Do you want to own a camcorder but are confused by so many options? Well, you have come to the right place. Here, we will take you through the 10 best camcorder for home videos, their pros and cons, and other valuable insights.
Camcorder makes it easy to record videos at home. With it, you can work as a filmmaker and preserve precious memories of you and your family. But it might be hard to choose one because there are so many models. An important thing to do is to choose the right camcorder for your needs and budget. Following is the list of the top 10 camcorders for home videos:
- Best for Family Videos- Panasonic HC-V770 Full HD Camcorder
- Best Digital Camcorder- Sony HDR-CX405 Camcorder
- Best for Baby videos- Canon VIXIA HF R800 Camcorder
- Best for being compact & lightweight- Panasonic Camcorder HC-V180K
- Best for New Baby- Sony FDRAX33 4K
- Best for overlaying video from smartphone’s camera via Wi-Fi Panasonic HC-VX870K
- Best for home videos- Sony HDRCX440
- Best 4k camcorder for home videos- Canon VIXIA HF G40
- Best for sharing videos over the internet- Sony HDRCX455/B
- Best for long recording times and easy editing- Panasonic HC-W580
1. Panasonic HC-V770 Full HD Camcorder
The Panasonic HC-V770 camera is one of the most popular Camcorders for home video capturing. It features a 20X long-zoom lens that can take in the picture even from a distance. It looks professional due to its bright spot reduction with a dynamic white assortment feature. Alternatively, you can also connect this device wirelessly with your smartphone and use the picture-in-picture video effect of your phone’s camera.
Check out our VHS Camcorder buying guide
You can capture HDR shots any time of the day, even if it’s the night! This means you get to capture every detail, even in the dark! You will be amazed to see its excellent color grading. You have the option to take double exposure shots, too, as you can cartel 2 different images. The HDR movie feature diminishes the overexposed highlight and shadows for crystal clear video. Also, it has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity options which let you control your camcorder from a distance.
Specification
- Record Full HD Video
- 24MP Still
- digital image stabilization
- 1/2.3″ back-Illuminated MOS Sensor
- 20x Optical Zoom / 50x intelligent zoom
- HYBRID OIS 5-Axis image stabilization
- focal length – 29.5 to 612mm
- Wireless auto transfer
- Powered by Panasonic’s HYBRID O.I.S.+
Pros
- Panasonic’s HC-V770 camera has clearly defined images and videos.
- It also offers value for your money.
- The crystal engine image processor, along with the BSI sensor, helps to record excellent videos.
- Recording up to 120 fps at 1080p.
- Slow-motion video recording feature lets you capture slow-mo video smoothly.
Cons
- It lacks a lens ring, which is very helpful in focusing.
- It does not have 4K shooting capabilities.
Verdict
It is said to be the first consumer camcorder to feature the HDR Movie function in the global market. Panasonic HC-V770 is highly recommended if you want to record the best quality home videos.
2. Sony HDR-CX405 Camcorder
The Sony CX405 Handycam, a top-of-the-line Camcorder, can capture your home videos in HD. It comes with an Exmor R CMOS sensor which enhances image clarity, reduces noise in dark environments, and enables soft background defocusing. With the BIONZ X image processing engine, you can achieve a more natural and lifelike image quality as well as faster processing time.
With its advanced image stabilization, this camcorder keeps footage clear even when the circumstances are shaky or when the user is holding it. The high-bit-rate XAVC S format is designed for videographers who want to take their profession to the next level as it has an optical steady shot feature. With its phenomenal quality, XAVC S is built from the XAVC format used by professional filmmakers and broadcasters as standard.
In addition, it features a motion shot video that traces recorded action in split-second intervals for you to analyze in detail. Also, it has a Smile Shutter feature which ensures they’re never lost.
Specs
- 1080p Full HD Camcorder
- Exmor R CMOS Sensor
- Focus DSLR camera holster case accessory bundle
- Disk 32GB Ultra UHS-I microSDHC memory card
- Battery for Sony NP-BX1
- 8 Inch table tripod
- Exmor R CMOS sensor
- Optical SteadyShot
- 9.2 optical sensor size
- 26.8mm wide-angle lens
- Connection technology- USB 2.0
- 2.7-inch screen size
- Motion Shot Video
- Built-in USB cable
Pros
- Accurate color balance
- Wide-angle lens
- Includes time saving features, which can reduce time spent on movie editing
- Highlight key moments in your recording with highlight markers
- In built software can sync the transitions
Cons
- The lack of a Wi-Fi option may encourage you to avoid HDR-CX405.
