The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ6 is the best option here for pure image quality and flexibility, if you can live with its size and quirks.

Small, sleek, easy to use and capable of producing excellent results, no matter where you are.

An entry-level HD camcorder with an identity crisis, but at this price, it puts quality in the hands of everyone.

A great combination of new features and the usual Nikon image and build quality make this a superb camera.

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.

A good price coupled with outstanding image quality – a good budget alternative to the Panasonic HDC-HS9

A significant overhaul and a great camera. At this price it’s the best all-round package on the market

An expensive camera, but one offering superb image quality, features and handling

Key improvements over the SD5 make this a still more enticing pocket HD camcorder prospect

Two of the best small compacts on the market. Quality differences are on a knife edge, but the Canon wins for superior features and handling.

A fully featured hard disk AVCHD camcorder with plenty of recording space

A superbly easy-to-use and feature-laden compact camera that’s well worth the price.

Canon’s first hard disk-based AVCHD camcorder gets it mostly right, with a good level of features and the best image quality we’ve yet seen from the format.

A superbly easy-to-use and feature-laden compact camera that’s well worth the price. Same titanium shell as before, with a lowlight ability.

A fully featured hard disk AVCHD camcorder with plenty of recording space

A superb DSLR that’s a joy to use, but the high price and poor software damage value

The lack of a separate status LCD is annoying, but the 400D is great value and capable of great quality

An 18x zoom in a compact, well-built body. General handling and image quality are great too.

Canon grabs the crown for the most fully featured HDV camcorder for under $1500

Superb build quality and performance make this a worthwhile upgrade for serious amateurs.