Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black)
- Price: $149.00
-
Discontinued
Selected Color: Black
Record all the action in high definition with the Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black). With this affordable and easy-to-use camcorder you can record 1080p or 720p HD video and 5MP widescreen (16:9) digital stills. And the camera utilizes flash memory, known for its ease of use. Store your footage to either SD/SDHC memory cards up to 32GB (not included) or to the 128MB built-in flash memory.
A short tour around the Zi8 reveals a 2.5" LCD screen for composing and playing back video and stills. It also features a swing out USB arm, HDMI, USB 2.0, and A/V outputs; all of which make the sharing process more user-friendly. The camcorder also features a microphone input that provides the option of recording stereo audio.
Other features of the camera include one function generally unheard of in the point-and-shoot camcorder market: image stabilization. This means that your video will be sharper and have less blurring motion than regular handheld video. There's even 4x digital zoom for getting closer to your subject. Another feature that's rare on the scene is Kodak's smart face tracking which helps to capture in focus shots of your friend's smiling faces.
When you're ready to upload your videos to YouTube, Facebook, or other social networking sites, the built-in software makes it a breeze. The software also lets you edit and trim videos, make picture/music mash-ups, and capture still images from video. If you're looking for a point-and-shoot camcorder that offers a few more options than the norm, the Zi8 has the extra bells and whistles you just might be looking for.
- Catch Life as It Happens
-
- Capture HD quality 1080p video with 16:9 aspect ratio
- Take 5MP 16:9 widescreen HD still pictures
- The external microphone jack lets you record in stereo
- Record up to 10 hours of HD video with the expandable SD/SDHC card slot that can hold up to 32GB
- Life Moves Too Fast to Lose Focus
-
- See more details and accurate colors in low light
- Get sharper videos and less blur thanks to built-in image stabilization
- Capture your friends on video in their best light with smart face tracking technology for clear, in focus faces
- You're the Director
-
- See it all on a vibrant 2.5 inch (6.4 cm) color LCD screen
- Catch the highlights with slow motion playback right in the palm of your hand
- Choose the video quality that works for you: 720p HD at 60 fps, or 1080p HD at 30 fps
- Record from a distance or playback on your TV conveniently with the optional remote control accessory
- Ready For the Big Screen - Right Out of the Box
-
- Compatible with PC and Mac operating systems (included editing software compatible with PC only - file can be edited on Mac using AVC/H.264 compatible software)
- Complementary HDMI cable lets your videos debut in full glory
- No USB cables necessary, just swing out the USB arm to upload, share, and charge
- Share on Facebook and YouTube social networking sites with ease - built-in software makes editing and uploading simple
- Be Creative with Great Video Software
-
- Edit and trim videos
- Add pictures and music to your videos to make cool mash-ups
- Grab still images from video frames to get that perfect shot
- E-mail your creations or upload to Facebook and YouTube social networking sites right from the software
- Save the Planet - One Battery At a Time
- Go green with the included Kodak Li-Ion Rechargeable Digital Camera Battery KLIC-7004
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 5 Megapixel 1/2.5" CMOS |
| Lens |
Fixed Focus 6.3 mm f/2.8 |
| Zoom | Digital: 4x |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Format |
High Definition MPEG AVC/H.264 1920 x 1080p (30 fps) High Definition MPEG AVC/H.264 1280 x 720p (60 fps) |
| Audio Format | 1-Channel |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Screen Size | 2.5" |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Accessory Shoe | None |
| Tripod Mount | 1/4" |
| General | |
|---|---|
| System Requirements |
Windows
Mac
|
| Power Adapter | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 2.4 x 4.5 x 0.9" / 6.10 x 11.43 x 2.29 cm |
| Weight | 3.9 oz / 110.57 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 193 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
98%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (154)
- Great picture quality (121)
- Large clear LCD (99)
- Image stabilization (72)
- Great sound (59)
Cons
- Poor in low light (46)
- Limited zoom (39)
- Poor sound (9)
- Poor still image (8)
- Short battery life (5)
Best Uses
- Home movies (110)
- Travel (97)
- HD shooting (68)
- Weddings (53)
- Movies/short films (44)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual user (90), Enthusiast (36), Semi-pro (15), Pro videographer (13)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (113), Yes (39)
Most Liked Positive Review
Zi8 Fun Tool Some Minor Limitations...
