A Review of Flip Video Cameras

Flip Video has been successful at promoting its' products as a convenient pocket camcorder for the YouTube generation. Once you get past the novelty of having a tiny video camera, consumers will find a product that actually delivers on the marketing promises. Flip Video cameras offer high-quality digital video and ease of use on any computer.

MODEL CHOICES
Flip Video offers two basic types of models: the Ultra and the Mino. Initially, the Ultra was the entry level model, offering fewer features at a lower price. However, as newer models were introduced and both the Ultra and Mino offered HD resolution video, the price gap, as well as the features gap, has narrowed.

When deciding which Flip Video model to purchase, the choices come down to two features: recording time and video resolution. Models feature both one hour and two hour recording times, as well as high-definition video resolution and standard resolution models. High definition models record at 1280 X 720 resolution (in widescreen), while standard models record video at 640 x 480 resolution.

HOW TO USE
Operation of a Flip Video camera is quite simple and is the trademark of Flip Video's popularity. On the back is a large red button under an LCD screen that starts and stops recording. Plus and minus buttons allow for some zooming. A play button allows for viewing of what has been filmed, and a "trash" button deletes unwanted clips. On the side of each camera is a USB "arm" that "flips" out for easy download of the videos onto a computer or for viewing on a TV or monitor with a USB port.

VIDEO AND SOUND
The quality of the video the cameras record, even on standard definition models, is excellent. It is arguably better than the video captured by more expensive and larger handheld digital video cameras. Images come quickly into focus and there is little of the annoying motion blur or artifacting. Sound is surprisingly good for the low profile microphone the camera features, and the Mino HD model features a stereo microphone. Composite or HDMI (for HD models) cables are included for TV connection.

SOFTWARE
A nice feature on all Flip Video models is the built-in software, which self-installs once a camera is plugged in. The software is easy to use and allows for quick downloading, editing, and transfers. The software can easily update with an online connection. If you have a DVD burner, the software even makes burning videos to DVD a quick, painless process. The software also allows users to save a frame of video as a digital photo or upload a clip directly to MySpace or YouTube. Earlier models of Flip Video cameras used AA batteries, but newer models have a rechargeable battery pack, which provides a longer, more reliable charge than early models.

PRICE
The MSRP ranges from $150 for non-HD models to just over $200 for the Mino HD with a two hour recording time. However, prices are much lower online or in brick and mortar stores. Whether you are buying for purely recreational activities or capturing priceless family events, a Flip Video camera can meet your needs and make watching, editing, and sharing videos easy.