I'd choose a digital camera with video capabilities over a mini camcorder. At least you can use the camera to take pictures as well

The image quality of both is probably about the same. Just make sure before you buy that the camera does have video capabilities, and go for the best optical zoom and mega pixels that you can afford. Ignore digital zoom. My current camera is 10 mega pixels and 12 optical zoom, but my old camera was 4 mega pixels and 3 optical zoom which was just fine, took nice clear video and pictures. I currently have to edit my videos to make them smaller and less clear or they are too big to upload to you tube so sometimes older is better

The number one question I get asked when taking Pleo's out in public is 'Is it real?' lol usually followed by 'Where can I get one?', and then 'how much?' People tend to only come and take a look if they are interested

I also carry some blank business cards with me so I can scribble down this site and PleoWorld for people who are really interested.