- The dual recording features are not available.
Verdict
Its smile shutter feature distinguishes it from the rest of the pack, which makes it stand out from the competition of the rest of the camcorders.
3. Canon VIXIA HF R800 Camcorder
Designed for nearly any situation, Canon’s VIXIA HF R800 Camcorder is highly versatile. Whether you are recording events, home videos, or recitals, the 57x Advanced Zoom lets you pull out the shots from the back rows of an auditorium if you need them, with some effective Super Range OIS features (Optical Image Stabilization) that keep the image steady at longer focal lengths.
The device facilitates the recording of HD videos to SD cards in an MP4 format that can be watched on the majority of devices easily at any time. MP4 files can also be played in both video hosting services and social network websites without the necessity of a format converter. MP4 files can also be played in both video hosting services and social network websites without the necessity of format converter.
The HF R800 includes backlight correction within the Highlight Priority mode to produce brighter images. When a video signal is received and decoded by the system, it recognizes what in the frame. This method illuminates your subject rather than the background and stops the incoming signal from being seen. Using this method, you can get a good image even if the sun is behind your subject.
- 1920 x 1080/60p Video recording
- Fast & Slow Motion Video Description
- Canon 3.28MP Full HD CMOS Sensor
- 57x Advanced Zoom & SuperRange O.I.S.
- Capacitive 3″ LCD Touch Panel Display
- SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card Slot
- Highlight Priority Mode
- DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor
- 128GB Storage Capacity
- UHS-I / V30 / U3 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 90 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 45 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 30 MB/s
- Records Full HD, 3D, and 4K Video
- Water / Static / Shock / X-Ray Proof
- Extreme Temperature resistant
- Built-In Write-Protect Switch
- Free RecoveRx Software
Pros
- Record Full HD videos even on advanced zoom without image shake recorded
- Automatic settings adjustment for various shooting conditions.
- Shoot fast and slow mo video
- Multiple recording features including 3D and 4K
Cons
- The video quality is average at night and could have been better.
- It lacks in-built Wi-Fi.
Verdict
It is best for the users who are looking for a smaller display, and VIXIA HF R800’s 3 inches display should be perfect. However, you are still able to watch what you have recorded in full HD on that small display. It may not be able to shoot excellent film-type videos, but it is definitely good for the budget filmmakers who want various functionality in one camera.
4. Panasonic Camcorder HC-V180K
The Panasonic Hc V180k can be used for shooting quite clearly, even at lengths with its 50x optical and 90x intelligent zoom lens. Of course, it supports Full-HD 1080p video recording. Its 28mm wide-angle lens will provide more flexibility in framing.
This camcorder is a super-compact, high-resolution camera with an easy-to-use interface. The Panasonic Full-HD Camcorder HC-V180K makes it easy to capture life’s moments in high-definition video. In addition to providing maximum handheld stability without shake or blur thanks to a 5-axis image stabilizer, this lightweight video camera quickly focuses on distant objects using a super-long optical zoom.
With its convenient 28mm wide-angle lens, a camcorder like this can fit more people and scenery into settings such as weddings, reunions, and vacations. Panasonic’s Level Shot mode automatically detects and compensates for distracting camera tilting, while an advanced BSI sensor assures image quality in low light.
The camera’s added fun comes from creative filter effects such as 8mm Movie and Silent Movie, Miniature Effect, and Time Lapse Recording, which can all be accessed from the 2.7-inch LCD touch screen.
Specifications
- Dimensions 5.4 Inches (H) x 7.5 Inches (W) x 4 Inches (D)
- Camera Features: Advanced Zoom
- Includes: Battery Charger, HDMI Cable, USB Cable
- Megapixels: 1.4 MP
- CPSC Choking Hazard Warnings: Choking_hazard_small_parts
- Connection Types: HDMI, USB
- Image Sensor Type: CMOS Sensor
- Wireless Technology: No wireless technology
- Data storage capacity: 1.4 MB
- Battery: 1 Non-Universal Lithium, Required, Included
- Screen Size: 2.7 Inches
- Weight: 1.34 Pounds
Pros
- Optical image stabilization.
