Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 Waterproof Camera Review: Is It Worth Buying?
- The Inspect Aspect
- Jan 31
- 4 min read
If you’re looking for an affordable, rugged, and waterproof camera, the Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 might be just what you need. Designed for adventure seekers, water sports enthusiasts, and travel photographers, this camera offers a durable build with waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof capabilities. But is it the best budget-friendly action camera? Does it perform well under different conditions? In this in-depth review, we’ll explore its features, image quality, battery life, pros and cons, and how it compares to other cameras in its category.
Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2: Overview
The Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 is a compact digital camera designed to withstand extreme conditions. Whether you’re snorkeling, hiking, or just need a camera that can survive accidental drops, this device provides a cost-effective alternative to expensive action cameras.
Key Specifications
Camera Sensor: 16.35MP 1/2.3" BSI CMOS
Lens: 4x Optical Zoom (27-108mm equivalent), f/3.0-6.6
Display: 2.7” LCD screen
Video Recording: Full HD 1080p at 30 fps
Waterproof Rating: Up to 15 meters (49 feet)
Shockproof Rating: Survives drops from up to 2 meters (6.6 feet)
Dustproof: Fully sealed against dust and sand
Connectivity: Built-in WiFi for easy sharing and remote control
Storage: Supports MicroSD cards up to 32GB
Battery Life: Approximately 200 shots per charge
Design & Build Quality
1. Rugged Construction
The Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 features a robust plastic shell that’s reinforced to withstand outdoor conditions. The grip is designed for secure handling, even when wet, making it ideal for water sports and adventure photography.
2. Waterproof Performance
With a waterproof rating of up to 15 meters (49 feet), this camera is suitable for:
Snorkeling & Swimming
Beach & Pool Photography
Light Scuba Diving
Although it’s not built for deep-sea diving, it handles underwater photography well in shallow waters. The buttons are large and tactile, making them easy to press even when wearing gloves.
3. Shockproof & Dustproof
The camera is shockproof from drops up to 2 meters (6.6 feet), making it kid-friendly and great for active lifestyles. It is also dustproof, meaning it won’t get damaged by sand or dirt, which is useful for desert and beach trips.
Image & Video Quality
1. Still Photography Performance
The 16.35MP sensor delivers decent image quality in good lighting conditions. You can expect:
Bright and colorful images in daylight
Good sharpness at normal zoom levels
Moderate detail retention in outdoor shots
However, low-light performance is limited, as the small sensor and narrow aperture struggle in dim conditions. There is no image stabilization, so handheld shots in low light can be blurry.
2. Optical Zoom Capability
The 4x optical zoom lens (27-108mm equivalent) is useful for:
Capturing landscapes and close-up shots
Zooming in on distant subjects without losing detail
However, zooming reduces brightness, especially at maximum zoom levels, so it’s best to use it in well-lit conditions.
3. Video Recording
The Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 records Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps. The video quality is acceptable for casual use, but:
Audio recording is basic and lacks a wind noise filter.
No 4K support, so it’s not ideal for professional videographers.
No image stabilization, which makes handheld videos shaky.
For stable shots, it’s recommended to use a tripod or place the camera on a steady surface.
Battery Life & Storage
1. Battery Performance
The camera lasts for about 200 shots per charge, which is sufficient for day trips but not ideal for extended use without recharging.
A spare battery is recommended if you’re planning a long outing.
2. Storage Capacity
The WPZ2 supports MicroSD cards up to 32GB, which is enough for hundreds of photos and several hours of video.
It’s advisable to use a high-speed MicroSD card for better video recording performance.
Connectivity & Sharing
One of the best features of the WPZ2 is its built-in WiFi, allowing for:
Instant photo sharing to smartphones & tablets.
Wireless remote control using the Kodak PIXPRO app.
However, the app interface is not as advanced as those from competitors like GoPro.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✔ Affordable alternative to action cameras✔ Waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof✔ Decent image quality in good lighting✔ WiFi for instant sharing✔ Simple & beginner-friendly interface
Cons:
❌ Poor low-light performance❌ No image stabilization (videos can be shaky)❌ Limited zoom capabilities❌ Battery life could be better
Comparison: How Does It Stack Up?
If you’re wondering how the Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 compares to other budget waterproof cameras, here’s a quick breakdown:
Camera | Waterproof Depth | Video Quality | Optical Zoom | Price Range |
Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 | 15m (49ft) | 1080p Full HD | 4x Optical Zoom | Budget ($150-$200) |
GoPro HERO10 | 10m (33ft) | 5K Ultra HD | Digital Zoom | High-End ($400+) |
Olympus Tough TG-6 | 15m (49ft) | 4K UHD | 4x Optical Zoom | Mid-Range ($300-$400) |
Fujifilm XP140 | 25m (82ft) | 4K UHD | 5x Optical Zoom | Mid-Range ($250-$350) |
The Kodak WPZ2 is the best budget choice for users who want a simple, durable waterproof camera for under $200.
Final Verdict: Is the Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 Worth It?
The Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers who need a rugged, waterproof camera for casual photography.
Who Should Buy It?
✔ Travelers and outdoor enthusiasts on a budget✔ Kids or beginners learning photography✔ Snorkelers, beachgoers, and hikers✔ Anyone needing a simple, durable camera for under $200
Who Should Skip It?
❌ Photographers needing high-end image quality❌ Users looking for advanced video stabilization❌ Professional divers needing deeper waterproofing
Where to Buy the Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2
The Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 is available on Amazon and major electronics retailers. Be sure to check for discounts and bundle deals for extra savings.
