A $200 camcorder sounds like a video camera that won’t outlast your vacation trip. But you will be surprised to find versatile, powerful, and durable camcorders at this price range. They are the perfect fit for capturing family vacations, travel adventures, and day-to-day memories. In this guide, I have rounded up the 6 best camcorders under $200. Some feature inbuilt image stabilizers that allow for shooting superior footage across the zoom range. With such models, you’ll get much better footage than what you would record with your high-end smartphone.
Part 1: A Pro Tip Before You Pick Your Ideal Budget Camcorder!
At the $200 price range, you won’t find a decent full-sized camcorder that records in 4K. But you can get good-quality 4K action cams. However, such action cameras lack zooming capabilities and their image qualities might not be that good.
As such, I’d recommend getting a camcorder that shoots in 1080p at 60fps. With it, you will record superior footage that is crisp-clear and smooth. Such budget camcorders will pack extra features like image stabilizers and huge zoom lenses.
| Products | Resolution | Image sensor | Zoom | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic HC-V180K | 1080p | 1/5.8" | 50x | 7.5 ounces | Check Price |
| Sony HDR-CX405 | 1080p | 1/5.8" | 30x | 2.19 pounds | Check Price |
| GoPro HERO5 Black | 4K | 1/2.3" | N/A | 4.2 ounces | Check Price |
| YI 4K+ Action Camera | 4K | 1/2.3¡å | N/A | 3.2 ounces | Check Price |
| Canon VIXIA HF R800 | 1080p | 1/4.85" | 32x | 8.5 ounces | Check Price |
| Sony HDR-CX440 | 1080p | 1/5.8'' | 30x | 6.7 ounces | Check Price |
Part 2: The 6 Best Camcorders Under $200
1. Panasonic HC-V180K
The Panasonic HC-V180K is a combination of convenience, versatility, and performance. This compact camcorder offers for capturing scenes in 1080p resolution at 60fps. And with the 50x optical zoom, filming far subjects at close-up is made easy.
Things get interesting when you add the 90x intelligent zoom into the mix. The huge optical and digital zoom range makes it a wonderful, budget-friendly camcorder. Especially for family vacations and travel enthusiasts when filming the wildlife and birds.
The 5-Axis HYBRID optical image stabilization ensures that your footage is crisp-clear. You don’t have to worry about blurring due to camera shakes and hand movements. With the added Level Shot function, tilting in images is corrected automatically.
HC-V180K features a backside illuminated 1/5.8″ MOS Sensor. A feature that reduces image noise when shooting in low light conditions. You’ll also enjoy the inbuilt Creative filter effects that enhance your footage.
Pros:
- A 230k-dot 2.7-inch flip-out touchscreen LCD display.
- Inbuilt 2-channel zoom microphone for clear audio output.
- Equipped with a Mini-HDMI (Type C) and USB 2.0 output ports.
- Comes with a rechargeable 1940 mAh battery that runs for about 1 hour per charge.
- Records 1080p videos at 60fps (28Mbps) in AVCHD and MP4 video formats.
- Captures large JPEG 10-megapixel (4224 x 2376) still images.
Cons:
- Doesn’t have an external mic input and headphone jack.
- Lacks proper slow-motion playback features.
- Doesn’t have an inbuilt flash.
2. Sony HDR-CX405
The Sony HDR-CX405 camcorder has a lot of likeness to the Panasonic HC-V180K. It records 1080p videos at 60fps in XAVC S, MP4, and AVCHD. It features an Exmor R CMOS sensor and Bionz X Processor. They offer for fast and accurate shooting, even in a low light situation.
This camcorder records using XAVC S codec at up to 50Mbps. And you can opt for dual recording. A feature that lets you capture both web-optimized MP4 and high-quality AVCHD files simultaneously. Moreover, video framing gets easier with the 230k-dot 2.7-inch flip-out LCD screen.
CX405 comes with a 26.8mm wide-angle Carl Zeiss zoom lens with 30x optical zoom. You’ll love the experience when shooting distant subjects at close-up with this zoom range. As well as the Optical SteadyShot Image Stabilization with intelligent active mode.
This camcorder can make the perfect companion for travel enthusiasts. Maybe take it with you in family vacation trips to the wildlife. Where you can enjoy filming birds, the game animals, your day-to-day lifestyle, and more. Or occasionally record your kids’ soccer games at home.
Pros:
- Inbuilt Intelligent Auto mode with 10 distinct scene modes.
- Captures large JPEG 9.2-megapixel (4032 x 2272) still images.
- Supports Memory Stick Micro and microSD/SDHC/SDXC media storage cards.
