Review posted 02/03/2012

Quick Take

Pros

Very Compact Body Rugged lifeproof specifications Incredibly easy to use Built-In USB Plug Requires only one hand for use Records pleasing 720p HD video A/V and HDMI output - optional cable required Fast f/2.4 fixed lens works well in low-light 1-megapixel stills are actually pretty good quality Budget friendly price tag

Cons

Controls require a good amount of pressure No optical zoom Digital zoom degrades video / still image quality Mic pics up slightest breeze Built-in speaker is almost worthless No flash or media light for low-light shooting Kodak Share Button App requires some personal information (Facebook profile access, email address and password, etc.)

Bottom Line

The Kodak Playfull Ze2 is a great little video camera for $99 USD or less. What it lacks in quality and features it gains in versatility thanks to its lifeproof specifications. We found that overall quality is good, with only a few annoyances. Read more in our Full Conclusion.

Kodak's Ze2 builds upon their Playfull line of compact digital video cameras, with the addition of some appealing Lifeproof features. Like past models, the Ze2 is a fixed lens video camera that can record 720p HD video, along with 1-megapixel still images. These files are the perfect size for sharing on social media sites like Facebook, and Kodak has included some handy features to help you quickly and easily upload your video and photos. Additional features include waterproof, dustproof, and drop-proof specs, simple to use interface and controls, f/2.4 aperture to help you capture better video in low-light, etc.


Kodak PlayFull Ze2 Features:

• 720p HD video capture at 30fps
• 1-Megapixel CMOS image sensor
• 1-Megapixel still images
• 2.0-inch LCD
  
• 3-Step sharing
• Sharing to: KODAK Gallery, FACEBOOK, TWITTER, YouTube, FLICKR, ORKUT, YANDEX, and KAIXIN001
• Built-in USB plug
  
• Still Image and video "Effects" Modes
• Video Editing Software
• HDMI Port
• Internal Li-Ion rechargeable battery
• SD-SDHC card slot
  

The Kodak PlayFull Ze2 is available now with a MSRP of just $99.95 USD. See our buy box below for the most current online pricing at various vendors.

What's In the Box?:

• KODAK PLAYFULL Video Camera
• Wrist strap
• Quick Start Guide
• ARCSOFT MEDIA IMPRESSION Software for Kodak and KODAK Share Button App (both on-camera, PC only)