DVFormat says Web 2.0 awakens new camcorder segment

DMN Newswire--2009-1-14--The consumer camcorder market remains one of the most complex and dynamic CE categories to date despite witnessing fairly modest unit growth in recent years. Now, the emergence of a new breed of low-cost, back-to-basics pocket video camera is connecting with a fresh base of consumers, opening the market to a host of non-traditional camcorder brands.

According to the article, pocket video cameras lead the way and High Def camcorders are on the rise. Non-traditional camcorder brands such as Pure Digital/Flip, Aiptek and DXG are currently dominating the PVC segment and applying pressure to traditional A brands.

Moving forward, there is clearly an opportunity for the industry to further revitalise consumer interest in the camcorder segment, despite the current economic climate, and Futuresource will continue to closely monitor developments in this market.

Check Flip Mino HD, Kodak Zi6, Aiptek and DXG mini camcorder prices

Head over to DVFormat for the full article.

Pure Digital Flip Mino HD reviewed by LaptopMag

From the review:

Unlike the Kodak Zi6, which can record at VGA resolution or 720p at either 30 or 60 frames per second, the Mino HD just does 720p video at 30 fps. That’s not necessarily a bad thing; 60 fps is only necessary in the fastest-moving situations, plus it eats up battery life faster than 30-fps video. We respect Pure Digital’s effort to simplify the experience for users.

Overall, we were impressed with the Mino HD’s smooth 720p video. It performed well in a wide range of lighting conditions, always delivering pleasant, lifelike colors and loud-enough sound. Only in fast-paced action sequences—an ice-skating rink, for example—did we miss the Kodak Zi6’s 60-fps option.

Kodak Zi6 Pocket HD Camcorder + 8GB Accessory Kit

Mino HD Pros

• Very good video quality
• Thin, sleek design
• Responsive touch-sensitive controls
• Intuitive, streamlined software

Mino HD Cons

• Still no memory card slot or digital still capability
• Tiny LCD screen
• Composite video output

Read the full review here.