If you must have the biggest, it’s great – but lose a couple of inches and you’ll get an even better performance

Awesome! If you use a computer to store your music or movies (or both), you should check this one out

A good all-rounder and a fine budget recorder – if you can stomach the lack of a digital tuner

Where incremental steps forward are becoming commonplace, the Sony is a giant leap – simply stunning

Lack of online content and copy-protected music are problems, but no HDMI is a major headache

The widest format support, plus flawless wireless streaming, put this among the best network players we’ve seen so far

Another cracking Panasonic flatscreen, which impresses with both its integrated TV tuners and external sources

Philips flagship TV from 2007 is a good benchmark, with plenty of worthwhile technology substance to fine effect alongside the original styling

The Vivicam 6200W is terminator-tough and cheap enough to condemn disposable underwater cameras to the low-tech graveyard

For a DSLR that does everything an amateur is ever likely to want, with a terrifyingly cheap price tag, look no further.

The 450D’s superb sensor makes it the best choice if quality is your priority. It doesn't beat the Sony A200 for value, but for the best quality below $1500 the 450D has the edge.

This Panny 'corder can shoot stills at a resolution of 4-megapixels, which makes it a match for a still camera

The selling point of this camera is that it’s cheap – and it certainly excels in that department!

Another compact crams in too many megapixels. But if you never look at pictures at pixel-level you’ll be dead pleased with this Pentax

How much? Never mind what the LX-1 costs, just see what it does – yes, it’s pricey, but boy is it worth it

An ideal companion for a DSLR, this is a compact for the photography enthusiast rather than the happy snapper

Superb, stylish, solid... but sabotaged by poor controls

The AF could do with being a bit quicker, and a longer zoom would be good, but it’s still a gem

The new Nikon D90, due to hit shelves in September, boasts unique 720p movie HD capabilities, a much improved sensor and surprisingly, a GPS option.

Terrific value and a high-quality set – it’s not Full HD, but at this price, you won’t miss it