HD Handheld Cameras - My experience with Flip Mino vs. Creative Vado

I thought it might be helpful for some if I share my experience with the handheld video cameras I've had over the past couple of months.

I initially saw some small HD camcorders a few months ago, and after researching, I was still undecided between the Flip Mino HD and the Creative Vado HD.

Mino:


Vado:


Looking at the features of each, you definitely see some differences, but as far as video quality, most of the reviews said the Mino was a little better.

Well, the initial choice for me came down to availability.  I forgot our traditional video camera when we left for our vacation, so we decided to stop at Best Buy to pick up a video camera since we were already planning on getting one.  Guess what?  We got the very last Flip Mino HD.

I started using it and absolutely loved it.  It takes great quality videos in usable format and it's incredibly easy to carry in your pocket, pull it out, and shoot some video on the fly.  Then, just plug it in to your computer and download the videos, upload to youtube, whatever.  It's quick and simple.

We used the camera for 2 vacations.

You may be able to guess where this is going.

After the 2nd vacation, I had it plugged in to my computer to charge it.  I left it there charging and a few minutes later my baby girl comes running in and instead of the lovely picture above, it looks something like:



Yes.  Sad day in the Hoppe house.  Anyway, I know it's my fault for leaving it there and my 2 year old is not to blame.  I even thought of the possibility of that happening before I left the room but never thought better of it.  I could still take videos, but I couldn't charge it or get the videos off, so there wasn't much we could do there.  This is what I call "stupid tax".

So we decided this time to order the Vado.  I was able to order it off amazon for almost $100 cheaper than I bought the Flip for at the store.  Check.

I got the Vado overnighted, and it arrived right before we left for our July 4th trip.  Can I just say that everything about this camera is better.  Not only do I notice no difference in the video quality, it has almost every feature that was lacking in the Mino:

* Rubberized plastic case - check (flip is glossy plastic that scratches easily)
* MUCH larger screen
* HDMI out (rather than just a 1/8" video out)
* Removable battery
* TWICE the storage space (holds over 2 hours as opposed to 1 hour)
* And here's the kicker: a FLEXIBLE connection that won't collapse like a wet noodle under pressure
* It also comes with a usb extender cable - extra protection against bricking the unit
* AND a silicone case to protect it

Can you tell which one I like more?  Yes, I am a little bitter at the Flip but I think all in all the Vado has many more features and at a better price.

note: I do have a support ticket in with Flip to see if they'll do anything for me on the broken connection.

Posted via email from Brian Hoppe's posterous