Sanyo’s Xacti VPC-HD2 claims to be the smallest high definition (HD) camcorder on the market.

Unlike most camcorders, which record video to a tape or a DVD, the cameras in the Xacti range all record video and photos to an SD memory card. Cased in metallic grey, the device is smaller than some digital cameras and extremely light.

The design can be put down to the way the camera is assembled: all the main components sit around the top section, including the majority of the controls, which are arranged behind the lens.

As well as the standard record, zoom and play buttons, there is a joystick which is used to access a range of different menu options and features including the slideshow and audio playback options. However, those with bigger than average digits may get a little bit frustrated, as not only is it extremely sensitive but it's also tiny, meaning that manoeuvring it to the right option can be tricky.

Nevertheless, the closeness of the buttons means that the rectangular sides of the camcorder are kept empty which is good for hiding the flip out 2.2in LCD screen, and some of the buttons, including the all important on-off switch. At the bottom of the camcorder sits the battery compartment, giving plenty of space to grip.

The technology of this camera, while good, is not as pleasing as its aesthetics. The camera has a 10x digital zoom lens and claims to be able to shoot high-definition video, as the name suggest. In standard light it can most certainly do this, and image quality is good.

However, in low lighting, the HD magic starts to wear off, and we were disappointed to find in such conditions the recording suffered from increased fuzziness and dull colours. This extends to other features too - zooming in, for example, using the digital zoom resulted in a grainy, noisy picture, pretty far from high definition. To make the best of the HD recordings users must also ensure they plug the device into an high definition television set.

On the plus side, however, the camcorder can take can take clear seven megapixel still pictures whilst recording. It comes with an HDMI cable for connection to a television, as well as a USB cable for connection to a PC, for downloading and editing the video. There is also a remote control which means it can be plugged easily into a television, and videos can be paused and even recorded without having to move.

Vista compatible: N/A