Review posted 11/16/2010

Quick Take

Pros

Produces nice clean video indoors and out Nice wide view fixed lens Simple enough for anyone to use Records up to 2 hours of HD video with no need for external memory HDMI output Handy Software bundle is already loaded on camera (no need for an install CD) Usable Digital zoom feature with slight quality loss Decent battery life at up to 1.5 hours of continuous recording

Cons

Mic picks up a good amount of background noise No optical zoom HDMI cable sold separately Does not feature a card slot for memory expansion No still image capture mode (only taking still frames from stored videos) Battery life has dropped a bit since last model (1.5 hours compared to 2.5 hours)

Bottom Line

The UltraHD is a compact and easy to use digital camcorder that should please most any user who's looking for digital video camera that will fit into a small pocket or purse. Just don't expect this little gem to out perform your larger camcorders. Read more in our Full Conclusion.

For those who want a HD video solution that can fit into your pocket, Flip Video (Cisco) offers various compact HD digital camcorder options like the UltraHD. This unit is offered in both a 4GB and 8GB model, each with a slightly different list of features. This High Definition pocket video camera sports some nice features packed into a frame that's about the size of your typical smart phone. We tested the UltraHD 8GB (2 hour) model, which offers 720p video at 60fps, a fixed lens with image stabilization, and a 2.0-inch LCD screen. The UltraHD 8GB is offered in plain Black or White for those who like to keep things simple, or for you style savvy folks, you can create a creative design using your own photos, their pre-loaded images or Flip's "Pattern Generator".


UltraHD (8GB) Key Features:

• 1/4.inch, 1.6-megapixel HD CMOS sensor
• Records 720p HD video at 60fps
  
• Bit rate of approx. 8.8Mbps
  
• 8GB of internal memory for up to 2 hours of recording
• Fixed 1.5mm wide view lens
• Built-in Image Stabilization
  
• Ultra low-light sensitivity (>1.4 lux-sec)
• 2.0-inch TFT LCD screen (320x240 resolution)
• H.264 video compression
• MP4 video file format
• Included Li-Ion Battery (lasts up to 1.5 hours), or you can use 3 AAA batteries
  
• Built-in USB arm
• FlipPort, including HDMI output

The Flip UltraHD is available now with a suggested retail price of $199 US for the 8GB model as tested, or $149 US for the 4GB model.

Included in the Box:

• Flip UltraHD video camera
• Flip Video Rechargeable Battery Pack
• Wrist strap
• Woll protective case
• User guide
• Pre-loaded Software in the camera