whether pocket, consumer, prosumer or pro can be "point and shoot" and "not too technical".
In the $300 range, you are getting to the entry level of consumer cams. In my opinion, the short list has the Sony HDR-CX100 series and Canon HF R series. These are a step above the pocket cams (Kodak Zi8, Sanyo Xacti, Flip, etc). These are all flash memory based.
You'll probably also want a decent tripod or monopod - shoulder mount or some other steadying device, optional high capacity battery from the camcorder manufacturer. Optical and electronic "Stabilization" is not meant for handheld camcorder use, especially at high zoom-in levels.
Your "recommend HD over digital if the prices are similar" statement does not make sense to me. "HD" as in "high definition" or "hard disc drive" ("HDD")? Hard disc drive (HDD), flash memory and digital tape (miniDV) all store digital video formats. And, assuming the camcorder is capable, all can store high definition ("HD") video. The differences are associated with the file types and how those bits of digital information are manipulated by the camcorder, and how the video file is compressed.
More compression = more discarded video data = more potential for reduced video quality... though the file sizes can be smaller with more compression. Conversely, less compression = less discarded video data and larger video data file sizes and better potential for increased video quality.
In your stated price range, the AVCHD video compression into 1080i/p video is substantial. But you don't have much choice. It is possible that a lesser camcorder recording to 720p files might be worth a look - these are the pocket cams. Because they are small, zoom is anemic as is low-light behavior.
Could you please recommend the 2 "cheapest and best" digital and HD small camcorders. I am looking for a camcorder to just video my son's football game highlights. I don't want anyhthing too technical. Is there one of each that you could recommend in the $300.00 and under price range? I would assume that you would recommend HD over digital if the prices are similar?
Thanks,
Ed

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