Samsung HMX-W300

Samsung HMX-W300 review

Any stills camera worthy of even passing consideration now has a high-definition video mode tacked on. With the HMX-W300, Samsung has turned things around and video comes to the fore in a quirky, versatile and very fun little package that's robust and waterproof.You can pick one up for around £125. The design is spot-on for this kind of device. It immediately feels familiar as it's roughly the same height and width as an iPhone. The front of the case is dominated by a large colour screen that's highly reminiscent of the iPod Photo. The key controls are arranged around a circle at the centre, much like an iPod classic. In many ways though, it's a much better option than an iPhone -- and many rival smart phones -- when it comes to shooting video. For starters, video is its primary function. It's not simply an extra feature bolted on to a communications device. This has enabled Samsung to position the lens where it works best -- three-quarters of the way up the back of the case, slap bang in the centre. This is a far better position than the iPhone's camera, which sits in the corner. It means you can hold it securely with a second hand at the top of the case without your fingers obscuring the lens.