Review: The Flip video camera

Today we take a look at the Flip video camera by Cisco Systems.

 

© photo courtesy of: Cisco Systems

What is it?
The Flip is a simple, plug-and-go digital video camera. Designed with portability and ease-of-use in mind, it's aimed to be the world's most convenient video camera to date.

But what's so special about it? 
Well, for starters, the Flip can interface with just about anything with a USB port. This makes the Flip ideal for presentations and uploading on the go. If you're an instructor or researcher and have case studies in mind, this is definitely something to look at.

The Flip features a sharp, well-lit LCD screen for easy viewing as well as large, easy-to-use buttons that can all pretty much explain themselves. The camera also comes with a pouch for easy storage as well as TV-Video adapter cables for easy, full-blown picture viewing. By the way, did I mention this thing is easy?

© photo courtesy of: Cisco Systems

How about customization? You can order your Flip direct from the manufacturer with any kind of styling you like (which is great, because I prefer a camera that doesn't look like a Tic Tac). 

But how's it perform?
Our model has nearly 4gb of storage and can record up to 2 hours of video. The Flip saves videos in MPEG-4 format, which is a compressed version of MPEG-2, and explains the relatively lengthy recording duration. But unfortunately for the Flip, this also means that video quality is compromised in comparison to its larger (and more expensive) cousins.

But actions speak louder than words, right? Take a look at the clip below of the author and his attempt at emulating Led Zeppelin.

On the bright side, the Flip is also now available in HD if the video quality isn't up to your standards.

OK, so how much?
The Flip starts off at about $150, but can go upwards of $230 depending on the model and storage you opt for. If you choose to customize it, you can expect an even higher price tag.

Any issues?
The first issue I have with the Flip is that it doesn't take photos. If pictures are your thing, you'll have to bring your OTHER digital camera along, which sort of defeats the purpose of the Flip's ease of portability.

Something to also look out for is that the Flip can only store as much as its model permits. There is no slot for an SD card or anything like that. 2gb means 2gb, 4 means 4, etc., etc..

One last thing to consider (and perhaps most importantly) is that newer cell phones are beginning to rival the picture quality and recording duration of the Flip. Granted, these phones often retail for double, triple, or even quadruple the price of the Flip, but it goes to show that technology is improving. Eventually, the Flip will be obsolete.

What's the bottom line?
If you already own a smart phone, the Flip probably isn't for you. But if you're like me and don't have the hundreds of dollars to shell out for an iPhone (or the monthly service charges), perhaps you should take a look at it. The Flip is convenient, fun, and makes great use out of video recording... and videos are cool.