The slide bar is a little confusing at first but you do get the hang of it. Its really not that big of a deal, but some people find this frustrating and give the camera a poor rating. I don’t understand that. I love that they put a headphone jack on the camera. In the past two models I felt that the video got very pixelated when the camera was zoomed. I don’t see that as much with the Flip Slide Hd. The video stays pretty clear when zooming.

The menu and functions on this camera are completely intuitive. In no time at all, you’ll figure out how to start, stop, delete, replay, and scroll through the first few movie clips. It is easy to offer instant gratification to the children, who eagerly awaited the opportunity to see and hear themselves on film.

While you are here make sure you get the USA GEAR Protective HD Camcorder Case with Magnetic Clasp and Wrist Strap for Flip Camcorders. This package also contains a mini tripod so your video will be easy to shoot clear and without shake. Also great for self video, just set up on the tripod, get in front of the camera and away you go.

It is a pleasant surprise to discover that the “set up” of this camera was easier than setting the time on a sports watch, and consisted only of scrolling through the date and time. Within thirty seconds of turning on the camera, it was ready to begin shooting the first movie clip.

The MinoHD is completely idiot proof: when you get the box, there is absolutely no assembly required. The right buttons for on, record, and USB connector are easy to find without needing to read the instruction book.

With the all-new Flip MinoHD, it-Feets now even easier to capture incredible HD video and share it with the world. A really thin , pocket-sized design means you can take your MinoHD with you everywhere you go.

Sound recording is even better on the 2nd Generation than on the original, and the brushed metal finish means there’s no finger prints to make it look tacky.

Like all of the lower cost camcorders the video is a little grainy inside under low light conditions, but nothing to complain about considering the price and convenience.

You may find the built in USB can be a bit fiddly to get to work. Just something to watch for. If you hold it at the right angle as you connect it then it will plug in, but many have tried and been frustrated with the connections. Instead you might try the Kodak Zi8 HD Pocket Video Camera.

If you have a problem ring Flip support and get a USB connector cable (they’ll send for free if you ask) if you decide to go with the Flip MinoHD. Or even just pick up a USB 2.0 port at your local store for a few dollars and your problem will be fixed.

In general, as an easy to use, pretty good quality camcorder, the MinoHD will be there when you want it, and get the immediate shots you just don’t want to miss and wouldn’t have time to get a bigger bulkier camcorder out and set up for.

It’s light and fits easily in your hands but doesn’t feel tacky or fragile. Easily slips in a pocket to carry around and ready to use quickly. The time from pushing the on button to when it’s ready to start shooting is under 2 seconds. Great for conserving battery life. And it switches off automatically if pointed at the ground and not deliberately kept recording.

Sound recording quality is astounding- I could not believe the recording in 5.1 channel sound when played back. With the extra microphones it creates a realistic sound that’s a perfect match with the true-to-life HD images.

With the Panasonic HDC-TM20 SD/16 GB HDD camcorder, a new high-performance Leica lens makes it possible to pack a powerful 16x zoom into a compact body.

The cool touch-screen lets you operate a variety of functions intuitively without taking your eyes off of the subject on the LCD screen. They are easy to use and not too confusing.

Compared with other camcorders around similar price you won’t get much better quality both with video and sound in most conditions. As a light convenient camcorder it really stands out.

For recording for an all day trip you will want an extra battery and another SD Card to make sure you capture all the special moments.