Review and Video: Kodak Zx1
If your in the market for a inexpensive handheld video camera for taking high quality shots then the miniature Kodak Zx1 is for you. It’s weatherproof, takes 720p video and comes in five colors.
Kodak has done a real good job with this camera, I like that it supports supports SDHC cards as well as a mini HDMI port and USB port. The Zx1 records directly to SD, it does not have a built in USB port for direct hook-up to your computer. With this model you have to connect the SD card to your computer or connect it via a USB cable.
Video quality is about the same as any other HD video mini camera on the market. You can take HD, SD, and VGA quality video as well as still images. The Zx1 incorporates a 1/4.5-inch 1.6-megapixel sensor and a 2 inch LCD screen. This camera is much faster than the Kodak Zi6 and a bit heavier weighing in at 5.3 ounces. Batteries are rechargeable but you can you normal AA’s in a pinch.
The Zx1 is NEMA rated IP43, which means it is dust, water, and ice resistant, but not waterproof or designed to operate in extreme cold. It has Rubberized doors to seal all the ports from the environment and we had no trouble using the Zx1 in light rain we had here a few days ago.
This camera comes with 128MB memory built in, 30MB is ostensibly available for video and stills. The camera supports up to 32GB of SD memory.
The Good
It’s small and a inexpensive camera. It shoots great video and battery lasts about 12 hours on a single charge. That’s enough battery time to shoot a weeks worth of vacation on a single charge. Normal AA batteries can be used in a pinch. It’s rugged and weather proof so getting up close in in-climate weather isn’t a problem, besides it costs about $120 depending where you buy.
The Bad
The included ArcSoft software only works with Windows, OS X users will have to import the video into iMovie or a similar program. Also there is an added cost with buying an SD card, 128mb won’t go very far.
Bottom Line
Kodak makes a good solid product and has done so for many years. If your in the market for a mini camera that’s rugged and your on a diet with the budget then this model is for you. It’s a nice all around simple to operate camera that you can take with you any where you go.
Video Review after the break on the Kodak ZX1.
