| Format
| Pros
| Cons
| Typical Size
|
| MiniDV and HDV |
Up to two-hour record time in SP mode (SD); compact size tapes and devices; high-quality video and sound |
Not compatible with analog tapes; no random access (i.e. must FF/REW tape) |
Ultra-compact, compact, standard and prosumer |
| Hard drive |
Compact; instant random access; longest record time of all formats |
Requires PC or external hard drive to off-load video |
Ultra-compact, compact, standard and prosumer |
| Flash memory |
Ultra-compact; lightweight models; perfect for Web and sharing |
Many models record with MPEG-4 compression, which can affect image quality |
Ultra-compact and compact |
| Mini-DVD |
Can playback on many newer DVD players and PCs; instant random access; inexpensive media |
Shorter record time; not playable on all DVD players; player must have a tray or drawer that accommodates mini-DVDs |
Compact |
| DVD (+/- R/RW/RAM) |
Inexpensive media; playback in most newer DVD players |
Larger cameras compared to other formats |
Standard |
| Digital8 |
Inexpensive media; can playback analog 8mm tapes |
Obsolete format; large tapes mean larger devices |
Standard |
