Hi,

I am a complete novice but just about to purchase a camcorder before we go on a family holiday. My budget is relatively low, £300 maximum.

I want a camcorder that is easy to use as my wife and children will no doubt want to take control too. I want a camcorder with high optical zoom and something that is fairly light. But do I go for hard drive, DVD, mini DVD or flash / SD card type or even one of the newer hybrids? Which one will suit my needs described here?

I want the ability to play back via my TV and in widescreen to match the TV. I would also like the ability to download to my PC and playback and eventually edit but that will come later. I would also like the ability to send video clips by email.

Can anyone suggest the best way to go and even a suitable camcorder? I know i'm asking alot but after looking at dozens of different models, types i'm still none the wiser.

Thanks!

Tape, tape, tape, TAPE.

Tape is BEST by a parsec.

ALL the rest are much more copressed, rubbish to edit on, cameras can be fragile (not flash).

And optical zoom in a small h held camera is a waste of space without a tripod.

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