I use the Zi8 in several ways. It is occasionally mounted to a tripod in my car and it is also used in dark music venues to record bands. I have also used it ...Read complete review
I use the Zi8 in several ways. It is occasionally mounted to a tripod in my car and it is also used in dark music venues to record bands. I have also used it to record sports action as well. Future uses since this is new in my inventory will include recording travel adventures and as a full time "just in case" camera.
So far this has been an excellent little high definition recorder in the first two weeks. I would suggest that the "high definition" is primarily aimed at larger computer screens and Internet delivered HD content. In every lighting scenario I have used this camera it has created above average results. In a club lit by stage floods the camera and video have been better than my very competent and pricey ultra compact camera which the Kodak Zi8 will replace.
Indoors unlike some professional reviewers seem to suggest, it has done well in challenging lighting conditions. In particular, in situations where the stage was heavy on red and yellow lights my other cameras capture a strong reddish-orange tone in picture and video. The Kodak Zi8 has recorded the same environment with a clearer, more realistic color.
Sports @ 720/60FPS
This is a great mode! Although you need to still pan smartly, when you can't pan or want clearer back ground, the 60 frames per seconds really cleans up "judder" in the image. I took a shot of some roller derby at the 2011 St. Louis Auto Show that is posted online of the flat track roller derby demo and you can see that at 30 frames per second, the judder is pronounced even when panning. In 6o frames per second, the video is much easier to watch. This was also noticed in m first "test drive" with the camera mounted on the dash of my car as I took it for a spin on a few nice interstate off ramps. Again video posted. Using 60 FPS versu 30 FPS made no appreciable difference in storage consumption.
Ease of Use
This is incredibly easy to use. I would call my technical skill "Expert" but I can see how anyone with two thumbs can make this work. The interface is easy and I purposely took it for my initial test drives without reading any of the instructions in the quick start guide.
Minor Limitation
The only issue I have with this which isn't a big deal in most of the ways I use this is the wide angle. I would have given it SIX out of FIVE if it had a better wide angle. At the St. Louis Car Show I did have to step back some distance to get a car in full frame. Again, a minor limitation to be able to shoot HD video whenever because your video camera fits in your shirt pocket and was very affordable. It does take a bit to get the zoom smooth, but that is even more minor than the wide angle.
Conclusion
Five out of Five and I am pretty stingy. My background is 30 years in CE retail including audio, video and computers. I am using the Transcend 8 GB SDHC (Class 10) which is probably overkill for HD recording.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Very convenient but zoom is mediocre
I've had it for a few weeks now but so far everything works great. It's easy to operate, charge battery, and transfer files to the computer. It's easy to take still photos and ...Read complete review
I've had it for a few weeks now but so far everything works great. It's easy to operate, charge battery, and transfer files to the computer. It's easy to take still photos and to charge the card that holds the media. The picture quality is surprisingly good. The audio is also pretty good. The only thing that I'm disappointed in is the zoom. Not only does it not have a great range but it's not easy to zoom and makes the zoom jerky. There's no such thing as a slow smooth zoom on this camera. I don't know if that's true of all of these tiny cameras as I've only had larger semi-professional miniDV cameras. It's also not so great in low light. This is my first foray into this venue so I'm not exactly sure if this is typical for this kind of camera. I will say it's so small that I can take it anywhere. It fits in the same belt holder as my ipod Touch so it's very convenient. If you want something to take everywhere with you and get those moments with the kids, then this type of camera is the one. I would recommend checking all of the similar models in other brands to see which zoom is best.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 193 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Poor Sound
Best Uses
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
I love the convenience this camera offers, it's so easy to stick in my pocket or purse, and doesn't weigh me down.
The only thing that seems to be a downside is the sound quality. When I make a recording, I HAVE to plug in a microphone and carry it around (which makes a terrible noise), but it's the only way you can hear everything well.
This matters more so to me because I love to catch the cute little things my children say. I also use this to upload business videos for a website, and the sound is very important for that.
I've noticed that at times it won't focus well, but I'm not much of an instruction reader. :P Once I discovered the switch at the top, that problem was solved.
All in all, it IS the best camera we've bought thus far - as far as being able to load videos online.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Audio Input
- Easy to Use
- Good picture quality
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Mediocre Onboard Mic
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- YouTube
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
This is not a professional camera.
