Kodak PixPro FZ45 Review 2026: Is This Still Worth Buying?

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 is one of the cheapest digital cameras you can buy new in 2026. It sits under $100, fits in your pocket, and runs on simple AA batteries. For people tired of relying on their phone camera, it offers a fresh and fun way to take photos.

But does a budget camera this cheap actually deliver good results? That is the big question many shoppers ask before they spend their money.

This review breaks down everything you need to know. You will learn about the camera’s real performance, its build, its photo quality, and its weak spots. By the end, you will know if the Kodak PixPro FZ45 fits your needs or if you should look elsewhere. Let us get into it.

Key Takeaways

• The Kodak PixPro FZ45 costs around $99, which makes it one of the cheapest branded digital cameras sold new today.
• It packs a 16MP sensor, a 4x optical zoom lens (27mm to 108mm), and shoots Full HD 1080p video at 30fps.
• The camera runs on 2x AA batteries, so you can swap them anywhere without waiting for a charge.
• Photos look good in bright daylight but show clear noise in low light and indoor scenes.
• There is no Wi-Fi and no Bluetooth, so you transfer photos with a card reader or the included USB cable.
• It works best as a fun, simple, take anywhere camera for kids, beginners, and casual users rather than serious photographers.

What Is the Kodak PixPro FZ45?

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 is a compact point and shoot digital camera built for simple everyday use. Kodak puts its name on the camera, but a company called JK Imaging Ltd makes it under license. This setup has been in place since 2013. The original Eastman Kodak company stopped making compact cameras years ago.

The FZ45 sits at the bottom of the Kodak PixPro lineup. It is the cheapest model in the family. The range goes all the way up to big superzoom bridge cameras like the AZ405. The FZ45 keeps things basic on purpose.

This camera targets people who want a real camera experience without spending a lot. It appeals to beginners, kids, students, and anyone who wants a break from their phone. The retro feel of a small digicam has become popular again, and the FZ45 rides that wave.

You get a 16MP sensor, a 4x zoom lens, and a small 2.7 inch screen. The camera supports Auto mode, Program mode, and even a Manual mode for more control. It also includes many scene modes for different settings. The whole package stays light and pocket friendly.

The FZ45 is one of the few new budget cameras left on the market. Most brands have left this price range. That alone makes it stand out for shoppers on a tight budget.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Design and Build Quality

The design of the Kodak PixPro FZ45 is clean and simple. It has rounded corners and a small body that looks quite cute, especially in the red or white color options. The camera feels light in the hand at just 117 grams. You can slip it into a jacket pocket or small bag with ease.

The body measures 93.0 x 60.2 x 28.7mm. That compact size makes it a true take anywhere camera. You will not feel weighed down carrying it all day. This is a big plus for travel and casual outings.

On top, you get three easy buttons. There is an on/off button, a video button, and the shutter release. The layout keeps things simple for first time users. You do not need to hunt through menus to start shooting.

The back holds the 2.7 inch screen, the zoom control, and a 4 way controller with a center SET button. The D-pad gives quick access to Display, Macro, Flash, and the Self timer. These shortcuts help you change settings fast.

The build feels plasticky, which fits the low price. Do not expect a premium metal body here. Still, it holds up fine for normal use. The side has a MicroUSB socket, and the bottom holds the tripod thread plus the battery and SD card slot.

Overall, the design works well for its goal. It is light, simple, and friendly for beginners and kids.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Image Quality

Image quality is the area most buyers care about. The Kodak PixPro FZ45 uses a 16MP 1/2.3 inch CMOS sensor. This is a small sensor, the same size found in many phone cameras. So your expectations should match the budget price.

In bright, sunny conditions, the camera takes nice looking photos. Colors look pleasing and the detail is good enough for sharing online. Photos work great for social media, family albums, and small prints. For casual use, the results satisfy most people.

The weak spots show up in tougher light. Noise is clearly visible in many shots, even in decent light. When you view photos at full size, you will spot grain and softness. This is normal for a sensor this small at this price.

Dynamic range stays low, which means the camera struggles with scenes that mix bright and dark areas. Shooting toward the sun or a bright window can blow out the highlights. The camera includes an HDR mode that takes three shots and blends them. But this drops resolution to 8MP and works slowly.

The macro mode is a fun feature. You can focus as close as 5cm from your subject at the wide angle setting. Close up shots of flowers, food, and small objects can look quite good.

In short, the FZ45 gives reasonable results for the money. It shines in daylight and falls short in low light.

