Camp Snap CS-8 Micro shrinks its retro camcorder to keychain size

What the CS-8 Micro is

Camp Snap has launched the CS-8 Micro, the smallest version yet of its retro-style digital camcorder, according to The Verge. The camera is around three inches long and weighs 1.5 ounces, so it can be hung from a keychain.

The launch follows last week's release of the CS-8 Mini, a version half the size of the original CS-8 with a smaller grip made for children's hands. The Micro continues that shrinking trend.

A small screen, but only for framing shots

Unlike the original CS-8 and the CS-8 Mini, the Micro includes a tiny LCD screen. It works only as a viewfinder, so footage cannot be watched, edited or deleted on the camera itself.

To see recordings, users transfer them to a phone or computer over a USB-C cable, or move the included 4GB microSD card into a card reader.

Resolution drops as size shrinks

As the camcorder line has got smaller, video quality has fallen. The original CS-8 recorded at 4K and the Mini at 2.7K, while the Micro is limited to 720p.

The Micro keeps features such as an 8x digital zoom and five built-in filters. These include vintage effects that add flicker and grain to imitate the look of 8mm film.

Price, storage and battery

The CS-8 Micro costs $39.99 and is available through Camp Snap's online store and Urban Outfitters. Camp Snap estimates the 4GB card holds about 45 minutes of video, and battery life is estimated at 30 to 45 minutes on a full charge.

Mystery box colours

Like the collectible Kodak Charmera, the Micro is sold in sealed mystery boxes, so buyers do not know which colour they will get. Shades such as hot pink, lilac, lime and orange are easier to find.

The vintage classic black version and a glow in the dark edition are much rarer, which may appeal to collectors.