Best Camcorder Reviews 2018

A good camcorder can make a huge difference next time you go on vacation or when you throw a party in your yard. Today's video recording cameras are sophisticated and they offer exceptional video quality. However, it can be quite difficult at first to pick the right one, especially if you are new to such devices. Luckily for you, we took the time to research the market and discovered 5 of the best camcorder brands with a product from each that come in a mixture of price ranges! If you’re after a top-of-the-line camcorder, you might want to check out our separate review on 4K camcorders.

Overview

PROS

CONS

SPECS

Type

Resolution

Zoom

Size

Microphone

Our Top Choice

GoPro Fusion

GoPro was only founded in 2002 but they’ve already sold 26 million cameras in 100 countries. Their cameras are perfect if you have an active lifestyle or like an adventure.

Spherical video and photo. 5.2K video. 18MP photo. Stabilization. Waterproof up to 16ft. Voice control. 4 microphones. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS enabled. Multiple shooting modes.

There’s no internal storage so you have to buy an SD card separately.

Adventure, waterproof

5.2K video/18MP photo

Not specified

2.6 x 1.61 x 2.87” / 0.5lbs

4 built-in microphones

Best Value

Panasonic Full HD Camcorder

Panasonic was founded in 1918, giving them a centuries experience in the electronics industry. They manufacture high-quality cameras, camcorders, kitchen and office products.

HD quality, 1080p. 90x zoom with 50x stabilized optical zoom. 2.7” LCD screen. 2-channel zoom microphone. 28mm wide lens. Back-Illuminated Sensor. Level Shot function.

No manual controls, isn’t great for super-experienced videographers.

Classic, compact

1080p HD video/2.2MP photo

90x zoom / 50x stabilized zoom

4.6 x 2.1 x 2.3” / 7.5lbs

2ch Stereo, Zoom Microphone

Canon VIXIA HF G40 Camcorder

Canon is synonymous with high-quality cameras and camcorders. Since 1955 they’ve been innovating and perfecting the world of photography, evident in all their products.

Full HD recording. 20x optical zoom. Compact size. HD CMOS pro image sensor. 3.5” OLED touchscreen. 8-blade circular aperture. Built in Wi-Fi and FTP transfer. Custom controls.

Video quality could be better due to the price.

Professional

Full HD video

20x optical zoom

10.5 x 7 x 8” / 1.98lbs

Surround Microphone SM-V1

Sony Full HD 60p Camcorder

Sony was founded in 1946 and is a household name in the electronics industry. Their product range includes high quality TV’s, headphones, speakers, cameras, camcorders and more.

Comes as a bundle with accessories. Full HD video. 7 modes. 60x Clear Image zoom. Back Illuminated sensor. Highlight Movie Maker. ActiveMode and SteadyShot for on-the-go.

Light mounts to the bottom of the camcorder making it difficult to hold.

Classic, compact

Full HD video/9.2MP photo

60x Clear Image zoom

12 x 10.5 x 6.5” / 3.85lbs

Built-in zoom microphone

KINGEAR PL018 Night Vision Video Camera

KINGEAR is a popular distributor on Amazon selling a range of electronics including cameras, video cameras, cell phone accessories, smart watched and much more.

Compact size. External microphone included. Comes with a camera bag. 24MP resolution. 16x digital zoom. High tech CMOS sensor. 3” rotating LCD screen. Compression technology.

The quality isn’t good enough for professional-level videos.

Compact, with external mic

1080p video / 24MP photo

16x digital zoom

12 x 6 x 4” / 1lb

Built-in and external mic

(Updated May 11, 2018)

Skip ahead and go directly to the reviews.

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Watch Our Camcorder Review

How Do I Choose the Best Camcorder?

At some point one might ask himself: "why do I need a camcorder if my phone already has a camera?" and this is a good question. Today's smartphones and even tablets are equipped with highly-advanced sensors that can capture incredible images and video footage.

