Reviews
Flip Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation, 120 Minutes (Yellow)
Flip Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation, 120 Minutes (Yellow)
- Easy-to-use, pocket-sized camcorder featuring one-touch recording and digital zoom
- Captures 120 minutes of full VGA-quality video on 4 GB of built-in memory; no tapes or additional memory cards required
- Convenient flip-out USB arm plugs directly into your computer to launch FlipShare software
- Built-in FlipShare software lets you easily email videos, edit individual clips, and upload video to sharing sites like YouTube and MySpace
- Large 2-inch color LCD screen to play back and delete videos
It’s the Camcorder, Uncomplicated
The Flip Ultra camcorder makes it easier than ever to shoot and share video. Ultra features Flip Video’s signature shoot-and-share simplicity: just power on and press record to start capturing high-quality video in seconds.Ultra-Spontaneous, Ultra-Fun
With 120 minutes of record time, you’ll never miss another minute again. And because it’s super-portable, Ultra lets you capture spontaneous video anytime, anywhere. Whether it’s a busy evening at y
List Price: $ 149.00
SALE Price: Too low to display
Rating: 
(out of 425 reviews)
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about 1 year ago
Review by Laura I for Flip Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation, 120 Minutes (Yellow)
Rating:
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R36XMSX3O7L286 I’ve made a video review, using the Flip Ultra Camcorder, so that you can see the audio/video quality (Keep in mind I had to compress the video a little bit for Amazon), and I also show how to use the camcorder.
In my opinion, this is an excellent camcorder for a novice, or someone who just wants an easy to use camcorder that is small and compact. I personally don’t need more than 2 hours recording time and it’s wonderful not having to purchase tapes.
The price is actually less than many digital cameras. I’ve wanted to own a camcorder for a long time, and the Flip Ultra has finally met my standards for: quality, value, and ease of use.
about 1 year ago
Review by Heath L. Buckmaster for Flip Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation, 120 Minutes (Yellow)
Rating:
I have two Flip camcorders – the MinoHD, and the Flip Ultra (this product).
I consider this one to be the younger brother to the MinoHD, with lower video quality, but also some things I like better than the HD model. Therefore I’m giving this 3.5 stars, and here is why.
Here’s what I like BETTER:
1. the larger viewing screen on the camera – as compared to the HD version, this one has a much better viewing screen and a much better field of vision. the HD version has to be some distance away from what you’re filming in order to get a good view, but with the ultra you can be much closer to your subject and still see all around them
2. more space – 120 minutes means I can carry this thing with me all day and take create 640×480 video, up to 2 hours worth, and that’s important if you’re out and about (although I wish there was a way to put a memory card into it for more space)
3. The product has a better surface for holding and gripping the camera. The HD version is glossy and slick, where as the Ultra version has a more matte finish on the case so it’s easier to hold.
Here’s what I don’t especially care for:
1. It requires batteries. The HD model is rechargeable, so you just plug it into the USB on your computer and the battery recharges itself. The Flip Ultra takes AA batteries, and while you certainly can use rechargeable batteries, I consider this a step backward. (the batteries also add weight)
2. it’s only 640×480 – this is pretty much bottom end for video capture these days, especially when most digital cameras are now able to record in HD dimensions; if you are super concerned about presenting your finished video in HD, this product is NOT for you
What is the same?
1. The USB plug is a flip-out in both models, you just press on the release latch and the USB plug flips out – just plug it into your computer and the software starts up automatically (note that the ultra version does have the latest version of the software which has some additional picture capture and uploading options – you can get this from the website too)
2. From power on, to ready to go, both cameras are FAST. Push the power button, set the date/time (only first time you turn it on) and the camera is ready to go. Push the record button and you’re off. Much faster than many digital cams on the market.
3. One button recording – same on both, it’s a big red button that you can’t miss.
4. Good sound quality. The mic on the front of the device gets the sound quite well, without the need for external mic.
5. TV output cable and plug. If you want to show your video on a TV without having a computer around, you can use the included audio/video plug to watch your movies (just remember that your battery will run down faster)
Overall I think this is a great addition to the Flip video line – just consider it the more consumer version vs. prosumer (HD level). For the price, storage space, and ease of carrying it everywhere, I’m giving it 3.5 stars. I removed 1.5 stars because of lack of rechargeable features, and it’s slightly heavier than the HD model.
about 1 year ago
Review by digerati for Flip Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation, 120 Minutes (Yellow)
Rating:
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3TMDUW1IZVQYN Showing the 2nd generation Flip in action: using the Flip and what’s in the box, some video samples, and a quick movie editing example using the Windows version of the Flip software.
about 1 year ago
Review by Natarajan Krishnamurthy for Flip Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation, 120 Minutes (Yellow)
Rating:
This camcorder came with dead batteries. After several failed attempts to start it, popped in new batteries and it finally started.
