That HD Camcorder In Your Pocket

If you're wondering how you can participate in the online home video revolution but don't know where to look for a new high-definition (HD) video camera, you're not alone. This article takes a close look at three convenient and popular pocket HD video cameras: Kodak's Zi6, Aiptek's A-HD+, and Flip Video's MinoHD. But first, let's look at the new high-definition technology and how it differs from the older video standards.

High definition represents the newer generation of digital video which captures moving images at 720p or 1080p. Traditional and web-based media is now in the process of switching over from older video standards (such as DVD's screen resolution of 480p) to HD. Because of the mainstreaming of HD technology, high-definition video cameras (particularly the less costly pocket versions) are becoming increasingly popular. Below, we'll take a look at three fun and affordable HD pocket video cameras.

1) Kodak Zi6 HD Pocket Camcorder . This fun palm-sized HD pocket video camera features instant uploading to YouTube via USB, music editing, and one-touch HD recording at 720p. Record in HD at 60 or 30 frames per second (30fps is standard on Blu-ray). If the built-in memory isn't enough to record your videos, add up to 32 gigabytes of memory using the built-in SD/SDHC card slot. Watch your recorded video on the 2.4" LCD screen. Edit videos using handy video editing software. Comes in black or pink.

2) Aiptek A-HD+ 1080P HD Pocket Camcorder . This super-affordable HD pocket video camera offers an economical way to record in true 1080p high-definition. The Aiptek A-HD+ features a 2.4" LCD video screen with swivel capability, uploading to your computer via USB, a 32 gigabyte SDHC card slot for extra memory, a component cable, and recording in 1080p/30fps. Though this highly economical HD pocket video camera is tempting, its downsides include a paltry 128 megabytes of built-in memory, fixed focus, and reported image stability, dim-light, and sound issues.

3) Flip Video MinoHD Camcorder . For many, the Flip Video brand has become the sine qua non in pocket camcorders. Weighing in at only 3.3 ounces, the Flip Video MinoHD Camcorder claims to be the world's smallest HD video camcorder. Flip Video's MinoHD Camcorder features native FlipShare software that allows you to save, organize, and edit your videos; create custom movies; and upload your HD movies directly to YouTube, MySpace, or AOL Video. The Flip Video MinoHD Camcorder records 60 minutes of video at 720p/30fps with its generous built-in memory capacity of 4 gigabytes. It also features 2x digital zoom and Flip Video's signature flip-out USB arm for easy connection to your computer's USB port.

Helpful Tips
Like most electronic gadgets, you get what you pay for. The low-end pocket HD camcorders may be priced right, but they may not feature handy video uploading software and sound and/or video quality may be poor.