Kodak Zi6

The Kodak Zi6 was the first pocket-sized, high-definition camcorder, but reviews say Pure Digital's newer pocket HD models -- and the newer Kodak Zi8 (*Est. $180) -- have surpassed it in most ways. All pocket camcorders share many of the same pros and cons. They're a portable, easy way to shoot and upload video to websites like YouTube, but you'll have to settle for lots of hand shake, no optical zoom and a dearth of manual controls. Experts say that Pure Digital's pocket HD camcorders are easier to use than the Zi6. The top-rated Pure Digital Flip UltraHD (*Est. $160) offers better video quality and an HDMI connection for viewing HD footage on your TV, while the Pure Digital Flip MinoHD (*Est. $160) concentrates on being tiny and sleek. But reviews say the Zi6 does have a few advantages: Its 2.4-inch LCD screen is slightly bigger than those on the Pure Digital Flip UltraHD or the Flip MinoHD and, unlike them, the Zi6 can shoot still photos. It's also one of the cheapest HD camcorders you can buy, although you'll also have to buy an SD/SDHC card because the Zi6 has relatively little built-in memory – only enough for less than 40 seconds of video (when shooting in HD).

Reviews usually compare the Kodak Zi6 directly against standard-definition models (since it was the first HD pocket camcorder). However, most sources have since tested the newer pocket HD models, and you can read these camcorders' reviews to see how the Zi6 stacks up. CamcorderInfo.com tests the Kodak Zi6 as exhaustively as it does more expensive camcorders, rating it against many other models. CNET, Laptop Magazine, Macworld, Gizmodo.com and Wired also test and rate several pocket camcorders. Amazon.com is a good source of owner-written reviews.