Kodak Zi6 (black)
Manufacturer: Eastman Kodak Co. Part number: 1152537
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- While bigger than most of its competitors and high priced for a mini camcorder, the Kodak Zi6's attractive design and decent video quality adequately compensate for some usability drawbacks.
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CNET editors' review
Kodak Zi6 (black) price range: $108.59 - $159.99
- Reviewed by: David Carnoy
- Edited by: Lori Grunin
- Reviewed on: 07/28/2008
- Released on: 08/15/2008
The good: Solid 720p video; comparatively large LCD; memory-card expansion slot; AA rechargeable batteries included along with protective carrying case and video output cables.
The bad: Insufficient onboard memory and price doesn't include an optional memory card; can't recharge batteries via USB connector; included software isn't Mac compatible.
The bottom line: While bigger than most of its competitors and high priced for a mini camcorder, the Kodak Zi6's attractive design and decent video quality adequately compensate for some usability drawbacks.
Like many inexpensive competitors, the Kodak Zi6 is technically an HD camcorder the way a tomato is technically a fruit: it meets the definition, but doesn't deliver the experience. True, the Zi6 records video in 1,280x720-pixel resolution at both 30 frames per second and 60fps--720p resolution--which technically qualifies it as an HD camcorder, but a lot of factors go into creating an image, not just a CMOS sensor capable of capturing an image at a certain resolution and frame rate. Still, the 720p video it does capture is a step up from the 640x480-pixel VGA resolution video you typically find on competing sub-$200 direct-to-YouTube camcorders from Flip Video, RCA, and Creative.
That higher resolution comes at a price. To accommodate the larger 1/4.5-inch 1.6-megapixel sensor and generous 2.4-inch LCD, the Zi6 is bigger than most of its competitors, particularly the similarly priced Flip Video Mino. Weighing 5.6 ounces, it's not huge and it fits in most pockets, but if supercompact is what you're after, there are better alternatives.
Instead of a built-in or removable lithium ion rechargeable battery, Kodak opted to include a set of two rechargeable AA nickel metal hydride batteries and a charger. The upside is that in a pinch you can use readily available standard AA alkaline batteries to power the unit. The downside is you can't just charge the battery with the built-in USB connector like you can with some models, such as the Mino and Creative Vado. Also, a smaller lithium ion battery would probably have helped trim the size of Zi6 a bit.
Like other products in this category, the USB connector is of the flip-out variety. Cleverly, the button for the connector also serves as a tiny mirror for recording yourself. Another nice touch: a switch that toggles between standard and macro focus distance. We also appreciate that the Zi6 incorporates an expansion slot for SD cards. However, the onboard memory is a paltry 128MB--only 30MB of which is available for storage. That 30MB only lets you capture 36 seconds of video recorded at the highest quality (HD, 60fps). Extrapolating--since Kodak hasn't published any capacity information--that's about 50MB per minute, or 41 minutes of video on a typical 2GB card. The Zi6 will accept cards up to 32GB, but you must supply your own cards, whatever the capacity. Kodak includes an inexpensive neoprene carrying case, hand strap, video cables for output to a TV, and there's a threaded mount on the bottom of the unit in case you want to use a tripod.
As with all these mini camcorders, the Zi6 is meant to be easy to use--and for the most part, it is. Unfortunately, we have a few problems with the design. First, it takes some effort to get used to the controls. There's a joystick button flanked on either side by a video/playback button and stop/delete button. When the same button performs two functions it can be a little confusing for some people. and I found myself accidentally hitting the play button at times when I should have been clicking the joystick button. Second, the camcorder doesn't turn on when you plug the USB into your computer, the way the rest of the mini camcorders we've tested do. That's just a bit annoying. But the real kicker is there's no way to completely erase and format a memory card--or even delete more than one image/clip at a time--within the Zi6. Kodak expects you to do that when connected to the PC via its bundled software; that's a serious usability problem in general.
