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Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-BK Review

The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-BK is a compact digital camera aimed at simple everyday photography, travel, and casual social content. Its biggest strengths are portability, ease of use, and value, making it a practical point-and-shoot for beginners. Its main limitations are a fairly basic feature set, mixed battery and reliability feedback, and a comparatively weak screen experience.
Expert reviewed
78
Overall score
Data-driven scoring Expert reviewed Updated analysis

Why we ranked it highly

The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-BK is a small point-and-shoot digital camera built for buyers who want a dedicated camera without the size, price, or complexity of larger interchangeable-lens models. It combines a 16MP CMOS sensor with a 5x optical zoom lens and a 28mm wide-angle view, which should suit everyday photos, trips, group shots, and casual creative use. The camera also records 1080p Full HD video, giving it some flexibility for short clips and basic vlogging. Based on the scores and review data, this model appears best matched to beginners, teens, and travel users who care most about simplicity, portability, and price. It stands out more for easy handling and pocketable size than for advanced imaging or premium display quality. Reviews regularly praise photo results for the money, but battery life and long-term reliability feedback are less consistent.
90-day review Expert reviewed User feedback Data scoring

Key specs

Additional details

Compatible Mountings
Tripod Socket
Aspect Ratio
16:9, 3:2, 4:3
Sensor Type
CMOS
File Format
JPEG
Image stabilization
Digital
Maximum Aperture
3.9 f
Expanded ISO Minimum
100
Photo Sensor Resolution
16 MP
Photo Sensor Size
1/2.3-inch
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/2000 Seconds
Minimum Shutter Speed
5.0E-4 Seconds
Exposure Control
Aperture Priority, Automatic, Manual, Program
Form Factor
Compact
Effective Still Resolution
16.35 MP
Special Feature
1080P Full HD Video, Vlogging Camera, 5x Optical Zoom, 28mm Wide Angle, 16MP CMOS Sensor, Li-Ion, Image Stabilization
Color
Black
Screen Size
2.7 Inches
Shooting Modes
Automatic, Landscape, Macro, Portrait
Item Weight
3.7 Ounces
Video Resolution
1080p
Viewfinder
Electronic
Flash Modes
Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, Fill Flash, Force Off, Slow Synchro, Red-Eye Reduction + Slow Synchro
Camera Flash
Built-In
Skill Level
Amateur
Specific Uses For Product
Photography, Videography
Compatible Devices
Nikon F mount cameras
Continuous Shooting
30 FPS
Aperture modes
F3.9-F8.0
Viewfinder Magnification
1.0x
Flash Sync Speed
1/2000

Connectivity

Connectivity Technology
USB
Data Transfer Rate
1000 Megabits Per Second
Video Output
HDMI
Total USB Ports
1
Total USB 2.0 Ports
1
Hardware Interface
USB

Display

Screen Size
2.7 Inches
Display Type
LCD
Dots Per Screen
230,000 pixels (230K) or approximately 756,000 dots (756K)
Display Fixture Type
Fixed
Display Maximum Resolution
230000
Has Color Screen
Yes
Display Resolution Maximum
16 MP
Touch Screen Type
Capacitive

Camera Modes

Shooting Modes
Automatic, Landscape, Macro, Portrait
Digital Scene Transition
zoom
Digital-Still
Yes
Movie Mode
Yes
Image Capture Type
Stills & Video
Night vision
No

Autofocus

Auto Focus Technology
Contra, Contrast Detection, Multi area, Phase Detection
Focus Features
Contrast Detection
Autofocus Points
9
Focus Type
Auto Focus
Focus Mode
Automatic AF (AF-A)
Autofocus
Yes

Image Quality

Aspect Ratio
16:9, 3:2, 4:3
File Format
JPEG
Effective Still Resolution
16.35 MP
JPEG Quality Level
Normal
Supported Image Format
JPEG
Bit Depth
8 Bit
Total Still Resolution
16 MP
Maximum Image Size
4608 Pixels

