Dec 04

Kodak Zi8 HD High-Def Video Camera Review for Under $150

Mike's Gadget Giveaway, Product Reviews Add comments

Summary

Dollar-for-dollar, you just can’t beat Kodak’s new “Flip Killer” camera.

Kodak's new Under $175 Zi8 Camera with a Built-In Microphone

Kodak Zi8 camera includes an external microphone input!

The Great:

  • Under $175
  • External microphone input
  • PC and Mac compatible
  • True HD high-definition: 1080p, 720p @ 60 frames per second, 720p and WVGA video
  • 5 Megapixel Camera
  • Nice big LCD display
  • Records in QuickTime format with the H.264 compression standard
  • SD Card Slot
  • Built-in USB connector
  • Image Stabilization / “face tracking”
  • Removable Lithium-Ion Battery
  • Macro function to shoot close-ups
  • HDMI cable adapter (and cable is included!)
  • External power charger (included)
  • External AV cable connection (cables included)
  • Battery included!
  • Video quality good enough to do “chromakey” – green screen!
  • Blows away the competition in terms of quality
  • Includes PC editing software (you don’t need it if you have a Mac)

The Not-So-Great:

  • Can’t see yourself in the viewfinder
  • Built-in USB connector is short
  • Slow “boot up” time
  • The zoom is “chunky” – not smooth
  • Does not include SD card
  • Battery life is 1.5 hours per charge
  • Terrible audio hum if you plug a microphone into it with the power adapter connected
  • Can’t use the camera as a webcam
  • No light or flash

Overall Rating

4.5 out of 5

Where to Buy

The Review

What is the number one thing I look for in a camera?

It rhymes with external microphone input.

If you don’t have one, your videos will “seem” bad.

And for some rotten reason, very few camera manufacturers except Canon put external mic inputs on cameras that cost less than $600.

This under $175 camera has one. And it works great.

Now the next thing about the Kodak Zi8 is, it is super easy to use, very flexible and it looks like a BlackBerry which is pretty cool! Here’s the great thing. The quality. It blows away the Flip. I’d say, it is easily four times better. What I also love about it, is it stores and saves in QuickTime format.

It’ll record in 1080P, 720P—that’s at 60 frames, so you can actually record sports. It has image stabilization built in.

Another super awesome feature—it has an SD card slot, so you can add a 32-gigabyte card in this thing and record about six hours of full high-definition video.

Now the other thing that I love about this camera – it records in QuickTime format!

You just basically pop out the chip, put it in your computer and you record and can do anything you want with it in terms of say, editing it, popping it into any software to edit. You can make a product with this thing and it looks great.

And in the sample video, we actually do a little ChromaKey test!

It’s small, fits in the pocket and it takes 5 megapixel photos as well.

It also has a nice removable battery. Lithium ion—lasts about an hour and a half, that’s a little bit of a drawback – I wish it lasted longer and so far, I haven’t found additional batteries at a local store.

The camera actually comes with an HDMI cable. If you don’t know what that is, it is a little port on the side so you can plug it into a high definition scree. And the quality is fantastic! The Kodak Zi8 approaches a $500.00 high definition camera in terms of quality.

There is one other thing that I love. Across the top, it has a macro switch, which means, you can get this super close and it focuses quite nicely. Great when you want to shoot stuff outdoors.

I took this thing to a U2 concert with the Black Eyed Peas. The quality was amazing and I did some split testing with a little portable Casio camera and a Flip Mino HD. The Kodak Zi8 was easily four times better quality. The image stabilization is decent. Exceptional performance and the LCD screen is very nice quality, very big!

I love being able to pop out the CD card, pop it into my computer and be able to immediately start editing.

Drawbacks

There are a few, but I can live with them…

You cannot use it as a webcam. Not that that’s a big thing these days, virtually every portable camera that you get nowadays, you cannot use as a webcam because they compress using the H264 compression standard which isn’t really “real-time”.

Next, the battery only lasts about an hour and a half. It was a real bummer when I was at the U2 concert. I was taking a lot of clips to share with my family and my friends and battery ran out before the end of the concert. Big bummer because there were some cool stuff at the end of the event and the encore was fantastic.

From the time you press the start button, it takes about 10 seconds to boot up. You have to remember that this is basically a little computer. If you think you can just turn it on, point and shoot, you’re going to be sad and lose a few seconds.

