1. Sony Handycam HDR-CX550V
Sony's Handycam HDR-CX550V records 1920 x 1080 video in the AVCHD format to 64GB of internal flash memory. In addition to its generous storage capacity and high quality video capture, the camcorder has a huge, 3.5-inch touch screen display. It also packs another surprise: a built-in GPS receiver. You can use the receiver to pull up a map of your current location on the camcorder's LCD while you film, or use it to locate your videos on a map when you're all done.
2. Panasonic HDC-TM700K
Panasonic’s HDC-TM700 is a high definition camcorder that records 1920 x 1080 video in the AVCHD video format. It features a 12x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilization, 32GB of internal flash memory, face detection and a 3-inch touch-screen LCD display. It’s the flagship of Panasonic’s 2010 flash memory camcorder line up with a retail price of $999.
3. Canon Vixia HF21
Canon's Vixia HF21 is a high-end, high definition model that records to 64GB of internal flash memory. Aside from sharp HD video quality at 24Mbps, it has two SDHC card slots with relay recording, which automatically switches to memory formats when one fills up. A 10x optical zoom lens, face detection, "smart auto" mode and a 3.5-inch touch-screen LCD display round out a very strong feature set for this $1,399 camcorder.
4. Kodak PlaySport
Kodak's Playsport is a pocket camcorder so it's not as fully-featured as competitive HD camcorders on this list, but it also has some virtues these other models don't: it's waterproof (up to 10 feet) and much easier to use. This $150 camcorder is inexpensive, lightweight and delivers 1920 x 1080p HD video recording. It will set you back $149 and records to SDHC memory card (not included). You can see a list of the best pocket camcorders here.
5. JVC Everio GZ HM550
JVC's GZ-HM550 is a high definition camcorder with built-in Bluetooth, 32GB of internal flash memory, a 10x optical zoom and face detection. It retails for $799. While the Bluetooth functionality lets you geotagg videos and use your smartphone as a remote, the HM550's lightweight design and video quality should be your primary motivation to buy.
6. Flip UltraHD (2 Hour)
Cisco's $199 Flip UltraHD 8GB (2 hour) is an HD pocket camcorder that records 1280 x 720 video at 60 frames per second. The popular Flip series got some nice upgrades for 2010, including image stabilization and the ability to add accessory devices (microphones, lenses) via a FlipPort connection. That gives the Flip some added functions for those who want them, without forcing you to pay for them up-front.