However, you might be happy to know that there is always room for improvement. A camcorder is a purposely built device that focuses on taking crystal-clear pictures and videos, it does just a few tasks and it does them very well. A smartphone's camera captures great pictures, but at some point you will start to see its limitations.

Now, we have a review for top-of-the-line 4K camcorders so in this review we’ve made sure to get a mix of camcorders in a range of prices, so that hopefully there is one to suit everyone’s budget and needs. We didn’t feature any camcorders under $100 on our review as they tend to come from distributors rather than trusted brands.

Although not featured, if your budget is under $100, we wanted to let you know about these camcorders too. First up is the LINNSE Full HD Camcorder which boasts some impressive features for a camcorder under $100. It has night vision function, pause function and a remote controller which is perfect for vlogging. Second up we’ve got the SUNLEA Full HD Camcorder which offers an impressive 24MP photo quality and 16x digital zoom. Finally, the COMI Full HD Camcorder boasts 24MP photos and a remote controller too, ideal for taking videos of yourself when there’s no-one around to help!

So, even if you have a budget of under $100 you can still get a Full HD camcorder, we just wanted to feature products that were from trusted brands for peace of mind. Now you’ve seen what there is out there it’s time to delve into some more consideration factors to consider when buying a camcorder.

Price

Camcorders come at different prices and they all have certain features and options, so it is easy to become distracted when researching the broad camcorder market. To avoid getting distracted and eventually ending up paying too much for a video recording device, make sure that you know your budget right from the start! Afterwards, analyze your needs by asking yourself these questions:

Do I need a large LCD screen when I am filming?
Do I require a lot of storage space? You usually do, particularly if you film in HD quality or better.
Am I going to film in low-light conditions very often?
Do I need a compact and lightweight camera for easy carrying?

When you have an answer to these questions, you will be able to make a better decision when picking your favorite camcorder.

Features

Apart from basic capabilities like taking pictures and videos at different resolutions, modern camcorders also pack a lot of interesting features under their belt. For example, some high-end cameras feature Wi-Fi connectivity. Others have an LCD touchscreen display. Other camcorders come with 52x optical zoom which can be useful if you film something situated at a long distance (such as an UFO maybe). Make sure that you don’t rush through the features section of our finalists as they contain vital information about a camcorder and these features will directly influence your experience in the future.

Construction and Design

The construction and design section is also important because it showcases details about how a device has been built, what interesting feature perks it has and many other great information. For example, some camcorders have been purposely built with a large LCD display, others feature a powerful battery that offers a generous lifespan and so on.

Performance and Ease of Use

At the end of the day, how a camcorder performs is probably the most important thing. In this section you will find out more information about how is it to live with a particular camcorder on a day-to-day basis, what types of video footage it can capture, what's the quality of the pictures taken, etc. Check this section too and you will find vital info about how a particular camcorder behaves.

What is the Best Camcorder?

The good news is that there are dozens of good cameras on the market to choose from. The not-so-good news is that picking one from so many can be quite daunting or even intimidating for some people as you don't really know which one is more suitable for you. Still, we are here to help you! We have narrowed the list down to 5 great camcorders which come from prestigious brands.

Our Top Choice

The GoPro Fusion camera is everything you need to capture high definition videos on-the-go. With 5.2K video and 18MP photo it’s easy to see why this is a number 1 new release! If your budget is a little lower than this, you could opt for the classic GoPro Hero Session which has a lower resolution video at 1440 pixels per inch.

GoPro Fusion Portable Travel Adventure Camcorder – Available as Memory Card Bundle

GoPro Camcorder CHDHZ-103

Features

Founded in 2002, GoPro started from one guy trying to create something to capture his active lifestyle. What began as a 35mm camera with a wetsuit improvised wrist strap, has now turned into a highly functional camera that’s been sold 26 million times in 100 countries. GoPro sells cameras, drones, apps and accessories; basically, everything you need to get out there and capture your adventures with ease and style.

