The major Mini DV recorders brands are Sony, Panasonic, and JVC. All these brands have various kinds of Mini DV recorders with a variety of features, size and price. Depending on the need (professional/ amateur use), you can choose from a variety of features like editing facility, conversion, quality of recording, and size. The price varies, starting from around $2000. Compatibility with other recording/playing systems also needs to be kept in mind while going for a particular recorder.

JVC has come up with many kinds of Mini DV recorders. The JVC BR DV 600 U, for example, is a player as well as recorder. This compact device offers the choice of editing the film through any system, whether Mini DV or DVD or Super VHS. Conversion from an analog to digital signal is also possible. The picture recording quality is sharp and the sound quality is good. Most importantly, this player-recorder can be upgraded to the level of more advanced models if needed. Price varies from $2000 to $4000, depending on the retailer or online store you are ordering it from.

Sonys DSR 45 VCR is also a player as well as a recording device. It records/plays not just Mini DV, but also DVCAM cassettes. This model does not have editing features. It costs around $4000, though you can get one for much less through some online stores and websites like eBay.

Panasonic also has many Mini DV recorders on the market. Its popular AG DV IDCE model is light and compact. A feature that has made it popular is the possibility of night time recording. Its LCD monitor is small, with length of about 4, but this makes it easily portable.

It is important to remember that most Mini DV recorders also double up as players. You must choose the recorder keeping in mind that all recorders may not be good players, and vice versa. So it is important to think beforehand of the features you need most, and then choose a Mini DV recorder.