1,089 of 1,103 people found the following review helpful:
The camcorder SHOWDOWN: I've done the product comparisons for you
If I'm going to spend more than a hundred bucks on an item or somewhere around there, I do extensive research first to know I got the best bang-for-the-buck and, consequently, dodge any potential future buyer's remorse.
I've realized that the time I spend doing my product comparisons is often time that others don't have so I may as well share what I can...
110 of 115 people found the following review helpful:
Video of the USB Flaw on Both Mac AND Acer Laptops
Customer Video Review
Length:: 1:55 Mins
We bought this camera because we lost our first generation Flip MinoHD, which we loved. I'm sad to report that the USB issues mentioned by countless others are real, and I decided it was worth posting a video that clearly shows the extent of the issue so as to help convince others not to waste their money. This simply doesn't work with Macs,...
If I'm going to spend more than a hundred bucks on an item or somewhere around there, I do extensive research first to know I got the best bang-for-the-buck and, consequently, dodge any potential future buyer's remorse.
I've realized that the time I spend doing my product comparisons is often time that others don't have so I may as well share what I can.
I'll start by saying that you'll see my "Verified Amazon Purchase" on the Flip HD Ultra Camcorder review because, obviously, that's the one I wound up buying and I'll share with you why. But what I like in a camcorder may not suit your own needs so I'll break it down and let you decide what's best for you via what I found out:
Here are the pocket camcorders I compared:
*Flip UltraHD (will be referred to as "F")
*Flip Mino HD 2nd generation (Will be referred to as "M")
*Creative Labs Vado HD 8 GB 2nd generation (Will be referred to as "CL")
*Kodak Zi6 Pocket HD (Will be referred to as "K")
*There are notes on the RCA Small Wonder at the bottom. Because that's not an HD camera, I didn't include it.
Why HD cameras only? Brighter colors and better images, wider images
HD SHOOTING TIME:
F: 120 minutes.
M: 120 minutes
CL:120 minutes
K: 25 minutes with batteries they included, 120 minutes if you buy an SD card
HOW CNET's editors rated the cameras:
F Excellent
M Excellent
CL Very Good
K Very Good
MEMORY:
F: 8 GB
M:8 GB
CL: 8 GB
K: internally only 30 MB recording space but it has 32 GB expandable SD/SDHC card slot. Because it comes with such small recording space you really need to buy an SD or SDHC card to maximize its potential, but the potential is really good and this will increase your ability to shoot longer.
SW 8GB
RESOLUTION:
All are 720p which is excellent, just one step below the top 1080p format.
MICROPHONE:
F: Stereo
M: Mono*
CL: Mono
K: Mono
SOUND:
F:Premier AAC audio. Best sound quality but still not great in winds
M:Good sound quality, not good in winds
CL:Poor sound quality; had issues with sound and picture not being in sync.
K:Poor sound quality
ZOOM:
F: 2x
M:2x
CL:2x
K: poor quality zoom on the one I tried but I still think it's 2x. It has a great macro focus for very close-up objects if, for example, you see a bumble bee and want to shoot it on a leaf a few inches away! Kinda cool.
CAMERA SIZE AND WEIGHT:
F: 4.3x2.2x1.2 4 oz
M: 3.9x2x0.6 3. 3 oz
CL: 3.9x3x0.6 3.5 oz
K: 5.5x2.5.0.9 5.6 oz
SHIPPING SIZE AND WEIGHT:
F: 6.2 x 3.1 x 3.1 inches ; 11.2 ounces
M: 2 x 0.7 x 3.9 inches ; 1 pound
CL: 3.3 x 7.9 x 6.3 inches ; 11.2 ounces
K: 4x 5x 2.5" 2.4 lbs
TECHNICAL DETAILS:
F: USB cable pops out of the back so you don't need to keep up with a separate cable. Comes with Flip Video rechargeable AA battery pack (recharges when connected to USB); also supported by standard AA batteries. Note: Some sets come with the HDMi mini included and others come with the rechargeable battery pack on Amazon. Looks like one or the other but of course if you need both you can buy the other.
M: USB cable pops out of the back on this one as well. Has child safe button to prevent accidental deletion of videos. Internal lithium ion battery recharges through built-in USB arm
CL: USB in camcorder. Included in box are HDMI cable (nice), USB extension cable,(nice)silicon skin (cool) & rechargeable battery.
