Viewsonic 3DV5 pocket camcorder

The Viewsonic 3DV5 looks and works much like many other pocket camcorders, with one notable exception – it can record high-definition video (at the 720p resolution) and photos in 3D.

It films through two lenses simultaneously and both images are combined to make the 3D effect. Results are viewed in 3D on the camera's 2.4in screen, which does not require glasses.

It has a crude plastic design with four large buttons and a mini-joystick under the screen. On the plus side, the basic controls made it easy to use.

Footage can also be viewed on a computer using the supplied software which creates an old-style red/cyan 3D image. The required red/cyan glasses are included in the box. Best results are had by connecting the 3DV5 to a 3D-compatible TV or projector using the HDMI socket.

If the camera looks familiar that's because it's almost identical to the Aiptek I2 3D camcorder, with the main difference being that this one costs £50 less.

Performance is several-dozen notches below Hollywood standards but it is undeniably fun to try out 3D, and the 3DV5 is one of the cheapest ways to do so.