Flip UltraHD vs. Kodak Zi8

Flip vs. Kodak Digital Camcorder Quality

If you're shopping for digital camcorder quality, there's no doubt that the Kodak Zi8 wins in almost all categories against the Flip UltraHD. With better video resolution, higher frames per second (making it better able to keep action scenes un-blurred), and integrated picture stabilization, video shot on the Zi8 will consistently be of superior quality to the UltraHD.

Flip Ultra HD Advantages

The Flip Ultra HD is not without merit. Still superior in video quality to the majority of digital camcorders in its class, it's perfect for shooting high-quality video for personal use. It boasts a better microphone than the Kodak Zi8, conveniently uses AA batteries (the Zi8 requires a non-standard battery), and is cheaper (~$150 at Amazon) than the Zi8. If you're buying for use with family & friends, the Flip Ultra HD is for you.

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Kodak Zi8 Advantages

The Kodak Zi8 is closer to a professional-use camcorder than it is to a personal-use camcorder. It provides a line-in for a better quality microphone, has expandable memory (up to 32 GB), and can provide either normal or macro focus. It also has a larger on-camera screen-size than the Flip UltraHD -- and somehow is half as heavy, for convenient carry. If you're a professional, a dedicated amateur, or simply want the best gear available, you want the Kodak Zi8.

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