There are two different types of camcorders. Single CCD and 3CCD. Single CCD camcorders work by recording all information through one lens. 3CCD camcorder work by using three separate processes to take in information for the colors blue, green and red. By separating this processes the 3CCD camcorder is able to make more accurate information. A single CCD camcorder may cost $200 dollars where as a 3CCD camcorder may cost $800 dollars at it's cheapest. 3CCD camcorder are more expensive due to having three times as much more mechanics involved in the recording process and by needing the use of separate beam-splitting optical processes.

The quality difference between a single CCD camcorder and a 3CCD camcorder is dramatic. Single CCD camcorder's finished product will look low-budget and non-professional whereas you can get near broadcast quality with a 3CCD camcorder.