- The improved microphones and lens
- The 28 Mbps AVCHD recording features to boost video recording capabilities.
Cons
- The low light performance is comparatively down than the competitors in this price range.
Verdict
Panasonic’s Level Shot feature automatically compensates for camera tilting, not only good for home but also making it a great companion for hikers and outdoor activities.
5. Sony FDRAX33 4K
The FDR-AX43 UHD 4K Handycam from Sony allows you to capture ultra-smooth 4K video anywhere you go. The camcorder has built-in gimbal image stabilization along with a high-light-conducive Exmor R CMOS image sensor to capture crisp, high-quality UHD 4K videos or 16.6MP stills.
With Sony’s XAVC S codec, you can record 4K video at speeds of up to 100 Mb/s or 1080p HD video at 50 Mb/s. The fast, intelligent autofocus system keeps your subject sharp while tracking, and the 20x optical zoom/30x digital zoom in 4K lets you get the best picture possible.
This camcorder’s Dual video mode allows you to record MP4 movies simultaneously, which is ideal for playback and faster uploading. In addition, Dual Video Mode offers the Highlight Movie Maker feature, a one-button function that allows you to create a highlight reel of your footage, which you can playback at your chosen event.
Specification
- UHD 4K 24/30p & 16.6MP Stills
- Built-In Gimbal, Optical Stabilization
- 1/2.5″ Exmor R Low-Light CMOS Sensor
- 20x Optical Zoom & 40x Clear Image Zoom
- 26.8mm Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Zoom Lens
- Fast Intelligent AF with Tracking
- Up to 100 Mb/s XAVC S 4K / HD to 50 Mb/s
- 5.1 Channel Surround Sound Microphone
- 1-Button Highlight Movie Maker
- 3″ LCD Touchscreen
- Extra Fine LCD (921K)
- 5. 1Ch surround sound mic w/ manual audio controls
- Wireless connecting, controlling, and sharing with NFC2/Wi-Fi
Pros
- It features an excellent image stabilization system.
- Supports 4K full HD videos.
- The lightweight provides an easy carrying facility.
- You can take excellent still photos.
- The micro HDMI and USB ports speed up the data transfer.
Cons
- No internal memory, and the professional user may not find it very useful to complete their tasks.
Verdict
Sony’s 4K HD Video Recording FDRAX33 is geared toward those who want to try 4K video recording and for a wide range of users. This is why it provides beginners with a set of automatic audio and image options that may not be used for advanced users.
6. Panasonic HC-VX870K
With Panasonic HC-VX870K, you can capture Ultra HD 4K and merge a second video from your smartphone’s camera via a Wi-Fi connection, covering two camera angles simultaneously in one recording.
The camera also comes with a 20x optical zoom with an additional focal length that provides a wide-angle when zoomed out, a significant amount of telephoto when zoomed in, and a lot of options in between. Also, it can slow down fast action by capturing 120 frames per second native slow-motion HD footage, which can be further slowed down.
The Panasonic Image application lets you preview an image live or change camera settings on your smartphone or tablet. You can even directly upload web-friendly copies of photos and videos to social media sites from the camera. There’s also a Baby Monitor feature that lets you use the camera like an IP surveillance camera, monitoring a remote feed over an IP network.
Specification
- 4K Ultra HD Video recording and 25.9MP Stills
- 1/2.3″ Back-Illuminated MOS Sensor
- 50x Intelligent Zoom and 20x Optical Zoom
- 1080p Slow-Mo video recording up to 240 fps rate
- HYBRID OIS 5-Axis Image Stabilization
- HDR (High Dynamic Range) Video Recording
- Capture 4K Frame Grabs from Video
- Twin Cam with Wi-Fi and NFC Connectivity
- IR Night Mode
- Image Sensor 1/2.3″ BSI MOS Sensor
- 18.91 megapixels
- Focal Length4.08 – 81.6 mm
- Baby monitor
Pros
- Built-in wifi on this camcorder.
