The HDR-CX12 is a brilliant high-def handycam that is almost impossible to find fault with. It improves on its CX7K predecessor in nearly every area and is easily a match for Sony's high-end HDR-SR12 model. If you don't mind the lack of an inbuilt hard drive, it won't disappoint.

The NVR-1012 is tailor-made for the technically inept property owner. If you're looking for a comprehensive security surveillance system that is easy to use and set up, you won't find a better deal anywhere. Thieves, blaggards and ne’er-do-wells — your days are numbered.

If you need an ultra-cheap way to make movies for the Web, the Vado Pocket Video Cam is probably the best option on the market. Having said that, we're not entirely 'sold' on the Net-cam concept. For most users, an entry-level camcorder would be a better bet.

The Canon FS10 is a good all-rounder that puts portability and ease-of-use at the forefront. While it may not excel in any one area, it remains one of the better value standard-def camcorders on the market.

The DCR-DVD610 is far from great, but at this price it's kind of hard to go wrong. If you want a DVD camcorder that will do the basics and would prefer to spend as little as possible, it will get the job done.

The HDR-TG1 is the smallest HD camcorder we've ever reviewed. To a certain extent, its portability comes at the expense of video quality. However, it still offers an impressive performance across the board. Enthusiastically recommended.

Rescue Your Videotapes! aims to provide everything you need to transfer your VHS, Betamax or Hi8 collection to DVD. The software’s good, the hardware’s good, but the package could do with better integration of the two. It’s fiddly to get going, but once things are running smoothly, there are enough automated editing and DVD front-end functions to make a professional conversions easy and quick.