Kodak Zi8 Camcorder Review

– August 30, 2010Posted in: Reviews

Specs And Features

Dimension 2.4 x 0.9 x 4.4 inches (Width x Depth x Height)
Weight 0.24 pounds
Max Resolution 1080p
Frame Rate 30 fps at 1080p, 60fps at 720p
Video format H.264 video compression, AAC audio compression
Electronic Image Stabilization Yes
Internal Memory 128 MB Flash Memory
External Memory SD/SDHC card expansion slot (support up to 32GB), Memory card not included
Display Size 2.5 inches
Optical Zoom No
Digital Zoom 4X
Battery Type Rechargeable Lithium Ion
External Mic Jack Yes
HDMI Out Yes
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $179.00 (Check out lower price at Amazon)

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Maximum resolution up to 1080p
  • One of the few pocket camcorder to feature Electronic Image Stabilization
  • Good video quality for a pocket camcorder
  • SD card slot let users expand memory up to 32GB
  • Rechargeable and removable battery
  • External mic jack available
  • Bundled composite and HDMI cables
  • Macro focus mode
  • Competitive price

Cons:

  • Does not come with external memory card – need to purchase separately
  • Bundled software isn’t Mac compatible but necessary for smooth playback of 1080p video

Review Summary

The Kodak Zi8 measuring 2.4 x 0.9 x 4.4 inches is a portable camcorder which easily fits into compact spaces like large pockets and bags. Available in 3 colors (black, Aqua Blue, Raspberry Red), the design of this camcorder is simple, and intended to be easy to use. It’s powered by a lithium ion rechargeable battery instead of the AA NiMH rechargeables that ship with its predecessor, the Zi6. As a result, the Zi8 is slimmer and more portable, but you can no longer swap it with alkaline batteries should you run out of juice on the road.

The Zi8 is capable of shooting in 1080p and 720p resolution with 30fps. Both captures colorful, sharp and fluid video (for a HD pocket camcorder). The best performing mode however is the 720p/60 fps video setting, which has much more sharpness and fluidity compared to the 1080p/720p 30 fps modes.

Also, the Zi8 perform pretty well at low light condition (for a pocket camcorder):

One of the biggest problem with pocket camcorder has been the camera shake. Kodak try to combat this with the Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) feature. Although nowhere nearly as effective as optical image stabilization (which no one offers in this size yet), it does help to reduce small hand jitters when shooting.

While internal microphone of the Zi8 isn’t a great performer, it’s worth mentioning that the Zi8 comes with an external mic jack which allows you to connect an external microphone to it to improve the audio quality. Below is a video from Engadget that demonstrate the audio quality difference between internal and external microphone.

Conclusion
With a combination of superior video quality, features and a reasonable price, we think the Kodak Zi8 is currently the best pocket camcorder on the market. The video quality is among the best we’ve seen at this price level, and you get some extra features like external mic jack, full HD video capability, and electronic image stabilization, which are normally not found on other pocket camcorders.

Source: Amazon, Cnet, Engadget

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