Sony Handycam HDR-CX100

The Sony Handycam HDR-CX100 is very inexpensive for a high-definition camcorder, according to top review sources. It costs more than twice as much as a pocket camcorder like the Pure Digital Flip UltraHD (*Est. $160), but experts say you'll get full 1080p HD video, a long-range optical zoom and other features you won't find on a stripped-down pocket camcorder. Users particularly like the Smile Shutter, which can be set to snap a still photo whenever it detects a smile, and the fact that the 4.5-inch-long HDR-CX100 is tiny enough to slip into a purse or jacket pocket. However, some expert testers find this camcorder too small to hold comfortably, and it's missing some common features such as an accessory shoe, microphone jack and headphone jack. Experts say you'll find these features -- plus better video quality -- on Canon's budget camcorder, the Vixia HF200 (*Est. $600).

Experts at CNET test many of the major camcorders on the market, including the Sony Handycam HDR-CX100. Although they don't usually test camcorders head-to-head, ratings and best-of lists make it possible to see how the various models stack up. Tests at CreativeMac.com and DigitalTrends.com come up with very different opinions about the Sony HDR-CX100. Owner-written reviews at Amazon.com are a good place to find out whether owners like the Sony HDR-CX100.