Top 3 Alternatives for Kodak PixPro FZ45

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 is a solid budget pick, but it is not the only choice. If you want more zoom, a different battery type, or a known brand, these three options deserve a look. Each one targets a slightly different buyer. Compare them with the FZ45 before you decide.

The first option is the Kodak PixPro FZ55, the close sibling of the FZ45. It offers a 5x optical zoom instead of 4x and uses a rechargeable battery pack. The second is the Canon PowerShot ELPH 180, a trusted name with a 20MP sensor and 8x zoom plus image stabilization. The third is the Kodak PixPro AZ405, a bridge camera with a huge 40x optical zoom for those who want to shoot far away subjects. All three are easy to use and beginner friendly.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Zoom and Lens Performance

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 comes with a 4x optical zoom lens. The lens covers a range from a wide 27mm to a 108mm telephoto in 35mm terms. This range works for many everyday shots. You can frame wide landscapes or zoom in on closer subjects.

The aperture starts at f/3.0 at the wide end. It narrows to f/6.6 at full zoom. A smaller aperture lets in less light. So zoomed in shots in dim settings will look darker and noisier. This is a common trade off in budget cameras.

The optical zoom is the key strength here. Unlike the digital zoom on a phone, optical zoom keeps detail as you get closer. Phone digital zoom often turns blurry and pixelated. The FZ45 brings distant subjects nearer without that heavy quality loss.

You can also use the zoom while recording video. This helps you reframe shots on the fly. But there is a catch. The lens motor makes noise during zooming, and the microphone picks it up. So your video audio may capture a faint whirring sound.

The lens performs well enough for casual photos. Kids playing in the yard, a pet across the room, or a friend a few feet away all look fine. Just keep your expectations modest at the far end of the zoom.

For a camera under $100, the 4x zoom does its job. It gives you flexibility that a fixed lens cannot.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Video Recording

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 records video in Full HD 1080p at 30fps. This resolution is fine for casual clips, social media posts, and family memories. The footage looks decent in good light. It will not match a modern phone or a dedicated vlog camera, but it gets the job done.

You can also shoot VGA video at 120fps for slow motion fun. The low resolution limits the quality, but it adds a playful option. Some users enjoy experimenting with this mode for creative clips.

One useful point is that you can zoom during recording. This lets you change your framing while filming. The downside, as noted, is the lens motor noise that the mic captures. If clean audio matters to you, this could be a drawback.

The camera has no microphone input and no headphone jack. So you cannot connect an external mic for better sound. This limits its use as a serious video tool. The FZ45 is built for quick, simple clips rather than polished content.

There is also no 4K recording. The Best Buy listing mentions 4K, but the core specs from hands on reviews confirm Full HD as the real video ceiling. Always check current listings, since specs sometimes vary by source.

For most buyers, the video quality is acceptable for the price. It works for short memories and casual moments. Just do not expect cinematic results from a sub $100 camera.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Battery Life and Power

One feature sets the Kodak PixPro FZ45 apart from many rivals. It runs on 2x AA batteries. This is rare in modern cameras, and it brings real benefits. You can buy AA batteries almost anywhere in the world. No charger and no waiting needed.

The camera ships with alkaline AA batteries in the box. These work fine to get you started. But alkaline cells drain fast in a camera. So heavy users will go through them quickly. This can add up in cost over time.

The smart move is to buy rechargeable AA batteries. A set of rechargeable NiMH cells plus a charger pays for itself fast. You get better life per charge and far less waste. Many FZ45 owners switch to rechargeables right away.

The AA setup is a huge plus for travel. If your battery dies on a trip, you just pop into any store and grab more. With a proprietary battery, you would be stuck without a charger. This freedom makes the FZ45 great for festivals, hikes, and long days out.

The trade off is weight. AA batteries make the camera a bit heavier than models with a slim lithium pack. But the difference is small. For most people, the convenience wins.

Battery life depends on how you shoot. Flash use and zooming drain power faster. Keep a spare set on hand and you will rarely get caught short.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Screen and Display

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 has a 2.7 inch LCD screen on the back. This screen lets you frame shots and review photos. It is small by today’s standards. Many phones and pricier cameras have much larger displays. So the FZ45 feels dated here.

The screen is fixed in place. It does not tilt or flip out. So you cannot easily shoot from low angles or take selfies with a clear view. This limits creative framing. People who want flip screens for vlogging should look elsewhere.