Lens details

Maximum Focal Length
25.5 Millimeters
Optical Zoom
5 x
Lens Type
Wide Angle
Zoom
Optical Zoom
Camera Lens
5X optical zoom, 28mm wide-angle lens, focal length: 5.1 mm (wide) - 25.5 mm (tele) [35mm film equivalent: 28mm - 140mm], 8-group, 8-element lens construction, digital image stabilization, focusing range: normal (60cm - infinity for wide, 100cm - infinity for tele), macro (5cm - infinity for wide), minimum aperture: F3.9 (wide) - F6.3 (tele)
Minimum Focal Length
5.1 Millimeters
Real Angle Of View
30.6 Degrees
Focal Length Description
5.1, 140 millimeters
Digital Zoom
6 x
Number of Diaphragm Blades
8
Lens Construction
8 groups 8 elements

Camera Settings

Metering Methods
AiAE, Center-Weighted, Spot, Face AE
Exposure Control
Aperture Priority, Automatic, Manual, Program
White Balance Settings
Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Fluorescent, Incandescent
Self Timer
10 Seconds
Crop Mode
1.50:1, 16:9, 4:3, or 1080p

Item details

Brand
KODAK
Model Name
FZ55
Built-In Media
Camera, Li-Ion Battery, USB Cable, AC Adapter, Strap
Are Batteries Included
Yes
External-Memory Size
512 GB
Model Number
FZ55BK
Remote Included
No
Model Series
Friendly Zoom
Series Number
55
Global Trade Identification Number
00819900014068
Generation
55
UPC
819900014068
Unit Count
1.0 Count
Manufacturer Part Number
FZ55BK
Manufacturer
JK Imaging Ltd
Age Range Description
Adult

Memory

Flash Memory Type
SDXC
Memory Slots Available
1
Memory Storage Capacity
63 MB
Read Speed
445 Bytes Per Second
Recording Capacity
412344 Minutes
Write Speed
153 MB/s or less
Flash Memory Speed Class
Class 10 or higher
Flash Memory Bus Interface Type
UHS-I
Flash Memory Supported Size Maximum
512 GB
Flash Memory Installed Size
63 MB
Compatible Flash Memory Type
SD, SDHC, SDXC

Scores breakdown

74 /100

Performance

68 /100

Features

89 /100

Usability

80 /100

Design

58 /100

Display quality

75 /100

Camera quality

60 /100

Connectivity

62 /100

Battery life

Strengths

  • Very compact 3.7-ounce point-and-shoot design that fits easily in a pocket or purse.
  • High usability score and strong customer feedback for simple controls and beginner-friendly operation.
  • Good value positioning at its price, with a strong value score and repeated praise for affordability.
  • 5x optical zoom and 28mm wide-angle coverage add more framing flexibility than a fixed-lens basic compact.
  • 16MP CMOS sensor appears well suited to everyday photos, trips, and casual social content.
  • 1080p Full HD video support makes it usable for short clips and basic vlogging.
  • Uses standard SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards up to 512GB, which helps with storage flexibility.
  • Strong customer satisfaction score backed by a 4.5-star average across 7,190 reviews.

Limitations

  • Feature set is fairly basic for the category, with modest 16MP stills and 1080p video rather than higher-end imaging specs.
  • Display quality score is weak, and some buyers say playback on the camera screen looks less clear than transferred images.
  • Battery life feedback is mixed, with some users reporting good endurance and others saying the battery does not hold a charge well.
  • Reliability score is only average, and the review summary mentions some reports of the camera stopping working quickly.
  • Connectivity is limited, with USB and HDMI listed but no evidence of built-in wireless sharing features.
  • JPEG capture is listed, but no RAW support is provided in the available specifications.
  • Digital image stabilization is included, but there is no evidence of stronger optical stabilization.
  • Best suited to casual shooting rather than users expecting advanced controls, premium display quality, or enthusiast-level output.

Ideal user profiles

  • Beginners who want a simple dedicated camera instead of using a phone for every photo.
  • Travelers looking for a lightweight compact camera for everyday sightseeing and family snapshots.
  • Teenagers or casual users who want an affordable point-and-shoot for social events and memories.
  • Buyers focused on value and portability over advanced photo or video features.
  • Users who want a small camera with optical zoom for general-purpose shooting.

