Find Out Why The Sony HDR-CX550V Camcorder Is Right For You As Compared To The HDR-XR550V

Released in 2010, Sony's new high definition digital camcorders are full-featured products for consumers. In comparing Sony HDR-CX550V and HDR-XR550V camcorders, both share most of the same features, with the type of memory, and the storage capacity being the main difference.

One of the prime considerations when considering purchasing a camcorder is the amount of memory. In the case of the two camcorders in question, both have large, expandable storage. The HDR-CX550V has an internal storage of 64 gigabyte flash memory, allowing recording of approximately 26 hours of high definition recording. The HDR-XR550V uses a 240gigabyte hard drive, which allows up to 100 hours of recording in HD.

Users not satisfied with the storage capacity of their cameras can expand their memory capacity with memory cards. Unlike previous Sony cameras, both camcorders support multiple memory card formats. The SD/SDHC format is supported, along with Sony's proprietary Memory Stick Duo format.

Video recording for both of the camcorders supports the high definition 1920 x 1080 resolution. Users can playback videos on televisions in 1080/60p format, using the built in HDMI port. Additional purchase of an adaptor may be required, as the port is in the mini HDMI form. USB 2.0 is also supported for transferring photos and videos to a PC.

Aside from the video capture aspect of both cameras, they are each capable of capturing still images, as with most digital camcorders. 12 Mega-pixel images are supported in still image-only mode, while 8.3 megapixel images can be captured while simultaneously shooting video.

Both the HDR-CX550V and HDR-XR550V have a 26.3mm G-lens, that allows 10x optical zoom, and digital zoom allows further 120x magnification. The LCD display for both is a 3.5" TruBlack screen, which is designed to reduce glare when viewing in direct sunlight. A . 27" viewfinder can be used for recording as well.

Other features shared by both camcorders include Face Detection technology, for capturing facial images correctly. Optical SteadyShot image stabilization reduces the effects of camera shake. Geotagging of images and videos is enabled by the built in GPS receiver, for adding location data.

Ultimately, whether you choose to purchase the HDR-CX550V, or the HDR-XR550V may come down to the amount of memory you plan to use. Both camcorders support High Definition recording, the capacity to take high quality still images. The difference between the two models apart from the price point and amount of memory is negligible.

Ready to capture fantastic videos for your next family holiday? Read the Sony HDR-CX550V Review to see if it is the right one for you. You can also view the Sony HDR-XR550V Review before you make a decision on the right camcorder.