Pure Digital Flip Ultra Camcorder Review

by David Kender
Published on Sep 25, 2007 4:04 PM

 
Intro Performance
Format Auto / Manual Controls
Still Features Handling and Use
Audio / Playback / Connectivity
 Other Features
Comparisons / Conclusion Photo Gallery
Specs and Ratings


Audio (3.0)
The Flip Ultra features a built-in microphone on the front that is effective within 12 feet of recording. On the back is a very small playback speaker. That’s it. No audio level control, zoom function, wind cut, cold or hot shoe, or mic jack. This is as bare bones as you can get. But, for $180, what would you expect? Sony’s NSC-GC1 Net Sharing Cam and Aiptek’s A-HD are both devoid of audio options, as well.

Playback (4.25)
In order to play back video clips, just press the playback button located to the left of the LCD screen. The last recorded clip will begin playing within the LCD screen. Playback controls are governed by the four-way directional pad. Left and right cycle between clips, and up and down control the volume of the playback speaker. Pressing the record start/stop button shifts the Flip Ultra back into Record mode. To delete a clip, just press the delete button (with the trash can on it). A screen will appear with a frozen frame of a particular video clip accompanied by the text “Delete video?” Pressing delete again finalizes the deletion.

Connectivity (3.5)
The Flip Ultra features an exposed A/V-out jack on the left side. There is no port cover here, so watch the sand when you take this thing to the beach. Also on the left side is the feature that gives the Flip its name – a spring-loaded USB arm. Just shift the arrow button down and the USB arm pops out instantly. When you’re finished importing, just flip the arm back in place.

The biggest problem with the USB arm is that computers often have their USB ports located in odd places, or your computer may be situated in such a way that the camcorder won’t fit. In that case, you’ll need a USB extension cord. This does not ship in the box, though Pure Digital will be happy to sell you one as soon as its online accessories site is active.

 

 

 

 



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