Another thing that’s a little bit annoying is when I want to move between capture modes, you move a little joystick to choose your quality and it takes a while. There is a hesitation, so I would suspect that the next generation of this camera is going to be a lot faster.

The digital zoom feature is “chunky” – what I mean is it’s slow and moves in noticeable “pops” instead of being smooth. It’s not nice to look at, but what the heck, at least it zooms in.

The camera has a built-in USB plug. That’s kind of neat and it’s connected to a little flexible cord which isn’t bad. I wish it was just a little bit longer because the camera actually gets in the way when you try to plug in other devices. If you only have two USB ports, it’s kind of hard to just squeeze stuff around on your PC.

The last thing – and my guess is the Kodak people don’t even know this.

I did an interview with a customer one day and I knew it was going to go longer than the batter would last. So I plugged in the external power connector and an external microphone. I decided that day to be smart and double check the audio quality before recording the entire 2 hour meeting.

When I played back the footage, there was a very LOUD hum – my guess is it’s caused by the power adapter not being filtered so there was 60 hz buzzing but ONLY when an external microphone was connected at the same time.

Fortunately I had two cameras with me and I just swapped batteries when it got low. But for now you’re stuck with battery power if you want to use an external microphone.

The Bottom Line

Kodak has REALLY raised the bar for the low-end, under $200 cameras.

I can’t recommend it highly enough – in my opinion nothing comes close in the price range and I love the small size and external microphone input.

I’m even going so far as to buying three of them, getting some tiny mini-tripods and taking it on the road with me to do 3-camera shoots when I do interviews. Combine these with two wireless lavaliere microphones and ambient light and it’ll look and sound as good as most any high-definition consumer camera set up and fit in a shoebox.

Go get one of these cameras NOW – they’re fantastic!

91 Responses to “Kodak Zi8 HD High-Def Video Camera Review for Under $150”

  1. Hoo Kang Says:
    December 4th, 2009 at 6:34 am

    I’ve been thinking about getting this to replace my Creative Vado HD, thanks to the external mic feature.

    I think you’re video locks it in for me.

    As always, Thanks Mike.

    It would be cool if you could share with us how you edit your videos. Do you do it all in house or do you out source it?

    Nice intro and outro too! Would love to learn where I can get one of those.


    Thanks for the kind comments, Hoo.

    Here’s where you can get a custom animation made like the one I have:
    http://digitalcafe.tv/products

    I’ve been searching for so long to find good animators that I finally started an animation house. You can get incredible 3d animation that’s “broadcast quality” like you’d see on ESPN, CNN or FOX News for a fraction of the price.

    There are lots of examples on the site.

    We do all of our editing in-house now. Videos generate the majority of our traffic here at Traffic Geyser, so it makes sense to have our own editors!

  2. John Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 10:35 pm

    You can get an instant fix for the clunky zoom and high pitch noise by downloading the latest firmware from the Kodak site. My camera worked perfectly after doing that.

    You can also get an external light that hooks up to the tripod mount under the camera.

    And you can also get a credit card sized remote control from the Kodak site for around $12 bucks plus S&H. Very useful for making talking head videos of yourself.

    I’ve had the Zi8 for about a month now and I love it. Much better than my Flip HD

  3. Amy Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 10:40 pm

    Thank you so much for this~ very informative…

    And you kept my attention:)

  4. Greg Reed (Australia) Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 10:42 pm

    WOW! Mike your timing is perfect.

    I’ve been hunting around here in Australia for a portable video camera and The Flip has been my focus.

    But now after seeing your video….how cool was that!…I’m a Kodak Zi8 convert.

    Love the microphone, love the size, love the features and love the price! It’s an allround winner!

    Thanks Mike. You’ve rescued another gadget user from an inferior product.

    Greg Reed
    AUSTRALIA

  5. Bob Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 10:52 pm

    Hello Mike – Great review! I’m a big fan of Traffic Geyser. Here’s an accessory you must review and use for video on the go… it’s on Oprah’s ‘O’ list. Watch the entire auto-start video on the home page. Proof, proof and more proof that video works for marketing on the web. Includes Jude Law. The inventor Wayne Fromm is a brilliant marketer.
    http://www.quikpod.com/home.asp
    Can’t wait for more reviews. Thanks, Bob


    Dang good link – and yes, the video on the home page is FANTASTIC! Very cool!