- Comes with a Micro-HDMI Type-D and USB 2.0 Built-in Type-A for file transfer.
- Inbuilt mic and speaker.
Cons:
- Lacks an external mic jack.
- Doesn’t support 4K recording.
3. GoPro HERO5 Black
The GoPro HERO5 Black is a powerful action camera with a durable build-quality. It records 4K videos at 30fps and captures 12MP still images. Owing to its rugged and waterproof build-design, it stands out as one of the best camcorders under $200 in the market today.
The Hero5 Black will offer you with a superb user-experience when filming extreme activities. Such activities like biking, cycling, snorkeling, and skiing. With it, you can easily film professional YouTube-quality footage.
Ultra-smooth super slow-motion is made possible with the Hero5 Black. Thanks for its 1080p recording capabilities at 120fps. And if capturing images is your thing, you will meet a wide variety of options. You can capture images in single, burst, and time-lapse modes and save them as raw files.
This action cam comes with a 2.0-inch touchscreen display on the back. While it isn’t that good or handy for framing your videos, it plays another useful role. That’s giving you information about the remaining SD card space and battery, and readouts on the shooting mode.
Pros:
- One-Button Control that powers the camera on and starts recording.
- Voice-activated camera control for hands-free camera operation.
- The inbuilt video stabilization helps in recording smooth videos.
- Connects to Phone via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
- Has a USB Type-C port and GPS.
- Waterproof up to 33ft (10m) without a waterproof housing.
Cons:
- The touch screen becomes almost unusable when wet.
- A sub-par battery life.
4. YI 4K+ Action Camera
YI 4K+ boasts as the world’s first action camera to shoot 4K videos at 60fps. It features an inbuilt Sony IMX377 image sensor that captures 12MP still shots. Unlike most of the action cams out there, it comes with a 1200mAh high capacity battery. Thus assuring you of long battery life of up to 70 minutes when recording Ultra HD footage.
This action camera comes with an impressive Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS). With it, you will be filming smooth and steady footage in up to 4K/30fps. The image stabilization will still work when recording fast-paced action like motocross and mountain biking. Making this the most ideal travel action camera for recording day-to-day extreme activities.
Just like the GoPro Hero5 Black, YI 4K+ comes with inbuilt voice control. A feature that is especially useful for hands-free camera operation. Such as when you’ve mounted it on your helmet, bike, or chest. And with the responsive 2.2-inch Gorilla Glass retina touchscreen things get even better. You can easily change settings, preview/playback footage, and switch shooting modes.
Pros:
- An intuitive user interface.
- Captures RAW images.
- Inbuilt Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for file sharing and transfer to mobile devices.
- A USB Type-C port for fast charging and data transfer.
- Offers for a quick and easy live streaming.
Cons:
- Poor quality audio.
- The camera body is not waterproof.
- No GPS capabilities.
5. Canon VIXIA HF R800
The Canon VIXIA HF R800 camcorder can record videos and capture photos in almost any scenario. Thanks for its 3.28MP Full HD CMOS Image Sensor and DIGIC DV 4 Image Processor. With them, you will record up to 1080p footage at 60fps.
R800 features a 32x optical zoom, 57x advanced zoom (optical), and a SuperRange OIS. With them, you can easily shoot far scenes at close-up. The SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer will quickly correct camera shakes across the zoom range.
Framing your videos has been made easy with the 230k-dots 3.0-inch flip-out capacitive touch panel LCD screen. The screen is very bright and clearly visible, even in the bright sun. And the user interface is impressively easy-to-use.
What’s more, Canon VIXIA HF R800 is lightweight and compact. A feature that offers for portability and convenience, especially if you are a frequent budget traveler. You can easily carry it in your backpack during your family trips, outings, and vacations.
Pros:
- Powered by a high capacity 2760 mAh rechargeable Li-Ion battery.
- Holds up to 2048 GB SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card.
- Records slow-motion at speed settings down to 0.5x and fast motion to a top-speed of 1200x.
- Has a Mini-HDMI (Type C) and USB 2.0 Mini-AB output.
- Equipped with mic and headphone jack terminals.
Cons:
- Lacks 4K recording capabilities.
- No inbuilt Wi-Fi connectivity.
- The inbuilt mic records poor quality audio.
6. Sony HDR-CX440
Closing the round-up list of the best camcorders under $200 is the Sony HDR-CX440. An incredibly lightweight and budget-friendly camcorder that records up to 1080p footage at 60fps. This recording power is made possible by the Exmor R CMOS Sensor.
It comes with a wide-angle Carl Zeiss zoom lens with 30x optical zoom. The large zoom lens allows for shooting far scenes at close up. Making it an ideal traveling and family vacation camcorder. You can easily capture the wildlife, birds, and your day-to-day lifestyle.
