Sony DSCU40

Now that digital cameras are small enough to fit into mobile phones and handheld computers, it's hardly surprising that Sony has launched a two-megapixel camera that's half the size of a Mars bar.

The DSCU40 is part of Sony's classy Cyber-shot range and even manages to squeeze a small screen into the rear of the unit. As well as being able to review taken shots, the screen is the only view finding device and displays a crisp, clear image.

Photo quality is surprisingly good for such a small gadget and while there's no zoom - optical or digital - images are good enough to print at 6 x 4in. There's a self-timer function and four flash modes for varying lighting environments.

It comes with an 8Mb Memory Stick Duo card, which is enough for 16 shots at its highest resolution.

Images are transferred to a PC via USB and, once connected, can be used to recharge the batteries.

For the same price it is possible to pick up a ropey four-megapixel camera but for the sheer convenience and image quality, this is the best pocket camera we've seen, even if there is no zoom.

Contact: Sony 020 7365 2934
www.sony.co.uk