Best Waterproof Video Camera for Camping Review

Outdoor camping is not the best environment for a pocket video camera, so a waterproof video camera, like the Kodak Playsport Zx3 HD pocket video camera which also works as an underwater video camera is just what you need to capture those special camping moments in any kind of weather.

This review and buying guide for pocket camping cameras and video cameras will point you in the right direction to find the perfect all-weather video camera for your camping activities.

With all the raving about the Flip Mineo and Flip Ultra HD pocket video cameras, the Kodak Playsport series of pocket video cameras are probably the best pocket cameras you never heard of, but once you do, you will see why the Playsport should be a serious consideration.

For outdoor enthusiasts, whether a primitive tent camper, extreme hiker, or any other activity that takes you out of a safe sterile environment, durability and ruggedness are just as important as features when it comes to your electronics.

The Kodak Playsport isn't just water-resistant, it's waterproof! Up to 10 feet underwater! And it costs less than the Flip Video cameras.

First, a disclaimer; admittedly this reviewer is biased. This is a tremendous product that works exactly as promised as is cheaper and more rugged than the much touted Flip video cameras.

As an outdoor camper that does primitive-site tent camping and hiking - durability and ruggedness were more important than extra bells and whistles. The Playsport fit those requirements and still included some nice bells and whistles features.

You can see the technical specs and company promo blurbs at the product link below, but here are the basics:

• Waterproof pocket video camera with control buttons designed for easy one-hand operation
• Can record underwater - up to 10 deep.
• Can record in full 1080 HD format at 30 fps
  
• Records onto removable SD memory cards. Estimated at 20 minutes per Gig¹
• Uses rechargeable Li-Ion battery²
• Includes with HDMI and AV cables for direct-to-TV hook-up
• Includes video software for your PC
• Software allows direct one-click uploading to social networks
  
• Best price on Amazon - around $117.00

The Pro's:

1. Unit is very solid and rugged - can survive a 3 ft. drop onto a hard surface
2. Offers multiple recording modes
3. Has great zoom capabilities
   
4. No USB cords or plugs, (like the Flip), to mess with, simply pop the SD card into your reader slot and you are ready to edit or view
   
5. With extra SD memory cards, (and battery), you have unlimited recording time
6. Qualifies for Free shipping when you buy from Amazon
   

The Con's:

1. The recommended 20 minute per Gig of memory is for 720p recording mode and is very optimistic, but an inexpensive 8 Gig SD card will still allow almost 2 hours of recording time.

Note: It is much more realistic and convenient to keep a couple of two or four Gig cards to use to keep recording sessions separate. When would you use a pocket video camera for one session of more than 2 hours of recording?

2. The rechargeable battery - the battery works fine, but it means you need to get a back-up battery so your camera isn't out of service during battery recharge times. Using regular AA or AAA batteries would avoid this

3. An SD memory card is not included! You have to supply your own.

Reviewer's Recommendation:

A definite Buy! This video camera was perfect for its intended use, feels more solid than the Flip video camera, and still has comparable features.

But... Spend $20 bucks more to get a back-up battery and a couple SD memory cards.

ps. You can see a full review of this camera in an outdoor camping environment at this link: Camping with the Kodak Playsport Zx3

Amazon.com has developed into the most-trusted online market place on the Net. And for good reasons.

When you buy from Amazon;

• you get an Amazon guarantee of satisfaction; you don't have to depend on the trustworthiness of an individual merchant
• Amazon almost always has the best prices - usually even better than ebay
• Most purchases over $25 qualify for Free shipping - more savings!

Check out these:

>>> Waterproof Kodak Playsport Video Cameras on Amazon <<<

The Kodak playsport Zx3 Pocket waterproof video camera is perfect for outdoor camping activities because it is such a durable pocket video camera, much more so than the Flip Mineo video camera. When looking for a camcorder to record your camping activities, you want one that has been well reviewed and field tested. the playsport can even be used as an underwater waterproof video camera.