This Super 8-inspired camcorder is my favourite purchase of 2026

If you’re like me and love the look of Super 8 videos, but don’t have the funds to splurge on a “proper” camera, then this affordable device is a brilliant alternative.

When I first came across the CampSnap CS-8 digital video camera, I was initially drawn in by a few factors. Firstly, its distinct design that’s remarkably similar to traditional Super 8 cameras undeniably looks great. It does a good job of replicating the style without looking too fake.

Next, its 2.7K sensor delivers that old-school, slightly grainy look that feels wonderfully nostalgic. After all, old-school video cameras are a rising trend with Gen-Zers who need a break from smartphone cameras.

Speaking of needing a break, I was also drawn in by the fact that there’s no screen to check your footage. Instead, you simply hold down the trigger to start filming and release it to stop. This is reminiscent of film cameras, which are another favourite of mine, negating the need to fuss over trying to capture the perfect shot. Instead, you simply film your subject and hope for the best – and that normally provides a brilliant result anyway.

Finally, the CS-8 digital video camera is fitted with five preset filters and four aspect ratios to choose from, including a 9:16 option for creating reels and TikToks. 

All of this comes with an RRP of £151 (though that’s not including taxes and shipping, which can bump the price up). As I’m getting married soon, and initially contacted countless Super 8 videographers who charged upwards of £2000 to shoot a video, I saw the CS-8 as a nice DIY alternative.

Reader, I have not been left disappointed. 

Using the CampSnap CS-8

The CS-8 is impressively easy to use. Once you turn the “on” dial, you’ll see how much battery remains and how much storage is left on the built-in 4GB SD card via the two analogue meters. You can play around with the filters and aspect ratio by twisting the relevant dials, plus you can zoom in and out with the two buttons on the right-hand side. 

Capturing recordings requires you to keep hold of the trigger, which does take some getting used to. With this in mind, the CS-8 is better suited to capturing quick clips rather than filming for longer periods of time.

Once you’ve finished capturing videos, transferring them from the CS-8 to your phone or computer couldn’t be simpler. There’s no app to install; instead, you just plug the included USB-C cable between the camera and your phone. From here, just open the Photos app, and you’ll find all your recorded clips and have the option to import them to your phone. 

One thing to keep in mind is the date and time settings on your CS-8 camera. At first, I didn’t bother changing the time and date of the device, but when I imported the clips, I had to scroll back to find them. A simple adjustment means they are organised better within the Photos app.

As I’m getting married soon (did I mention that?) I’m planning on using the CS-8 camera to help capture the day with that old-school look, and without needing to pay for a dedicated videographer.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m certain an actual videographer will likely do an overall better job, and I’m not sure if the CS-8 will make it into our best cameras guide, but I don’t think it’ll be a bad attempt. It’s a nice option to have if you aren’t blessed with a huge budget for a Super 8 film and don’t want to miss out.