Top 10 Best Camcorders for 2021

The choice may seem confusing when you’re looking for the Best Camcorders, and that’s why we’ve designed this handy guide for the best of the best. If you want to record in UHD (Ultra High Definition), we have a 4K camcorder that produces near-broadcast quality images. Hikers and adventurers will want something lighter and stronger, so we have their backs too. Statistically, most camcorder buyers (beginners or returning to the fold after early adventures with 8mm and VHS-C) are simply interested in capturing holidays and family events. If you are, we have some suggestions both easy to handle and flexible for the pocket.

All these camcorder crackers combine exceptional value and performance, so let’s go for it. Here is our guide to the best camcorders you can buy now. As someone wise once said: light, camera, action!

Best Camcorders Comparison Table

Panasonic HC-X1000

• Max recording resolution: 4,096×2,160px
• Image sensor: 1/2.3-type MOS Sensor
• Total pixels: 18.91MP
• Dimensions: 160(w) x 170(h) x 315(d)mm
• Weight: 3.4 pounds

If you want to shoot like a professional, the Panasonic HC-X1000 is a great option. Capable of recording 2160p with 60 fps, it is designed for videographers and event lovers. With 1.6 kg, this is not an occasional option and you will want to work together, it was a nice tripod. It has a large 3.5-inch color touch screen, two XLR audio inputs, and two SD card slots. You can not only save between 3,840 x 2,160 and 60 frames per second, but you can also record a movie size of 4,096 x 2,160 4K at 24 frames per second.

The HC-X1000E uses a 1/2.3, 18.9 megapixel MOS sensor and a Leica Dicomar lens. 20x optical zoom and 5-axis optical stabilization offer many compositional possibilities. The picture quality is excellent, both in HD and 4K. The detail is high and the color reproduction excellent. He is an excellent semi-professional shooter, but complex to use. Still, it’s one of the best camcorders you can buy right now.

Pros:

• Prosumer form factor
• Superb image quality
• Incredibly versatile

Cons:

• Could take time to master
• Can be unwieldy for the unwary

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Sony FDR-AX700

• Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160px
• Image sensor: 1.0-type Exmor RS CMOS sensor
• Total pixels: 14.2MP
• Dimensions: 169(w) x 89.5(h) x 196.5(d)mm
• Weight: 1.3 pounds

A beautifully specified 4K camcorder, the FDR-AX700 features a one-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor and records 4K video in HDR SDR and HLG (Log-Gamma Hybrid) images. Features include a 12x zoom, a large 3.5 “viewfinder, two SD card slots, and advanced phase detection AF mode. The FDR-AX700 uses XAVC S for 4K and HD recordings, with 100 Mbps for 4K and 50 Mbps for 1080p. It will also shoot at 1080p at 120 frames per second. The brand’s BIONZ X image processor keeps images clear. The FDR-AX700 is a solid choice for the best videographers and even for those who want to film. Standard SMPTE time code can be recorded on recordings. All in all, this is one of the best camcorders you can buy right now.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• 4K video quality
• Built-in Wi-Fi

Cons:

• Big for a palm-sized camcorder
• Probably not for casual hobbyists

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Sony FDR-AX33

• Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160px
• Image sensor: Exmor R CMOS sensor
• Total pixels: 8.29MP
• Dimensions: 71(w) x 78.5(h) x 149.5(d)mm
• Weight: 2.06 pounds

The FDR-AX33 can be compact but does not skimp on functions. Equipped with a Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T lens, including 10x optical zoom, 4K recordings (with super-down sampling for 1080p displays), an Exmor R CMOS sensor with low noise and dual XAVC S video recording or AVCHD split MP4. For those who want to convince the surround sound when playing their recordings in a home theater or sound bar, there is also a 5.1 multichannel microphone. Expect limitations in low light, but if you’re looking for an easy-to-manage 4K shooter, this model is definitely one of the best camcorders to buy at the moment.

