Lowest Price Flip UltraHD Camcorder, 120 Minutes (Black)

First impressions:

Ok, i know this is an inexpensive "camcorder" with "hd" capability. But there are a couple of things that would really make this camcorder shine. First of all, let's address the "HD" claim. I'm not sure where it is that 720p is considered to be HD. In my world, 720p is "near HD" and 1080i or p is true HD. Nikon made the same claim with their digital slr. The frame rate is set at 30 fps, according to the literature which is acceptable to me, however it'd be nice if you could select frame rates.

So far my results have been as i would expect. nice clear, crisp image. Probably very acceptable by most users. There are a few items i'd like to address, though.

The claimed minimum focus distance is 1.5 meters. For those who don't know and don't want to look it up, i did: 1.5 meters = 4.92125984 feet. I'm of the opinion that the minimum focus distance is less than that. something in the range of about 2 feet. Even still, what that means is that if your into macro-videography, forget it.

I can imagine a whole slew of after-market lens attachments to address that issue as well as provide for more customizable options. 2x teliconverter, fisheye attachments, close up lenses, specialty filters, etc. BUT!! I don't know how you'd attach anything like that because of the shape of the lens mount. There is no way to attach anything with threads. Which leads me to my next "gripe". no lens cap. gawd i hope i don't scratch that thing!!

Other shotcoming have been discussed, such as the lack of a battery life indicator, etc. I'd like to add to that. One thing i'd like to see on a future generation flip is a headphone jack and an audio level meter. It would be nice to actually be able to hear what you are reviewing in the field as well as a larger, such as kodak's 2.5", lcd.

I'm a mac user and have been able to import files without a hitch using either iphoto or the included flipshare software. No complaints there. But, i will note that i'm currently using an 04 power pc g4 mac with 1 gb of memory and experience pretty sever stuttering in playback mode. On my newer macbook pro with 4 gb of memory, that's not a problem. Also, I'm glad that flip decided to include the mini hdmi output jack. Makes unedited review of footage a snap.

So far, i'm satisfied with the fit, feel, and finish of this product and will add more later as i've put this baby through it's paces. I will also add a focus chart video that demonstrates min focus, zoom feature, and a color chart later.

For now, "Flip Out, Brudda!"Get more detail about Flip UltraHD Camcorder, 120 Minutes (Black).