First of all this camcorder cannot replace your regular video camera. It has limitations in terms of zoom and picture quality in low light.
I love this camcorder. I gave it 5 stars, because it takes “Easy” to a whole new level
-You do not have to worry about any flash card (the format, the capacity, the ridiculous high price) or tape or CD. It stores video and sound in its internal memory.
-You do not have to worry about carrying a USB cord because it has an inbuilt USB arm that pops out.
-You do not have to worry about carrying a software CD. The software is built into the camcorder and loads it when you connect it to your computer.
-You do not have to worry about recharging batteries because it runs on easily available 2 AA batteries (but you can buy a rechargeable battery pack for a price from the Flip store).
-You do not have to worry about carrying an extra bag for a video camera. This camcorder easily fits into a purse or trouser pocket.
-You do not have to worry about your camcorder taking its own sweet time to start up. This starts in a jiffy and you are ready to go.
You are ready to capture and playback video at will, easily…
Construction:
Body is made of plastic like material. It looks good and feels quite light when you hold it. Battery cover is located just below the lens and feels delicate. The attached USB arm, I feel, is not a good design. Even though it is light, I provide support to the camcorder when it is attached to the USB port of my laptop. So if you have to connect it to a Desktop, it might hang awkwardly from the USB port (I let it hang from my laptop USB port for about 5 minutes, it did not look it was in any danger of breaking off)…..You can buy a USB connector from the Flip store at, of course, a price. The screen is very clear to see what is being captured or to watch your video played back.
Operation:
It is extremely easy to operate and has very few buttons. You start recording and playback videos right out of the box. Nothing to load, rewind, fast forward. If at all you need to go through the instruction manual, you can cover it in about 15 minutes.
Picture Quality:
Under bright conditions and out in the open the picture quality is excellent. The picture is sharp and the colors, true and beautiful. Under well lit conditions inside, the picture again is excellent. But under low light conditions it is grainy. Since it has very limited zoom, you need to move closer to the subject to get a good close up.
Sound Quality:
The sound quality is excellent. It is sharp and clear
Software:
Self installing software installed without any problems on my Windows Vista Home Premium 64 bit system. Again it is easy to use and create movies with your videos. You can also capture snapshots from your videos through the software. This is great because now I do not have to switch from video capture to still photo capture and then back again.
This camcorder is a well thought out quality product…..
Finally…
I called Amazon for a price adjustment for this camcorder (I paid $149.99 and the price fell by $15.00 three days after I received the camcorder). I was informed that the price adjustment policy has been canceled…bummer…But the customer service guy was okay about returning the item and buying at the new lower price. Huh???
about 1 year ago
Review by J.D. for Flip Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation, 120 Minutes (Yellow)
Rating:
The new Flip Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation comes in with a few tweaks over the original Ultra. Most notably the internal memory jumps from 2GB to 4GB which equates to about 2 hours of video. Image quality is much improved via the new installed software package. Audio on this model is more enhanced then previous versions via the upgraded microphone. This model accommodates both Mac and Windows operating systems. The LCD screen is expanded from 1.5″ to 2″. The control buttons are larger. The sliding power button is no more. The tekkies at Flip opted for the industry standard push button. This unit is slightly larger then the original Ultra. The body is plastic and comes in black, pink, white, and yellow with a chrome finish.
Simplicity at its best, above average video is obtained with 640×480 resolution video at 30fps, compressing it using H.264, and encodes it as MPEG 4. As with all Flip gear, shooting and transferring videos to a computer or even uploading them to file sharing sites is simple. The on board 2x digital zoom is a gadget at best and is practically useless. First time mini camcorder buyers should be aware that manual, advanced or still capture settings are not an option. However, the preloaded software package easily allows stills to be pulled direct from video.
For a low resolution model, the Ultra produces above average video as long as one views it via the programmed format on the computer monitor or TV. Enlarging to full screen will not only distort the image, it will also bring on the noise demons. That said, colors were well saturated, sound was good and low light performance was average at best. Buyers should keep in mind that a steady hand is paramount to good video. A tripod will make all the difference in shooting quality video.
Powered up via (2) AA alkaline batteries, this unit opts for a simple video out port that displays low resolution video on TV. The basic composite AV cable (RED/WHITE/YELLOW PLUGS) ships with the device. The folks at Flip throw in batteries, wrist strap and a soft, zip string cover to protect the Ultra’s plastic finish. The cover will not come close to protecting the mini cam from bumps and drops. It goes without saying that a memory card slot or even rechargeable batteries would have made this product an even sweeter investment.
By no means will the Flip Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation be confused with any of the top dollar units. However, it is a system that can and will cover the basics for web based video. For those that do not wish to sink the extra bucks into a top of the line mini camcorder, this model will more than cover the bill.