The Flip Video records video with a push of a button to its internal flash memory. The video can be transferred to your PC or Mac with its flip-out USB connector or connected to your TV (or other video equipment) with the included video cable. It is available in two capacities: a 512 MB version that records up to 30 min. of video for $119, and a 1 GB version recording up to 60 min. of video for $149.
The video quality of the Flip Video falls somewhere between a mobile phone video and a low-end MiniDV camcorder (~$250). It records video in a compressed AVI format at 30 fps, and includes a 2X digital zoom feature. However, when using the digital zoom, you should expect a serious drop in image quality. The Flip Video includes a 1.4" LCD screen thats used as a viewfinder and for reviewing recorded video. It also includes software making it easy to email, or upload your videos to the Internet (ie. YouTube).
dimensions: 4.1 x 2.3 x 1.3 inches; weight: 4.8 ounces
The Flip Video should be considered if you are looking for a very easy-to-use, very cheap, every day camcorder, and you don't place a high priority on video quality. If you do, you may want to consider higher-quality, more expensive alternatives.
Pure Digital Technologies, Inc. is a San Francisco, CA based company specializing in one-time-use video and digital cameras. They have partnered with retailers like CVS pharmacy, having them support their Pure Digital imaging platform for in-store 1-hour photo and video processing services.
