The Pocket Video Camera – Flip vs. Kodak vs. Vado
View Profile Page For Nancy Michaels
Unfortunately for me, but fortunately for you, I’ve had the lovely opportunity to own and operate all three mini pocket video cameras.
First off, if you’re not already using video in your marketing, please stop what you’re doing and get yourself a camera. Google and video are like BFF’s and many of your customers and prospects are more likely to watch video than read an article. I believe in a healthy balance of both. (Just look at my blog)
Now, for the moment of truth…which camera takes all?
Let’s start with this point – no matter what camera you decide on, ALWAYS get HD (high def).
Flip HD: Probably the most popular of the three, but not necessarily the best. The Flip HD camera has a small screen for viewing and taking footage. While easy to use, the quality of the footage is not as good as its two competitors. Plus, it will only allow you to record 60 minutes of footage at once before you have to whip out your computer, unload and can get back to shooting. (Price: $158-$199). Perfect for kids or college students.
Kodak HD: Kodak is The Flip’s biggest competitor, but not not our favorite of the three cameras either. It doesn’t seem to be “built to last” and became easily rattled as I transported in my purse. The microphone always was less than acceptable, which may be why Kodak heavily pushes an external plug-in mic as an accessory. It has a larger viewing screen and it definitely a step up from the Flip HD. (Price: $179-$199)
Vado HD: Easy to use and built with a great internal mic, the Vado HD is our top pic. I needed something a little more durable and long-lasting. It takes great footage, is especially easy to use, has high resolution, and can record longer than its competitors. It’s easily compatible with a Mac or PC and intuitive to use. Our top pic for business owners and entrepreneurs looking to utilize video in their marketing strategies. (Price: $129-$199)
I’ve tested all those cameras, and I far prefer the Flip ULTRA HD (latest model) for the following reasons:
1) Better — FAR better — low-light performance than the other two.
2) Better sound. Perhaps you found the Vado’s sound better in a particular place, under a particular set of circumstances. In my video-rich life, I find the Flip’s sound better overall. Not that it’s great mind, you, compared with my broadcast-quality Panasonics and my wide collection of special-purpose microphones. But at least I can get clear voice from the Flip if I’m fairly careful to position my subject away from background noise sources.
3) The made-to-fit solid plastic Flip waterproof case is more rugged and gives better pic quality not only underwater but in extreme weather conditions than the Vado’s flexible waterproof bag. This is seriously important to me, since my main reason for buying my first (SD) Flip was to take underwater and canoe footage without risking my high-end cams.
BTW, the Flip Ultra holds 120 minutes of video, not 60. You pointed to the Flip Mino, which I don’t like at all.
Indeed, the biggest reason (aside from the lack of a suitable waterproof case) I dislike the Mino is the same reason I don’t want either a Kodak or Vado cheapie: proprietary batteries. I have stacks of rechargeable AA batteries around. Why do I want something non-standard to fill my pockets or camera bag? Geh.
We have a flip. I hate the stupid thing. We just got a replacement after 90 days of use it just stopped working. New batteries wouldnt turn on. They replaced.
So after much thought and reading. We are going to try a vado. When our money train comes in. For now we use our cell video camera.