  6. Dave Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 10:54 pm

    Thanks for the excellent review.

    I currently have a Canon HV20 for video. How much of a drop-off would I see if I used something like the Kodak as a 2nd camera for product close-ups so I can shoot simultaneously? (I’m my own 1 man crew)

    Also, does the QT file drop right into iMovie or Final Cut?

    Thanks again.


    Yes – you can use this as a 2nd camera and it should look fine.
    The videos are all in QuickTime format – they drop right into iMovie and Final Cut. On the PC, you’ll probably have to use the built-in software to convert the files.

  7. Mike Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 10:54 pm

    Mike,
    Love your videos. I am a big flip user and i love the flip. I love it so much i promote them. Seeing this video will make me take a good look at Kodak’s new cam. The one shot you took of the U2 concert looked amazing. I promote gadgets i really love. If the cam’s pictures look like that i am in. Traffic Geyser rocks too :) Great service.

  8. Randy Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:03 pm

    Hi Mike,

    Great video and info as usual. Mike – I just got my Flip HD and now I am bummed that I didn’t see this one first. Shoot:-)

    Thanks,

    Randy Myers

  9. Phuong Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:05 pm

    Hi Mike, thanks for the review. The new Kodak camera looks awesome.

    But what type of wireless microphone would you recommend? I hope you will do another video :D

  10. Marvin Johnson Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:06 pm

    Hey Mike,

    Great review of new Kodak camera. I’ve got an existing mid level Flip camcorder that I’ve been using the past few months.

    But it isn’t in HD, and I was hinting around to my wife that I might want one for Christmas to replace it.

    Your comprehensive review of Kodak’s Zi8 just might make me cross over to another brand…. :-)

    Thanks for Sharing,

    Marvin

  11. Felipe Huicochea Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:08 pm

    I got the previous model, the Zi6 and has worked great so far. Certainly HD quality at a price hard to beat.

    Thank’s Mike!

  12. Richard Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:11 pm

    Thanks for that Mike.

    Great idea for the 3-camera interview.

    How would you rig that up with 2 wireless mic’s ?
    (Would you record the interviewer with their sound & video on one Zi8 and the interviewee with their sound & video on the other Zi8 then edit it ? Is that the best approach)

    Thanks Again,

    Cheers
    Richard


    Hi Richard,
    That’s exactly what I’m doing. I rigged up a 3-camera setup using three of these cameras and have two Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphones with each one plugged into a different camera.
    Mike

  13. Dave Lovelace Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:17 pm

    Mike

    Thanks for the review. What lapel mic or external mic would you recommend for this camera?

    Have you tested it in low light or natural light?

    Dave

    Here’s a microphone for under $30 that works fine. Note it’s a “mono” microphone, not stereo.

    Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone

  14. Kosotie Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:17 pm

    Really nice review of that cam, wow.
    So far I have been shooting pictures and videos with my
    Nokia mobile, because those really nice cams cost so much. Now it looks like it’s gonna be a a very Merry Christmas (or maybe delayed until spring when I can afford one like this.
    Nice done, loved the show and would love to be able to do similar shows in my own field. Keep going!

  15. Adrian Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:27 pm

    Hi Mike,

    That is definitely a neat little gadget. For a person (me) that is just starting out in the internet marketing world. It would be great to be able to create videos to post on my websites.

    Thanks for the information.

  16. Derek Baron Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:32 pm

    Hey Mike – Great video. You get more and more comfortable every time I see you behind the camera.

    Can you tell me if there is an issue with this device if I shoot a 5 min vid and then import it into Sony Vegas? I have heard that there is an issue where it looks like you lost the video. Just thought I asked. Looking forward to more videos.


    You’re right. You can’t just take the video straight out of the camera and edit it directly in Vegas. I’ll post a solution on how to do that.

    Much easier on a Mac – the files are “native” and are super easy to deal with.

  17. Andrew Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:32 pm

    I saw comparisons on youtube suggesting the video quality of the creative vado was better, and that seems better value too.


    That might be the case – the last Creative Vado really felt cheap to me and I’m generally disappointed in their products overall. But I’ll put it on my list of new gear to test out and let you know!