- 4K video recording features along with other modes.
- Comprehensive manual controls.
- Night mode can get you clear night vision
Cons
- It does not have a lens ring.
- The sensor is much smaller than a DSLR.
Verdict
It is an amazing camcorder, no doubt. But the settings can be difficult if you do not read the user manual properly. If you can handle the camera and its settings, it can last for a long time.
7. Sony HDRCX440
Sony’s HDR-CX440 is a compact and lightweight Handycam that flips and has physical controls next to it. The camera comes equipped with the Exmor R CMOS sensor and Carl-Zeiss lens with a 30x optical zoom.
This camcorder’s Optical SteadyShot image stabilization feature allows you to create more clear, more shareable memories. Highlights of multiple clips can be created from multiple MPG videos.
The HDR-CX440 is fun to use because you’ll know you didn’t spend so much on it, but you’re able to do a lot with it. Although you won’t have much control on the manual side, you can still try out some of the neat picture effects.
It easily goes with other Sony devices, and its Multi-camera control function increases possibilities for creativity. The cool thing is that you can apply these effects both to stills and videos. But remember, adding filters to videos isn’t exactly quick and can be quite a long process.
Specifications
- Optical SteadyShot with Intelligent Active Mode
- 1.05 in wide-angle ZEISS® lens with 30x optical zoom
- Exmor R® CMOS sensor
- XAVC S (HD 50 Mbps) and AVCHD recording
- Dual memory card compatibility
- Multi-Camera Control
- One-touch remote and one-touch sharing
- BIONZ X image processor
- 9.2 MP still image capture
- Progressive Recording
- Intelligent Auto
- Weight 0.88 oz
Pros
- This Sony camcorder is super easy to use and produces very high-definition videos and pictures.
- It has built-in wifi, which makes it social media-ready.
- The multi-camera control options can get you limitless opportunities.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
Cons
- It does not have touchscreen controls for changing settings as in your shoot.
- The slow-motion recording option is not there too.
Verdict
Although this camcorder for home videos does not have any groundbreaking feature, it is best known for its reasonable price.
8. Canon VIXIA HF G40
Canon’s VIXIA HF G40 camera is a compact, effective, and easy to use the camcorder. It boasts the optical refinement and advanced technology experienced videographers demand. Canon’s Genuine 20x High Definition Optical Zoom lens and a new, highly sensitive HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor with improved low-light performance, the VIXIA HF G40 camcorder delivers extraordinary sharp, HD video with stunning shadow and highlight detail under virtually any lighting condition.
The VIXIA HF G40 camcorder has a 3.5-inch touch-capacitive screen, as well as a tiltable electronic viewfinder, so it can be used in any situation. This product comes with a series of manual controls, complementing two automatic modes: Wide Dynamic Range Gamma and Highlight Priority, which captures colors and details almost exactly as they’re seen on the naked eye.
With this camcorder, creative options are amplified. Inherited clips can be captured at speeds 1200 times faster than regular video. With its wide variety of uses, the VIXIA HF G40 is a fantastic choice for anyone who requires professional-quality videos wherever they go.
Specification
- 20x High Definition Optical Zoom Lens
- Improved Low-light Performance
- 1080/60p Recording in MP4
- Built-in Wi-Fi Technology
- FTP Transfer Capability
- 3.5-inch OLED Viewscreen
- 10,000:1 Contrast Ratio
- Dual SD Card Slots, Using Readily Available, Consumable Media
- Intelligent Optical Image Stabilization System
- Powered and Dynamic Modes and Auto On/Off
- High-capacity Battery
- Advanced HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor
- Screen size 3.5″ (8.77cm)
- 100% view
- 1.23m dots equivalent Pixels
Pros
- This camcorder is absolutely compact and performs well in low-light situations.
- The HD CMOS Pro image sensor can give you an HD quality like the expensive and high-end cameras.
- The speedy Wi-Fi feature can connect you to the router or any hotspots promptly.
- The optical zoom can increase your viewing experience.
Cons
- The menu system is a bit complicated. It doesn’t provide the NFC.