When in video recording mode, you can use the joystick to toggle down the setting to HD, VGA (640x480), and finally, still image capture. The lower VGA setting is useful if you're low on memory (files sizes are much smaller when you capture in lower resolution) or know you're going to be compressing your video for Web distribution or e-mail distribution. That said, it's always better to capture the best possible image and keep that as your "master" and work down from there.
We do appreciate the four speeds of fast-forwarding and rewinding, and you can advance or rewind your footage frame-by-frame if you want. The 2.4-inch LCD is pretty sharp and the sound played back loud enough through the Zi6's little speaker so long as I cranked up the volume (the mic seems sensitive enough). No complaints there.
What do you do after you've captured your video? Well, like most of these types of mini camcorders, Kodak loads software into its memory. Windows-only ArcSoft MediaImpression is included with the Zi6 and it automatically installs when you plug the Zi6's USB connector into your desktop or laptop PC. There's the usual shortcut upload to YouTube, as well as some editing features that allow you to trim your clips, adjust contrast, color, and brightness, and splice you clips into a cohesive movie, complete with customized background music and titles. If you own a Mac, you can copy your video and still images to your computer by dragging and dropping the files from the camcorder as you would with any USB storage device (and upload them to YouTube easily enough) and then edit your video using iMovie. So, all is not totally lost.
The Zi6's extra resolution helps when comparing its video with that of the Flip Mino and Ultra, but image noise and lack of sharpness keep it from overshadowing those models. Though the video looks softer overall, it looks that way at a larger size, which some people may find ample compensation. Typically, you only view these video files in a small window on your computer. However, with the Zi6's footage you can actually blow the video up full screen and it retains more detail. Video shot in the Zi6's VGA-resolution mode does look comparably sharp to that of its competitors. In low light, however, the Zi6's footage looks perceptibly noisier than that of the other camcorders. But it remains usable.
The Zi6 delivers reasonably accurate color and exposure, but performance feels a bit slow. While it adjusts properly moving from brightly lit environments to darker scenes and compensating for overly backlit subjects, it doesn't do so particularly quickly and its autofocus is relatively sluggish. When you pan and move the camera around, things tend to go in and out of focus. For rock-solid video, you really have to keep the camera still.
When you factor in that you have to buy an additional memory card, its price runs it up against a whole other class of products, such as the Aiptek Go-HD, which offer features like higher resolution stills and optical zoom rather than digital zoom. Despite its problems, I generally liked the Zi6. The video is pretty good and plays larger than Flip Video's current lineup offers; with its big screen, support for removable memory and the ability to use AA batteries it all adds up to an attractive package.
User reviews
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Very cool camera, but careful what SD card you buy!
by De2483 on January 6, 2009
Pros: Small and portable, yet not short on quality. Very sleek design. Screen is visible indoors and out. Video upload and editing is extremely simple with preloaded software. The memory card slot gives it the edge over a Flip.
Cons: Panning is touchy, it takes a steady hand but not terribly difficult. Kodak says up to 32MB card works, but only 8MB or less allows playback on the screen, anything bigger and you have to load to a PC to view the videos.
Summary: I would recommend this product again. I really like the small size and I didn't have to sacrifice a lot in the quality department. This is not a high-end ...
Summary: I would recommend this product again. I really like the small size and I didn't have to sacrifice a lot in the quality department. This is not a high-end HD camera, so you can't expect it to compare. For what it is, I think this camera is the best in its class. I would liked to have known about the SD card incompatibility before I wasted money ordering, and returning, a card to large to view videos on the screen. On the Kodak FAQ page, they tell you only up to 8MB has been tested, even though they claim compatability up to 32MB. Overall, good camera and I would buy again!!
9 out of 10 users found this user opinion helpful.
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For travel, this is currently the ONE
by jimdshaw on January 29, 2009
Pros: With the SD card slot and its ability to use both rechargeable or standard swappable batteries, this beats the Mino hands down for traveling. With enough SD cards, you can go indefinitely without having to take a laptop along. NO HAULING A LAPTOP.
