The DC310 is a solid DVD offering let down by the limitations of its format. Casual users who want quick access to their home movies will be quite satisfied. Everyone else, on the other hand, should stick to flash memory or MiniDV.

Despite its reliance on an outdated format, the Canon HV30 is a superior high-def camcorder that offers exceptional value for money. If you can get over your anti-tape prejudice and embrace MiniDV, this model will deliver on every level.

The DCR-SR65 is up to the usual standards we have come to expect from Sony, offering exceptional ease-of-use and reasonable video quality at a semi-affordable price. It will provide satisfactory performance for those who aren't ready to make the leap to high definition.

The Sony DCR-SR45 is a perfectly serviceable standard-def camcorder provided you only want to do the basics. While budget shoppers are sure to appreciate the user-friendly HDD technology, its image quality unfortunately failed to shine. An adequate effort.

The Panasonic SDR-S7 is clearly not for everyone, but if you're looking for a cheap, user-friendly and highly portable camera, this is one of the better buys on the market. (It looks ferociously cute, too.)

The GZ-MG345 may lack some of the bells and whistles found on its pricier siblings, but it remains a solid performer nonetheless. If you require an affordable camcorder for fuss-free video, you could do a lot worse that this standard-def HDD offering.

The Everio GZ-MG730 is an above average camcorder that puts image quality above consumer-friendly gimmicks. It might be a little pricey for a standard-def model, but its output will not disappoint.

A decent camcorder, but one of JVC's cheaper models would make sense for many users.

The Everio GZ-HD6 is a solid HDD camcorder that can match most high-def cameras when it comes to picture quality. Unfortunately, it lacks many of the features found on Sony's 120GB offering, which happens to retail for exactly the same price.

While slightly overpriced for an entry-level HD camcorder, the HDR-SR10 offers a variety of innovative features for the asking price. Those with beefier wallets, however, would be better off with one of its deluxe stable mates.

The HDR-SR12E may be a little more expensive than most of its rivals, but it represents a bargain nonetheless. It ticks all the major boxes that make a great camcorder; including superb image quality and ease-of-use.

If you're on the lookout for a standard definition HDD camcorder, the GZ-MG465B is one of the more interesting options on the market. Provided you can get your head (and finger) around the unusual control interface, it won't disappoint.