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Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-RD Review

The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-RD is a compact point-and-shoot camera aimed at casual everyday photography, travel, and simple video clips. Its strongest case is easy, portable shooting for users who want a dedicated camera without much complexity. The main trade-off is that battery life and reliability appear mixed based on both scores and customer feedback.
Expert reviewed
82
Overall score
Data-driven scoring Expert reviewed Updated analysis

Why we ranked it highly

The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-RD is a small, budget-oriented compact digital camera built for straightforward photo and video capture. It uses a 16MP CMOS sensor, a 5x optical zoom lens with a 28mm wide-angle setting, and a 2.7-inch LCD screen. It also records 1080p Full HD video, making it usable for travel clips, family moments, and simple vlogging. Based on the specifications, score profile, and review themes, this model appears to be aimed at beginners, casual users, and buyers who want a lightweight alternative to relying only on a phone. It stands out more for usability, portability, and value than for advanced image quality or premium features. Reviews repeatedly praise its compact size, approachable controls, and fun everyday use, while the lower battery, reliability, and display-related scores suggest it is best treated as a simple carry-anywhere camera rather than a more demanding enthusiast option.
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
Red
Screen Size
2.7 Inches
Shooting Modes
Auto, P, S, A, M, Face Beautifier, Panorama, CS, SCN, Movie
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
Compatible Devices
Smartphone
Continuous Shooting
30 FPS
Aperture modes
f_2_9_f_5_8
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 Dots
Display Fixture Type
Fixed
Display Maximum Resolution
230000
Has Color Screen
Yes
Display Resolution Maximum
1080 Pixels

Camera Modes

Shooting Modes
Auto, P, S, A, M, Face Beautifier, Panorama, CS, SCN, Movie
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
TTL Autofocus
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
Fine, Normal
Supported Image Format
JPEG
Bit Depth
8 Bit
Total Still Resolution
16 MP
Maximum Image Size
9.6 Centimeters

Lens details

Maximum Focal Length
25.5 Millimeters
Optical Zoom
5 x
Lens Type
Wide Angle
Zoom
Optical Zoom
Camera Lens
Wide Angle
Minimum Focal Length
5.1 Millimeters
Real Angle Of View
72.8 Degrees
Focal Length Description
28mm to 140mm
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, USB Cable, AC Adapter, Li-Ion Battery, Strap
Are Batteries Included
Yes
External-Memory Size
512 GB
Model Number
FZ55RD
Remote Included
No
Model Series
FZ55
Series Number
55
Generation
55
UPC
819900014075
Unit Count
1.0 Count
Manufacturer Part Number
FZ55RD
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
1.5 Hours
Write Speed
30 fps
Flash Memory Speed Class
C10
Flash Memory Bus Interface Type
SD
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

88 /100

Usability

80 /100

Design

52 /100

Display quality

52 /100

Audio quality

77 /100

Camera quality

62 /100

Connectivity

Strengths

  • Compact 3.7-ounce body is highly pocketable and well suited to travel or everyday carry.
  • Very strong ease-of-use profile, backed by an 88 usability score and repeated customer praise for simple controls.
  • Good value positioning for a dedicated point-and-shoot, with a 90 value score and many reviews highlighting the price-to-performance balance.
  • 5x optical zoom and 28mm wide-angle coverage add more framing flexibility than a fixed-lens basic camera.
  • Includes 1080p Full HD video for simple clips and casual vlogging.
  • Broad shooting mode selection includes Auto, Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual, Panorama, and Movie.
  • High customer satisfaction score of 89 supported by a 4.5/5 rating across 7,190 reviews.

