Creative Vado Camcorder Review

Conclusion
We've already said this in relation to our reviews of the Flip camcorders, but it bears repeating: these ultra-light pocket-sized camcorders have little in common with traditional entry-level camcorders. They are incredibly compact, inexpensive, and easy to use, but the video performance can't compare to what you would get for a few hundred dollars more.

In the case of the Creative Vado (MSRP $99.99), most consumers are probably trying to choose between it and its nearer competitors, like the Flip series from Pure Digital, the RCA Small Wonder, and the new Kodak Zi6. Of those listed, the Vado is certainly the cheapest. It's no surprise that Creative cut some corners in order to offer that $100 price point ($80 less than the Flip Mino or Kodak Zi6). Unfortunately, cutting those corners often meant delivering an inferior product. Yes, the construction is cheaper—on our Vado, the AV port was unreliable and the tripod mount snapped right off—but it's more than that. Just how much does $80 buy you? With the Flip Mino, you also get much better-looking video, better audio, built-in editing software, higher quality construction, plus a wrist strap, a carrying pouch, and an AV cable (for use in the fully functioning and reliable AV port). Eventually, the $80 price difference isn't a good enough excuse. The Flip is a better buy in every regard.

For the average consumer, the Vado is probably good enough for YouTube. It is light, cheap, and does, in fact, record video. Unfortunately, that video just isn't very good.

Comparisons

	Pure Digital Flip Mino Aside from a higher price tag, the Mino outclasses the Vado in nearly every respect. In bright light, in low light, in audio, and in editing, the Vado simply can't compete. We admit that the glossy black surface of the Mino is prone to fingerprints and that the USB connector is more gimmicky than practical, but the quality of video produced by the Flip Mino completely overshadows what we saw on the Vado.
	Pure Digital Flip Ultra The Flip Ultra, like the Mino, offers higher quality video than the Vado. And with a more comparable price tag, it seems to be the more likely competition. With better performance, the Ultra's only sticking point for some will be the reliance on AA batteries. You can even get the Flip Ultra in pink.
	RCA Small Wonder EZ201 We haven't put the RCA Small Wonder EZ201 through our lab testing, but we do like that you can use removable SD/SDHC memory cards for recording. It also has a unique flip-out LCD that lets your subject see what's being recorded. We can't be sure how the performance might compare, but the "High Resolution" option is promising. Like the Flip Ultra, the EZ201 runs on AA batteries.
	Panasonic SDR-SW20 The video quality is better on the Panasonic SDR-SW20. Plus, it's waterproof. But it also isn't as portable or easy to use. The Vado is tiny compared to the SDR-SW20 and comes equipped with software to help you instantly get your videos on YouTube. We think snorkeling tourists will clamor for the SW20, but most others will sacrifice video quality to opt for the trendier, ultra-compact Vado.
	JVC GZ-MS100 If you're looking for a more serious camcorder that offers easy YouTube uploading, the JVC GZ-MS100 is a decent choice. For a couple hundred dollars more, the MS100 offers a good selection of manual controls and much better video performance than the Vado. On the downside, the JVC's upload software has to be installed from a disc and with more than four buttons, it's not quite as accessible as the fool-proof Vado.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters
A camcorder invented for this demographic. But with no built-in editing software and poor video performance, the Vado can't stand up to the competition.

Budget Consumers
Even more so than those it strives to emulate, the Vado is as cheap as it gets.

Still Photo / Video Camera Hybrid
There is no still photo feature hiding beneath this plastic shell.

Gadget Freaks
It's not as gimmicky as the spring-loaded USB on the Flip, but its tiny size might lure in extreme videographers who can't afford to damage another prosumer model in the Arctic or Sahara. The Barbie color scheme might interest pink-loving gadgeteers.

Manual Control Freaks
Are probably not reading this review. If they are, it bears repeating: the Vado has absolutely no manual controls.

Pros / Serious Hobbyists
Some pros like to have a small, cheap, durable camcorder. Unfortunately, the Vado's video performance would never stand up to the scrutiny of video enthusiasts.