Refocusing on disc-related features makes Nero the top choice for optical disc authoring.

Not only slightly cheaper than the last version, but now Encore CS3 and OnLocation CS3 are included too.

HD DVD support is the big new feature, but the automated ad-removal tool and enhanced menu customisation make this a great app for the money.

Some substantial new abilities, including support for the new wave of high definition optical discs.

A new interface, smart albums, guided editing and photo merging keep Photoshop Elements ahead of the pack

You still get a lot for your money, but HD optical burning only extends to data discs

AVCHD support and some useful new effects keep this as the leading entry-level video editor.

Vegas has a huge array of editing features for the money, plus powerful bundled DVD authoring.

Support for latest video formats and a batch-media encoder, but supporting apps have seen little upgrading.

Nero 7 Premium Reloaded adds mostly esoteric features to regular disc burning.

Great real-time performance, particularly with high definition footage. But the EDIUS Pro software still needs a few more features to usurp the competition.

Surprisingly powerful for the price, even if the best features are reserved for the more expensive Plus version.

Packed with features and closer to Adobe Premiere Elements, CyberLink PowerDirector 8 is close, but still not close enough.

Another big improvement, but this time it’s enough to make PowerDirector a worthy alternative to its mainstream rivals

Editing performance with HDV remains sluggish, but DV-editing ability is formidable.

This version brings some real improvements, but there are still a few features missing.

HDV support and seven video tracks make this a massive upgrade, but only for the plus version.

Pocket-sized digital camcorders are becoming more capable all the time. We round up ten of the best