Flip video cameras?

[sherry7]

This is a bit off-topic, but I've seen a lot of talk on here about Flip video cameras. I'm hoping you all know more about them than I do.

I'm looking at a Flip Video Ultra F260W model that is on sale today at Cowboom. According to the specs, it shoots at a resolution of VGA 640x480 with 30 fps (frames per second).

However, I checked the video specs on a digital camera that I already own (Panasonic TZ5), and it does wide aspect video at 1280x720 with 30 fps, or it can duplicate the VGA 640x480 30 fps that the Flip has.

Then I checked an older camera I have (Canon Elph SD1000...about 3 years old), and the video specs on that are also VGA 640x480 with 30 fps (same as the Flip).

So, what am I missing here? Why does everyone go "ga ga" over these Flip-style video cameras, when a regular digital camera has the same exact capabilities? Am I looking at the specs wrong or something?

 

[kleubanks]

I personally like it because a) It's small B) it's easy enough to use...on/off basically and c) I can upload easily...ie..I don't need my 12 year old's help

 

[DisneyCowgirl]

I think the thing with the Flip is how small it is and how easy to use it is. It's a fun little gadget (I have one), and I end up using it a lot more often for everyday-type stuff with the kids which I can then share online with family.

 

[sherry7]

Thanks for the replies.

Am I misunderstanding the technical specs? My Canon Elph (which is tiny) seems to have the same exact capability as the Flip video camera. Other than the Flip being small, I'm still not understanding the attraction.

 

[doggydoc]

Thanks for the replies.

Am I misunderstanding the technical specs? My Canon Elph (which is tiny) seems to have the same exact capability as the Flip video camera. Other than the Flip being small, I'm still not understanding the attraction.

I think the biggest draw for me (I have a Creative Vado HD but basically the same thing) is the built-in USB dongle and the the 1-touch youtube/facebook/photobucket upload feature. These cameras are great for video blogging or real-time trip reporting. If your more concerned with video quality then there are definitely better alternatives. Of course I got my camera for $45 so it payed for itself the first trip I took it on. The extended family loved the daily video updates and it was so esy to do I didn't mind it even after a long day at the parks.

 

[njsweetP]

I don't know the answer to your questions. I have a digital camera that I use for taking pictures. Yes, it can also take video, but eats away at my SD card, so I prefer not to do that. Check out the Kodak Playsport, there's a few threads on the budget board about it. It records in full HD 1080p. I just picked it up this week and it's a great little HD video camera, and it's waterproof up to 10 ft. For the price it can't be beat. http://www.amazon.com/Kodak-PlaySpo...1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1282161088&sr=8-1

 

[stichy]

How much do these suckers cost? I'm trying to talk DH into getting a new recorder. We've had ours for 6 years. I'd like to get it before our family reunion in disney in december.