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Understanding the AVCHD Camcorder Format

The AVCHD video format produces high-quality HD videos

By Greg Scoblete Greg Scoblete Writer Rutgers College Gregory Scoblete is a former Lifewire writer covering video and consumer electronics. His work has appeared in Consumer's Digest, Digital Photographer, and other publications. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on July 30, 2020 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Travel Tech Digital Cameras & Photography Tips for Mobile Photography The Advanced Video Codec High Definition format is high-definition camcorder video format jointly developed in 2006 by Panasonic and Sony for use in consumer camcorders. AVCHD is a form of video compression that allows the large data files created by HD video recording to be captured and saved on digital media such as hard disk drives and SD memory cards. AVCHD version 2.0 was released in 2011. Hand holding HD broadcast camcorder. Hup/Getty Images

AVCHD Resolution and Media

The AVCHD format records video at a range of resolutions including 1080p, 1080i, and 720p. Many AVCHD camcorders that advertise themselves as full HD models record HD video at a resolution of 1080i. AVCHD uses 8cm DVD media as the recording medium, but it is designed for Blu-ray Disc compatibility. The DVD format was chosen for its lower cost. The AVCHD format can also use SD and SDHC cards or hard disk drives if your camcorder supports them.

Features of AVCHD Format

AVCHD camcorders record high-definition video on random access media: DVDs, hard disk drives, memory cards, and thumb drives. AVCHD format cameras record long high-definition videos using the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format for highly compressed HD recording. An AVCHD video camera connects directly to a high-definition TV or another compatible playback device with an HDMI port. It can also connect directly to a Blu-ray Disc player, Sony PlayStation and to Windows computers running supplied software. Using the AVCHD format, you can burn the high-definition video onto a standard DVD disc. That DVD disc can then be played in a Blu-ray disc player, allowing you to view your high definition video on an HDTV. So even if you don’t own a Blu-ray disc burner, you can still play back your high definition home movies on a Blu-ray disc player or a Sony PlayStation. In addition to video and audio, AVCHD includes media presentation features for menu navigation, slide shows and subtitles.

Comparing AVCHD and MP4 Formats

AVCHD and MP4 are two of the most popular video formats in the world, and camcorders often give users the option of AVCHD or MP4 format. When deciding which is best for you, consider the following: If image quality is your highest priority, use the AVCHD format.AVCHD produces larger files. If file size if your prime concern, use MP4 format, which produces recordings that are high in audio and video quality but only about a third the size of a comparable AVCHD recording.AVCHD is best for creating Blu-ray Disc recordings and for high-definition content to watch on TV. The MP4 format is compatible with Apple QuickTime format which embraces many more devices.MP4 video is easier to copy, move, upload, or share on the web.AVCHD isn't suitable for recording movies for play on iPhone, iPad, Android and other similar devices, whereas MP4 is compatible with almost all media players and mobile devices.

Are All HD Camcorders AVCHD Camcorders

Not all camcorder manufacturers use the AVCHD format, but Sony and Panasonic use the AVCHD format on all their consumer high-definition camcorders. Other manufacturers also use the format. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire Guide to Camcorder Video File Formats The 7 Best Free DVD Ripper Programs of 2022 MTS File (What It Is & How to Open One) Can Blu-ray Discs Be Played On a DVD Player? A Beginner's Guide to HD Camcorders Guide to Camcorder Features Should You Buy a Blu-ray Player? How to Open, Edit, and Convert AVC Files M4V File (What It Is and How to Open One) Camcorders vs. Digital Cameras FBR File (What It Is and How to Open One) The 7 Best 4K Blu-Ray Players of 2022 What Is HDTV? What Is HDMI and How Do You Use It? How to Upload Videos From an Old Camcorder to a PC How to Transfer 8mm and Hi8 Video Tapes to DVD or VHS Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies