Great New Pocket Camcorders
These affordable, portable, Web-friendly pocket camcorders are strong competition for the popular Flip Video camcorder, and in some cases offer superior features for less money.
Kodak Zi8
from $149.99
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The Kodak Zi8 is the successor to the very satisfying Kodak Zx1, and the improvements are huge. For starters, the Zi8 offers full 1080p high-definition video recording while most other pocket camcorders are stuck with the lower-resolution 720p. The Zi8 is also capable of snapping still photos with its 5-megapixel CMOS sensor, a nice perk that you won't find on the current Flip models. Most interestingly, the Zi8 introduces electronic image stabilization which, while not as good as optical IS, should provide some respite from the shaky clips most pocket camcorders provide. |
Samsung HMX-U10
from $139.24
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The Samsung HMX-U10 is the brand's first attempt at a pocket HD camcorder, and it's a big step in the right direction. Like the Kodak Zi8, the Samsung U10 offers full 1080p high-definition resolution videos and a still photo mode. The U10, however, has a 10-megapixel CMOS sensor, twice as many pixels as the Zi8. The U10 blurs the lines between camcorder and digital camera, though it still lacks a lot of the benefits of the latter device, namely image stabilization and optical zoom. Nevertheless, the U10 is definitely worth keeping an eye on. |
RCA EZ300HD
from $106.95
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The RCA Small Wonder EZ300HD is an excellent option for budget-seeking consumers who still want decent video quality. The EZ300HD is a high-definition pocket camcorder that shoots videos in 720p. Despite its low price, it does also include a still photo mode, which enables it to take 5-megapixel photos. Not too shabby for a low-end model. One way the Small Wonder tries to stand out from the crowd is by including a unique, flip-out lens that swivels around to provide interesting shooting angles and even self-portraits. It's a quirky design that can be a lot of fun. |
