Clark Howard's Tips

May 19, 2008

He may be behind the curve, but Clark just discovered the handheld cameras that are part of the Flip Video Ultra Series. With prices starting around $100, this line of ultra small camcorders made a great gift.

Let's face it, most handheld video cameras are just bulky enough to be annoying. Plus they have too many buttons to operate with ease. But the Flip is simple to use and about the size of a pack of cigarettes. It even passed Clark's own "dunce cap test," which means that he didn't need to look at the owner's manual to operate it.

The Flip comes in mostly feminine color schemes and is small enough to slip into a woman's purse. There is also an all-black model that may appeal to men. One feature that Clark and his wife really like is the built-in USB connector that pops out of the side. Once it hooks in to your computer, you can instantly e-mail your videos, burn a DVD and more.

The real beauty of the Flip is that it ends the frustration of fumbling around for your camera at the right moment.

Consumer advice courtesy of