Their GoPro Fusion camera is unique thanks to its spherical video which captures everything, immersing you in a 360˚ viewing experience. GoPro are proud of their shoot, then point camera which captures it all, so you can go back and choose the shots you want later, whether that’s a regular video or still photos.

Here’s some more awesome features of the GoPro Fusion:

5.2K video
Built-in stabilization
Use OverCapture on your iOS device to create traditional videos
18MP spherical photos
Waterproof up to 16-foot
Voice control and 4 built-in microphones
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and GPS enabled
Multiple modes; single photo, burst photo, night photo, time lapse photo and video and night lapse photo

This high-end camera is all you’ll need to capture awesome videos of your adventures. You can also get it with a memory card as a bundle.

If you love GoPro but want a different kind of camera, they’ve got a huge range to check out!

Best Value

The Panasonic Full HD Camcorder features an impressive 90x zoom with a 50x stabilized optical zoom for clear, non-blurry images. If you’d prefer a camera with some more advanced features, check out the Panasonic HC-V770 Full HD Camcorder which has a wireless twin camera function that lets you use your smartphone as a sub camera!

Panasonic Full HD Camcorder with 50x Stabilized Optical Zoom – Also Available with Lightweight Tripod

Panasonic Camcorder HC-V180K

Features

Panasonic is a well-known, trusted global brand. They’re a multinational electronics company with a centuries experience, founded in 1918. From cameras and camcorders to kitchen appliances and office equipment, all Panasonic’s products are high-quality, innovative and functional.

The Panasonic Full HD Camcorder boasts super sharp video quality at 1080p. With this resolution you’ll be able to capture any special moment in perfect clarity. The intelligent 90x zoom will come in handy too when shooting things from afar. Usually when zooming images become distorted and blurry but with this camcorders 50x stabilized optical zoom this is a problem for the past.

Let’s see what else this camcorder has to offer:

2.7” LCD responsive touch screen
Zoom microphone with 2-channels so audio is always clear no matter the distance
Fit more into the shot with a 28mm wide angle lens
Advanced Back-Illuminated Sensor gives HD video in light and dim settings
Creative modes; silent movie, 8mm movie, time lapse recording and miniature effect
Level Shot function automatically adjusts image when tilted

If you’re loving what this camcorder has to offer you might also want to opt for the bundle with a lightweight tripod too!

If you fancy a camcorder with different features, take a look at the huge camcorder range from Panasonic today!

The Canon VIXIA HF G40 Camcorder boasts full HD video and a 20x optical zoom. If you’d prefer a smaller camcorder with a 57x zoom, check out the Canon VIXIA R800 Camcorder which also comes with a full accessories bundle!

Canon VIXIA HF G40 Full HD Camcorder – Also Available with Canon Stereo Microphone

Canon Camcorder 1005C002

Features

Canon really needs no introduction. They’re a powerhouse in the camera and camcorder industry, founded way back in 1955. Canon are all about innovation and since their inception in 1955 they haven’t stopped. Their product range includes cameras, camcorders, lenses, office supplies, projectors printers and more, for both the home and commercial use.

The Canon VIXIA HF G40 Camcorder offers professional level features and functions but in a portable, compact shell. With 20x high definition zoom and full HD resolution, you can capture any special moment or memory with clarity. The full HD video works well in both bright and dim settings, so you can go ahead and capture that sunny beach day or sultry sunset with no problems.

Here’s some more cool features of this camcorder:

HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor
DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor for fast operation
3.5” OLED touchscreen
Electronic viewfinder is tiltable
Wide DR Gamma and Highlight Priority modes are supported by a bunch of manual controls too
8-blade circular aperture reduces the starburst effect for artistic and professional looking photos
Built in Wi-Fi and FTP transfer
Buttons can be assigned to certain functions for custom shooting

This professional quality camera can also be purchased with the Canon stereo microphone too. If you love the VIXIA line from Canon, you’ll be pleased to know they’ve got a bunch of other cameras in this line with a range of features and in a range of prices, so even if this one isn’t ideal for you, there’s plenty more to choose from!