CX440 also features an Optical SteadyShot image stabilization with Intelligent Active Mode. Thus assuring you of smooth and steady videos across the zoom range. Its 2.7-inch flip-out LCD display with 230k-dot resolution offers for easy footage monitoring and playback.
What’s more, you can record video in MP4 and AVCHD formats. The camera allows for dual recording, where you can choose to simultaneously record in AVCHD and MP4. You also get 7 picture effects to heighten the mood of your photos and videos.
Pros:
- Captures high-quality 9.2MP still shots.
- Inbuilt NFC and Wi-Fi for file sharing.
- Allows for Multi-camera Control via Wi-Fi.
- Has a Micro-HDMI (Type D) and USB 2.0 ports
- Equipped with an 8GB internal memory, plus an extra slot for external microSD/HC/XC memory card.
Cons:
- Lacks 4K recording capabilities.
- The rechargeable 1240 mAh Li-Ion battery only lasts for about 55 minutes.
Part 3: Buying Advice for Best Camcorders Under $200
Buying the best camcorder for under $200 shouldn’t be an overwhelming undertaking. At this price range, some well-known brands still manufacture powerful and versatile devices with durable designs. With this buying guide, you should be able to find your ideal camcorder in no time!
Types of Camcorders
The first step to buying a camcorder is deciding on the type that will suit your shooting needs. Camcorders come in two designs. That’s the full-sized models and action cam models. Action cams are smaller and more portable. A full-sized model packs more options and will shoot better quality footage.
1. Full-Sized Camcorders
Full-sized camcorders have really evolved. In the past, analog camcorders were large devices with very bulky designs. But technological advancements have allowed manufacturers to make them smaller and lightweight. You can now get a full-sized camcorder that will easily fit in your hands.
Most full-sized camcorders are equipped with at least a 10x optical zoom. That’s despite their now compact and lightweight design. Some will have as much as 50x optical zoom. At such extreme zoom ranges, some models produce jittery video as they lack optical image stabilizers (OIS).
Optical image stabilization helps in offsetting camera shakes and movements as you shoot. As a result, you end up with superior video quality. With such footage, you can make some edits and upload it on sites like YouTube or even share it with your audience for educational purposes.
With full-sized camcorders, you get powerful features. They include 4K video resolutions, better sensors, more controls, outlet connections, GPS, and wireless connections. Most models will have at least an HDMI output. A feature that allows you to connect your device to an HDTV for streaming.
2. Action Cams
Action cams are the little cousins of the full-sized camcorders. If you’re looking for a more compact video camera, get an action cam. GoPro has made a name for itself in this line of small-sized camcorders. GoPro action cams are compact, lightweight, but with rugged bodies. Some models are waterproof to a certain extent.
Action cams are specifically designed for video enthusiasts who engage in outdoor activities. Such activities like biking, snowboarding, and surfing among other outdoor sports. Most come with accessories for mounting on your helmet, bike, and car. A design that offers for hands-free video recording.
The high-end models will feature a waterproof exterior. Allowing you to take them underwater without the need for extra housing. But the inexpensive models require you to equip them with a waterproof case for underwater filming. Adding the removable case or housing will render the camera bulkier.
The main drawback of action cams is their lack of features like LCD screens and viewfinder. With their compact designs, you end up trading some features that might lead to the production of sub-par video footage. Although, some models pack at least a 2-inch LCD screen, for monitoring and previewing the video as you shoot.
Your Budget Range
Your budget will determine the camcorder that you can afford to buy. But I always advise against buying cheap devices. Most often, buying cheap will give you inadequate features and poor-quality build-design. Luckily, the price range of $100 to $200 isn’t “cheap” for camcorders.
With this budget, you’ll get good-quality, general-purpose devices. Such models will satisfy all the video recording needs of a home user. Especially if you’re looking to film occasionally. While at it, ensure that your ideal camcorder packs features and functionalities that will meet your needs.
Action cameras like GoPros will cost you a little bit more. And just like full-sized camcorders, I recommend avoiding the cheaply-priced models. Decent action cameras come with tough components that are packed in solid construction. Owing to this, they will cost you over $200!
A $200 camcorder will record decent-quality footage that can be uploaded on sites like YouTube. However, such quality isn’t superior enough for video making. If you’re a serious videographer, you might want to invest in a prosumer camcorder. Their pricing starts from $500 to way over $1000.
Important Features to Look for In a Budget-Friendly Camcorder
1. Image Sensors
The image sensor is arguably one of the most important features to look for in a camcorder. Sensors come in two variations. That’s CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) and CCD (charge coupled device). Yet, their differences are of little or no use is a consumer-class camcorder.
