had to make was which brand of camcorder you wanted to buy.

But now there are multiple choices you can make when it comes to formats and the memory options that are plentiful. Let's take a look at some of the choices you will be confronted with when you decide to buy a new camcorder.

Just about all of us are familiar with the hard disk drive (HDD) that is in our computers. Guess what? Now they are also in camcorders. You don't have to fiddle around with tapes or discs. No more worries about losing your storage device, dropping it, or simply mixing it up with the wrong label. When you film with a HDD camcorder your shots are stored on a hard drive that is in the camera. All you would have to do is download from the digital camcorder to your computer and then burn a DVD. It is that simple.

Next up for your consideration is a Mini DVD camcorder. What is a Mini DVD camcorder you ask? Well let's just say that these digital cameras record right to small size DVD's that are contained within the camcorder. If you buy an adapter for your TV DVD player then you can simply pop the mini DVD into the player and watch the scenes that you shot. You also have the option of popping in another blank DVD into the camcorder and taking the DVD that has footage on it anywhere you go that you might want to view it.

Here is an hybrid option you might one to consider. You can purchase a digital camcorder with a hard drive that also has a slot for a disk or memory card. This will not only increase the amount of memory that you have in the camcorder, but will also give you the portability of a removable memory device.

Now we get to the top of the mountain as far as memory and camcorders are concerned. Let's talk a little bit about flash memory. Flash is great for small digital camcorders because they are permanent and don't take up hardly any room. Another great feature about flash memory is that a power source is not necessary for this type of memory to retain information. Can you say "longer lasting battery?"

When you use flash memory as a storage device reliability is taken to a whole new level. Because it is solid state there are no moving parts. No moving parts means there is less likelihood of something breaking or getting vibrated loose. And unlike a hard drive there is no noise. Lightning fast access speeds is another check mark in the pro column of flash memory.

Perhaps the only area that a hard drive memory system has the advantage over a flash system is price. For less money you get more memory with a hard drive. But don't dismiss flash just for that. The prices are dropping fast and the stability just can't be beat. If you can get a flash memory system you won't be sorry.

A high definition camcorder will be more expensive then a SD camcorder. It will also present a more difficult editing process. But if you view shooting video as a hobby then none of that should matter too much.