We pick the best camcorder designs of CES 2009, ranging from the unconventionally designed to the waterproof camcorder.
Most Unconventional: Samsung HMX-R10
 The peculiar Samsung HMX-R10 looks like a space capsule from the 50's that was dropped out of a flying saucer. We were beckoned by the camcorder's angled lens and pill-like structure. The Samsung HMX-R10 is exceedingly small and flaunts a brushed silver body that will fit in a large pocket with ease. The best part is that this little video pod captures high-definition video. If anything, the Samsung HMX-R10 is a great conversation starter. Release: Mid-2009.
Best Color Scheme: Panasonic SDR-S26
 2009 appears to be the year of color within the camcorder world, but we feel that the Panasonic SDR-S26 represents the crème de la crème of color schemes. There's just something about the three-tone blue, matte black and chrome concoction that resonates awesomeness for miles. Our images do not do the Panasonic SDR-S26 justice, for in person these camcorders stand out amongst the crowd. The Panasonic SDR-S26 also comes in red, which is even hotter. Price: $330. Release: April 2009.
Most Bling: JVC Everio GZ-HM200
 JVC went gangsta on the new JVC GZ-HM200. This pocket-sized HD camcorder struts its stuff with ample amounts of chrome trim and a mirrored LCD. We had to put aviators on to shield our eyes from the erratic light rays that were bouncing off the JVC GZ-HM200's gleaming body. Not only does this camcorder excel in the image department, but it boasts a twin-slot SD/SDHC card bay, something we haven't had the luxury of witnessing on a consumer camcorder before. The JVC GZ-HM200 has a swanky LCD track panel and a brand new ratcheting hand strap that is embedded into its bling-ridden body. 20" rims and hydraulics are sold separately. Price: $580. Release: March 2009.
Smallest: Kodak Zx1
 Kodak's new Zx1 is about the size of a medium-sized cell phone, yet it can shoot 720P 60fps high-definition video. We loved the mega-compact size of the Kodak Zx1 so much that we almost slipped it into our pocket and ran off. The Kodak Zx1 has a grippy, rubberized body and light-up menu interface. The Kodak Zx1 proves that good things do come in small packages, and in this case, size matters. Price: $150. Release: Spring 2009.
Toughest: Panasonic SDR-SW21
 It's waterproof up to 6.5 feet, shockproof up to 4 feet and dustproof. The Panasonic SDR-SW21 is the badass of this lot, flaunting a rugged, compact body and advanced gasketed port enclosures. We had fun with the first-generation Panasonic SDR-SW20, but the Panasonic SDR-SW21 looks like a day of unbridled marathon testing that we can't wait to take on. We loved the new lime green color and compact body, and the Panasonic SDR-SW21 is gearing up to be the ultimate Bahamas cam. Price: $400. Release: April 2009.
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