Image quality and verdict

Aside from the USB socket, used for charging as well as data connectivity, there's a mini HDMI socket as well. However, no analogue output is provided, so it's HDMI or nothing. But at least, unlike most manufacturers, there's a cable included so you can hook up to a TV's full-sized HDMI connection straight away. In fact, the accessory bundle isn't bad, with a durable protective pouch included and AC power adapter with European and UK plug options. Toshiba has even provided a mini tripod in the box, with flexible legs for custom camcorder positioning.

So the Camileo P100 has a lot going for it, but unfortunately there is one important area which lets the side down somewhat - video quality. In good lighting, footage is quite vibrant, but colours are too brightly saturated. There's also a lack of detail when frames are examined up close. This is almost certainly due in large part to the level of compression. The top data rate equates to under 10Mbits/sec, where most AVCHD camcorders offer a maximum of 17 or even 24Mbits/sec.

Performance in low light is similarly unimpressive. Although the image is reasonably bright, particularly if the digital light mode is engaged, there's a lot of grain visible. The white balance is also quite inaccurate. A few years ago, this would have been acceptable, but lots of pocket Internet camcorders around the same price as the P100 now provide much better results, even if they do have fewer creative settings.

Verdict

The Toshiba Camileo P100 is reasonably priced at £115, and it offers quite a few more features than most pocket Internet models. The optical zoom is also something the latter camcorder format never offers. However, image quality is somewhat inferior, particularly in low light. So although there's a reasonable amount here for the money, there are better choices if merely pointing and shooting are your intention.