It's rare enough to find a standard-definition pocket camcorder like the Creative Vado or Flip Video for under $100, but a high-def model? Schwing!
Geeks.com has a refurbished Kodak Zi6 HD camcorder for $69.99. Shipping will run you about $8.
Before I go any further, here's the catch: It's pink. Now, I'm secure enough in my manhood to bring a pink camcorder to my kid's soccer game, but you might--aw, who am I kidding, no I'm not!
The Zi6 is widely regarded as one of the top models in its pocket-cam class. CNET gave it a generally positive review, griping mostly about the paltry onboard storage. You have to BYO SD card(s).
I consider that a plus: the competing models from Creative and Flip don't have SD slots, so you're stuck with whatever storage is built in. And here's an 8GB SDHC card for all of $17.99 shipped. That'll net you well over 2 hours of high-def shooting.
Speaking of which, the Zi6 captures 720p video at up to 60 frames per second using a 16:9 aspect ratio. It sports a 2.4-inch LCD (way bigger than the Flip's) and the obligatory built-in USB connector for quick uploading to your PC, YouTube, etc.
It comes with a pair of AA rechargeables and a charger, but you can always swap in a couple Duracells in a pinch.
Given that the Zi6 still sells new for upward of $125 (and higher), $70 is almost too good to pass up--especially considering that you get a full one-year warranty, just like new units! Take that, refurb haters! :)
My track record this week suggests these will sell out in about six minutes, so if you want a dirt-cheap, pocket-friendly camcorder and don't mind the color pink, get clicking.