  18. Grant Crowell Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:39 pm

    An LCD screen would be extremely handy, so people could see themselves while its in record mode, if they’re recording themselves. Or if it had a way of doing a live feed to a monitor, so you could watch it that way. (I think the Flip has that feature with its HDMI cable, but then you add a few hundred $$ to the mix.)


    Agreed. That’s definitely a PITA (Pain In The A-corn). I wish it had that too. I talked to the guy at Kodak who’s responsible for the product and asked for that in the next version… They’re working on all kinds of cool new updates and models.

  19. Jeff Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:40 pm

    1- does the screen flip around, so you can see yourself while recording, if recording yourself?

    2- does it have a tripod mount?


    1. No flip around screen :(
    2. Yes, it has a tripod mount :)

  20. Brent Reader Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:47 pm

    Hi Mike,

    Just curious what type of microphone input is on the Zi8. I use a Samson C03U USB condenser mic for almost everything, and I love it (lets you switch between omni, fig-8, and cardioid pickup patterns). Would this compatible, or will I need to get a new mic?

  21. Greg Says:
    December 8th, 2009 at 11:49 pm

    Hey Thanks Mike. You always over deliver! I just signed up with Traffic Geyser. Boy a lot to learn. But great instructions. There are a lot of people on the net selling a lot of so called lead generation programs.Traffic Geyser is the best!

  22. Jeff Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 12:00 am

    Great review…would love to see more — especially a video camera that has all the outputs, inputs, good lens…all the good stuff for under 500.00 and one under 800.00

    Thanks -

  23. Rick Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 12:08 am

    I have got to get me one of those. Thanks for such a great and informative review. You guys are greatly appreciated.

  24. Rick Cutcliffe Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 12:13 am

    Absolutely the most comprehensive, in-depth review of the Kodak Zi8 HD High-Def Video Camera I’ve seen yet. I purchased one of the 1st generation Flip Mino’s before they came out with the HD version. It’s cool and all but this little baby from Kodak blows away even thier Mino HD model by a long shot. I’ve got to have one :) Thanks for the great review. Best Regards, Rick Cutcliffe

  25. Charles Goubert Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 12:27 am

    Enjoyed the review. I own the Ai6 which is a pretty good camera. I am now ready to move up to the Ai8, the external mic was all I was lacking. Thanks for the great tips and reviews. What do you recommend for a good wireless mic?

  26. Hans Gadamer Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 12:29 am

    Hi Mike,

    I loved your review! Well done, Mike.

    Here’s where I am really confused. Below is just a sample of the 16 people who gave very detailed 1-star (out of 5) ratings at Amazon. Ouch!

    Can you provide some guidance here?

    Thanks,
    Hans


    Hi Hans,
    I checked out the 1-star reviews that people left. Honestly, I haven’t experienced the problems these people did. Maybe they got a version of the camera with an old operating system (it’s up to 1.06 now) or they got a lemon.

    As of last week, I’ve purchased over 25 of these cameras to give to employees, use as bonuses and for family and friends. EVERYONE loves them!

    So my feeling is they got a bad unit.

    I know of one person who wrote to me and said he had one that had poor audio. I told him to just get a replacement and he wrote back and said the new one worked like a charm.

    Hope this helps!
    Mike

  27. Ron Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 12:45 am

    Hi Mike !

    Thanks for the awesome review. I bought the Kodak ZI6 this summer and did not regret it, it works great ! I thinking about getting the ZI8 because of the external mic…

    Ron

  28. Lisa Carroll Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 1:11 am

    Hi, Mike! Thanks for the in-depth review. Looks like a nifty little camera. Put this with a small universal tripod and it looks like you’re in business!

    -Lisa

  29. Katya Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 1:26 am

    Great review Mike. Can’t wait to get my hands on it. :P
    It’s definitely on my wishlist.

    One question though, how is the sound quality? Just wanted to hear your opinion on it. I need a cam with outstanding sound quality since I want to do music videos. Thanks.

    Have a great day!

    Katya

    Hello Katya,
    The sound quality is alright but it has a port for an external mic so you can get good quality sound using an external mic. I’m going to let you in on a little secret though. Music Videos have people lip-synching then they add a high quality music file to the video in post production.
    Mike

  30. Mike LeMoine Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 1:28 am

    We are giving these to our clients to shoot testimonial videos and also short content videos.

    Awesome product!

    Mike

  31. Eliot Merk Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 1:41 am

    I saw you demo this product at the CCPro M2 conference in Las Vegas. Looks ausome and a good value.

