Tiny MinoHD delivers high-definition video for peanuts

Pure Digital's MinoHD Flip video recorder is as easy to operate as a garage door opener, and about as small. Power it up, hit record, and it captures up to 60 minutes of sharp 1280 x 720 high-definition video.

Recordings are captured as H.264 encoded MP4 video to a 4GB internal flash memory. The camera's 1/4.5" CMOS sensor delivers refreshingly crisp footage, compared to the 640 x 480 standard-definition video produced by earlier Flip cameras. Its low-light sensitivity shines, outperforming cameras more than twice its price. 

Fortunately, the results are easy to share. A convenient “TV Out” port makes impromptu living room shows a breeze, though the port disappointingly delivers just standard-definition video -- even when shown on HD televisions.

Moving the MinoHD's MP4 video onto a computer employs the camera's namesake flip-up USB 2.0 dongle, making it simple to connect without cords. Windows and Mac software built into the camera makes direct uploading to online video sites easy, too, but minimal editing features will leave most would-be movie makers wanting more control. 

A shaky hand can make some videos more sickening than fun to watch, owing to a lack of image stabilization technology built into higher-end camcorders. Also, the MinoHD's tiny 1.5 inch LCD viewfinder may leave even those with 20/20 vision squinting.

But it’s hard to beat the MinoHD's $230 price, and overall, it produces satisfying HD video with minimal effort. 

--Michael Fitzhugh, tech writer