HD Camcorders (high definition) are becoming increasing popular, and as more and more homes are becoming equipped with HD televisions; a camcorder that can provide HD quality footage represents a sound investment for the future. With the popularity of these camcorders increasing, prices are dropping and the number of different models available to chose from is always increasing.
If you are in the market for a camcorder, then you should give consideration to a high definition model as they are available in all styles, sizes and price ranges. There are offerings from all the big brand names and models can be bought in each of the available recording formats, including internal flash memory, SD card, hard drive and mini dv.
When considering a new camcorder and which model to buy, you may wonder what the main differences are between standard and HD camcorders. The short answer to this is simply an improved viewing experience with sharper pictures and richer colours. Technically, it is about resolution. Your television picture comprises of several lines of resolution. 480 on standard definition, compared with up to 1080 with high definition. Better quality is related to the number of lines of resolution that can be recorded and displayed.
If you are new to the world of HD camcorders there is probably some terminology that is unfamiliar. For example recording resolution described as 1080i or 1080p. The “i” stands for interlaced; meaning the camcorder records every other line of resolution before going back and recording the rest. The “p” represents progressive scan where each line of resolution is recorded sequentially. Progressive scan video would offer better quality results for fast paced footage.
Full HD is a term often used when describing camcorders and it refers to HD camcorders that can record in 1920 x 1080 resolution. This resolution gives better quality video pictures when compared to a camcorder recording in 720p resolution.