Now since we got that out of the way, we can talk about what the camera IS. It's cheap, light, compact and does a reasonable job of HD video. In fact I thought it was excellent until I saw what I could do with a Canon EOS.
The picture quality is great when put on a tripod. Handheld leaves much to be desired. I keep the "IS" turned off because turning it on will often give you the "jello" look. A compact "table top" tripod will enhance your videos incredibly.
This is one of the few cameras in this class that has an audio input. One of the biggest things that makes me cringe on YouTube is poor audio. The on-board mic is acceptable when compared to other on-board mics. However in the wind it's not that great and as usual it's a bit "tinny". I have not plugged a Lav mic into the input yet because I prefer to just run an external digital recorder (Zoom H1).
It will do 1080p at 30fps and 720p at 30 or 60fps. No option for 1080 at 24fps is a bit irritating when attempting to mix the footage with other higher quality cameras.
I borrowed a Zi8 from a friend before I had a video enabled Canon EOS. I was impressed enough to buy my own. Now that I have an EOS (which of course is MUCH more expensive) I have relegated this to a "B" Camera that I can place downrage where it may get damaged.
If you are just looking for something for family videos and YouTube this is a great option.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Short battery life
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
I used this to record 2+ hour installation procedures I was writing about. (Also puppies around the house, etc.) Chose this one because of the good reviews on [...] etc.OK for short personal stuff, but battery life was a pain when doing a long recording. Nice, economical camera, though. It's so compact, has built-in USB connector, and is easy to figure out and use right out of the box. I read that the image stabilization ate up battery, so mostly I shoot using a tripod. With 16 SDHC card, several hours of recording, depending on quality I selected. About the battery: After I got this camera, I read that the Kodak battery is good for about 1 1/2 hours of basic (non-stabilization) recording. I got a $40 replacement battery (not from BH- I needed it that day) that turned out to have 3/4 the capacity of the original battery. It's a nuisance to guess when battery will quit and replace it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
This camera is great I needed something just to take high quality video for class and youtube videos and it does just that. Great product would definitely recommend this camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good picture quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited battery life
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Vlogging
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
I bought this camera to record home videos, sporting events, and for filming car reviews. First of all, the ease of use is unparalleled. Switching between menu's could not be simpler. The quality of the video is good. The resolution, while not as good as a $1000 camera, is great for such a small device. I have already uploaded some videos to YouTube, and they look great. I have used a Flip HD camera before, and I think the video quality of the Zi8 is superior to the Flip. The EIS (Electronic Image Stablization) is a nice feature, but it definitely helps to have a steady hand or tripod. With the aid of a tripod, the film becomes much clearer. The 5 megapixel camera is handy and is able to take rapid pictures with ease. For the picture camera, a steady hand is needed, or else the pictures look a bit fuzzy/blurry. Overall, the picture feature is nice to have and does take decent shots. The built-in microphone is another great part of the Zi8. I have had nothing but clear and crisp audio in my videos. The zoom feature works for both the video and picture cameras, but as with most digital cameras, the image becomes somewhat grainy while zoomed in all the way. I have not shot very much in low light, but so far the Zi8 has handled changing light well. The battery is one area where this Kodak could improve. While shooting in 1080p, I ran out of battery in just about 30 minutes. If you are going to shoot for extended periods of time, keep a battery (or two) in mind.
If what your looking for is an affordable, easy to use camera that shoots great HD video and the occasional picture, there is no better choice than the Kodak Zi8.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
very clear picture
don't forget to buy an sd card too.
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
I love this camera, small but great video. It is easy to carry on vacation with all my other gear. [...] it was a great price. It comes with a movie making program which installs on your computer with 1st use.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Outdoor events games
- Travel
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
good qulity , easy to use coming with good softwares including. there is a problem in editing not supported on primire (*.mov) exept this very nice camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
Good little camera for the price. If you are looking for a compact camera with an external mic jack this is the one to get.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
Very handy little device and easy to carry around in your shirt pocket to shoot B-roll footage as and when the occasion arises. Good quality image in good lighting - not so great but acceptable in low-light situations considering the size and price. Very easy to use and transfer footage. The zoom is not very good either in range or in image clarity - again, price!!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Home Movies
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
This product is very easy to use, with one click recording. The recording looks great in high light environments, however, when used in low light, the results aren't that great. The zoom quality just isn't there, the recording is very grainy. The external mic jack is great, and has helped us record much better quality audio.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
not enough user freindly features...
the batery charger did not have the feature to charge a second battery independatly....
