Kodak Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 16MP Full HD Waterproof Rugged Review
The Kodak WPZ2 is built like a tank and cheap, but takes photos that'll make you miss your smartphone. Only buy it if getting wet is your top priority.
Overview
The Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 is a tough little camera that's built to survive your adventures, not win any photo contests. If you need something waterproof and rugged for under $200, this is it. Just don't expect it to compete with your smartphone on image quality. The one thing to know? It's a durable, simple point-and-shoot for splashing around, not a tool for serious photography.
Performance
Honestly, the performance is about what you'd expect for the price. The 16MP sensor lands in the 34th percentile, so photos can look a bit soft and noisy, especially in low light. The 6fps burst mode is surprisingly decent for a camera this cheap, and the build quality is in the 98th percentile—this thing feels solid and can handle a dunk. The lack of any stabilization is a real bummer, though, making video and low-light shots pretty shaky.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredibly tough and waterproof up to 49ft—perfect for the pool or beach. 83th
- Super affordable at around $160. 77th
- Simple to use, no complicated menus to figure out. 76th
- The 4x optical zoom is handy for a camera this size. 69th
Cons
- Image quality is mediocre. Your phone probably takes better pictures in good light. 3th
- No image stabilization at all, so video is very jittery. 4th
- The fixed screen is basic and not great for framing shots. 29th
- Autofocus is slow and hunts in low-contrast situations.
Specifications
Full Specifications
Sensor
| Type | 1/2.3"-Type CMOS |
| Megapixels | 16.76 |
Shooting
| Burst (Mechanical) | 6 |
| Max Shutter | 1/2000 |
Video
| Max Resolution | 1080p |
Display & EVF
| Screen Size | 2.7 |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Articulating | No |
| EVF Resolution | 230000 |
Build
| Weight | 0.2 kg / 0.4 lbs |
Connectivity
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No |
| USB | USB-2.0 |
| Hot Shoe | No |
Value & Pricing
At $159, it's cheap. But 'value' is tricky. If you absolutely need a waterproof camera and have zero budget, it's an option. For everyone else, a waterproof phone case or a used GoHero is probably a smarter buy. You're paying for the rugged shell, not the camera inside.
vs Competition
Don't compare this to the Canon R6 or Sony A6700—that's like comparing a skateboard to a sports car. The real competition is your smartphone in a good waterproof case, which will shoot better video and likely better photos. If you must have a dedicated rugged camera, look at used models from Olympus or GoPro. They'll cost more, but the image quality and features are in a different league.
| Spec | Kodak Kodak PIXPRO WPZ2 16MP Full HD Waterproof Rugged | Nikon Z9 Nikon Z 9 FX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body | Sony Alpha 7 Sony a7 IV Mirrorless Camera with 28-70mm | Canon EOS R6 Canon EOS R6 Mark II Body | OM System OM-1 OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II Mirrorless Camera | Fujifilm X-H2 Fujifilm X-H2 Mirrorless Camera, Black |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Compact | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Sensor | 16.8MP | 45.7MP Full Frame | 33MP Full Frame | 24.2MP Full Frame | 22.9MP Micro Four Thirds | 40.2MP APS-C |
| AF Points | - | - | 759 | 1000 | 1053 | - |
| Burst FPS | 6 | 30 | 10 | 40 | 120 | 20 |
| Video | 1080p | 8K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 8K |
| IBIS | false | true | true | true | true | true |
| Weather Sealed | false | true | true | true | true | true |
| Weight (g) | 176 | 1338 | 658 | 590 | 62 | 590 |
| Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare | Compare |
Verdict
Only buy this if you're on a super tight budget and your number one priority is having a camera that can get wet and sandy without breaking. For family snorkeling trips where you just want proof you saw a fish, it's fine. For anyone who cares even a little about photo quality, skip it. Your phone is a better camera.