Review: The Kodak Zi8 A Flip Mino Killer

Posted by on August 29, 2009 Leave a comment (8) Go to comments

Kodak Zi8_usbI’ve been on the search for a cheap, very portable, decent quality video camera. You know that old saying, “the best camera you have, is the one you have with you”. That could not be more true in my case. With a new baby, and producing lots of online videos, having a camera that can capture that perfect moment that I can quickly turn around and post online and not be embarrassed by how the picture looks is key for me.

Until now, for the most part, the “flip cam market” of cameras has been a bit underwhelming, they’ve just mostly been “ok” but lacked some very nice features.

Kodak’s trying to answer those missing features with their new Kodak Zi8 and it’s 1080p resolution, HDMI output, Mic in jack, and face detection support.

On top of 1080p (at 29.97 frames per second), it also offers a 720p resolution mode, with 60 frames per second which looks kinda amazing.

I cover all the details in my video review:



Some of the other features that I really dig about this camera include:

  • Expandable SD/SDHC card slot up to 32 GB; Rechargeable batteries and charger included
  • Vibrant 2.5-inch viewfinder; Watch footage on HDTV with included cables
  • 10 hours of HD video (Record ~20 min per 1 GB at 720p HD at 30 fps) with the expandable SD/SDHC Card slot that can hold up to 32 GB

What’s in the Box:Kodak Zi8_small

  • Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera
  • KLIC-7004 Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery
  • Adapter and cable for battery charging
  • HDMI and AV cables
  • Wrist strap
  • User’s Guide
  • ArcSoft MediaImpression Software for Kodak (on-camera)

It’s a great little unit that I am really impressed with! I plan to pair it with my shotgun mic, and mount the mic and camera in a handy flash bracket with a hand grip.

If you decided to pull the trigger and pick up the Kodak Zi8 and want to go through Amazon, you can grab it here with my affiliate link!

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  • http://www.r4-ds.es/ r4i

    Bundled software isn't Mac compatible but necessary for smooth playback of 1080p video; price doesn't include an optional memory card.

  • Gizzy

    As long as it's a fairly modern Mac, playback will be fine. 1080p h.264 video playback is not exactly a simple task.

    Shooting in 720p mode reduces the load on playback. But that said, I've never had a problem.. And the bundled software from Kodak would never be as good as iMovie or anything else on the Mac, so why bother.

  • melgior

    Thank you for the review! Does anyone here knows how this microphone holder is called? It's shown in the review, but not mentioned in the commentary.

    http://i47.tinypic.com/29y2gew.png

  • pfisher

    I was wondering the same thing… I have a Zi8 and would like to get something like that. Let me know if you find out

  • smartppc

    I bought just one Flip MinoHD Camcorder. I like it really very much. I am carrying always even to work to record meeting notes.

  • smartppc

    I bought just one Flip MinoHD Camcorder. I like it really very much. I am carrying always even to work to record meeting notes.

  • Pivoron

    Thanks for the review, very informative. I have a zi8 on order from
    Amazon. Can't wait to try it. I hope it will pick up good enough in low light for my use as recording dancing instructions. All I need is to be able to see the steps, a bit of graininess is OK, as long as I can see the instructor.

    Your review answered many questions I had. I also ordered the remote which you did not mention at all – perhaps its something new form Kodak. I plan to use the tripod and remote to operate the camera for short clips. I hope it works from 15-20 feet distance.

    Ron