Comparing camcorder specifications before you make a purchase is a good idea. With a little time investment you can make sure that you make a good money investment. For example there are many hi definition camcorders available, but not all of them are created equal. The same goes for analog camcorders, hi-Res camcorders, digital video cameras, and handy cams. You cannot just assume that all hi def camcorders will provide the same quality picture.
Comparing specifications of each camera will insure that you get the best quality camera for your money. You also need to keep in mind which specifications are most important to you. This will all depend on what you intend on using your camera for.
One specification you may want to look at is the zoom. Make sure you look at the digital and optical zoom. The amount of zoom a camera has can vary greatly. If you are just going to be using your camera for recording special occasions and family events you will probably not need a camera with a huge zoom. Many times you will be close enough that you do not need to use all the zoom that the camera is capable of. If you are more of a professional you may need a camera that is a little more sophisticated.
Size of the camera is another concern for some people. Size used to reflect the quality of the picture that was recorded, but not anymore. Thanks to companies like Sony, Panasonic, and Canon, to name a few, size does not affect quality. Mini cameras can now take just as high-quality pictures as the bigger ones. Once again what you will be using your camera for will help you determine how much size will affect your decision.
Another specification that you might want to look at is what you will be recording on. You can now buy HD camcorders, and digital camcorders that record on tapes, or DVD's, or right onto a hard drive. If you are recording onto a hard drive you will want to know how much memory you have available. You can get many hours of recording on a hard drive. With a hard drive you don't have to worry about carrying extra tapes around with you. You also don't have to worry about running out of tape in the middle of your special occasion. Your hard drive will insure that you get the whole event on one tape without interruptions.
Battery life is another specification that may be important. Some batteries will record more hours than others. If you plan on needing your camera for long periods of time you will want to make sure you have a battery with a long life. The fewer times you have to change the battery or the tape the easier your recording will be.
There are many specifications for you to compare when purchasing your camcorder. Make sure you do a little research so that you know what you are looking at when you get to the store.