K: Included in box are HD and AV cables and wrist strap and rechargeable batteries and battery charger. Has built in USB arm.
SPEED:
F: 30 frames per second.
M: 30 frames per second
CL: 30 frames per second
K: choice of 30 frames per second or 60 frames per second.
VIEWING SCREEN: All 2" except the Kodak was the largest at 2.4"
IMPORTANT NOTES:
F: Best low-light performance for the mini cameras (though not perfect at all) and least amount of blurring and dropped frames in my opinion. Best color. Only one with stereo sound. You can get an underwater case for this one! Though that may sound crazy for a Texan, we use the camera non-stop on vacations and even when we aren't IN the water, we are around the water...on boats, in the sand with sea mist, etc. Then we can dive in and record the fish. Comes preloaded with flipshare software...just plug in to computer and it pops up.
M: Colors don't appear as good on the Mino as the other cameras. Thinnest camera. Make sure you get the one that only comes in the color aluminum or brushed metal. If it comes in any other colors it is the 1st generation MinoHD and they improved upon that one in the newer models. Great audio. Better shooting in low light than most mini cameras. Camera comes preloaded with FlipShare software. Can get still images through flipshare software.
CL: Decent filming in low light but not nearly as good as the Ultra or Mino; Software is preloaded in camcorder.
K: This is the only camera that I compared without the built in image stabilizatin which corrects for shaky images. What appears to be metal in picture is actually a chrome colored plastic. That said, this had the largest viewing screen of all of them. 2.4" Very poor in low light and seemed to have far more shaking and blurring. It also takes still pictures but they are really really poor quality...same as a lesser-quality cell phone pictures but good in a pinch if you want a still shot and have no cell or camera I s'pose. Heaviest for a pocket camera. Software is not preloaded in camcorder but a cd comes with it.
And, finally, the reviews of the Flip from experts swayed me quite a bit:
Fast Company: "Flip Ultra HD is Pure Digital's "Best Pocket Camcorder Yet." 6-09
USA Today: "New Flip Ultra Video Cameras Might Flip Your Switch" 4-09
Business Week: How do you Invigorate a Recession? Look to i-phone, Flip, Kindle, and Zip Car For Answers
There were lootttts more I came across when researching the Flip Ultra HD but those are some of my favorites.
CONCLUSION: Clearest picture and sound was important to me, expert reviews that pointed to the Flip UltraHD as well and I liked the built in software and the case I can get to shoot underwater. It is the number one selling camcorder as well. So that was my personal decision-making process. However, keep in mind that if you need reading glasses none of that will matter if the 2" screen is too small for your viewing the shots easily for playback in which case you may wish to get the Kodak if that's important to you..
Also: No matter which one you get, you will probably want a mini tripod if you ever want to be in the shot yourself do don't forget those.
Also note: It's confusing because when these manufacturers make changes in the camcorders, they do not change the names on the new versions, nor do they change the names if it's an HD version or a non-HD version so be sure you look for the "HD" after the brand name and look for "2nd generation" or "newer version" on the Mino and Vado if you like one of those better so you don't get the older models.
Hope my obsessive comparing and contrasting for my own purchasing assistance helped you as well even if what you wanted in a camera was different from me. :-)
Note on the:
*RCA Small Wonder: Because some have asked about the RCA Small Wonder, It never made the final cut...it should be noted that the EZ201 Small Wonder IS NOT HIGH DEF, which, like a tv means the colors aren't as bright or as sharp (yes, it is noticeable which is why people want the HD camcorders.) The zoom lens is optical rather than digital and, on the Small Wonder you'll notice that for whatever reason this means it goes out of focus when you zoom. Even the experts rating this camera suggested walking foreward and backwards when wanting to zoom rather than using the Small Wonder's zoom because of the out-of-focus experience it causes, unfortunately. It is the same quality as a phone video: very grainy & pixelated and only meant for small screen format. It also doesn't have a pop-out usb port unlike the other cameras so you'll need to keep up with a usb cord to use it. And it only has a 90 day warranty. It also only has a mono mic rather than stereo. It is FAR below these cameras in its graininess and pixilation (it's not even a close race) but I thought it should be noted. It's just not of the same class in any way. BUT it's a great price if you don't want HD or want it for fun rather than quality; would be great for a teen or for maybe someone who wants it for documentaion...so it's noted.
*Update: According to Mino, the 2010s now have stereo mics on the Minos. However, a retest of the color and clarity has not improved.