  32. willie price Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 2:04 am

    Rocking explanation. Pros and cons were excellent.There is a place for me to have one.

    THank You!

  33. Lyndon Irvine Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 2:05 am

    Now that’s what i call a review. Through and extremely informative. Thanks Mike. You have done us a great service here. I love the review. Its so real and well done. I mean after seeing that I know that camera inside out and I don’t even own one. Well not yet. BTW. Love the robot. LOL.

  34. Donna Pickering Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 2:09 am

    When you talked to the guy at Kodak did he give you any idea as to when the upgraded model would be out? Within the next year hopefully. ;-) I hate it when I buy something only to find out the newer version will be out in the next month or so. Thanks so much for all of your helpful videos!

    No idea when a new one is coming out. But as long as you’re making money with the camera, $150 is chump change!

  35. Gary Schafer Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 2:32 am

    Mike Stewart mentioned the camera to me about a month ago and I listened. Having a proper mike jack takes away any and all excuse for not speaking up or showing up.Now we will see!

  36. Jim Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 2:48 am

    Good Stuff. I just ruined my flip the other day….time for a new one.

  37. Natalie Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 2:58 am

    I’m replacing my Flip Mino and it’s between that Kodak Zi8 and the Aiptek Action HD GVS BK 1080P High Definition Camcorder with 5x Optical Zoom (Black)
    The Aiptek you can see yourself when recording it also is 1080p and has external mic. Has anyone used it yet?

  38. Patrick Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 3:24 am

    Great review Mike! Looks like I will have to get me one of those. As always, your reviews are so dynamic and fun to watch. Will we see you in infomercials anytime soon? LOL
    Thanks! Oh, and Happy Holidays to all!

  39. Ken Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 3:26 am

    I’ve been looking for a good flip killer. The primary requirement for such a device is, as you point out, better audio, specifically external mic input. I will look into this further, but if it’s as good as you say, I’m sold.

    BTW, with all the grief that Flip has gotten about their audio, you would think they would have addressed that issue by now. Do you think they will be coming out with a Zi8 killer at some point?

    Ken

  40. Ed Oakley Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 3:46 am

    Awesome review for a great little camera, Mike! Thank you.

    The remote control(purchased separately) works great, too. That’s important to me, as I like to shoot some informal videos of myself, without help, and I don’t want to have to do any editing – so, I use it for start record, stop record.

    Ed

  41. SDC Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 3:51 am

    Hi,

    Great review – keep them comming!

    I would like to see a review on the flip as well.

    The audio in the review for the K-Zi8 seemed poor, it there a port for a mic?

    Also, is there a port for an adapter so you do not have to use battery power?

    Thanks!

    Lets keep shooting …

    Hi SDC,

    There is a review of the Flip that I have already done, you can see it here http://trafficgeyser.com/blog/?p=142. There is a port for an external mic and you can also plug in an adapter for power. However, if you are using an external mic then there is a humming sound when you plug in the power adapter.

    Mike

  42. Megan McCormick Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 3:52 am

    Hi Mike,

    I now know what I’m asking Santa for this year! My daughter will be getting the hand me down Flip! As always thanks for your entertaining guidance and stellar role modeling.

    Megan

  43. Robert Sterling Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 3:58 am

    Hi Mike,
    I just started receiving your mail and joined Traffic Geyser. I love the valuable information you put out there. I am pretty new to video but thanks to you I am getting up to speed.

  44. Eric Brown Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 4:07 am

    Great review. As a PC owner I’m always leery of anything that uses Mac formats. How easy is it to convert video to a format I can use (avi, wmv)? And does this degrade video quality?


    Yes – this is the ONE THING that stinks about the camera – on a PC platform.

    You’ll need to convert the video formats to edit with Sony Vegas because it doesn’t recognize the files.

    You can open and edit the files with Microsoft Movie Maker and Pinnacle’s software.

    You can either use the included software from Kodak, QuickTime Pro or this free utility to convert the files:

    http://mediacoder.sourceforge.net/

    This is DEFINITELY a pain until Sony supports the new video.

  45. Larry Lawrence Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 5:11 am

    Mike, it’s hard to believe you get so much for so little.Great review. Did i mention it,s only $179 wow!

