Camcorders Under 100

Most camcorders cost well over $100. There are a number of good pocket camcorders that cost only a bit over that mark and can occasionally be found on sale for such a price. There are a few "off brand" devices under that mark too. Another option is to buy a somewhat older model, one that has been refurbished, or perhaps even a used camcorder.

If you're interested in the prices on some of the pocket camcorders you can visit our page on that topic but here we will focus on some of the slightly older models, some that have been refurbished, and even some used models but we will stick with some of the brand names that are associated with quality devices.

If you don't find what you need below, you might also try TigerDirect.com a discount online retailer.

Considering a slightly older camcorder model can help you find one under $100. Of course, one of your first considerations will be which format to buy.

Mini DV camcorders record to small digital tapes. They offer great video quality and the video you record with these devices is easy to edit frame-by-frame. However, it is slow and more complicated to transfer to your PC. DVD camcorders record to a small disk but the recording quality isn't quite as good as some other formats and they tend to be fairly large in comparision to other camcorders. Camcorders that use flash memory only are quite small and compact and are considered durable. The video recording quality is fairly good but editing can be time intensive. Hard drive camcorders eliminate problems with forgetting your memory cards/sticks and recording over existing video. In addition, they allow in-camera editing. Of course some devices are hybrids that offer more than one form of storing your video. A camcorder that offers both flash memory and a hard drive are common.

If you want to learn more about the various formats, you can see our page on types of camcorders.

Of course you also want good image quality. A larger sensor is one indication of good image quality. A 1/4" type sensor is larger than a 1/6" sensor for example. A higher frame rate can also make films appear "smoother". Thus 30fps will look better than 15fps. 24p is a popular mode for amateur film makers.

Sound quality is also quite important in creating good films, although it is often overlooked. Having a stereo microphone is good and having it placed on the front of the camcorder can help assure you pick up the sound coming from your subjects versus you, the film maker, or background noise. If you want the best sound quality, you may simply need to be sure the device has a jack for adding an external microphone.

Optical image stabilization will help reduce shakiness and optical zoom will allow you to record subjects even from a bit of a distance. Digital stabilization and zoom are somewhat inferior to optical versions.

Lastly, you may want to consider ease of use, include the ease of editing, uploading, controls, and the ability to view what you're filming. For instance, an LCD screen that is large enough, bright enough, can swivel, and has anti-glare features is optimal.

Introduction photo by billaday