A relatively competitive model, Hitachi's DZ-GX5060SW won't wow you with image quality, but as a squarely entry level model with a rock bottom price it will suit many consumers looking to purchase their first camera.

An attractive offering from Panasonic, the HDC-DX1 is capable of delivering high definition video once its interface and menus have been mastered.

The Sony DCR-SR200E manages to stand out from the crowd thanks to its impressive image quality and exceptional ease-of-use. One of the better HDD handycams on the market.

The HDR-HC7E is pricey, but its impressive image quality makes it an attractive choice for those who can afford it.

While the splash-proof case and tiny design of the Xacti VPC-CA6 will appeal to some, those after good quality video and stills with an easy to operate control setup should look elsewhere.

High quality video capture, but it comes at a price. If you can handle the DC51's limitations and know how to work your way around the colour problems, then you'll find the 5.39 megapixel sensor delivers great image quality.

Another solid digital video camera from Canon, the MD160 will do all the things you'd expect of an entry level unit and do them well.

The HDR-HC5E is a quality product, but it comes at a price. Despite a few flaws with colours, this camera performs very well in comparison to most camcorders. For those who can afford it, it's a great unit.

Sony's DCR-DVD708 is an impressive camera. Despite its clunky interface and shortcomings in sound capture, it delivers great video quality and a fantastic 25x zoom for its price.

The current editing limitations are significant, but once the software catches up, the Panasonic HDC-SD1 will be an excellent camcorder.

A great value DVD camcorder with above average image quality and a wide range of features

Once again the Everio design impresses us, but the video quality isn't as good as we'd like with this unit.