Limitations

  • Battery life feedback is mixed, reflected in a modest 58 battery score and reports that some units do not hold charge well.
  • Reliability is a concern area, with a 56 reliability score and some customers saying the camera stopped working quickly.
  • Display quality is limited by the small 2.7-inch LCD and low 230,000-dot screen, which can make image review less impressive than transferred photos.
  • Feature set is basic for the category, with a 68 feature score and no evidence of advanced connectivity or modern smart-camera functions.
  • Image quality appears suitable for casual use rather than demanding photography, with mixed comments around color tuning and general output consistency.
  • Digital image stabilization is included, but no stronger stabilization system is listed.
  • Requires a separately purchased SD, SDHC, or SDXC card for storage.

Ideal user profiles

  • Casual photographers who want a simple dedicated camera for trips, friends, and family moments.
  • Beginners or younger users looking for an easy point-and-shoot without a steep learning curve.
  • Travelers who value a lightweight, pocket-friendly camera more than advanced image controls.
  • Buyers on a tighter budget who want optical zoom and Full HD video at a relatively low price.

Use cases

  • Everyday point-and-shoot photography for outings, family events, and casual memories.
  • Travel photography where portability and quick access matter more than advanced hardware.
  • Simple social content creation, including short clips and basic vlogging.
  • Gift camera for teenagers, beginners, or users returning to compact digital cameras.
  • Group shots and landscapes using the 28mm wide-angle setting.
  • Day-to-day carry in a purse, pocket, or small bag for spontaneous photos.

Fit and positioning

Who this works for

Category positioning

The FZ55-RD sits in the budget compact camera segment. Its score profile points to a value-focused, beginner-friendly camera rather than a premium or enthusiast model. Strong portability, usability, and customer satisfaction scores support its position as an easy everyday point-and-shoot for travel, social photos, and casual memories. Compared with broader camera-category expectations, it appears intentionally simple, with modest connectivity, display quality, and battery performance that keep it in the basic compact tier.

Best for

This camera is best for casual photographers who want a lightweight, dedicated point-and-shoot for daily carry, vacations, or social use. Its 88 usability score, 94 portability score, and 90 value score make it especially appealing to beginners, younger users, and budget-conscious buyers. The 5x optical zoom and 28mm wide angle also help for flexible framing without adding much complexity.

Not best for

Buyers looking for consistently strong reliability, long battery life, or more advanced imaging performance may want to be cautious. The camera has weaker scores for reliability, battery life, connectivity, and display quality, and review feedback is mixed in some of those areas. It is also not the best fit for users who need advanced video tools, stronger low-light confidence, or a richer feature set.

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

The FZ55-RD delivers decent casual-camera performance rather than standout photographic performance. Its 74 performance score and 77 camera quality score suggest solid everyday results for snapshots, travel photos, and short video clips. The 16MP sensor, 5x optical zoom, and 28mm wide angle give it enough flexibility for common shooting situations, and customer feedback often describes the photo quality as good for the price. That said, the available evidence points to mixed consistency, so it is better matched to simple memories and casual content than to demanding low-light, action, or enthusiast photography.

Feature analysis

The feature set is practical but basic for a compact camera. It includes 1080p video, optical zoom, a rechargeable battery, a built-in flash, multiple exposure modes, panorama, and manual as well as semi-manual shooting options. That gives beginners room to grow, but the 68 feature score indicates it is not especially feature-rich by category standards. There is no clear evidence here of more advanced connected or computational features.

Usability analysis

Usability is one of the strongest parts of this camera. It earns an 88 usability score, and reviews repeatedly describe it as easy to use, simple to carry, and straightforward for everyday shooting. The familiar point-and-shoot layout, lightweight body, and uncomplicated menu system should make it approachable for beginners. For buyers who want a dedicated camera without a steep learning curve, this is one of its clearest advantages.

Design

The design focuses on compact practicality. With a 3.7-ounce weight and slim point-and-shoot form factor, it is clearly intended to fit in a purse, pocket, or small bag. The 80 design score reflects a solid everyday layout rather than a premium design statement. Customer feedback consistently praises the size and convenience, which matters more here than styling or advanced ergonomics.

