Considering the diminutive proportions of this ultra-compact, the NV3 does more than take photos and shoot video - also included are an mp3 player, a text document reader and a personal media player that comes with PC-based software to convert your movies into MPEG4 video you carry with you in your pocket.

The NV3 is physically very tidy and compact. Its metal body is finished in matt black with rounded edges, subtle blue embellishments and shiny silver buttons – the build quality is also excellent.

Even the USB charging cable looks good, lighting up either red or green to indicate the battery status. If you want to charge up away from the computer, a standard 3-pin plug adapter is provided containing a USB socket. You also get a pair of earphones, with an optional docking cradle and leather carry-pouch available as extras.

While the multimedia functions may appeal to some, it could be said that the NV3 simply tries to do too much – and over-complicates itself in the process. Having a full auto mode, program mode and 11 scene modes is good, but some of the additional special effects are unlikely to see much use outside of the demonstration room.

For example, it’s tricky to achieve creative control over depth of field with such a tiny lens, so the NV3 tries to fake it with screen overlays and image processing effects. Obviously you can ignore functions like this, but to most users they’re simply cluttering up the menus – which aren’t the easiest to navigate in the first place.

The main menu button gives access to most setup functions, but others such as ISO adjustment or colour effects are accessed by pressing buttons labelled simply “+/-“ or “E”. These sort of make sense once you’re familiar with the menus, but when shooting it’s possible to find yourself in a mode you can’t exit quickly, during which time the moment passes.

Image quality is generally fairly good. The built-in shake reduction function works well and usable pictures can be taken right up to ISO 1000, although they do suffer from a marked decrease in colour saturation when pushed this far.

The 2.5-inch LCD could also do with being a little larger, especially in the light of the NV3’s PMP functionality. The display also suffers somewhat at night as it doesn’t ‘gain up’ to give you a clearer view in darkened environments.

Aside from these niggles, the NV3 is a very stylish, feature-rich camera that’s capable of taking good pictures. The mp3 and PMP functions, while genuinely usable, are no match for a dedicated device, but at this price you’d be foolish to complain.

Also consider:
Casio Exilim EX-770 digital camera
The EX-770 is an extremely capable, stylish and portable camera that’s ideal for beginners with enough photo control in a compact for more advanced photographers

Pentax Optio T-20 digital camera
An elegant ultra-compact with a big touch-sensitive screen and a compendium of options ranging from the surprisingly useful, to the outright gimmicky

Ricoh Caplio R5 digital camera
A powerful camera with useful features rather than gimmicks and surprisingly good performance