Want a different style or some different features? Check out more from the Canon camcorder range today!

The Sony Full HD 60p Camcorder features handy ActiveMode and SteadyShot modes which help improve image quality even while moving. If you love the look of this camcorder but don’t need the big bundle, you can get the Sony HD Handycam Camcorder on its own too!

Sony Full HD 60p Camcorder with 64GB Ultra MicroSDXC Memory Card and Battery Pack Accessory Bundle

Sony Camcorder FBA_E12SNHRDCX405

Features

Sony is a well-known brand across the world for its high-quality electronics and, of course, the PlayStation. Since 1946, Sony has been innovating and creating new and exciting products that aim to inspire and fulfill consumer’s curiosity. Their product range includes TV’s, projectors, headphones, speakers, cameras, camcorders and much more.

Today we’re looking at the Sony Full HD 60p Camcorder thanks to its excellent reviews and awesome features. With a high-end ZEISS Vario-Sonnar lens that offers a 26.8mm wide angle, you’re bound to get everything you want into the shot, and with great quality too.

Let’s take a look at what other features you can enjoy with this camcorder:

Take high-quality 9.2MP still images
Back illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor reduces grain
Take videos even in low-light conditions
60x Clear Image zoom and 30x optical zoom
Highlight Movie Maker automatically takes the best scenes from your clips and makes an MP4 video you can instantly share amongst friends
ActiveMode and SteadyShot both work together to stabilize images and counteract a shaky hand
Built-in USB cable so you don’t have to worry about remembering it
7 picture modes for video and photos
Face Detection mode adjusts settings to ensure crisp images of up to 8 people

This camcorder is great for beginners and experienced videographers alike and it comes in an awesome bundle of accessories that includes a memory card, bag, light, battery charger and tripod to name a few things.

If you’re undecided, don’t hesitate in checking out more camcorders from the amazing Sony range.

The KINGEAR PL018 Night Vision Video Camera boasts a 24MP resolution and also comes with an external microphone. If you’d prefer an even more compact camcorder, you should check out the KINGEAR GordVE 16MP Mini Video Camera instead!

KINGEAR PL018 Night Vision Camcorder with 16x Digital Zoom and 3” Touch Screen

KINGEAR Camcorder PL018

Features

KINGEAR is a huge distributor on Amazon selling hundreds of electronic products. Their range includes cameras, camcorders, computer mice and keyboards, smart watches, projectors, cell phone accessories and more! With customer satisfaction in mind, it’s evident that KINGEAR is a well-loved brand with thousands of positive reviews.

The KINGEAR PL018 Night Vision Video Camera is one of their excellent camcorders, which boasts compact, sleek design. This video camera is perfect for vlogging or documentary making thanks to the addition of an external microphone as well as the internal one.

Let’s see what else you get with this camcorder:

16x digital zoom is more than sufficient for home use
3-inch LCD screen can rotate 270˚ for the perfect viewing angle
High tech CMOS sensor for great images
Compression technology allows for longer recording times
Safety tether to reduce the risk of dropping your camera
24MP resolution for photos
Camera bag included

This is a great video camera for a beginner just getting into the videography world or it’d make a great gift for any budding documentary-makers out there.

If you’d prefer a video camera with different features, check out more from KINGEAR today!

Get the Best Camcorder of 2018!

We hope this review has saved you some time doing research, but more importantly, helped you move closer to choosing the best camcorder for your needs. We have highlighted 5 great options, from reputable brands but remember - if you want something different, simply click a link and take a look at other options the brands offer.

Our Top Choice

GoPro Fusion

Best Value

Panasonic Full HD Camcorder

Canon VIXIA HF G40 Camcorder

Sony Full HD 60p Camcorder

KINGEAR PL018 Night Vision Video Camera