High Def Camcorders

Genius G-shot HD520

For £90 or thereabouts, you can't expect to get the pinnacle of video-capture performance, so it's no surprise that the G-shot HD520's 720p footage isn't the best we've ever clapped eyes on. But it's packed with features and worth a look for those who just want to capture the moment

Editor's rating 5.7

Kodak Zi8

If you're after broadcast-quality footage and full manual controls, the 1080p-capable Zi8 isn't for you. But if you're seeking an inexpensive, straightforward, pocket-friendly camcorder that produces relatively good video and photos, this device is likely to be right up your street

Editor's rating 7.5

Toshiba Camileo P30

Easier to use than a toothbrush, the Camileo P30 is a decent pocket camcorder that manages to combine high-definition video with a small, lightweight body and budget price tag. The image quality won't blow your mind, but, for the price, the P30 packs some impressive specs

Editor's rating 6.5

Sony Mobile HD Snap Camera MHS-PM1

Other mini camcorders may shoot slightly better video, but the Mobile HD Snap Camera MHS-PM1 has plenty going for it. Chief among its attractions are its ability to shoot video at a 1080p resolution, and an appealing and cleverly conceived design that includes a swivelling lens

User rating 7.0

Editor's rating 6.6

Toshiba Camileo H20

The attractive and solid Camileo H20 is an excellent 1080p compact camcorder for a reasonable price. Extremely simple to use, it also delivers generally good image and sound quality, making it remarkably easy for a camcorder novice to become a HD maestro in seconds

User rating 3.5

Editor's rating 8.0

Flip Video UltraHD

The Flip Video UltraHD follows its other mini-camcorder brethren in getting simplicity right. Although it's lacking in style, the UltraHD makes up in ease of use and good 720p HD video quality. It delivers the best video yet from these budget, Web-friendly camcorders

Editor's rating 8.0

Sanyo Xacti VPC-TH1

Under the right conditions, the attractive and eminently portable Xacti VPC-TH1 is capable of shooting extremely rich and detailed 720p footage -- just don't shake it too much when filming. It's also very easy to use and won't put a massive dent in your wallet

Editor's rating 6.0

Kodak Zx1 Pocket Video Camera

The easy-to-use Zx1 Pocket Video Camera HD mini-camcorder offers a relatively rugged design, good video quality and expandable memory. A flip-out USB connector is sorely missed and we'd like a bundled memory card, but this speedy performer still represents decent value for money

Editor's rating 7.6

Flip Video MinoHD

The MinoHD isn't without its drawbacks, most notably a high price tag and its lack of a memory-expansion slot, but it's a great mini-camcorder nonetheless. Considering its size, this ultra-simple device shoots solid 720p video, and uploading your recordings to the Internet couldn't be much easier

Editor's rating 8.0

Kodak Zi6

While bigger than most of its competitors and high priced for a mini camcorder, the Kodak Zi6's attractive design and decent video quality adequately compensate for some usability drawbacks. Most notably, we wanted an optional memory card to make up for the mere 30MB of storage

User rating 9.0

Editor's rating 7.0

Aiptek AHD200

High-definition filming couldn't be simpler with the Aiptek AHD200 camcorder. Plug in a memory card, open the screen and away you go. It's a perfectly decent camcorder for anyone on a budget who's looking to take a compact shooter on holiday or someone ready to start an HD career

Editor's rating 6.0