Optical Zoom Versus Digital Zoom

by: Paul Casinelli

A common misconception of digital camcorders is the advertising component known as "total zoom". This is the combination of Optical Zoom + Digital Zoom. It is important to fully understand the values and disadvantages of both types.

Selecting a camcorder with a respectably higher optical zoom can lead to more effective video shooting and clearer picture results. It enlarges a picture using the actual lenses. It will allow you to capture a video from a farther distance without losing picture quality.

Digital zoom, on the other hand, will allow you to enlarge a picture but consequentially will reduce the overall picture quality. The word Digital refers to enlarging the picture "artificially". It selects the specific area of the picture you would like to capture and enlarges it.


It is important to select a digital camcorder that will meet your specific needs. If you are interested in recording videos at a distance such as sporting events or a scenic route, it would be important to own a camcorder that will allow you to capture a clear and concise picture when using the zoom feature. However, if your budget and recording intentions are lower, most zoom capabilities will still be effective.