F/1.8-2.1 Digital Camcorders

The Bottom Line: The Sony Handycam HDR-HC1 is a good first effort at a consumer HD camcorder, but only HD fanatics should consider it.

Specs: Camcorder, CMOS, 10 x, Mini DV (HDV), 1.9 megapixels, 1.5 lbs

The Bottom Line: The DCR-HC85 is easy to use and compact, but we expect better video quality from a camcorder in its class.

Specs: Camcorder, CCD, 10 x, Mini DV, 1.3 lbs

The Bottom Line: This top-of-the-line, full-featured camcorder produces excellent video and takes decent digital stills.

Specs: Digital video camera, CCD, 10 x, Mini DV, 1.1 lbs

The Bottom Line: An oddly designed, overpriced camcorder with one redeeming feature: it takes good stills.

Specs: Camcorder, CCD, 10 x, Micro MV, 1,080,000 pixels, 1.1 lbs

The Bottom Line: A true video/still hybrid it's not, but the 200MC is a capable, compact camcorder with above-average photo capabilities.

Specs: Camcorder, CCD, 10 x, Mini DV, 1.1 lbs

Specs: Camcorder, CMOS, 10 x, Mini DV (HDV), 1.5 lbs

Specs: Camcorder, CMOS, 10 x, Mini DV (HDV), 1.5 lbs