A real estate agent with Keller Williams Realty, Kelly Marsh, posted a question in her Facebook updates. Question is posted below.
The question led to a great conversation of whether or not a Flip video camcorder or webcam was the way to go. Prior to the introduction of the Flip and other mini camcorders this question would have been relatively easy to answer. With the emergence of the Flip and others though a debate is in order. First, I’ll list what I see as advantages and disadvantages of both, then you post your opinion in the comments section below.
Webcam
Advantages
- convenient – no setup needed
- ideal for video conferencing or video chat programs
- easily livestream video
Disadvantages
- could forget to turn off and reveal your private life
- must be connected to a computer to function
Flip Video Camcorder
Advantages
- higher quality of video (especially with MinoHD model)
- small, compact, and light weight
- mobility/versatility
Disadvantages
- setup involved (requires a tripod for best usage)
- image stabilization – video quality is significantly reduced if unit is not held still
- must upload video to computer, no direct connect while filming
The Flip most certainly appears to have caught the attention of most consumes, but for those that desire more of a “built-in” solution the webcam still seems to be the preferred method.
One last thing to mention, most Windows based laptops and just about all Apple computers (iSight camera) come with a built-in webcam…now that’s convenient!
Carl,
Great article. I would also like to mention that when using a web cam for video blogging you can use Viddler.com as a built in video recording system from your web cam directly to the web and have an embeddable video that you can directly post into your blog.
Thanks for the great post.
Matt Rains
Matt,
Thanks for your comment! Viddler.com is great for what you have described. We also use a service called Eyejot (www.eyejot.com) for recording and sending video via email. I’ll write a post soon about Eyejot as there are a few tips and tricks that should be noted.
Carl
I say BOTH!!!! I love the ease of just shooting a little something while at my desk. The sound quality seems a bit better with my Logitech 9000 than with my Flip. Very little editing and perfect for spur of the moment status updates on Facebook!
But, I carry the Flip in my purse waiting for just the right moment…and you just never know where you’ll be when that happens. Since the Flip runs on batteries I never have to worry if it’s charged.
Would you make a woman choose between her running shoes and her heels….I think not.
Great article Carl!
I think you are spot on Nicole. The webcam is ideal for video blogging (if shooting form your work station) because the ease at which it can be done.
The Flip is excellent to carry with you at all times because you never know when you might that right moment may come.
Personally, I think a great place to start when video blogging is to get a webcam and then purchase a Flip. When starting off it is best to keep it simple and the webcam will allow for this.
You need to learn to walk before you can run.
Both have their pros & cons, as well as their specific uses. Webcam is ideal from live chat, MinoHD is great when you’re mobile. Two totally different beasts.