  46. Mr Idea Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 5:15 am

    Mike, I love the way you lay out the pros and cons for the videocamera. I have a Canon FS100 and I love it, but I’m going to give myself one of these Kodak puppies for Christmas just to have in my pocket for when those unexpected opportunities occur. Thanks again.

  47. J B Taylor Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 6:11 am

    Wow! I just paid $140 for a class 6 32G SDHC Memory card. Amazon was offering the Kodak Zi8, a lithium battery and an SDHC class 4 Memory card for $275! I already purchased a $600 Camcorder for the external jack and seeing this wish I might have seen this review first! Looks like a great camcorder for a great price!

  48. Brandon Steele Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 6:44 am

    Great video- I’m sold on this camera! Thanks again Mike!

  49. Pete Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 6:46 am

    What a fantastically complete review. Mike, you rock!

  50. Irving Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 7:36 am

    Great review Mike, i was thinking on buying a camera to start recording my videos for my new online business and this is offers a great value for low money. I am saving to get it ;)

  51. John Klein Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 7:37 am

    Wow I just bought the flipHD a month ago wish I knew about this before I bought it. Definitely will have to come here and see what your recommending before I buy anything.

  52. Leroy E. Grey Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 10:09 am

    WOW! Great presentation and super features. You’ve convinced me… tomorrow I’m selling my Samsung SC-D63 DV camcorder so I can buy one!

    THANKS!

  53. Nancy Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 12:32 pm

    Thanks Mike
    I was just doing research about Zi8 in Sweden
    So guess if I got happy – thanks for all the awesome service you provide us with :-)
    Best from Sweden //Nancy

  54. Charles Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 2:02 pm

    As always Mike, excellent review..good loo-ken’ out:-)

  55. Mihai Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 2:24 pm

    definitely a must have!

  56. Leon Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 4:42 pm

    Ed Dale is also a fan of Kodak Zi8 HD, he did a live video lesson on product creation, using the camera, at his Coming Home Seminar in Manchester UK. Camera is awesome, external mic option really makes it unbeatable at the price.

  57. Gilbert Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 5:08 pm

    Good to know about the Kodak Zi8!
    I work with the Sony HDR-SR11 to produce my videos and the main thing I love about it is also the microphone input, so I can record interviews and other kind of videos with a good audio.
    I was looking for a small camera that could do that, and it seems that I just found it.
    Thanks Mike.

  58. Bert Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 5:13 pm

    Mike,
    I just bought mine a few weeks ago – I looked at the Flip, Vado and Sony models but the Zi8 won out. The external mike jack, SD card, and Macro mode did it for me.
    I’ve recorded sports and you lose some quality when you zoom in (I think is is a digital zoom), but it handled an indoor swim meet great.
    Impressed with it so far!

  59. sylvia Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 5:22 pm

    awesome review, been so looking for something with an external mic input and this looks perfect, even if it is a little slow.


    With the latest update to the phone, version 1.06 (which is free BTW), they’ve sped it up considerably!

    They also fixed the zoom problem – it’s smoother now.

  60. Dez Futak Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 5:24 pm

    Great review Mike. I was one of the 3 winners of a Zi8 that you gave away at the Las Vegas Master Marketing event. It’s funny – I’d seen Steve Schuitt’s video review of the Zi8 about a week before going to Vegas & I really wanted one! How’s that for attraction marketing :) ??!!!!

    Anyway – I’m loving the Zi8…I’ve taken so many videos/snaps with it. It’s got a brilliant signal/noise ratio in poor light & once on, is so quick for taking snapshots with the camera option. I’ll post my own review soon.

    Cheers,

    Dez.

  61. Mike Koenigs Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 6:39 pm

    Hello Mike,

    I have been using my flip for a while now and it has some issues, but it does pick up bass well.

    I play music with a couple of bands, so that’s important.

    Do you know how well the kodak picks up bass or what kind of mic would be necessary for that?

    Neal Battaglia


    Hi Neal,

    I’d get a real microphone if you’re recording anything important and also record off a mix board. It just depends on how much you have to spend.

    Internal microphones are crappy – and you can’t expect much from a Flip or a $150 camera of any type.

    You can run audio right from the mix board, bring it down to a 1/8″ stereo connector and run it directly into the Kodak Zi8 I think. It would be worth a test. Let me know how it works and good luck.

