Kodak Digital Video Cameras: Highly Portable & Feature Rich

Not having a portable digital camera is just about as odd as not having a pair of pants nowadays. Whether its technology built directly into a mobile phone, or a separate device, almost everyone has one. The question is, however; how good is the quality? This seems to be the determining factor when actually deciding to use the camera or not. Most mobile phone users will likely agree - the convenience of having a built in camera is great, yet the quality is another story. This is especially true when thinking in terms of mobile phone cameras vs. portable cameras - particularly when portables feature over double the megapixel rate. On the other hand, people are accustomed to an all-in-one; therefore many users don't want to bother carrying a bulky second device. The solution? Enter the popular and successful line of portable Kodak video cameras.

Rewind to the late 1800's, and you'll discover a time when cameras were new, George Eastman invented roll film, and the Kodak name was born. In 1975 engineers at Kodak invented the first digital camera, and a decade later, in 1986, they also created the first megapixel sensor. Kodak knows their stuff (we can never forget Kodachrome), and their line of popular and affordable digital video cameras provide solid proof.

Later this year (mid-September to be exact) Kodak's latest entry in its digital video camera line, the KODAK PLAYTOUCH will arrive on store shelves. This camera joins the already successful group that includes the Zi8, the Zi6, the waterproof PLAYSPORT, and another newcomer - the waterproof Mini Video Camera.

Although particular specifications may vary by model (particularly with the Mini), common to the other models is the ability to shoot widescreen HD (High Definition) video at 1080p and 720p, and the ability to snap widescreen stills at a crisp, colorful, and clear 5+ MP. Most models are approximately the size of an average touch style mobile phone, with dimensions around 2.3 × 4.3 × 0.6 inches, while the Mini is built in a compact near credit card size of 2.4 × 3.5 × 0.5 inches. The Mini and PLAYSPORT also provide outdoor weathered fun as they are waterproof up to 10 feet.

Kodak's flagship portable digital video camera, the Zi8 made its debut not so long ago (1 year ago - September 2009). The upcoming PLAYTOUCH arrives soon with similar specifications. Here is an overview of basic differences. The sensor type has been increased from a 2.5 to a 3.2 5 MP CMOS, while the built in display screen has increased from 2.5 in to 3.0. The lens has changed quite a bit, from the 6.3 mm, f/2.8, fixed focus, 35 mm equivalent: 61 mm (1080p), 46 mm (720p/60 fps, 720p, WVGA), 42 mm (still) to a new lens rating at 3.9 mm, 35 mm equivalent, 44 mm @ 1080p without DIS, 33 mm @ 720p without DIS, 33 mm @ WVGA without DIS, 33 mm still capture. On-board internal memory has remained the same, just as the variety of still and capture modes have. The new PLAYTOUCH, however, will also include built in capture effects such as: normal (default), sepia, black and white, high saturation, and a 1970's film look.

Sources/Resources:

Kodak: Digital Video Cameras