What the best camcorder in the $500.00 to $700.00 range with optical zoom and resolution being desiding factors.

Doug,

My suggestion is to take a look at the Sony range, and pick one that fits your price.

I have tried them all - JVC, Canon Panasonic etc, and non comes even close to the Sonys.

I find the video from both the canon and Panasonic rather soft - it lacks clarity.

The Sony, on the other hand, is pin sharp.

The funny part is the Panasonic digital cameras take extremely good video.

I am currently using both the Panasonic GX8 and FZ1000.

Their video is fantastic, especially in 4K.

Thanks Saeed I appreciate the advice. I'll look at those camcorders. I know that Sony uses Zeiss lens. Do you think that why the images are sharper?

I don't really think the lens is the reason.

It is the codec and processing in camera that does it.

Just tried the Panasonic HC-x1000 4K video camera.

Frankly, it was awful!

4K footage from the GX8 is so superior.

I have no idea what is the thinking behind some of the manufacturers producing cameras like these.

Canon has a fantastic pro camera XF-305 - probably the best Full HD camera out there.

Then they have smaller ones X30 - which have terrible footage in comparison.

Thanks again Saeed. I certainly appreciate your help.