    Mike

  62. Randy Vanderveen Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 9:47 pm

    Hey Mike,
    I have been waiting for the external mic option on a HD camera! I’m in the outdoor sports niche and absolutely need an external mic. I am geeked.
    No more hauling a bulky camcorder around!!!
    Tip: I can use a Gorilla flex tripod so I can wrap it around tree branches or anything when filming solo because this camera is lightweight enough…..Booyah!

  63. Karl Hummel Says:
    December 9th, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    Hey Michael,

    Just wanted to thank you for the great review. This will definitely be the next camera I buy. I also wanted to congratulate you on your decision to do video gadget tech reviews. No one I know is more qualified to do this then you!

    To Your Continued Success!

    Karl

  64. William Rashaw Says:
    December 10th, 2009 at 12:53 am

    Sounds like the perfect camera for us. I trust in your judgement. Just starting out making videos. Thanks Mike
    William

  65. Webcast your Meeting with MXPI Says:
    December 10th, 2009 at 2:18 am

    Great Stuff Mike – very well produced.

  66. JAMES H. Says:
    December 10th, 2009 at 2:50 am

    kodak zi8 movies star specs. @ price that someone sleeping in their car could afford

  67. Jim Pelz Says:
    December 10th, 2009 at 5:44 am

    Just ordered one! Can’t afford not to! Your review pushed me over the top on this one. You’re like a video tutor! The tuition is great!

  68. Bruce Eden Says:
    December 10th, 2009 at 5:02 pm

    Hi Mike: Great review! I was in on your webinar with ccpro went to buy the flip you recommended when I noticed the Kodak Zi6 with the larger screen (I’m old and can’t see) and the SD card but no external mic and olny 720p HD good picture sound sucks. Wish I had waited. Love to win a new Zi8!! What is the best webcam
    out there. Maybe a review in near future of the newest/best webcam. Everything goes obsolete fast these days. Love all your stuff. How about some Copywriting for Video? Looking forword Keep up the Good Stuff. Bruce

  69. D Robinson Says:
    December 10th, 2009 at 7:46 pm

    Thanks for the review. I love the fact that you did pros and cons. Most reviews just hype up the pros,,,then, you find out the cons later. Not you. I love. Finally a FULL review. Thank you.
    Thanks to you and your very complete review, I think I will get one. Been needing one.
    Thanks again for such a thorough review.
    Dan

  70. Randy Says:
    December 10th, 2009 at 10:07 pm

    Mike,
    That looks to be a very nice piece of equipment, for less than $200. Thank you for telling us about it!

  71. Steve Says:
    December 10th, 2009 at 11:51 pm

    Awesome! What a great camera. Didn’t know about the HDMI output – thats cool.

    Mike, would love to see a product/course from you on how to set-up my own video recording studio – green screen, lights, etc.

    Have you done this already?
    Thanks! Steve


    Hi Steve,
    I have a complete lighting course inside Traffic Geyser when you’re a “Platinum Elite” member.
    We’re making even more cool videos right now on creating a home studio – pay attention to your mailbox because you’ll see some more details about it very soon!

  72. Ray Jager Says:
    December 12th, 2009 at 4:10 am

    Great review Mike! The 720P at 60 frames is impressive.

  73. Sylvia Says:
    December 13th, 2009 at 3:13 am

    Looks like a winner of a camera for the price. I appreciated the review.

  74. blair Says:
    December 13th, 2009 at 5:43 am

    With the 32gb SD Card this thing sounds like it could be never ending fun!

  75. Luigi Says:
    December 13th, 2009 at 5:09 pm

    Mike, thank you so much !

    I was looking for a camera to buy for this Christmas, and, well, I guess the search has stopped. I’m definetly going for the Kodak Zi8.

    Youtube, here I come ! :D

  76. kart? r4i Says:
    December 15th, 2009 at 4:00 am

    This little gem arrived via UPS just last week, and I am extremely impressed with the combination of features, quality and performance.

  77. Trish Jones Says:
    December 20th, 2009 at 11:15 pm

    Mike, if you say “buy it” and it’s within my budget, I get it because you are the only guy I know who can help people set up a recording studio for under $300.00. I did it and now have my web tv show going. BIG thanks to you!

    I’ve done some great videos with the Flip HD, but I would prefer the ability to have a built in microphone and, someone suggested the Edirol R-09 audio unit but, I’m so glad I held off purchasing it.

