Gizmodo Gifts
Camcorders are gadgets that seem simple on the outside, but can get complicated quickly. DV tapes, inputs, outputs, video editing software and the like can confuse and frustrate most. The Flip Video Ultra is a simple solution to complicated camcorders.
The Flip Video Ultra is a lightweight camcorder that can record up to 60 minutes of VGA-quality footage on the integrated 2 GB of memory. The most convenient feature has to be the USB adapter. Plug it into a computer and dump the video files onto your machine quickly and easily. It can also do TV-out for showing off movies directly from the cam. It is available for $150 in black or white. [Amazon]
I have to agree. This is the first camcorder my mother has used in over 15 years. I was reluctant to recommend it because I would never use it, but when I thought about it I knew it was best for her.
I was a little disappointed that I couldn't get the editing software to work immediately on my PC. I got some Macromedia error, and haven't yet resolved. I was easily able to just treat the camera like a removable drive, and drag the movie files off though, and uploading to YouTube was a snap. The quality is about what you'd expect, a bit grainy with some choppiness, but it's worth the trade-off considering that the simplicity of operation, and the fact that my girlfriend might actually use it.
Got one of these to keep in my car for those "wish I had a camcorder" moments, and it's awesome just for that. Perfect for those drunk, stupid, gotta save for later viewings, of your friends and loved ones. Even better, the price is cheap enough that you really dont have to worry to much about, unlike a $1K camcorder that you have to lug around in a ballistic case, because - God forbid it gets scratched. All in all, for the $$$, and for what it can do, it's a decent buy...
Forgot your username or password?