What are the best pocket sized high definition video camcorders available on the market? Today’s video recorders have followed suit with other high tech devices by loading a large amount of technology into increasingly smaller packages. Which HD video recorders should you consider for your next personal purchase?
Cisco Flip MinoHD Pocket Camcorder. One of the latest in the Flip HD recorders, the Flip MinoHD has an updated metal finish giving it a more expensive appearance and feel. The pocket sized video recorder stores up to 8 GB of data on built in memory. The HD recorder comes pre-loaded with editing software-making it extremely user friendly and easy to begin using, editing, uploading and sharing video. The unit offers image stabilization, quality HD video creation-even in lower light, and uses a USB connection to work well with both Mac and PC computers. The device retails for around $125 USD.
Kodak Zi8 Pocket HD Video Camera. The Kodak Zi8 offers sharper full 1080p HD videos, easy to operate controls, storage capacity of up to 10 hours internally plus an external SD/SDHC card slot for extra storage, an external microphone jack, easy to use USB connection for uploading and charging, user friendly built in software for editing and uploading. The HD camcorder displays sharper, more true to color in low light than many similarly priced pocket units. The rechargeable batteries offer short operation time, making extra batteries necessary for lengthy usage times. The device is available in multiple colors, such as black and aqua, and retails for around $100 USD.
Creative Labs Vado HD 3rd Generation Pocket Video Recorder. The pocket sized HD recorder offers a wide angle lens, great 720p low light usage capabilities, dual purpose ear buds that can function as an external microphone for better audio focus, exposure controls to adjust quality during filming and 4 GB of internal storage. A touch pad provides simple unit operation and zoom capabilities. On the downside, the user manual is somewhat vague-making some of the operations confusing and initially difficult. The Vado HD 3rd Generation recorder currently retails for around $100 USD.
Kodak PlaySport Zx3 HD Waterproof Pocket Video Camera. The PlaySport Zx3 HD pocket camcorder offers many of the same video camera features of the Kodak Zi8 model-with more rugged, outdoor use in mind. In addition to the image stability and HD image quality of the Zi8, the PlaySport Zx3 is waterproof up to 10 feet, offers an LCD Glare shield, and a durable exterior to withstand drops and bumps. This palm sized HD recorder retails for around $140 USD.
Flip Ultra HD Pocket Video Camera 3rd Generation 8GB. The simple one button, press and record camera allows HD recording for up to 2 hours. Using image stabilization, the unit offers clear, quality HD video. The Flip UltraHD comes pre-loaded with the user friendly FlipShare software for easy editing, uploading and sharing. Additional accessories may be purchased for increased functionality, such as expanding memory or adding wide angle lens capabilities to this video camera-as well as other compatible Flip cameras. The device retails for around $140.
Toshiba Camileo S20 Full-HD Pocket Camcorder. Toshiba Camileo S20 packs a lot of HD video capability into its Smartphone sized, fold-up style design. The pocket sized camcorder offers 1920x1080p HD video with a 4x digital zoom and image stabilization in 720p. The S20 utilizes different modes of recording-including a mode for close ups and a mode for time elapsed video. The device accommodates a memory card for up to 32GB or 5 hours of 1080p storage. The large LCD screen which “unfolds” from the unit is great for previewing during shots-especially in sunny surroundings since it is able to swivel. The video recorder retails for around $100 USD.
Flip Slide HD Pocket Camcorder. The “slide” style of the Flip Slide HD video camera offers 16 GB, or approximately 4 hours, of high definition recording time-and 12 hours with its built in “Space Saver” format and FlipShare software. With its 3 inch sliding wide screen, the Flip Slide allows instant video recording and sharing capabilities. The recorder connects easily to television or computer for easy video uploading and sharing. Retail prices range from $199-$225 USD.
Sony Bloggie Touch MHS-TS20/S 8GB. Simple, one touch operation offers 1080p video and 12.8 megapixel still photos. The Sony Bloggie Touch MSH-TS20/S has a size similar to the Flip Slide HD pocket camcorder-and offers much of the same capabilities and quality for around $200 USD.
Sanyo VPC-CG102 HD Pocket Camcorder. The Sanyo VPC-CG102 is a bit larger than its competitors-but, it makes up for its size with an increase in capabilities. Offering full HD video quality, 14 MP still photos, the Sanyo VPC-CG102 also serves up a 12x Dual Range zoom option allowing for a greater viewing range of motion than most other pocket camcorders. This device retails for around $175 USD.
Panasonic TA-2 HD Pocket Camcorder. This camcorder offers full 1080P HD recording capabilities and the ability to shoot 8 MP still photographs. The latest model is waterproof, more durable, and offers greater image stabiliation and LED lighting for low light environments. The unit typically retails for less than $100, making it a great camera for the price.
