WITH the exception of a Mini DV tape deck, the P2 AG-HVX170 offers all of the same functionality as its predecessors.

Superb 1080i/720p image quality, improved low-light performance, manageable size, loads of recording modes and frame rates

Prohibitively expensive (especially when price of P2 media is factored in), purists may weep at lack of tape drive

The P2 AG-HVX170 is a miniaturised upgrade of the P2 AG-HV202. With the exception of a Mini DV tape deck, it offers all of the same functionality as its big brother, along with some improvements. It should prove more than sufficient for commercial ...

RECORDING standard-definition video to Mini DV tape, the Sony DCR-HC52 is a stubbornly old-school device that also happens to be the company's entry-level product.

Attractive price point, 40x optical zoom, solid user interface

Performed poorly in low light, flash memory and DVD models can be bought just as cheaply

The Sony DCR-HC52 is a perfectly capable little camcorder, but its recording format is beginning to show its age. Frankly, your money would be better spent on something younger and hipper. Mini DV, your time is nearly up.

THE Oregon Scientific ATC3K Action Camera is a 'bullet' style camcorder that can stand up to some serious punishment.

Water/shock/freeze-proof, all-in-one design, lots of bundled extras

No viewfinder, terrible audio, a bit too bulky for helmet use

While not without its flaws, the Oregon Scientific ATC3K Action Camera is an excellent product for the asking price. If you're an outdoors enthusiast keen to chronicle your exploits, look no further. It's the best valued sports camcorder on the market.

IF camcorders were all members of a boy band, the HF100 would be the token ugly one but it's probably the best performer of the lot.

Stunning high-definition video resolution, unsurpassed image clarity and colour, comes packed with manual features

No inbuilt memory, no memory card in sales package, drab design

The HF100 is one of the best camcorders in its price range. Offering exceptionally sharp video and an extensive array of manual features, it will suit amateurs and enthusiasts both. However, sticklers for value should pick up the 32-gigabyte HF11 ...

FOR production studios on a budget, the AG-HVX202 is a digital video camera capable of producing high-end broadcast quality images.

Two video formats in one, excellent build quality, superb 1080i image quality, all the benefits of solid-state storage media, multiple recording modes and frame rates

Slightly below average low-light performance, P2 media is prohibitively expensive

If you're a video professional looking to upgrade from Mini DV tape, the AG-HVX-200 P2 represents a bump-free transition.

GEARED toward casual-users, this untraditional Net-cam is for those who require a cheap point-and-shoot camera.

H.264 AVC recording, fun Interval/time-lapse mode, pretty cheap (for a camcorder)

No still images mode, sub-par image quality, pretty expensive (for a Net-cam)

Despite its prominent YouTube branding, the VP-MX20 is not really a Net-cam; at least, not in the traditional sense. Nevertheless, it should prove adequate for casual users who require a cheap point-and-shoot camera.

WITH Mini DV's being replaced by the more convenient AVCHD, the HDR-HC9 may be Sony's final foray in the high definition Mini DV market.

Superb 1080i image quality, loads of manual features, reliable build quality, intuitive user interface

Not much has changed since last generation's HDR-HC7

If you prefer the familiarity and reliability of HDV tape, the Sony HDR-HC9 is one of the best (and only) options on the market. Sticklers for value may want to check out Canon's HV30 though - it's every bit as good, yet cheaper.

THE HDR-FX1000 is an ideal stepping stone into the world of professional video.

Superb video quality, professional components and design, 24p progressive scan mode for film-like pictures

Limited audio capabilities, 1.2 megapixel stills image mode, HDV at risk of becoming antiquated

The HDR-FX1000 is a worthy successor to the FX1/FX7. It will make an ideal stepping stone into the world of professional video, as well as a solid secondary unit for established videographers.

ALTHOUGH it doesn't stand out, the HF11 is one of the best camcorders in its price range.

Exceptionally sharp image quality, lots of manual features, improved 24Mbps bit rate

Too similar to previous model, joystick ill-suited to manual control

If you already own the HF10, there is next to no reason to make the switch to the HF11. Everyone else, on the other hand, would do well to seek this camcorder out.

THE HG20 is an excellent HDD camcorder that easily matches anything else on the market.

Unsurpassed image sharpness, 60GB hard drive, lots of manual control

Slightly oversized, questionable build quality

The HG20 is an excellent high-def HDD camcorder that easily matches anything else on the market. Although the build quality could be better, its video performance more than makes up for any shortcomings. Highly recommended.