All that you need to care about is the sensor size. Since a large sensor captures more light, it will take more detailed images. Basically, a sensor converts the scene into a digital signal for recording. A 1/2” image sensor is good for camcorders. Always go for a camcorder with the biggest sensor you can afford!
2. Video Resolution
I always recommend getting a camcorder that records in at least Full HD 1080p. At this resolution, the footage is much clearer and better. 720p video is fairly okay, but a 4K footage will give you the best viewing experience. Avoid 360p and 480p resolutions.
Keep in mind that the output quality is limited by the specs of the screen where you intend to view the video. For example, viewing a 4K video from an HDTV will only display HD quality footage. That’s, all those 4K pixels won’t make any difference.
3. Frames Per Second (FPS)
Video footage is a collection of rapidly moving consecutive images. Due to the speed at which they are captured and played on the display, our eyes and brain perceive motion. Frames per second denote the frequency at which these images are displayed.
Our eyes and brain can process up to 12 images per second and process them individually. But a rate above this will be perceived as a motion. The high the rate the smoother the motion. For example, at 60fps, the motion is smoother than 30fps.
A good camcorder should at least record at 30fps or better. I always recommend getting a camera that records at least 1080p footage at 60fps. For 4K resolutions, get at least 30fps or Cinematic 24fps. Having an option for 120fps is perfect for slow-motion playback.
4. Optical and Digital Zoom
A camcorder with optical zoom capabilities will allow you to capture scenes from a distance. It’s especially handy if you’re using your camcorder to capture wildlife, kids soccer game, and birds. Some camcorders come with digital zoom. But keep in mind that digital zoom causes image degradation.
5. Video Stabilization
Most likely you will be using your camcorder without a tripod. Hand-held video recording results in hand-shakes that can be exaggerated when zooming. With an optical image stabilizer (OIS), the camcorder will auto-stabilize the footage by offsetting the camera shakes.
6. Low Light Compensation
Get a camcorder with a sensor that can record clear images in low light. It’ll give you an impressive shooting experience when recording late in the evening. As well as in other low light conditions like early in the morning, indoors, and in bad weather.
7. Audio Quality
If sound quality is important to you, get a camcorder with inbuilt stereo or multi-channel microphone. Else, you can not go wrong with single-channel recording technology. I always recommend getting a camcorder that supports an external mic.
8. Weight and Build Design
Modern technology has allowed for the production of relatively light camcorders. Most of the consumer models out there are readily portable and average around 2 pounds. You shouldn’t experience any problems when recording with a 1.5 pounds camcorder. Action cameras are even much lighter and compact.
9. Viewfinder or LCD Screen
An LCD screen and/or viewfinder will help you frame your video. Your ideal camcorder should at least have a 2-inch screen (measured diagonally). A 3-inch articulating screen offers the best shooting experience. Having a touchscreen is an added advantage. You should otherwise note that action cams don’t have viewfinders.
10. Storage Capacity
You will need a large storage capacity when capturing high-resolution videos at fast frame rates. Some camcorders come with internal flash memory to store the footage. But such memory is always limited to a few hundred megabytes. Your ideal camcorder should allow for use with an external SD or microSD memory card.
11. Output Ports and Wireless Connections
Output ports allow for the transfer of the video footage to your PC and other devices. In the least, the device should have an HDMI output. This option will allow you to connect the camcorder to a computer monitor or TV.
Action cameras come with USB outputs that can transfer the files to your computer storage. Some models will come with multiple outputs including SDI. On top of the output ports, some will include wireless connection capabilities.
Such connectivity like Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth. This allows for quick footage transfer and sharing to social media platforms. A camcorder with inbuilt Wi-Fi will offer for an easy file transfer to mobile devices, like smartphones.
12. “Smart” Connections
With the help of a Wi-Fi connection, some camcorder can be linked to computers, tablets, and smartphones. A feature that offers for camera remote control, easy file transfer, and live streaming. That’s with the help of mobile app integrations.
Final Verdict!
Finding the best camcorders under $200 shouldn’t be overwhelming. If you’re intending to shoot extreme fast-paced action, go for an action camera. The GoPro Hero5 Black has proved to offer excellent results when recording such scenes. A reason that has made it win the hearts of extreme sports enthusiasts. Like mountain bikers and snorkelers.
However, my favorite pick is the Panasonic HC-V180K. I love its intuitive touchscreen display on top of the 1080p/60fps recording power. It has proved to be one of the best budget-friendly all-in-one camcorders in the market today. You can take it with you to family vacations, kids soccer, and trips. It’s a very versatile and convenient camcorder.
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