Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

Question

Digital Camera $100-$150. Help!

Jun 4, 2012 3:39PM PDT

I am looking to start recording videos (for youtube/facebook). I would like to get a camera that will do hd 1080p video. I do not have the greatest lighting so something that can do good in somewhat low light situations would be great.

Honestly I don't know if I should be looking for a digital camera, or a camcorder that can do still shots. I've seen alot of videos on youtube of people using cameras rather than camcorders.

Anyways, anyone have any suggestions? Thanks!

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
Answer
Dual Purpose Camera
Jun 5, 2012 8:18AM PDT

There is no camera in that price range that will function well in low light.
Perhaps you can add more light with photo-flood lamps for video or flash for still shots.

Just about any digital camera or camcorder can make videos that look OK on youtube.
Even if you submit 1080p video to youtube, they will compress it to lower the file size.
That compression will lower the quality of the video too.

If you are mainly going to make videos, you should look for a camcorder.
If you are mainly going to make still photos, you should look for a digital camera.

No camera does both, equally well.

- Collapse -
Camcorder
Jun 5, 2012 12:55PM PDT

Any suggestions on Camcorders then? I have been doing some investigation into digital cameras. I've looked a bit into camcorders but thats a whole new area..do i want a small one? or a pocket recorder? I have the Kodak Playtouch..it does do 1080p but its not a very clear picture.

BTW ty for your help!

- Collapse -
Camcorders
Jun 5, 2012 11:32PM PDT

I see that you have already posted your camcorder questions on the Camcorders Forum.
That is the correct place to post them.