Kodak Zi8 creates a lot of buzz, for its awesome features at low price

Introduction

Although our first mini HD camcorder rodeo roundup crowned Cisco’s Flip UltraHD the reigning king of mini HD camcorders, six months can make a world of difference. Kodak’s new Zi8 bucks the leader by addressing many of its predecessor’s shortcomings, while systematically outdoing the competition on just about every feature. Combined with a reasonable $180 price tag, Kodak’s Zi8 now confidently struts it stuff as king of the ring.

Motorola Xoom

The 3G/4G tablet will be available for $800 at Best Buy and Verizon Wireless stores. You can also get the gadget for $600 through Verizon, if you're willing to sign a two-year contract for mobile data service (plans start at $20 a month).

Apple iPad 2 vs. Motorola Xoom

    We compare the heir apparent of Apple's tablet throne, the iPad 2, to the up-and-coming Motorola Xoom.

Yesterday, Apple showed off its fancy new iPad 2. The unit has quite a few new features and upgrades, but how does it stack up against the newly released Motorola Xoom in all the ways that count? Well, we’ve got the answers for you. We’ve compared the two units in a few ways, dueling them in sexiness, screen quality, processing power, camera quality, software availability, accessories, and price. If you’re in the market for a new tablet, look no further. We’re here to give you an idea of what each tablet brings to the table. Enjoy!

Aesthetics

Winner: iPad 2

It’s hardly fair to start out with looks, because even if you hate Apple, you have to admit that the company definitely has hardware design down pat. Few products look as good as Apple’s minimalist designs. The iPad 2 takes the great features of the iPad and smooths them over. With a flatter and beveled back, alternate white color scheme, rounded front border, and a thickness of only 8.8mm (thinner than the iPhone 4), we can’t help but get excited looking at Apple’s new tablet.