JVC is releasing a pair new hard-drive-based digital camcorders, the Everio 120GB GZ-MG880 and 60GB GZ-MG840. The cameras record video at up to a 720 x 480 resolution, with the 120GB model capable of storing around 28 hours of footage at full quality. Besides using the integrated hard disk, you can store your clips directly to microSDHC flash cards. The lens feature a 32x optical zoom, and the camera uses a flip-out LCD screen to help you frame your shots — no viewfinder. In addition to recording DVD-quality video, the Everio has a YouTube mode, recording at a lower 352x240 resolution for quick uploading to the video sharing site.

While having a hard disk makes it easier to record a lot of footage without having to transfer files back to your computer, the Everio models at $757 and $811 still seem overpriced for what they offer, especially considering the lack of high definition recording. Unless you're not going to have access to a computer for a while and need all that storage space, or insist on having an optical zoom, you might be better off with a much cheaper, higher-resolution camera like the Creative Vado HD or Flip Mino HD. Check our our camcorder shopping guide for some more ideas.

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