Canon HG10

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For connectivity, the HG10 provides you with practically every option you would need. You can output the video using composite, component, as well as direct HDMI. It actually features an HDMI slot so you can use a standard cable instead of a custom conversion cable. You can access the files on your computer via USB. There's no firewire option though.

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As far as picture quality goes, the Canon HG10 is quite brilliant. It is well capable of capturing the right amount of detail level even in video mode to qualify as real 'high definition'. The colors look very natural with the right amount of saturation, without any of the dreaded compression marks that plague lower-end HD camcorders.

The HG10 shot without hiccups even under low lighting conditions, but I wouldn't advise going gung-ho with it at night, as that's where it tends to take a while to get the right focus. But that's an inherent problem with camcorders anyway.

The overall audio clarity was very clear. Even the sound from behind the camera was well recorded. But as always, the camera mics are placed a little too close together to get any real channel separation.

At Rs 75,000, the HG10 is obviously not meant for the casual user. Enthusiasts and semi-professionals who can truly appreciate the quality output could definitely give it a look.