Pros:

• 4K HDR recording
• Light and compact
• 5.1 channel microphone

Cons:

• No HDR
• Low-light performance can be noisy

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Canon Vixia HF G21

• Max recording resolution: 1,920 x 1,080px
• Image sensor: Advanced HD CMOS Pro
• Total pixels: 3.09MP
• Dimensions: 115(w) x 84(h) x 231(d)mm
• Weight: 1.94 pounds

If 4K is not a requirement, there are serious compromises to be made with High-Spec Full HD models. The Canon Vixia HF G21 is such a creative tool. It has a 20x optical zoom, 8-slat diaphragm for sharpness and a 28.8mm wide lens. You can save in AVCHD and economical MP4 formats on an SD card (slots for two cards offer double or serial recording), with images processed by Canon’s famous DIGIC DV 4 processor.

A highly sensitive HD CMOS sensor promises superior video recording in low light conditions. The Canon Vixia HF G21 is literally a handful, but not so much that you would not want to take it on vacation. In addition to the 3.0-inch touch screen, a clear and adjustable electronic viewfinder is available. Optical image stabilization ensures sharp images. All in all, this is one of the best camcorders you can buy right now on the market.

Pros:

• A powerful raft of creative controls
• Dual-slot Full HD and MP4 50P recording

Cons:

• Bigger than the usual palmcorder
• Two-hour battery life

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GoPro Hero7 Black

• Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160px
• Image sensor: 1-Chip CMOS
• Total pixels: 12MP
• Dimensions: 62(w) x 32(h) x 45(d)mm
• Weight: 0.2 pounds

The latest version of GoPro’s flagship action hero looks strangely similar to its predecessor, but it is new goodness. HyperSmooth video stabilization gives visual material a constant cam style expression that can be used up to 60 frames per second. There’s also TimeWarp (no dance), which combines HyperSmooth image stabilization with time-lapse. Another innovation is SuperPhoto, in fact, an option for an AI scene. The GoPro Hero7 Black offers a 4K resolution with HDR up to 60 frames per second and Full HD resolution that can record 240 frames per second for slow-motion footage. It is waterproof up to 10 m, without special housing. There is also voice control; the camera recognizes 12 separate commands, including “take a picture”. It’s probably the best action camera in the world.

Pros:

• Hypersmooth video stabilization
• 4K video at 60fps
• Improved image stabilization

Cons:

• Voice commands
• Stylistically, an evolution of the Hero6 Black

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Sony FDR-X3000

• Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160px
• Image sensor: 1/2.5-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor
• Total pixels: 8.29MP
• Dimensions: 29.4(w) x 47(h) x 83(d)mm
• Weight: 0.2 pounds

Capable of shooting in 4K with 30 fps, this dinky action camera will add welcome details to your sports images. With a Zeiss Tessar wide-angle lens, the Sony FDR-X3000 uses the same BIONZ X image processor as in the Sony A7 camera area, assisted by a balanced Optical SteadyShot Image Stabilizer (also known as BOSS). It will record 4K in XAVC S and HD at 30fps in MP4. The FDR-X3000 comes with a submarine housing, waterproof up to 60 meters. There is also a cool monitor-type watch rather cool, the RM-LVR3. This connects wirelessly with the action camera via Wi-Fi. Overall, the FDR-X3000 is certainly one of the best camcorders you can buy right now.

