Samsung HMX-U20

Although it lacks a catchy name (like Flip or Bloggie), Samsung's 2010 entry into the ultra-compact camcorder space may be worth a closer look. What separates the HMX-U20 from the pack is its 3x optical zoom, full 1920x1080 full HD video capability (30fps using H.264 compression), and USB and HDMI connectivity options.

To quickly upload your HD vids and recharge from a PC, Samsung has included a built-in USB connection that swings out from the side panel. There's also an adjacent HDMI-out port, so you can play your movies directly onto an HDTV or monitor.

To accommodate these ports, the U20 is shaped more like a deck of cards with the lens on the front and a 2-inch LCD screen on the back. And like a card deck as you shuffle, the rectangular camcorder body is slightly curved or angled seven degrees, which is apparently to provide a better, ergonomically-friendly grip.

On the software side, there's a one-touch upload-to-YouTube button. An image stabiliser and the option to capture 8- or 10-megapixel digital stills rounds out the feature set.

Available in black, silver, blue and red, the U20 will be on the Australian market by the end of March for an estimated RRP of AU$299.

Its swing-out-style USB connector lets you recharge or transfer files easily. (Credit: Pam Carroll/CNET Australia)