Low cost video cameras

ammonite

We are off on holiday and want a portable video camera to take with us.

I was looking at the Kodak Zi8 which gets good reviews:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Kodak-Zi8-Pocket-Video-Camera/dp/B002J9I3HM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1304496840&sr=8-1

but after deciding to upgrade our camera too, I noticed the Lumix PanasonicTZ20 which now records 1080 in full HD.

http://www.panasonic.co.uk/html/en_GB/News/Latest+News/Introducing+The+New+Lumix+TZ20+%26+TZ18+Cameras/6906837/index.html

I know the Panasonic is more expensive, but if I upgrade to that any way (because I like the camera), is the video camera part still exactly the same as the Zi8?

I think what I'm asking is (a) what is the difference between the video capabilities of both? and (b) is it worth buying both or will the Panasonic do everything?

I'm fairly clueless when it comes to this ! The important thing is to get a good, reasonably priced, decent quality output video camera as we won't be repeating our trip so want to preserve the memories!

Thanks in advance

spakkker

I have a 720P Kodak zx1 and minoHD. Prefer the kodak because AA rechargables and sd card storage.
These small cams are so easy and compact that you end up using them a lot more than a dedicated camcorder.
Taking stills is also a very useful feature that you will use a lot. Where the TZ20 fits size wise - not sure.

£20 less - http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002J9I3HM/ref=pd_luc_mri?ie=UTF8&m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE
- Don't forget a good few SD cards