Pros:

• 4K 30fps image quality
• Waterproof housing
• B.O.SS image stabilization

Cons:

• No AF on zoom
• No 60fps shooting modes

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JVC Everio GZ-RY980

• Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160px
• Image sensor: 1/2.3-inch 1 Back-illuminated CMOS
• Total pixels: 18.9MP
• Dimensions: 79(w) x 76(h) x 162(d)mm
• Weight: 1.2 pounds

If you want a rugged 4K camcorder with above-average build quality, this JVC is powerful enough. The Everio GZ-RY980 uses JVC’s Quad-Proof chassis, which withstands shock and survivability, drops to 1.5m, resists water up to 4.9m and freezes up to -10o C. the camera should be in order. The Everio GZ-RY980 features a 10x optical zoom lens with advanced image stabilization. 4K is recorded in MOV format, at 70 Mbps, plus 1080p to two SD card slots for simultaneous backup. You can also use the dual slot for serial recording. All in all, this is one of the best camcorders you need to consider before you buy.

Pros:

• Rugged build quality
• 4K/HD simultaneous backup recording

Cons:

• Impressive image stabilization
• No HDR option

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JVC Everio GZ-R460

• Max recording resolution: 3,840 x 2,160px
• Image sensor: Super LoLux with Back-illuminated CMOS Sensor
• Total pixels: 18.9MP
• Dimensions: 79(w) x 76(h) x 162(d)mm
• Weight: 1.3 pounds

A real pocket rocket, this Everio GZ-R460 is a great choice for eternal adventure. In addition to its Quad Proof chassis (waterproof up to 5 m, dust, frost, and drop resistant up to 1.5 m), the Everio GZ-R460 has a five-hour battery life and records 1080p 4 Go, expandable with an SD card. It also offers a simple download on YouTube and Facebook. Other features include 40x optical zoom and advanced image stabilization. It even captures photos (but only at 10 MP).

Pros:

• Great build quality
• Low-light recording
• Image stabilization

Cons:

• Not 4K
• 10MP Stills

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Canon VIXIA HF R800

• Max recording resolution: 1,920 x 1,080px
• Image sensor: CMOS
• Total pixels: 2.7MP
• Dimensions: 53(w) x 58(h) x 116(d)mm
• Weight: 0.5 pounds

This Canon VIXIA HF R800 can be used anywhere in the world for the enjoyment of the whole family. It records 1080p in an internal memory of 16 GB, expandable with an SD card. It features a huge 57x digital zoom, DIGIC DV4 image processing and intelligent image stabilization with zoom assist. There’s even a decent filter package, including various Cinema-Looks and an advanced baby mode, where you can create albums for up to three children and automatically store video images on a designated album. It’s cheap to buy and fun to use. And all in all, the Canon VIXIA HF R800 is one of the best camcorders you can buy now.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Not for feature fanatics
• Limited still image resolution

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SONY HDR-CX405

• Max recording resolution: 1,920 x 1,080px
• Image sensor: Exmor R CMOS
• Total pixels: 9.2MP
• Dimensions: 54(w) x 59.5(h) x 128(d)mm
• Weight: 0.4 pounds

You do not have to spend too much money making good movies. The Sony HDR-CX405 is priced at under $200 but comes with a host of advanced tips to help you produce exceptionally polished movies. The camcorder records in XAVC S or AVCHD format and in MP3 format for file sharing. You can also edit the camera with built-in Highlight Movie Maker. You can even apply different visual effects without having to lose yourself in separate editing programs. Optical SteadyShot, with Intelligent Active-fashion technology, offers a solution for a handshake. There are 30x optical zoom and a Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar 26.8 mm wide angle lens. The camcorder even has a 5.1 audio recording. All in all, this is one of the best camcorders you can buy.

Pros:

• Irresistible price
• Seriously compact

Cons:

• Expect some noise from the small sensor
• SDXC card required for 1,080p

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Final Words

Although some people have camera phones that are suitable for video and image recording, many video and photography enthusiasts prefer Best Camcorders over a smartphone for recording and photography. So, why do these people prefer to use camcorders rather than their smartphones? It’s because they know better. The best camcorders, especially the more expensive, offer better video and audio quality. The built-in microphones in these models are much more resilient than phones and digital cameras. In addition, these HD camcorders offer more video options and important internal memory. Most even have two memory card slots for additional storage and simultaneous recording.