Would you buy a 'micro' DSLR?

These are usually mirror-less designs, enabling a DSLR sensor into a more compact body.

Panasonic and Olympus were first to the market - the Panasonic GF1 has a bit of a cult following And Ricoh have the GXR system.

Sony is bringing out the NEX 5 and NEX 3 in about a weeks time - and already people are getting really excited about them.

There may be other options too - just today I saw a Nikon patent for a mirror-less design named EVIL, so it looks like they are jumping on the micro bandwagon too.

I know I would like one! The thing that puts me off taking a DSLR everywhere is size, as usually I take Rocky with me when out and about so it's a lot to carry and look after. I was considering a Panasonic GF1/Sony Nex5/Canon G11 but think I may hold off now - wonder what the new Nikon 'micro' system will be like.. and I bet Canon are developing one too!

Yes, the GF1 or the Olympus E-P1, have been looking at them for a while, and have twice put the GF1 in a virtual shopping basket on B&H, and then stopped myself from putting in my credit card details

But, it doesn't bother me lugging my DSLR about, even with the dogs, and kids But, I would like a camera that is between my compact and my DSLR, for the quality and the smaller size.

How much are they there Moonie? I started a thread actually - 'cheapest country to buy photography equipment' - would appreciate your input there

The GF1 is about $800 USD . That's with the 20mm lens, which I like the idea of, but I like fixed lens length. The 14- 45mm lens looks good too, and if it is good as my Oly one, it's a good range. Think that's about $750 USD.

Prices are from B&H Photo.

They are about that here once you take into account the cashback, working out at £570 - whereas $800 is about £550 - not much in it.. wonder why? Thought it was meant to be a lot cheaper there :-/