Use cases

  • Everyday family photos and casual snapshots with friends.
  • Travel photography where pocketability matters more than advanced camera features.
  • Basic vlogging or short Full HD video clips.
  • Beginner-friendly point-and-shoot use for teens or first-time camera buyers.
  • Capturing events, outings, and vacations without carrying a larger camera.
  • Landscape and group shots using the 28mm wide-angle setting.
  • Simple close-up shooting with macro mode.

Fit and positioning

Who this works for

Category positioning

The FZ55-BK sits in the budget compact camera part of the market. Its scoring profile points clearly toward value, ease of use, and portability rather than advanced camera performance or enthusiast features. That makes it a beginner-friendly and travel-friendly option for casual buyers who want a simple dedicated camera with optical zoom. It does not appear positioned as a premium compact, hybrid creator camera, or specialist photography tool.

Best for

This camera is best for users who want a lightweight, straightforward point-and-shoot for everyday photos, travel, and casual memories. Its strongest scores are usability, portability, value, and customer satisfaction, which align well with beginners, teens, and anyone shopping on a tighter budget. If your priorities are ease of use, small size, and decent everyday results rather than advanced controls or top-tier video, it makes the most sense.

Not best for

Buyers who want stronger video features, a better screen, more robust connectivity, or greater long-term reliability may want to compare other options. The feature score is modest, the display quality score is low, and battery and reliability feedback are mixed in customer reviews. It is also not the best fit for enthusiasts who need RAW capture, advanced stabilization, or higher-end imaging performance.

Performance analysis

How it performs in practice

Each scoring dimension is separated into a compact card so the strengths and tradeoffs are easier to compare without reading one long block.

Performance analysis

For its intended role as an affordable point-and-shoot, the FZ55-BK delivers moderate overall performance. Its performance score of 74 and camera quality score of 75 suggest capable everyday results rather than standout image quality. The 16MP CMOS sensor and 5x optical zoom should be enough for casual photography, travel shots, and family use, and reviews often describe the photos as good for the price. However, the product data and customer feedback do not support positioning it as a camera for demanding low-light work, advanced video creation, or enthusiast-level image control.

Feature analysis

The feature set is functional but basic for a modern compact camera, reflected in its 68 feature score. Useful inclusions include 5x optical zoom, a 28mm wide-angle lens, 1080p video, macro and scene modes, built-in flash, tripod socket, and support for large SDXC cards. Exposure modes including automatic, program, manual, and aperture priority add some flexibility, but the overall package still looks geared toward casual users rather than advanced photographers.

Usability analysis

Usability is one of the clearest strengths here. The camera earns an 89 usability score, and customer reviews repeatedly mention easy controls, simple menus, and a straightforward point-and-shoot experience. Its compact body and familiar button-based operation should help first-time camera buyers get started quickly. For buyers who do not want to spend time learning a complex interface, the FZ55-BK appears to offer a practical and low-friction shooting experience.

Design

The FZ55-BK has a simple compact-camera design focused on convenience. Its 80 design score reflects a practical form factor that prioritizes portability and easy handling over advanced ergonomics. Reviews frequently praise the small size, clean look, and ability to fit comfortably in a hand, purse, or pocket. That makes it a sensible design for casual photography and travel, though the smaller body naturally leaves less room for larger controls or a bigger display.

How it compares

Within the compact camera category, the FZ55-BK compares best against other entry-level models that focus on convenience and affordability. It stands out less for advanced image quality or creator-oriented features and more for being easy to carry, easy to operate, and reasonably priced. Compared with stronger mid-range or enthusiast compacts, it appears more limited in display quality, connectivity, battery consistency, and feature depth. On the other hand, it offers a clear advantage over more complicated cameras for buyers who simply want a dedicated camera with optical zoom for travel and casual daily use. Its category role is practical and accessible rather than ambitious.

