Technology
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Choose the Best Digital Camera with Video?

Harriette Halepis
Harriette Halepis

Selecting a digital camera with video can be difficult, since there are so many cameras of this type on the market. While many are not worth your money, there are some simple ways to determine if a digital camera with video will last for many years to come. Before you purchase the first video camera that you find, take the time to consider the following information.

The problem with technology is that it is constantly changing. A digital camera with video that is popular today might not be as popular tomorrow. In fact, some cameras will become completely obsolete within the very near future, which may mean that your videos will become obsolete as well. If you plan on taping any important event, it is crucial that you purchase a high-quality digital camera with video.

A digital camera with video.
A digital camera with video.

To do this, take a look at cameras that have great image quality. High Definition (HD) video cameras are often the best buy for your dollar. Advanced Video Codec High Definition (AVCD) cameras are quite popular, though this technology is still being developed. This means that an AVCD camera purchased today might not be functional tomorrow. Therefore, HD cameras are the best deal for your dollar.

Also, make sure that any camera you purchase can support various formats. This way, you can easily transfer images to other media types if need be. Another tip to think about when buying a digital camera with video is to ensure that you are purchasing a camera with long-term memory storage. A camera that requires you to remove videos in order to create more videos can be frustrating.

When you are ready to make a camera purchase, visit a store that will allow you to test cameras before you buy one. By trying out a digital camera with video in a store, you can determine the picture quality and ease of use of a camera. Otherwise, you may find that purchasing a camera you haven't tried is a gamble.

Lastly, take a few moments to read digital camera reviews. Consumers will post camera reviews on the Internet in various forums. By reading what others have to say about a camera, you can determine whether or not the camera you are consider has any hang-ups. You can also ask questions regarding the various cameras that are available by posting your query in a forum. Often, consumer reviews are the best way to determine whether or not a camera is worth its price.

Discussion Comments

truman12

Sometimes you can find quality technology for a low price. But as a general rule of thumb, the cheaper a piece of technology, the worse it will perform. And this is particularly true of digital cameras.

Basically, you get what you pay for. I know friends that have bought the cheapest cameras they can find, and they tend to take terrible pictures, have confusing interfaces and break quickly.

Of course, you don't have to buy the most expensive camera to get something that works for your needs. The high end cameras are really only useful for professional photographers. So carefully consider what you are looking for but realize that you will probably have to spend some money.

Ivan83

I think when you are trying to buy an expensive piece of technology the best way to get exactly what you want is to go to a store and speak in person to someone who knows what they are talking about.

You can ask as many questions as you want, you can experiment with various cameras and you can also get some instruction on how to use them most effectively. Its so much easier to buy things this way than to try to navigate all the false claims and sales pitches that you find on the internet.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A digital camera with video.
      By: eskymaks
      A digital camera with video.