The resolution of the display is basic. It shows your image well enough in normal indoor light. But it can be hard to see in bright sunshine. Outdoor shooting on a sunny day may force you to shade the screen with your hand.

There is no touchscreen. You use the physical buttons and the D-pad to control everything. Some people prefer real buttons, so this is not a dealbreaker. The controls are simple and easy to learn.

There is also no viewfinder on this camera. You compose every shot using the rear screen. This is normal for budget compacts. Just know that bright light can make this tricky.

For the price, the screen does its core job. It is small and simple, but it works for framing and quick playback. Do not expect a bright, sharp, modern display here.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Shooting Modes and Features

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 packs more shooting modes than you might expect at this price. You get Auto, Program, and Manual modes. The Manual mode is a pleasant surprise. It lets you set the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO yourself. This gives beginners room to learn.

The camera also includes a wide list of scene modes. These cover Night, Pet, Snow, Party, Sport, Night portrait, Portrait, Children, Landscape, Sunset, Fireworks, Beach, and Anti shake. Each mode tweaks the settings for that situation. You just pick the scene and shoot.

There is a panoramic mode for wide sweeping shots. You pan the camera across a scene and it stitches the image. This is fun for landscapes and group settings. Results vary, but it adds creative options.

A face beautifier mode is also on board. This smooths skin for portraits. Some users like the soft look, while others prefer natural shots. It is easy to turn on or off.

The camera has a real Xenon flash. This is better than the LED flash on most phones. It gives a punchy, nostalgic look that many people love. Indoor and night shots benefit from this true flash.

The macro mode rounds out the feature set. You can focus very close for detail shots. Together, these modes make the FZ45 flexible and fun for its price. Beginners get plenty to explore as they grow.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Connectivity Options

Connectivity is a weak area for the Kodak PixPro FZ45. The camera has no built in Wi-Fi. It also has no Bluetooth. This means you cannot send photos straight to your phone. In 2026, many users expect quick wireless sharing, so this stands out as a downside.

To get your photos off the camera, you have two main options. You can use a card reader with your SD card. Or you can connect the camera to a computer with the included MicroUSB cable. Both methods work, but they add an extra step.

The MicroUSB port itself feels a bit dated. Most new devices use USB-C now. So you may need to keep a separate cable just for this camera. Keep this in mind if you like a tidy gear bag.

The lack of wireless features is a clear trade off for the low price. Adding Wi-Fi would push up the cost. Kodak kept things basic to hit the under $100 mark. For some buyers, this is fine.

The slower transfer process can even feel part of the charm. It mirrors the old digicam workflow that many people enjoy. You shoot, then sit down later to view and pick your favorites. This slower pace appeals to fans of the retro camera trend.

Still, if instant sharing matters to you, this camera will frustrate you. Plan to use a card reader for the smoothest experience.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Storage and Memory Cards

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 stores photos on an SD memory card. The camera accepts SDXC cards, which is good news. You can use a card from 16GB all the way up to 256GB and beyond. This gives you plenty of room for photos and video.

A card does not come included in most basic packages. So you need to buy one separately. Luckily, SD cards are cheap and easy to find. A 32GB or 64GB card is a smart starting point for most users.

The camera does have a small amount of internal memory, around 63MB. This is tiny and only holds a handful of photos. Think of it as a backup, not real storage. You should always insert an SD card before shooting.

Larger cards let you shoot all day without worry. A 64GB card holds thousands of 16MP photos and plenty of Full HD video. For travel, a bigger card means fewer interruptions. You can keep shooting freely.

When you buy a card, pick a reliable brand like SanDisk or Samsung. A fast card helps with video recording and quicker saving between shots. Cheap, slow cards can cause lag or errors. The small extra cost is worth it.

Some bundle versions of the FZ45 include a card, a case, and spare batteries. These kits offer good value for beginners. Check what is in the box before you buy so you have everything ready on day one.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Price and Value for Money

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 sells for around $99. This price is the camera’s biggest selling point. Very few branded digital cameras sell new at this level. Most companies have left the budget compact market. So the FZ45 fills a real gap.

For under $100, you get a real camera experience. You get optical zoom, a true Xenon flash, manual controls, and many scene modes. A phone in this price range cannot match the optical zoom or the flash quality. That makes the FZ45 a smart pick for specific needs.

The value depends on your goal. If you want the best image quality, this camera is not it. A used mid range camera might serve you better for similar money. But if you want a simple, cheap, new camera, the FZ45 delivers.