Cons: I wish it had a slightly wider angle lens, to make hand held shots more smooth. It is bigger and heavier than the Mino, but freedom from computer connections and recharging trumps all that.
Summary: If all you're going to do is shoot short shots, close to your laptop, and maybe upload them to YouTube, maybe the littler Mino is right for you. But ...
Summary: If all you're going to do is shoot short shots, close to your laptop, and maybe upload them to YouTube, maybe the littler Mino is right for you. But for travel and freedom from computer connections, the ZI-6 is the one. All the reviews say the picture quality is mostly similar, with a slight edge to the Kodak.
All the reviews I've seen that favor the Mino seem to forget there's ever a need to be disconnected and distant from your computer.
For decent final results on hand held shots with either the Kodak or the Mino, be sure to use editing software that features image stabilization, like Premier or the latest iMovie.6 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Kodak Zi6 - An HD pocket cam for the rest of us!
by thebigmouth on November 22, 2008
Pros: Nice Size, HD Video, AA rechargeable, Takes SD Cards, Did I mention HD Video? Big bright view area
Cons: No stabilization built in, Low light Quality, No Macintosh Support, Digital Zoom
Summary: Well Kodak does it again! Kodak will do what it did for still photography to video photography, make it simple and with HD to boot with the all new Kodak ...
Summary: Well Kodak does it again! Kodak will do what it did for still photography to video photography, make it simple and with HD to boot with the all new Kodak Zi6. I love the idea of the rechargeable AA batteries if they go dead and I not near a recharger I can put in regular AA. The SD card, Yea I know there is not one in the box, but think of the options you'll have all the storage you can afford. The HD is absolutely gorgeous and for a price that anyone can afford. The viewing screen on the back is incredible as well! YEP there is an Flip Mino HD but for my buck there is no better than Kodak! Why? Because Kodak made a science in color and the Kodak Zi6 delivers. Some say that the Zi6 need stabilization and honestly I don't think that would help me, because I am one lousy videographer. The main thing that I wish this had was Macintosh support, the onboard software is for Pee Cee use only. The digital zoom does need some work as well as the video quality in low light. This is one great little pocket video cam that everyone is going to want. Check out the Zi6 blog at zedi6.blogspot.com!
6 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Very impressed!!!
by swimmersam on January 20, 2009
Pros: Almost everything.
Cons: Screen is a little hard to see when facing into the sun. Batteries could last longer (carry along extras).
Not much of a zoom.
Low-pixel stills (use your reg. digital camera)
Grainy video in low light (very common with camcorders)Summary: This is a great little camera! It's easy to use, takes fantastic video and plays back on my HDTV really well. I use it on the 60fps mode which ...
Summary: This is a great little camera! It's easy to use, takes fantastic video and plays back on my HDTV really well. I use it on the 60fps mode which makes for a clear and smooth video. Since I don't have a high-end computer and graphics card, the video isn't the greatest but very acceptable, nonetheless.
I can get a lot of video on a 8GB SDHC. I used it for about an hour yesterday (54 clips) and it used just over 1 GB (on it's highest setting...720p, 60fps aka "HD60").
I can honestly say that I didn't think this camera would be this great. I bought it on a whim, thinking I'd probably return it. This is a keeper! Leave it to good-ole-Kodak to come up with a fine product at a great price. I own a Kodak still digital camera and its photos are way better in quality and color compared to Panasonic. I have also seen Panasonic's camera/camcorder (DMC-TZ5) and it's not that great because it doesn't film at 60fps.
Don't worry about the Zi6 not having image stabilization. In no time at all, you'll learn how to hold the camera steady. I use two hands and pan slowly...no problems.
And to think I was about to spend hundreds of dollars and ended up spending only $150! And it comes with everything you need (except the SD card). There's no need to purchase additional "normal" accessories.