    I think I may be a little too late to get this before Christmas day now but, I’m having it as soon as Amazon.co.uk can deliver.

    BTW- I can’t find a button to upgrade to Platinum inside Traffic Geyser. You make me feel as though I’m missing out! :-)

    Trish

    Hello Trish,
    Thank you for your kind words, and if you want to upgrade your account you can contact our billing department here http://www.trafficgeyser.org/support/.
    Mike

  78. Steve Says:
    December 23rd, 2009 at 3:49 pm

    I bought one of these and even modified it to add a wide angle lens (worked okay but the process is a pain!)

    My main issue right now is that I haven’t found a way to monitor the sound WHILE recording using an external microphone either wired or wireless. Have you found any solution for this?

    I was thinking maybe something like a BeachTek or JuicedLink with a headphone jack might work but that costs way more than the camera.

    Right now I have the zi8 mounted on a L bracket that has two hot shoe mounts. To one hot shoe I have mounted an external “shotgun” style microphone and to the other I have a small light made of bright LEDs.

  79. Tim Hostrawser Says:
    December 27th, 2009 at 10:10 pm

    Mike, your stuff is such a pleasure to view and pursue to build a great business helping small business

  80. Jackie Anderson Says:
    January 19th, 2010 at 8:34 pm

    Hi Mike,

    Great video I had been tossing around the idea that I’m going to get the Flip camera. Now that I’ve watch you’re video I have to check out Kodak Zi8. I like that is on the style of Blackberry, plus the other features. Thanks for the input.

  81. Faribault Web Says:
    January 22nd, 2010 at 6:33 pm

    Hey Mike…

    I own a Flip Mino HD and afer reading your review on the Zi8 purchased one of those as well. You are absolutely correct… the Kodak blows the Flip away in virtually every aspect.

    Thanks for the heads up on this cam… I will be purchasing another in the near future.

  82. Bobby Ivory Says:
    January 22nd, 2010 at 7:32 pm

    Hey Mike:
    Great video and review. Keep it coming. I’m going to grab one and do the chroma key thing. Very cool. Very nice intro. Your crew rocks.

    Bobvy-

  83. Paul Seymour Says:
    January 23rd, 2010 at 9:53 pm

    Mine should be here any day. I think I am going to convert my older Flip Mino HD to a Wide angel. Here is two really cool conversions if you want to try it.

    Permanent Conversion with Glue
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZN_UYPhwpM

    No Permanent Velcro
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9lQHDghP2s

  84. Thomas Pedersen Says:
    February 10th, 2010 at 10:22 pm

    Dude, thsis is freaking awesome.

    I wasn’t looking for a new digital Camera, but I’m getting this.
    I just went skiing the other day for the first time, and I wish I would have had a small camera like this with me the since it was my first time.

  85. tania gardere macleod Says:
    March 3rd, 2010 at 4:15 am

    Mike,
    i think this is the first time I’m behind on the times… i haven’t bought a flip, but have been eyeing them! I’ve been shooting with m y cannon and my blackberry. haven’t done much with my webcam yet.. but this looks MUCH better! I am so happy I haven’t made a purchase just yet. Maybe I’ll win your giveaway!

  86. Arnold, TheFreeMan Says:
    March 5th, 2010 at 6:55 pm

    Hey Mike

    Your stuff is always great; Wonderful video. I will be joining Traffic Geyser soon to use all the great tools you have there. Thank you.

  87. normz2 Says:
    March 19th, 2010 at 5:29 pm

    Excellent review. Every one that I have heard from say that this camera gives the best bang for the buck.

  88. ArchPhil Says:
    March 21st, 2010 at 5:52 pm

    WOW GOT ME BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZING I MUST GET 1 A.S.A.P

  89. Venkata Narayana Says:
    March 25th, 2010 at 1:25 am

    Awesome Review…Makes me want to buy it but sadly its out of stock everywhere online and I don’t see it much in stores either. Thanks for the great review though.

  90. Joe Burnett Says:
    March 28th, 2010 at 11:23 pm

    Mike,
    Great review…just looked at one over a Staples.
    Think I’m going back today to take another look!
    Thanks,
    Joe

  91. Feargal Quinn Says:
    April 9th, 2010 at 7:33 pm

    Mike,
    Thanks for the review. I bought one after your seeing your review.
    Thanks,
    Feargal

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