CNET, Best of CES 2006

Top awards went to the Creative Zen Vision:M.

iPod killer? With a brighter screen, better battery life, and more features, the Creative Zen Vision:M certainly has the goods to give the iPod a run for its money. In addition to a voice recorder and an FM tuner, the $330, 30GB Zen Vision:M supports a wide range of video formats, works with a growing number of online stores, and is compatible with subscription services. Cementing it as our Best in Show pick is its winning design; any product that cares to take on the stylish iPod must be able to turn heads. Though it’s thicker than the iPod, the Vision:M boasts a sturdy, comfortable feel, a rainbow of color choices, and glossy good looks.

I played with one and if someone wants to build an iPod killer the first thing they need to compete on is size. Unless it’s the same size or smaller it doesn’t matter about anything else.

However, I do agree with them on the Sanyo Xacti HD1 Camcorder. I’m definitely considering ordering one before my end of season ski trip because once you have an HDTV at home all you want to show on it is HD content.