What is the best HD camcorder for around $300 or maybe a bit more with the best optical zoom?

Q. I want a camcorder with good quality, but nice optical zoom as well.
My cousin has an SDR-S26 Panasonic camcorder with 70x optical zoom, but it's standard definition.
Why can't companies make HD camcorders but with huge amounts of optical zoom like my cousin's?
Thanks.

A. It's a gimmick. It may have 70x zoom but you can NEVER hold it in your hand and zoom it in 70x while it's still watchable. (it will be shakey and out of focus)

So no there are no 70x zoom HD camera's its just a gimmick.

Original Question

What's a good camcorder with a built-in light?

Q. I'm looking for a relatively small/cheap camcorder (good quality but not willing to spend like $1000 on it) with a built-in light. I can't seem to find any that aren't a ridiculous amount of money.

A. Admittedly I'm basing my answer entirely on my Canon HV20 (which originally retailed for $1000+ new,) but I doubt you'll find many good ones. Built-in lights will be small so it won't add bulk or sap too much power, and not really illuminate too much.

You'll probably be better served by purchasing a separate video light

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