Apart from the design changes, still-image capture button, and improved low-light performance, there isn't much else that's new. As with previous models, you can delete undesirable clips immediately, and the EZ200 provides a video output and cable, so you can view clips on any TV with a composite-video input. As noted, the unit is powered by two AA batteries (included) and comes with an inexpensive neoprene protective carrying case, as well as a USB extender cable.
The camera's internal software, RCA Memory Manager, is only compatible with PC Windows 2000/XP or later-based computers. Sorry, Mac users. Flip out the USB connector, plug it into the USB port, and a viewer automatically pops up. The interface may not be superslick, but it is fairly straightforward and most users will have no problem figuring it out without opening a manual. You can choose to view your videos, edit, or share them. As for editing, you can do basic edits to your clips, setting start and end points, and string several clips together to make a "movie," which you can then share or store on your computer. Clips or movies saved to your computer can also be burned to DVD via your PC.
Clicking on the Share tab gives the choice of uploading your video to YouTube or Box.net (another online video- and photo-sharing service), or e-mailing it to someone. If you decide to e-mail a clip, the program automatically compresses the video to reduce the file size. Recipients simply click on the attachment and play it back using Windows Media Player. It's worth noting that previously, it could take a minute or more to compress even a short 30-second clip. But the process is much quicker now.
In order to upload your videos to YouTube or Box.net, you have to first sign up for a free account with a username and password. As part of the upload process, your video file is compressed even more than the file created for an e-mail attachment, so the quality isn't quite as good. However, viewing a streamed file online in a viewing box is arguably more convenient than opening a large e-mail attachment.
The marketing materials for the EZ200 note that the company has improved the low-light performance of the camcorder, and that appears to be the case. In fact, we thought the camera did its best work indoors, with subjects in close range. For low-resolution (640x480) video, the image appeared fairly sharp. While the EZ200 delivers better outdoor exposures than the EZ205, the videos display more compression artifacts, including visible pixel blocks and color shifts. In short, overall the image quality was passable, and we felt that the Creative Vado was better in this department. The more expensive Flip Video Ultra and Mino also offered better image quality, with the Mino leading the pack among current minicamcorders.
So, there you have it. We aren't in love with the Small Wonder Pocket EZ200's aesthetics and can't rave about its image quality, but the flip-out LCD and removable/expandable memory are in its favor. While it's hard to expect everything in a sub-$100 minicamcorder, RCA borders on being really frustrating. Depending on how you look at it, that's either a good or bad thing.
What You'll Pay
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