Agentless Backup is Not a Myth
Close encounters
The Flip Mino HD would certainly benefit from some kind of close-up mode, as the limitations of its fixed focus are frequently noticeable. Likewise, with the digital zoom, which, while better than most, is no substitute for an optical one. An extra memory card slot would make it more attractive too, but the Flip design concept is to avoid complication with the emphasis on ease of use, as well as look and feel.
iPhone access of your FlipShare channel to view your uploaded clips
The comparative tests with early 2010 Mino HD suggest that, to get the faster frame rate, this new model has made sacrifices with quality and appears to have increased video compression, as the definition does seem slightly impaired compared to its predecessor, but the lighter exposure does seem to work better overall.
Available in the UK from November, but not in the pretty colours US buyers get to choose from
Yet if there was one outstanding complaint, then it’s the touch-sensitive controls. On the earlier model, they seemed too insensitive, and with this version, the reverse appears to be true. Even though there are hoops to jump through to avoid accidental deletion of files, it never fails to be alarming when the lightest finger swipe can bring up the prompt: Delete video?
Verdict
The Flip Mino HD bears some comparison to the iPhone. While not the cheapest, it does have some cachet as a fashion statement. Moreover, while it doesn’t do everything that you want it to, what it does do, it does fairly well. It’s also great fun to use, finger trouble aside. It is pricey though, but given its portability, acceptable image quality and convenient on-board software, this pocket-friendly camcorder will continue to appeal to those who just want to keep it simple and get results. ®
More Camcorder Reviews... |
|||
 Creative
Vado |
 Sony Bloggie
MHS-PM5K |
 Samsung
HMX-U10 |
 Toshiba
Camileo S20 |
Flip Mino HD 8GB
COMMENTS
Better Yet...
... Get the Kodak Zi8. It's come down in price to just over a hundred pounds, has expandable storage (SDHC), replaceable battery so you can carry a charged spare around, image stabilization and a macro mode. Oh, and external mic socket.
Because an iPod Touch is a music player
Fair point, why not get an iPod. Well, as the old saying goes, it's horses for courses. The iPod is a great music player, it has more memory and greater battery life but it lacks a digital zoom, image stabilisation, a more sensibly placed lens, the "flip" USB connector and inbuilt editing software [although iMovie and even Windows Movie Maker are better] but the real killer - from my perspective, is the tripod mount.
Even using a little Gorilla tripod delivers great stable images
re: A smartphone etc.
"Plus not all of us want to buy Apple products. Some of us use our own decison making when purchasing such products rather than follow the excitable herd."
Arguably, buying a Flip would be following the herd - it's seen as the market leader, but isn't actually the best.
bluest.one mentioned most of the advantages of the Zi8 over the Flip models, but didn't mention the most important - better quality footage. It's cheaper too - you can pick a Zi8 for around £100. By all means, use your own decision making abilities, but if you think the Flip is the best option, I would advise letting others make their own decisions.
If someone already has a phone capable of taking decent footage, then it's unlikely that they really need to to buy an extra gadget to cart around, which was the point Michael C was making. iPhones aren't the only smartphone with decent video recording, after all.
IT infrastructure monitoring strategies
Agentless Backup is Not a Myth
Top 10 SIEM implementer’s checklist
Steps to Take Before Choosing a Business Continuity Partner
Enabling efficient data center monitoring
