Kodak Playsport ZX-5 pocket camcorder

The Kodak Playsport ZX-5 is a handheld video camera takes still shots too.

Video is shot in resolutions up to a high-definition 1080p, and photos are at five megapixels.

While these specifications are no better than those of many smartphones, this camera is waterproof to a depth of 3m and is shock- and dust-proof too, which makes it good for all weather.

About the size of a mobile phone, the camera fitted nicely in the hand. There is a small rear screen for composing shots, and six buttons for capture and settings. A four-way pad is used to navigate menus but this was fiddly to use.

At the top of the device is a power switch and there are two latched panels either side which hide the video outputs including HDMI for which cables are included, and an SD memory card, which is not included.

The camera connects to a PC using the included USB cable which doubles as a mains charger, but the camera itself can be used to add effects and edit video. It can distribute shots to email addresses and social networks using the supplied software.

Video capture and still shots were excellent and the underwater shooting mode made our dip in the sea lots of fun. However, the camera isn't buoyant so it might be worth buying the floating strap (around £6 online).

The Kodak Playsport ZX-5 is an easy-to-use camera for all conditions – perfect if you want to leave your smartphone at home.