Mini DV Comparison

[nahtanoj2]

I am comparing the Panasonic PV-GS83 and the cannon ZR-850 DV camcorders. This will be used lightly for videos of the family. Wondering if anyone has experience with either of these and can suggest which one is a better buy. I know the details of DV vs MiniDVD vs direct to disk recording and am just wondering who has better technology/software Canon or Panasonic?

[MJS]

I'm currently using the PV-GS180's in class and they are holding up to my high school students quite well. I have 4 more of the GS500's on order for to replace some older Sony units that are 5 years old.