Capturing fun and memorable moments no longer requires lugging around a bulky, expensive camcorder and making sure you have a new miniDV in place to record. There's a new wave of high-definition camcorders in town and the DXG-580v is taking a stand.

The DXG-580V looks like a traditional camcorder, only smaller, and it fits snugly into the palm of one's hand. It's a slim, sleek and light-weight design with the ability to record HD video up to 1440 x 1080. And unlike a lot of electronic equipment these days, once you charge the included lithium-ion battery (or four AAA batteries) and install an SD card, you're ready for prime time on YouTube and the like.

The beauty of the DXG-580v is its built-in flash memory and expandable storage up to 8GB, providing up to eight hours of video. No more switching out tapes in the middle of your favorite uncle's signature dance moves (from you're not quite sure what era) at the next family reunion. With an 8-GB SD card, you'll be ready to capture those unique life moments that only video could fully describe and not worry about whether there's enough tape left. The included software package then allows you to seamlessly pop the SD card into your computer and easily view, edit and share these video experiences.

In addition to video, the DXG-580v shoots up to 8MP still images and has built-in digital voice recording. This high-definition camcorder is a perfect gift for dads and grads. It's ease of use, functionality and affordable price make it a no-brainer.

I recently took this camera out for a test drive during a wonderful day at Venice Beach in sunny California. Usually bogged down with a heavy, miniDV tape driven camcorder, the DXG-580v was a welcome upgrade. I got some good footage of the local scenery and was able to view it instantly on my computer by just popping in the SD card. Although my filming and editing abilities are far from that of the "experts" with their expensive equipment and editting tools, I was quite pleased with the still pictures and video quality. (I might even get enough courage to show off and upload my videos to YouTube.) But for now, I'd recommend this high definition camera for novice and amateur video enthusiasts alike.

Learn more about the DXG-580v camcorder »