A rugged, waterproof Zi8., 31 Mar 2010

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Mr. Peter J. Chapman “Minor Celebrity” (Burgess Hill) – See all my reviews

  

  

The PlaySport is Kodak’s ‘upgrade’ to the very successful Zi8 model.Kodak Zi8 HD Pocket Video Camera – Black

There are some differences between the two units, so decide carefully what you will be making videos of before making your purchase.

The PlaySport is missing the macro function on the lense that can be found on the Zi8, basically, this allowed you to focus clearly on close up objects. Also missing is the 3.5mm stereo mic input. This was very usful if you were micing up an instrument and recording interviews. It also meant that you could stand as far away from the camera as your microphone cable would allow.

However, the PlaySport has some improvements and features that trump the Zi8.

In my opinion the video quality is better, capturing video in low light situations is improved, the brightness of the lcd screen is adjustable, it works underwater, its smaller and fits better in your hand than the Zi8.

The Playsports lense is wider than the Zi8’s, meaning you can fit more in the frame.

To sum things up. If you are looking to do video blogging, music recordings, interviews and anything a bit more professional, then buy the Kodak Zi8. If you’re looking for something a little more rugged, a camera you’d not think twice about letting the kids use, a video camera to take on holiday or just something to carry around with you to whip out when you spot something worth recording, then the PlaySport should be your weapon of choice.

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For the price perfect, 6 May 2010

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R. Evans “R Evans” (England) – See all my reviews

  

Excellent value for money, i find it great for just picking it up and filming my kids playing.

Picture quality superb at 720p 60fps

Battery life not brilliant, long videos 20+ mins and half flat, and it gets hot

Would recommend none the less

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Stunning, 18 May 2010

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Mr. William Andrews – See all my reviews

  

I bought this camera mainly because my daughter was going to Mexico on holiday and said that she hoped to swim with sharks and dolphins. I have used video cameras on an amateur basis for years but have never progressed to HD. Although she is not the best of photographers (‘hosepiping’ the camera all over the place) I can only say the results really are stunning. The brilliant underwater video shots of the brightly coloured fish are extremely good when viewed on my HD TV, the sound of local singers and guitarists etc. is excellent and the quality of the many still shots (too many) is exceptional. Some of the stills showing the colour of the sea and the sand are literally worth framing.The editing facilities which install when you first connect to a PC are adequate although basic. The only regret I have is that I bought the camera for my daughter: I want it for ME now.

I cannot speak too highly of this excellent video (and still) camera, especially considering the price on Amazon.

Bill

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