The Kodak PlaySport (Zx5) HD Waterproof Pocket Video Camera – Black (2nd Generation) NEWEST MODEL is a compact video camera that is built for the adventurous. Its underwater capabilities, in particular, will definitely appeal to those who like to get wet (it operates down to 10 ft) while the image stabilization and shockproof features enable it to be taken on a rough ride.
Kodak PlaySport (Zx5) HD Waterproof Pocket Video Camera – Black (2nd Generation) NEWEST MODEL
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Following on the older Z3, the Z5 contains some pretty cool new features for a camera at its price point.
Specs
- Shockproof, dustproof, and waterproof up to 10 ft
- The Share button function uploads easily. It lets you choose your destination, either an e-mail address or the Kodak Pulse DisplayFull 1080p HD videos and 5 MP HD stills
- Digital image stabilization
- In-camera editing
- HD720 at 32 or 64 FPS
- HD1080 at 32 FPS
- Auto focus (and a very good one too!)
- Auto glare shield
Improvements
The Kodak video pocket camera improves upon the older model (the Z3) in that it now has macro capabiliites. It records up to two and a half hours of material. I found it works very well underwater. However, not so great in seawater. The automatic glare shield for the screen is new, as is the macro mode and the ‘cool capture’ effects for pictures. The Z5 video camera records in MP4 format.
Sturdiness
The camera is sturdy. It feels tough and I wasn’t concerned about my 3 year old son picking it up and having a look at it, as I would be with some of my other gear.
Size
The size is in line with the idea of an easy to use video camera; it fits in your pocket, and starts up really, really quickly, one of my favorite qualities actually.
Ease of Use
It’s a very simple to use video camera in terms of functionality, the menus are all symbols, and very easy to learn.
Social Media
The upload/share function in this video camera made it very easy to get footage to Facebook and YouTube. In fact, if set, the video camera will upload your videos automatically when you connect to a PC. There is also the Kodak support site which also has a share function, as well as a software update. I highly recommend the update, as I found it to be better than the software that comes pre-installed on the video camera. There were a few glitches that existed in the original software that led to freezes. Kodak has ironed these out.
Other Cool Features
Other cool features include the video editing facility. Within minutes, you can have footage that’s voiced over and with music. Again as with other features that I mentioned, it is really quick and easy to use… and while you won’t end up with a masterpiece, it’s really great fun to use.
Any Shortcomings?
So what issues does the Kodak video camera have that you should be aware of? Well in low light, it can’t handle fast movement too well. Also, the imagery was a bit grainy until I adjusted to this and slowed down a little in those conditions while an internal battery means you can’t carry around a spare.
Also, the underwater limit is 10 feet, please be aware of this because below that level, water pressure can push into the connection ports causing issues with the camera. Stay above that level, you are safe.
Kodak Playsport Video Camera Reviews
Here are snippets of comments from actual individuals who have purchased this video camera:
- “…I am happy with the waterproof feature, its perfect for any summer holiday with your friends or family…”
- “…This a great camera/camcorder for the price, and it works as advertised…”
- “… If you’re an outdoorsy person, this camera will definitely outlast the other brands…”
- “…Underwater images were actually pretty nice and the kids really liked getting their picture taken under water…”
- “…for casual, fun videos, this one is great, especially for the price…”
If you’d like to see other reviews, click here: Kodak video camera
Summary
I can see why the Kodak PlaySport video camera is a hot seller. For a really low price, you can get a cool, durable, easy to use and fun video camera that can take a knock, and takes pretty good stills too!
Click here to buy now: Kodak PlaySport (Zx5) HD Waterproof Pocket Video Camera – Black (2nd Generation) NEWEST MODEL