Ranking summary

The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-BK ranks as a solid budget compact camera because it performs best in the areas that matter most to casual buyers: usability, portability, value, and broad customer satisfaction. Its overall score of 78 is supported by especially strong scores for usability at 89, portability at 94, value at 87, and setup at 85. Those strengths make it appealing as an everyday point-and-shoot and travel camera. It ranks lower as an enthusiast or creator-focused option because its features are modest, the display score is only 58, and battery life and reliability feedback are mixed. In short, it places well as a practical low-cost camera, not as a premium all-rounder.

Buying advice

Consider the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-BK if you want a low-cost compact camera for trips, family photos, social use, or as a first camera for a teen or beginner. It makes the most sense for buyers who prioritize pocketable size, straightforward controls, and good value over advanced specs. Before buying, make sure you are comfortable with 1080p video, a small fixed screen, and wired rather than clearly wireless-focused connectivity. You should also budget for a compatible Class 10 SD card. If battery consistency, long-term reliability, or more advanced photo and video features are important to you, it is worth comparing alternatives first.
78
Overall score

Final verdict

The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-BK is a strong budget-friendly option in the compact camera category for casual users. Its main strengths are excellent portability, very easy operation, and convincing value for buyers who want a simple point-and-shoot for travel and everyday memories. It is not a high-end camera, and its main limitation is that the overall feature set is basic, with mixed battery and reliability feedback adding some caution. If your expectations are realistic and your priorities are convenience and affordability, it looks like a sensible purchase. If you want stronger display quality, connectivity, or more advanced imaging tools, it is a more limited fit.
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Key topics

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 worth it?
For buyers who want a low-cost, simple compact camera, the FZ55 looks like a good value option. It has a strong value score, high usability score, and a 4.5-star average from 7,190 reviews. The trade-off is that its specs and connectivity are fairly basic, and battery and reliability feedback are mixed.
Is the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 good for travel?
Yes, travel is one of its clearest strengths. The camera weighs 3.7 ounces, has a slim compact body, and earns a very high portability score. Reviews also frequently mention that it fits in pockets or purses and works well for trips, though battery consistency may be worth checking before longer days out.
Is the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 good for beginners?
It appears well suited to beginners. The camera has an 89 usability score and an 85 setup score, and customer feedback repeatedly describes it as easy to use. Its straightforward controls and familiar point-and-shoot approach make more sense for casual users than for people looking for advanced enthusiast features.
What are the main limitations of the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55?
The main drawbacks are its basic overall feature set, modest 1080p video and 16MP stills, below-average display quality score, and mixed reliability and battery feedback. There is also no evidence in the provided data of built-in wireless connectivity, so it may feel more limited than some newer connected compact cameras.
Does the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 take good pictures?
For casual photography, the available data suggests it performs reasonably well. It has a 75 camera quality score, a 16MP CMOS sensor, and many reviews describe the photo quality as good for the price. Expectations should stay realistic though, as reviewers also frame it as an everyday camera rather than a professional-level imaging tool.
Is the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 good for vlogging?
It can work for basic vlogging because it records 1080p Full HD video and has a compact body that is easy to carry. That said, the overall feature profile is modest, and the screen and connectivity scores are not standouts. It seems better for simple clips than for creators wanting a more advanced video-focused camera.
How easy is the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 to set up and use?
Setup and daily use are among its strongest areas. The camera scores 85 for setup and 89 for usability, and reviews consistently mention easy menus and straightforward controls. It is the kind of camera most buyers should be able to start using quickly, provided they also have a compatible Class 10 SD card.
Does the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 have good battery life?
Battery life looks average rather than consistently strong. The battery life score is 62, and the review summary shows mixed feedback. Some users say it lasts well after a quick charge, while others report that it does not hold a charge reliably. That makes battery performance somewhat unpredictable based on the available evidence.
What memory cards work with the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55?
According to the provided specifications, it supports Class 10 SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards up to 512GB. That gives buyers a wide range of storage options. Reviews also note that the camera uses a standard SD card format, which can make storage and transfer more convenient than using a proprietary media type.

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