Pure Digital Technologies is a pioneer of mobile phone-style video cameras, and the Mino HD is the smallest, most pocketable camcorder we've come across. It’s just 16mm deep, and that means you can slip this camera into all but the tightest of jeans pockets without a problem.
As with other HD pocket video cameras the Mino only records in a maximum of 720p (saved in H.264 MP4 format), but you do get 4GB of internal memory, which is enough for up to an hour of HD footage.
Simple SimonIt’s simplicity itself to use: whip it out, turn it on, hit the red button on the rear and you're away. Inevitably, it's clearly not the best equipped pocket video camera around, but this doesn't seem to matter too much when it comes to the business of using it and playing around with the results.
That's because the Flip Mino HD produces excellent footage, regardless of the resolution. Its automatic white balance and colour reproduction is excellent, focus from the fixed lens is sharp and it's usable in low light as well.
And let's not forget the built-in viewing and editing software. It’s straightforward to use, with simple options for editing clips, uploading to video sites such as YouTube, burning DVDs and also sending video via email.
Watch it on the small screenThe Flip Mino HD isn't without its drawbacks, though. There’s no HDMI port to complement the HD recording option, and the lens is fixed.
You get 2x digital zoom, but no optical zoom. And, the screen – just 1.5in diagonally – is definitely on the small side. It is at least transflective, so it’s easier to see outdoors.
So there’s no HDMI or zoom lens, but if you can live without these the Flip Video is a tempting little camera. There’s competition from the Toshiba Camileo H20, which costs the same but offers 1080p shooting, twice the screen size and more creative control. And, for a similar amount of portability, you should see the Creative Vado HD, which offers a similar design but has 8GB of storage instead of 4GB, as well as a half-inch larger screen. But if you’re after the ultimate in portability - and for an excellent price - the Mino HD is where it’s at.
Author:Dave Stevenson
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