What to look for when buying a movie camera

[Tigger1]

We are looking into buying a camcorder before christmas. Looking in the range of $250 to $450.

We want HD, ability to Zoom, ect.
What specs should we look for? What do all the specs mean?

What is your likes/dislikes with cameras you have owned?

Thanks Tigger

 

[MarkBarbieri]

This link should help.

 

[Tigger1]

Loves the trip report, MarkBarbieri. Its the best I have seen.