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
I use this as a "point and shoot" video cam. Carry in my pocket on vacation. Shot video on roller coaster holding cam in one hand and seat bar with the other. Picture quality is good. Only digital zoom, but good for the price. Others have no zoom. Image stabilization was good. SD card makes downloading video easy.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
Had it for a month. Great so far. Feels like good quality. Easy to use. Don't need the manual. Recharges fast.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
Used for video recording Preaching events and it has worked great.
Trouble down loading to facebook or youtube.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
- Battery Life
Best Uses
- Video note-taking
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
I use this to document assembly/installation processes in my work as a technical writer. I got this camera because of its rating on CNET and the fact that it has image stabilization. The picture quality is very good, though now that I see how big the files are, I wish I had gotten a low-def camera. I've been using it on a tripod, so the stabilization is not a factor. I was happliy surprised at the sound quality! It was very easy to figure out. The user manual says it will pause if you press the record button briefly, but it always seems to stop and then start another file. Worst thing is the hi-def recording capacity is 2+ hours and a fully charged original equip. battery only lasts like 1 1/2 hours and is recharged in the camera. I got a spare and it's only 3/4 the capacity of the original equipment battery. argh.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
Clear video (especially if on a tripod). Love the option for using an external microphone! Nothing else compares.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
I bought this because of the great reviews and I am more then satisfied in fact I have gotten 2 of my friends to buy it from B&H and they love it as well. We all use it for personal use but I use it for my office work as well.
Video and Audio is awesome the clarity blows my mind and the easy to use functions are great.
The not so good I am still trying to find it :)
Would recommend it to everyone wanting a high quality but simple video cam.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- External mic jack
- Great price
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera (Black):
I love this point and shoot camera. It's good for the price. I'm surprised that most pocket camcorders don't have a mic/in except for this one. It shoots better in the day and it's a little grainy when you shoot in the dark. I suggest getting a camera light for low light shooting. The standard battery last around 3 hours. I suggest buying a another battery just in case. Buy a 16gb sdhc card and that will last you a while. The format that it shoots in is MOV.file easy to transfer to your computer and editing is really easy. Check out the video that I edit for the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo all shot with the Zi8: [@]
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Media
Required item: Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
- Price: $7.85
Batteries & Power
Don't get caught without power, always have a spare battery.
- Price: $17.95
-
- Original: $16.95
- Save: $1.69
- Price: $15.26
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
-
- Original: $16.95
- Save: $1.69
- Price: $15.26
-
- Original: $10.99
- Save: $0.55
- Price: $10.44
Lenses & Adaptors
Capture the right view with a conversion lens.
- Price: $19.89
External Microphones
Enhance the quality of your audio recording with an external microphone.
-
- Original: $22.95
- Save: $2.29
- Price: $20.66
What's in the Box
- Kodak Li-Ion Rechargeable Digital Camcorder Battery KLIC-7004
- Adapter and Cable for Battery Charging
- HDMI and AV Cables
- Wrist Strap
- User Guide
- Arcsoft Media Impression Software for Kodak (PC Only, Installed In Camera)
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
Why Shop at B&H
Make your online shopping trip personal with our online Live Chat representatives. You can easily reach an in-house expert while browsing our site for your shopping needs. We have the most highly-trained staff in the industry who are pros in their fields, and their professional expertise will help you get the most from your purchase.
Place your domestic order with us for shipment via UPS, FedEx Economy, or FedEx Priority by 4 PM ET Monday through Thursday or 11 AM ET Friday and your order will be shipped that day. Visit our Shipping Delivery Times page for further details. Delivery times are subject to payment verification.
We appreciate your purchase from us, and we understand that sometimes the products you buy don’t turn out to be the right choice for you. We guarantee your peace of mind with our 30-day return policy. With no standard restocking fee and few restrictions, you’ll enjoy a return process as easy as shopping with us. Please visit our Return Policy page for further details.
We’ve made iPhone and Android mobile apps available for your service and shopping convenience. Use filtered search to find and purchase almost any item we sell and ship worldwide. Download product manuals and guides for many popular items. See high-resolution product images in close-up detail. Manage wishlists and view order history. Visit our Mobile Apps page to download.
See sample Newsletter
Help
Company Information
B&H Resources