Verdict
Canon made the Canon HF G40 a great camcorder by improving its low-light performance and building upon the Canon VIXIA HF G40’s strengths. This might not convince G30 owners to upgrade, but the value of the $1,300 may make it a more appealing upgrade than the XA30, considering both cameras come equipped with the same sensor.
9. Sony HDRCX455/B
You can now Shoot simply but powerfully with the Sony HDRCX455/B camcorder, which can provide you with full HD quality and professional and amazing features such as Optical SteadyShot with Active Mode to minimize shake as you shoot video.
It captures vivid, clear, and wide videos with a 26.8mm lens paired with its 30x optical zoom and Fast Intelligent Autofocus. You can also capture time-lapse videos and detailed sound from the 5-direction microphone.
Along with the 26.8mm wide-angle ZEISS Vario-Tessar lens adaptability for grand landscapes, you’ll be able to get incredibly close with 30x optical zoom plus 60x Clear Image digital zoom.
This camcorder’s powerful processor and adjacent pixels can use them to create new pixels matching selected patterns, providing more realistic, higher-quality photos and videos.
Additionally, enjoy stunning low-light sensitivity with improved resolution and drastically less grain with Sony’s back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor with its back-illuminating feature.
Specification
- Optical 30x zoom with 26.8 mm2 wide angle
- Fast and smart Intelligent AF works
- NFC7/Wi-Fi connection
- Built-in USB cable
- Intelligent Active Mode
- Face Detection
- Voice enhancement and noise reduction
- 3.0 inch LCD display
- Premium 26.8mm ZEISS Lens
- Optical lens 30x
- 60x Clear Image Zoom
- SteadyShot image stabilization
- Digital Zoom: 350
- Included Memory Card Size: 128
- Control – touch screen
Pros
- This camcorder has very Powerful image stabilization
- Available at a reasonable price.
- The fast autofocus can save your time while recording.
- It offers high-quality audio recording features.
Cons
- The video quality is not impressive compared to similarly priced camcorders.
- It cannot record slow-motion videos.
Verdict
Sony HDRCX455/B is the best for sharing videos over the internet because of its amazing quality and its easy connectivity.
10. Panasonic HC-W580
Panasonic’s HC-W580K Camcorder lets users enjoy the joy of creating videos, with innovative features like picture-in-picture recording from an additional built-in camera.
Wireless connectivity to mobile devices increased creative possibilities with this camcorder. With an optical zoom of 50x and 5-axis image stabilization and intelligent zooming up to 90x, get close to the action. In addition to an exclusive High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode that brings imaging to life by restoring the highlights and shadows lost by most compacts.
This camcorder can give you a cost-effective way to record your precious moments every day. It turns out to be the perfect camera for both taking family pictures in low light and for taking pictures of your favorite sports events. One of the best aspects of this package for everyday video capture, besides picture in picture and wifi support, is its cost-effectiveness.
Specification
- Zoom Lens
- f/1.8-f/4.2 Aperture Range
- Focal Length -2 .06-103 mm
- Optical Zoom 50 x
- Rechargeable battery
- Battery Capacity- 1940 mAh
- Display Type- LCD
- Display Size- 3 Inch
- mini HDMI Cable
- Free USB Cable
- HD Writer LE 3.1 Editing Software
- Control- touchscreen
- Twin Camera Function
- Weight 264g
Pros
- This camera has a twin camera function that is cool.
- A multi wireless camera allows a better picture-in-picture experience.
- Its intelligent zooming lets you see the action up-close and in perfect clarity.
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) helps restore the highlights and shadows which are usually lost by most compact camcorders in the process.
Cons
- It does not come with any in-camera editing features.
Verdict
HDR-CX455 records 4K and HD movies in the XAVC S format, which utilizes MPEG-4 AVC/H. 264 video compression and linear PCM audio compression, which allows for long recording times and easy editing.
Conclusion
So, these were the best 10 camcorders for home videos. Whether you are a professional or an amateur, you can pick anyone from this list to record your memories with your family. Each of the cameras has different features and capabilities. So, you better know your needs before selecting one. If you already know your needs, just go through the features of each camera and select the one that perfectly matches your demand.
