I am in the middle of deciding whether to purchase another cheap $100+ digital camera or blow some savings on a DSLR, but with the new video mode I suddenly have another option.
What is the least expensive DSLR with video HD mode on the market today? Do any of these come with a lens?

Thanks

Canon EOS Digital Rebel T1i (http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=139&modelid=18385)

If you want 1080, right now, I think your only choice is the 5D Mark II. You have to wait for the Panasonic GH1 in a few weeks.... or the T1i, which does 1080, but only 20fps, so may not do what you want.

Wait, if you can.

The Nikon D5000 was just announced, but it looks like 720p/24 is all we are getting out of it. I hope it is at least better than the D90. The Jello effect that it has only allows me to use it for detail shots. I was hoping for something that would hang with 5D. Maybe they will announce a D400 and surprise us all.

Early hands-on reports suggest it has the same video performance as the D90, with the same jelly-effect.

Michael,

I read that this morning and was disappointed. I was hoping for something a little better than the D90. Honestly, I've been using the D90 to shoot some HD detail shots during Bridal Prep and various shots during the reception. I haven't used it as a full on video camera yet. It works great, if you don't turn it. Maybe the current Nikon sensor can't handle 1080p/30 at this point and we will have to wait for the next generation. I'd love to know if the D400 is just a rumor or if it will ever see the light of day. If I didn't have so many Nikon lenses, I'd buy the Canon 5D.
From what I've read, the Panasonic is also only 24p as well. I'd really like something that can at least do 30p. Maybe the Red Scarlet is a good option after all.

From what I've read, the Panasonic is also only 24p as well. I'd really like something that can at least do 30p.

1080p24, 720p30, & 720p60. Everything anyone could want.

1080p24, 720p30, & 720p60. Everything anyone could want.

25p would be nice.

or the T1i, which does 1080, but only 20fps, so may not do what you want.

Canon rep at NAB:

1) Do NOT expect firmware for the EOS! And, stop crying!

2) The 1080p20 is only a gimmick for the Rebel. He claims it can't even be played out via HDMI. He says the Rebel is a 720p HD video recorder.

I have edited 1080p20 in iMovie 09 and exported at 20fps. Clip is up ar ExposureRoom. In theory, when you play it, each frame will be repeated 3 times and thus less motion judder.

The problem with ER is that getting perfect playback is very hard. Better to download the file.

As Chis has posted, it looks very good.

PS: must see what an export at 59.94 will look like on HDTV.

PS 2: Why would you want a DSLR. No VF for shooting outdoors. No articulated LCD. They are not really built for shooting video. The GH! solves all these problems and is only $1500.