How it compares

Within the compact camera category, the FZ55-RD stands out more for convenience and affordability than for technical performance. It compares well on portability, beginner accessibility, and price-to-usefulness, which are often the key priorities for casual buyers. Its optical zoom, wide-angle lens, and Full HD video give it a practical edge over very basic dedicated cameras, but the moderate camera, speed, and accuracy scores show that it is not trying to compete as an enthusiast model. Compared with stronger category performers, it appears more limited in display quality, battery consistency, connectivity, and long-term reliability.

Ranking summary

The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-RD earns its position as a strong budget compact camera largely through usability, portability, value, and broad buyer approval. Its 82 overall score is supported by standout results in portability at 94, value at 90, customer satisfaction at 89, usability at 88, and setup at 86. Those strengths make it especially appealing for casual photography, travel, and beginner use. It ranks lower as a more demanding camera option because battery life, reliability, display quality, and connectivity are notably weaker, and the performance profile suggests solid everyday output rather than consistently high-level imaging results.

Buying advice

Consider the FZ55-RD if you want an inexpensive, pocket-friendly camera for everyday snapshots, trips, or casual video clips. It makes the most sense for beginners, gift buyers, and anyone who values simple operation over advanced features. Before buying, check that you are comfortable adding a separate SD card and working with mainly wired transfer options. If long battery consistency, stronger reliability, or a better display matters a lot to you, this may be less convincing. In short, buy it for portability and ease, not for premium image performance or advanced camera features.
82
Overall score

Final verdict

The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-RD is a strong budget-friendly option in the compact camera category, especially for casual users. Its main strength is how easy and convenient it is to carry and use, backed by excellent portability, value, and customer satisfaction scores. It is a practical fit for travel, family moments, and simple everyday photography. Its main limitation is inconsistency in battery life and reliability, which keeps it from being a more confident recommendation for heavier use. For buyers who want a simple dedicated camera at a modest price, it is an appealing and generally well-liked choice.
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Key topics

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Frequently asked questions

Is Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 worth it?
For casual buyers, it looks like a good value option. The camera has a strong 90 value score, an 82 overall score, and a 4.5/5 average from 7,190 reviews. It appears most suitable if you want a simple, portable point-and-shoot rather than advanced image quality or high-end reliability.
Is the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 good for travel?
Yes, travel is one of its clearest strengths. The FZ55 has a 94 portability score, weighs 3.7 ounces, and is repeatedly described by customers as compact enough for pockets and purses. Its 5x optical zoom and 28mm wide angle also make it practical for casual sightseeing and group photos.
How good is the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 for photos?
It appears well suited to everyday photography rather than demanding or professional work. The camera quality score is 77, and reviews often describe the photo output as good for memories, casual content, and travel shots. However, the overall scoring and review summary suggest image quality is mixed rather than consistently excellent.
Can the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 record video?
Yes. It supports 1080p Full HD video recording, which makes it usable for short clips, travel footage, and simple vlogging. Based on the product data and moderate audio and display-related scores, it looks better suited to basic video use than to more advanced video production needs.
Is the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 easy to use?
Ease of use is one of its strongest areas. It has an 88 usability score and an 86 setup score, and many customer reviews describe it as simple to learn and straightforward to operate. That makes it a practical choice for beginners and users who want a dedicated camera without much complexity.
What are the main limitations of the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55?
The main limitations are mixed battery life, mixed reliability, and a fairly basic feature set. Its battery score is 58, reliability score is 56, and display quality score is 52. Reviews also mention that while some users have no issues, others report charging or longer-term dependability concerns.
Does the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 have good battery life?
Battery performance appears inconsistent. Some reviews say it lasts well for everyday use or several hours, while others say it does not hold a charge properly. That mixed pattern matches the 58 battery life score, so buyers should expect usable but not clearly dependable battery performance 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. Since memory card support is clearly listed, buyers should make sure they already have a compatible card or budget for one separately, because external storage is needed for regular photo and video use.

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