Samsung claims video captured by the standard-definition SMX-K40 can appear to be full HD-quality thanks to upscaling technology and HDMI out, but that hardly seems likely. Still, there are some things to recommend this 480p camcorder — for example, an over-the-top 52x optical zoom that digitally goes up to 65x, and optical image stabilization to make that zoomed-in content watchable.

The HDMI port is a welcome addition to be sure, but we're not convinced it will fool anyone looking for HD quality. If all you're after is standard definition though, this looks like a decent option. It costs $329.99 (maybe a little steep for an SD camera, admittedly) and will be available this August, but you'll need to drop a few more bucks for an SD card since the SMX-K40 has no internal storage.

Its more expensive cousin the SMX-K45 has a built-in solid-state drive if that's more your style.