Best mini video recorder to take to Disney?

[JenSop]

Hi Everyone!

I was hoping for some recommendations for small/mini camcorders to take to Disney. What do you use? What do you like best about yours? (Whatever we get would have to be Mac compatible.)

I've been reading stuff online and have seen lots about the Flip (which I know is not going to be made anymore, but it still gets fab reviews) and the Kodak Playsport, but DH also saw some stuff in the catalog that's put out for musicians and he thought that maybe something like that would be a good option. (We're both musicians.)

We were even thinking about just using the video feature on our digital camera, but videos really eat up the memory cards and the batteries on it.

Please help! Thanks!

 

[lsenquiz]

We bought the Flip HD for our trip last year and loved it. It takes great videos even in bright light. We also found a case on amazon that it fits in with a belt clip so my husband carried it around on his belt so it was easy to carry and easy to get to. We find if we take anything bigger than that it stays in the bottom on the stoller and we come home with no video.

 

[sharona]

I just bought the playsport and have been testing it out in anticipation of our trip next month. So far, I love it. Very easy to use and great video. Very sharp even when played back on our big tv. I haven't tested the waterproof feature yet but I will when we get to the WPs!

Not crazy about the cheap, unadjustable strap and glare can be an issue when you're in bright sunlight.

 

[Mickey's Best Girl]

We just used my DD's iPod Touch 4th Gen. It took great video, photos and sound clips from around the park and fit right in a pocket.

Definitely not an inexpensive option though.

 

[TeaForTulips]

I have the Kodak Play Sport. Love it. My digital camera takes great video, but I wanted something small and easy that would allow me to record in an instant. Don't want to miss any of those Disney moments!

I like that it is ok if it gets wet. (after reading the water proof details I don't plan on using it *in* water, but don't mind a little water from rain, rides, etc)

I went ahead and bought a larger memory card for it because when you record in the better HD option it of course takes more space. I think with the card I purchased I get a little over 4 hours on the best HD option. I don't have it near me now to check, but if you PM me I can give you that detail if you are interested.

It seems so many of the nicer options took the price much higher and they all seem to have such a short time battery life. The play sport also a decent zoom for its size. For the cost and the options I went with it and do not regret it at all!

 

[sharona]

I have the Kodak Play Sport. Love it. My digital camera takes great video, but I wanted something small and easy that would allow me to record in an instant. Don't want to miss any of those Disney moments!

I like that it is ok if it gets wet. (after reading the water proof details I don't plan on using it *in* water, but don't mind a little water from rain, rides, etc)

I went ahead and bought a larger memory card for it because when you record in the better HD option it of course takes more space. I think with the card I purchased I get a little over 4 hours on the best HD option. I don't have it near me now to check, but if you PM me I can give you that detail if you are interested.

It seems so many of the nicer options took the price much higher and they all seem to have such a short time battery life. The play sport also a decent zoom for its size. For the cost and the options I went with it and do not regret it at all!

Based on recommendations, I got a "class 10" SD card. It's only 2 hours hd but that should work for me. I do plan on submerging it and using it when we snorkel and in our pool.

 

[TeaForTulips]

Based on recommendations, I got a "class 10" SD card. It's only 2 hours hd but that should work for me. I do plan on submerging it and using it when we snorkel and in our pool.

I planned on using it in pool, but after reading:

"Wipe off water or debris. If the camera was used in chamically treated water or saltwater, rinse in freshwater, then use a soft towel to dry it.
If water has entered camera, remove the battery/card. Allow camera to air-dry for at least 24 hours before using."

I don't want to get stuck having to dry it for 24 hours while on vacation. Perhaps this is rare but since it is in the user guide I figure it must happen often. Its not worth it for me. Still love it though!

 

[CathieArms]

I have a JVC HD one that dh bought me last Christmas. It's fully compatible with my Mac. I honestly don't know the exact model on it - and I would *never* have purchased a JVC if I'd been in charge - but I *LOVE* it. It's better by far than my old Canon I had that didn't last nearly as long as it should've!

 

[LuvMyEAR]

While I don't advocate that others not follow manufacturers' instructions, I confess to NEVER having removed the battery pack, or doing anything beyond a quick swipe of a towel.

I bought my PlaySport last summer and it has been used extensively in our backyard pool, at Blizzard Beach, several resort pools, Kali River Rapids, etc, etc. It taking AMAZING underwater movies and photos! Not to mention, it has been my constant companion during my grandsons' first hockey season, and recorded many other family events.

It is easier to download than from our regular camcorder, and the playback on our 42" tv is excellent.

My only caution would be to NOT open any compartment of the camera unless the external housing was completely dry.

 

[jegsnakkernorsk]

this thread is very helpful. I'm in the market for my trip next month. Looking for something smaller and lighter than this one...

 

[TeaForTulips]

While I don't advocate that others not follow manufacturers' instructions, I confess to NEVER having removed the battery pack, or doing anything beyond a quick swipe of a towel.

I bought my PlaySport last summer and it has been used extensively in our backyard pool, at Blizzard Beach, several resort pools, Kali River Rapids, etc, etc. It taking AMAZING underwater movies and photos! Not to mention, it has been my constant companion during my grandsons' first hockey season, and recorded many other family events.

It is easier to download than from our regular camcorder, and the playback on our 42" tv is excellent.

My only caution would be to NOT open any compartment of the camera unless the external housing was completely dry.

Thats awesome! That makes me feel better about using mine under water. Thanks!

 

[JenSop]

this thread is very helpful. I'm in the market for my trip next month. Looking for something smaller and lighter than this one...

Haha! Oh wow - now that's going back in time!

 

[JenSop]

Thanks for all the great responses so far everyone!

We're still on the fence. Now I think we're leaning towards the Zoom Q3HD because of it's superior audio recording. The original idea for the camera was for Disney, but since we're musicians, we thought it might come in handy for recording performances - i've got an operetta recital next month and we have a successful Christmas caroling business - and it might be nice to get some of this stuff recorded for our websites.

Although I DO like the water proof nature of the Playsport. Definitely not a feature of the Zoom. (And the Playsport is a lot cheaper than the Zoom...)

 

[momofgilliam]

We have a Flip and I love it! I use it for everything!

Good luck with your decision!

 

[bolognehead]

Flip, easy to bring on rides too

 

[scrapbookmommy]

Just ordered the playsport and the water proof feature was the main reason for my choice. Can't wait to try it out at the pool and water slide!