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This Flip MinoHD camcorder is amazing-- the ideal thing for any family hoping to videotape the kids, friends, events, etc. First of all, it's completely idiot proof: when you get the box, there is absolutely no assembly required. Your first guess about which buttons are the power switch, record button, and USB connector release will be correct; great intuitive design. The device looks and feels great (as other reviewers have mentioned) and easily fits in your hand comfortably for long periods of time (unlike my blackberry). It turns on and off instantly (unlike my home computer or cell phone) so you don't have to wait long to start recording that precious, fleeting moment.
The screen is a bit larger than the previous Flip Mino, but that's not a big deal. Image quality is better than ever, and not too shaky/bouncy. The USB connector is about the same-- still very convenient, easy to connect, and you don't have to go running to find any special USB connector cable (like my old digital camera). The audio is surprisingly good, picking up faint background sounds that I hadn't even noticed at the time of recording and picking up simultaneous music and voices, near and far, with great quality. The 2-hour battery life is more than I ever use, so it's great, but I figure people who are videotaping entire concerts or watching grass grow might complain. Honestly I haven't made use of the HD resolution, but I'm sure that will be fantastic when I start making my own rainforest nature shows. In the meantime, the HD quality is better than anything I'll ever need. By the way, I know other reviewers have said they can make the camcorder freeze up by zooming in or out during recording, but mine works fine even when I do that. (I purposely tried to freeze it, but couldn't.)
I saved the best for last: the Flip Video software. That's what made it even more impressive! It is ridiculously easy to setup, automatically starts when I plug in the camcorder, and makes it completely obvious how to download the videos, play back, freeze frames to make photos, and share. And it's fast-- not much waiting for videos to load up (like other video players). It's all in an easy-to-use, well-organized (by video date) layout very similar to the iPod control panel (a common comparison, it seems). I wish all software was this easy to use.
I highly recommend this device-- it's a winner!
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We bought this camera because we lost our first generation Flip MinoHD, which we loved. I'm sad to report that the USB issues mentioned by countless others are real, and I decided it was worth posting a video that clearly shows the extent of the issue so as to help convince others not to waste their money. This simply doesn't work with Macs, and as you can see from this video it also doesn't work with an Acer Aspire One netbook (~20% of all netbooks currently being shipped). This is a fundamental flaw with the product and is completely inexcusable.
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I've enjoyed every Flip since the first Mino and this 2nd Gen MinoHD exceeds all my expectations. It's still easy-to-use and easy-to-share video; but, the package is slicker than ever. No fingerprints on the brushed metal front, the 2" screen is shows detail in any light, and the controls are much more responsive than previous Minos and MinoHDs. The audio is so good, my son's Reggae band won't give it back.
PROS:
*2" screen is big and clear
*Great HD video in normal to bright light
*Better sound than a personal voice recorder
*One thumb video shooting
*Easy uploads and edits - no format worries and YouTube friendly
*HDMI output directly to HD panels
*Brushed metal shrugs off fingerprints and nose prints (don't ask)
*Storage pouch doubles as lens cleaner
*Lickable packaging
CONS:
*Low light shots are grainy (easily solved at price points $1,000 higher)
*USB plug is a little tight
*The wrist strap was hard to mount because of the brushed metal-solved with a toothpick
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In May, 2009, I wrote a review comparing the Flip Ultra HD with the 1st generation Mino HD, and although at the time I thought the Ultra HD was a step forward, I missed the more diminutive size of the Flip Mino HD. Since then, I've been waiting patiently for Cisco to release a pocket camcorder that combined the same new features found in the Flip Ultra HD in the smaller and more compact form factor of the Mino HD. Well, they've finally done it!
The Flip Mino HD (2nd generation) is now the 3rd Flip series camcorder I've owned, and in my opinion this is clearly the best one yet! Basically, the Flip Mino HD (2nd generation) has all of the same convenient features found in the Ultra HD such as a larger 2" display, HDMI out, Stereo mic, and 2 hour HD recording capacity, in a in a sleek and newly designed Mino HD form factor. I've read many complaints about the Flip's lack of integrated image stabilizer, and I'm sure they will add that functionality in future products. However, whatever the Flip Mino HD camcorder lacks in features, it more than makes up for it in a simple, user-friendly, and ultra sleek design. There are a lot of choices available in the pocket sized video camcorder space, so if you're looking for something with perhaps a little more functionality (e.g. 1080p, replaceable battery, larger zoom, etc.) than you will need to look elsewhere.