I highly recommend this HD camcorder!5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great Looking Outdoor Videos
by deeconblus on August 25, 2008
Pros: Easy to use, extremely portable
Cons: shaky and not-so-great indoor results
Summary: Overall I love this camera for spontaneous videos of the family playing, etc. outside. The microphone is adequate for such things and the resultant movies in good lighting look really ...
Summary: Overall I love this camera for spontaneous videos of the family playing, etc. outside. The microphone is adequate for such things and the resultant movies in good lighting look really nice.
The quality of indoor or low-light movies is lacking but I suppose you could switch to a real camcorder for events like this.
You can't beat the picture quality versus convenience. I like not having to have a camera strapped to my hand and the ability to take this with us no matter where we go. The battery life seems great so far and I find myself taking far more movies than I used to.4 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Two thumbs up!
by andyklevorn on October 9, 2008
Pros: Easy to use, great video for the price. HD video completely fills the screen of my MacBook Pro. Not any problem at all that the included software doesn't work on a Mac, no Mac user would prefer that over iMovie or even QT pro any way.
Cons: Not being able to select the default start up mode, it starts in HD, which if you're just using for web is dumb.
Summary: Buy it, give it as a gift. It's really cool. See videos at www.trailheadbikeshop.com
Summary: Buy it, give it as a gift. It's really cool. See videos at www.trailheadbikeshop.com
3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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No Mac software? No problem.
Pros: Picture quality is quite good, controls are easy, price is right. Easy to use on a Mac, as the native Mac software is better than what is provided for Windows. I like the battery choice Kodak made; available everywhere.
Cons: It should have a delete. Image stabilization would be very nice if it could be provided inexpensively. Kodak could provide a plug-in for Mac software for uploading to a Kodak site, but this is more a Kodak marketing matter, not really a negative.
Summary: Quite good, and if stepped on or stolen your vacation or party won't be ruined.
Summary: Quite good, and if stepped on or stolen your vacation or party won't be ruined.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Beware !! Kodak tech support is nightmarish, if needed.
by Bendover2008 on December 18, 2008
Pros: Small handy size. Fairly easy to use. Decent video quality.
Cons: I had to return mine after it randomly froze up requiring battery removal to reset. Kodak tech support was useless and time consuming.. Instructions are very minimal.
Summary: Make sure of your return policy. I had issues with mine after just 3 weeks so no problem returning to Amazon.I bought a 8 GB SD card to expand ...
Summary: Make sure of your return policy. I had issues with mine after just 3 weeks so no problem returning to Amazon.I bought a 8 GB SD card to expand memory plus a better carrycase.
2 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Small, easy to use, and cheap.
by seattled77 on January 3, 2009
Pros: 3 ways of recording HD,HD60 and VGA. The quality is excellent even when you shoot on VGA. The USB attached to the camera. Its size. The big display.
Cons: Needs an image stabilization feature and they should make a battery that lasts longer.
Summary: I bought this after i returned the Panasonic SDR-S7 due to a very poor video quality. Tried this one and loved it. Its so simple to use that even a ...
Summary: I bought this after i returned the Panasonic SDR-S7 due to a very poor video quality. Tried this one and loved it. Its so simple to use that even a kid could work this baby. The picture quality is amazing. The only problem i see with this camcorder is the batteries, if you want to go and shoot on a field trip, you better have at least 4 sets of charged batteries. Mine only worked for like 30 min.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Overall worth the money.
by MrDow on October 25, 2009
Pros: Compact size. Large view screen. Quality picture and sound. Uses regular batteries (backup for rechargeable ones included with camera), available everywhere.
Cons: Does not stand up, needs tripod etc (has screw mount). Eats batteries. Slow to focus. Very sensitive to water.
Summary: This video camera is simple to operate, compact, and produces quality results for the price.
Summary: This video camera is simple to operate, compact, and produces quality results for the price.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Eastman Kodak Co.
