SD based HD Camcorders (Flip Cams) vs. Real HD Cams (Canon, Sanyo, Panasonic)

[milhaus]

I've been doing a bit of research into camcorders, and I really like the SD based small cams like the Flip HD, the Creative Vado, and the Kodak Zi6. But they certainly have their limitations, as shown and discussed in this review:
http://chris.pirillo.com/2008/12/31/best-video-camera-creative-vado-hd-vs-flip-mino-hd-vs-kodak-zi6/

I'd like the Zi6 for its sound and SD card usage (if it ever gets that firmware fix since I might be shooting in semi low light conditions), and could settle for the Creative Vado HD, except for lack of availability in Canada. If anybody knows where I can buy one currently, I'm listening. The Zi6 can be had for $178-20 coupon at Staples, so that's a pretty good deal.

What I'd like to know is what are the benefits to moving to a real camera, like the Canons or Panasonic; obviously, autofocusing speed, zoom, etc. But what about a camera like this one: SANYO XACTI HD2, which Henry's has for $299 (open box)?

Is it worthwhile to go for one of these instead of one of the cheaper simpler flip, creative or kodak cams?

[kay188]

I know you're talking about camcorders, but towards me, i would get a HD Video capable Digi Cam.

Cams like the Panasonic DMC-TZ5, DMC-FX35/37, DMC-FX500, Fujifilm S2000HD, Sony T500.

I personally have the Fujifilm S2000HD, and the quality is way better than the youtube videos that i saw of the 3 cams you chose, and the guy reviewing said he renders in MP4, and i render with windows movie maker in 720p. To me, my videos are still way better. Click here for a sample if you want. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3TSWojt1GE&fmt=22)
And here, but go to 2:00 Minutes for the clip from my S2000HD (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU0_dA-ww_I&fmt=22)

Down fall of the S2000HD is it's size.
I would love to get a slimmer camera, like the Panasonic TZ5, or the FX35/37.


The benifit in my opinion of a real HD Camcorder would be the features you get when recording videos, as well as the larger capacities that it may come with, than just SD cards and such.
Obviously it's way better than a digicam HD video because of what it was made to do.
I would say the audio would be way better, and also, some digicam's HD Videos are limited to about 10 mins (Sony T500), or 15 mins (Fujifilm S2000HD). I dont know about the panasonics i recommended though.

There's also the Canon TX1.
You can look into that. It's essentially a digicam and a camcorder merged into one. Literally. I think. xD

That's my 2 cents.