Although the Flip Ultra HD is arguably a better value, if you're looking for a top notch pocket sized camcorder that you can take with you anywhere, I highly recommend this product. When it comes to ease-of-use, and convenience, the Flip Mino HD is a clear leader.
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I bought one of these Flip MinoHD units on Amazon as soon as they came out and have been using it for well over a month.
BUT, I also bought an RCA SmallWonder (Model EZ201) from Amazon last year, and have been using it for a year, so I have a comparison:
I expected this Flip MinoHD to be at least a little more evolved and have some attributes that my RCA unit does not.
After all, it's FOUR times the price.
Well, sad to say, I prefer the $50 SmallWonder, with it's capacity to increase memory MUCH higher (and cheaper) than this Flip Mino.
- the Flip can't increase it's onboard memory: you're limited to the 2 hrs.
Also, if your battery runs out while you're shooting (and it WILL, trust me) there's nothing you can do about it. With the SmallWonder, you just pop in another two AA batteries and you're back in business within 30 seconds.
Their claim of 2-hour battery life is ridiculous: a little over an hour is the best I can achieve.
Then there's the software (or utilities, if you will). The RCA's user-friendliness when it comes to the included utilities is MUCH better than this Flip unit. Flip markets itself as a YouTube filmer, but you struggle with their included tools to get the right video up on YouTube. very poor editing tools.
Tech support? it takes 4 or 5 emailings back and forth for them to understand the simplest of questions. One they never did answer, because they just didn't understand my question. Get this: they asked me to SEND THEM a photo of the Flip Mino, so that they could understand what part of the unit I was describing! Apparently they have never actually handled one enough to remember what it looks like.
I don't know whether it's a language barrier or just that their tech support staff needs to get around to studying for their GED, but in the two cases I had it was pathetic.
So save yourself some $$ and look at RCA's unit; they've even likely improved it in the year since I bought mine.
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The new flip minoHD is amazing! The HD quality is great and it looks just as good on larger screens as it does on the flip screen (which is bigger and much sleeker than the screen on my old one!). Also, they've increase in record time to 2 hours, which is a huge plus. I'm no longer running out of time recording - I'm finding 2 hours perfectly adequate for day to day use.
While the new minoHD clearly has a lot of upgraded features compared to the previous model, I love that it has maintained its portability and is still intuitive to use. One of my favorite new features, besides the stylish brushed metal finish :), is the HDMI output. Being able to connect the flip directly to HD panels makes it that much easier to access and share video's.
I've played around with the new iPhone's video features enough to be able to say that there's no comparison, in terms of video capture quality, stability of the video, sound, low-light filming, etc. Plus, flip comes with a robust, upgraded software package (still pre-loaded) for editing and sharing video.
I loved my old flip, but happy to find myself loving this one even more!
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I bought the Flip Mino HD (120 minutes). The box says its compatible with Mac so I thought great. I brought it home took it out of the book and tried to connect the Flip to my Macbook Pro with the built-in USB and it would not insert. I tried to insert it into my Macbook and it would not insert. I took it back to the store with my laptop and asked the clerk if he could show me how to insert it into the USB port but he could not. He took another new Flip out of the box to try to insert the connector into the USB port of the Macbook and it also would not work. Guess what? The Flip's USB connector does not connect with the Macbooks!
Just wanted to let anyone with a Mac to beware!
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I've been testing this new Flip and I'm amazed. This camera is such a huge step up from my old Mino. New features include:
- HUGE LCD screen, twice as big as the old MinoHD?
- HDMI plug on the bottom of the camera
- Form factor is more sleek and better designed
- 2 Hrs. Record Time (Up from 1 Hr on old MinoHD)
- Battery life is way improved
- Big improvement in image quality over old Mino, especially in low-light scenes
- 720p HD Record Resolution (Same as old MinoHD)
This camera is better than the first-gen MinoHD in every possible way. I love it!!! Thanks Flip!!
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A must have piece of technology. So small, yet so easy to hold and operate. So light, yet so well made. So affordable, yet such incredibly high video quality. So stylish & sexy, yet so practical. I LOVE my Flip Mino HD. 5 members of my family have a Flip and everyone agrees it's the best camera they have ever owned. BUY IT!!! Makes a great gift...especially for adults with children...or grandchildren. Fits easily in your pocket and won't fall apart when your kids throw it around. Trust me, I know.
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