If you’re unsure about which type of tape you have, this guide is here to help. There are several different tape types, each with its own characteristics.
For example, VHS-C (VHS-Compact) tapes are smaller than traditional VHS tapes and were used in older camcorders. They measure 92 x 58 x 20 mm and can hold between 30-60 minutes of footage, depending on the variant.
On the other hand, traditional VHS tapes are much larger, measuring 187 x 103 x 25 mm. They can hold anywhere from 120-180 minutes of footage, depending on the model and the VCR’s “Long Play” mode.
Video8 and Hi8 tapes look physically the same as each other and both record in an analogue format.
Digital8 tapes are also physically similar, but they record in digital format and cannot be played by Hi8 players, which use analogue.
Finally, MiniDV cassettes are 65 x 48 x 12 mm and can hold 60 minutes of footage in standard play or 90 minutes in extended/long play. There are also 80/120 minute tape types available.
