Essential Differences of Pocket Camcorders vs Other Camcorder type

The appeal and popularity of pocket camcorders has brought a new debate about whether pocket camcorders can actually be the future of cameras. When originally introduced in 2007, pocket camcorders were viewed as alternative camcorders for those who did not want to carry around then bulky camcorders. Following their successful run in the market, many camera makers introduced smaller cameras and camcorders, like the bloggie camera among others in an attempt to drive consumers to buy other cameras instead of pocket camcorders. While pocket camcorders have become one of the fastest growing areas of the imaging market in the past year or so and their key distinguishing features give answer to their appeal, there is still the question of which option is better, a traditional camcorder or a pocket camcorder. Taking a look at the several common features, battery life, memory storage format and bundled accessories and memory storage format can give some perspective on key differences.

Memory Storage: Both camcorders and pocket camcorders have internal storage, although the type of memory tends to vary, with some traditional camcorders using hard disk drives to store video although flash memory based storage is becoming very common these days. Older camcorders that support formats, like mini DVDs and tape, have been all but phased out. A flash memory based camcorder will be lighter in weight and smaller in size than a hard drive-based camcorder, but won't offer as much internal storage although flash memory card based camcorders can add additional memory storage.

Battery life: Keep in mind that the storage format you choose will affect the battery life and some system performance. If you want to record non-stop video, the average pocket camcorder may not be suitable as they tend to have shorter battery life. You may need to turn to a traditional camcorder for that kind of functionality. There are some pocket camcorders that have removable batteries though.

Bundled Accessories: Most camcorders come with cables and connections to share and connect video and photos on computers and on the internet but pocket camcorders add a bonus by their often embedded video sharing/editing software. Although the inbuilt software is a great option, there are some people who prefer to use their own software to edit and share. For those who are into more advanced editing, pocket camcorders and most traditional camcorders and cameras support most photo editing and video software.

Ultimately the choice of camcorder type is determined by the function and performance of the camcorders. Pocket camcorders are appealing to those who want simplicity and ease of use. For those who want something more, traditional camcorders are the way to go.