Camcorders

The DCR-SX40 is a camcorder available from Sony. The DCR-SX40 typically costs between $224.99 - $259.99.

Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on camcorder models like the DCR-SX40.

Format:

The type of recording tape or disc that a camcorder uses. Key differences among the formats include picture quality, size of camcorder, and compatibility with a DVD player.

    Digital8 (D8) Uses 8mm or Hi8 tape to record. Many models can also read 8mm and Hi8 recordings.
    MiniDV. Uses a MiniDV tape (a little larger than a matchbox) to record images digitally.
    DVD-RAM. Records onto a little over 3-inch disc in digital MPEG-2 format, the same one used for commercial DVD. Discs are rewritable. Discs cannot be played on most DVD players. Has the widest range of editing features comapred to the other DVD types.
    DVD-R. Like DVD-RAM but not interchangeable with it. Discs are not rewritable. Discs can be played on most DVD players.
    DVD-R DL. Like DVD-R but has two layers that roughly doubles the capacity.
    DVD-RW. Like DVD-RAM but not interchangeable with it.
    DVD+R. Like DVD-R but not interchangeable with it.
    DVD+R DL. Like DVD+R but double the capacity.
    DVD+RW. Like DVD-RW but not interchangeable with it.
    Hard Disk. Records onto a built-in non-removable hard-drive. You either play the recordings from the camcorder, or download them to a computer or video recorder.
    Memory. Records onto solid-state memory cards similar to the ones used by digital still cameras. Memory may be built-in or an add-on card or both.

Weight (lbs.):

This is measured in pounds and includes the recording media.

Optical zoom:

Allows the camcorder to fill the frame with far-away objects at the touch of a button. An optical zoom rated at 16x means the camcorder can magnify the image up to 16 times the normal size.