- Part number: 1152537
- Description: Become an instant celebrity or paparazzo! This sleek pocketable design is built for easy video - there is no lens cap, no dials to turn, or settings to set. Just turn it on and hit record to capture the action, adventure, and all the juicy details in stunning HD! Make your cinematic debut on any HDTV. Or just pop the USB in the nearest PC and you're ready to share the fun on YouTube. Edit, add music, and personalize your flick and easily share with your adoring fans. There's no such thing as ''you should've been there'' with the Zi6.
General
- Product Type Camcorder - 720p
- Enclosure Color Black
- Digital Zoom 2 x
- Effective Sensor Resolution 1.6 megapixels
- Optical Sensor Size 1/4.5"
- Optical Sensor Type CMOS
- Digital Video Format H.264
- Shooting Modes Digital photo mode
- White Balance Automatic
- Exposure Modes Automatic
- Camera Flash Built-in
- Flash Modes Normal mode, Close-up mode
- Widescreen Video Capture Yes
Main Features
- Resolution 1.6 megapixels
- Camcorder Sensor Resolution 1.6 megapixels
- Camcorder Interpolated Still Resolution 3 megapixels
- Color Support Color
- Still Image Format JPEG
- TV Tuner None
- Video Capture H.264, MPEG
Memory / Storage
- Flash Memory 128 MB Flash - Integrated
- Supported Flash Memory MultiMediaCard, SD Memory Card
- Integrated Memory 128 MB
- Image Storage JPEG
- Media Type Flash card
Camera Flash
- Red Eye Reduction Yes
Lens System
- Type Lens - 4.1 mm - 4.1 mm - F/2.8
- Focal Length 4.1 mm - 4.1 mm
- Lens Aperture F/2.8
- Optical Zoom 2x
- Lens system type Lens
- Min focal length 4.1 mm
- Max focal length 4.1 mm
- Focus Adjustment Focus free
- Min Focus Range 27.6 in
- Macro Focus Range 5cm
- Zoom Adjustment Automatic
Additional Features
- Additional Features Built-in speaker, YouTube capture mode, USB 2.0 compatibility
- Software Drivers & Utilities, ArcSoft MediaImpression
- Included Accessories Wrist strap, Carrying pouch
Viewfinder
- Viewfinder Type None
Display
- Type LCD display - TFT active matrix - 2.4 in - Color
Digital Player (Recorder)
- Type Voice recorder
Microphone
- Type Microphone - Built-in
Connections
- Connector Type 1 x USB, 1 x Component video output, 1 x Composite video/audio output
- Expansion Slot(s) 1 x SD Memory Card
Audio Input
- Audio input type Microphone
- Microphone type Built-in
- Microphone Operation Mode Mono
System Requirements for PC Connection
- Operating System Support MS Windows Vista, MS Windows XP SP2, Apple Mac OS X 10.4 or later
- Peripheral Devices USB port, CD-ROM drive
- System Requirements Details Windows XP/Vista - 1 GB - 300 MB
Miscellaneous
- Carrying Case Carrying pouch
- Cables Included 1, 1 x A/V cable, Component video cable
Power
- Power Device Battery charger - External
- Battery type - Alkaline
Battery
- Supported Battery 2 x AA NiMH rechargeable battery ( Included )
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support 1 year warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 1 year
Viewfinder / Display
- Display Form Factor Built-in
Physical Characteristics
- Width 2.5 in
- Depth 0.9 in
- Height 4.5 in
- Weight 3.8 oz
Product series
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Manufacturer: Eastman Kodak Co.
Specs: Camcorder, CMOS, 2x, Flash card, 1.6 megapixels, 3.8 oz
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Manufacturer: Eastman Kodak Co.
Specs: Camcorder, CMOS, 2x, Flash card, 1.6 megapixels, 3.8 oz
Manufacturer info
- Eastman Kodak Co.
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Eastman Kodak Co. products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.kodak.com/
- Address:
343 State St.
Rochester, NY 14650 - Phone: 800/521-0788
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