It works great as a first camera for a child. You will not stress if it gets dropped or scratched. It also suits beginners learning the basics. And it appeals to anyone chasing the retro digicam look without a high price.

The AA battery design adds value too. You skip the worry of a dead proprietary battery. This convenience is worth a lot to some buyers, especially travelers.

In short, the FZ45 offers honest value for what it is. It is a cheap, fun, easy camera. Judge it by that standard and it makes sense. Expect more and you will be let down.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 Pros and Cons

Every camera has strengths and weak points. The Kodak PixPro FZ45 is no different. Here is a clear breakdown to help you decide. Weigh these points against your own needs.

On the plus side, the FZ45 is very easy to use. Beginners and kids can pick it up and shoot in seconds. It is also compact and light, so it goes anywhere. The low price makes it accessible to almost everyone. And the AA battery design means you never get stuck without power.

The real Xenon flash is another strong point. It beats phone LED flashes for that classic look. The included Manual mode and many scene modes add fun and flexibility. The macro mode lets you get creative with close ups.

On the down side, the screen is small at just 2.7 inches and does not tilt. The image quality is only average, with visible noise in low light. The MicroUSB connection feels dated next to USB-C. And the lack of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth makes sharing slower.

The video tops out at Full HD with no external mic option. The lens noise during video zoom is also a minor annoyance. And some user reviews mention reliability worries, so buy from a seller with a good return policy.

Overall, the pros suit casual, budget minded users. The cons matter more for serious shooters. Match these points to how you plan to use the camera.

Who Should Buy the Kodak PixPro FZ45?

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 is not for everyone. It fits certain buyers very well and disappoints others. Knowing where you fall helps you make the right call. Let us look at the best matches.

This camera is a great first camera for kids. It is cheap, simple, and tough enough for young hands. Parents will not panic over drops or scratches. Kids learn the basics of photography without a big investment.

It also suits beginners who want to learn. The Auto mode keeps things easy at first. The Manual mode lets you grow your skills later. This makes it a friendly stepping stone into real photography.

Fans of the retro digicam trend will enjoy it too. The look of the photos and the simple workflow match that aesthetic. Many young users now seek out cheap point and shoots for this exact vibe. The FZ45 fits that goal at a low cost.

Travelers who value AA battery convenience should consider it. You can refuel power anywhere on the road. This freedom is rare in modern cameras.

You should skip the FZ45 if you want top image quality, fast wireless sharing, or strong video. Serious hobbyists and content creators will outgrow it fast. For them, a used mid range camera or a higher Kodak model makes more sense.

If you want cheap, simple, and fun, the FZ45 is a solid match.

Kodak PixPro FZ45 vs FZ55: Which One Wins?

Many shoppers compare the Kodak PixPro FZ45 with its sibling, the FZ55. The two cameras look alike and share many specs. But a few key differences set them apart. Knowing these helps you pick the right one.

The biggest difference is the zoom. The FZ45 has a 4x optical zoom. The FZ55 steps up to a 5x optical zoom. That extra reach helps you get closer to far subjects. If zoom matters to you, the FZ55 has a slight edge.

The second big difference is the battery. The FZ45 uses AA batteries. The FZ55 uses a rechargeable battery pack. This changes how you power and carry each camera. AA cells offer travel freedom, while the pack keeps the body lighter.

Both cameras share a 16MP sensor and Full HD video. So core image quality is very close. Neither one beats the other by much in daylight shots. The choice often comes down to zoom and battery preference.

Weight is another factor. The FZ45 feels heavier when loaded with AA cells. The FZ55 stays lighter thanks to its lithium battery. For long days, the FZ55 may feel nicer in hand.

So which wins? If you value AA convenience and a lower price, pick the FZ45. If you want more zoom and a lighter body, the FZ55 is the better fit. Both are good budget cameras. Your own priorities decide the winner.

Final Verdict on the Kodak PixPro FZ45

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 is a cheap, fun, and simple camera. It does exactly what it sets out to do. It gives you a real camera experience for under $100. In a market with few budget options, that alone makes it worth a look.

Judge it by its price and it shines. The AA batteries, the Xenon flash, and the easy controls all add charm. It works great for kids, beginners, and fans of the retro digicam look. As a take anywhere camera, it delivers honest value.

But the FZ45 has real limits. The small screen, average image quality, and missing Wi-Fi hold it back. Serious shooters and content creators will want more. For them, a used mid range camera or a higher Kodak model fits better.

So should you buy it? If you want a simple, low cost, no stress camera, the answer is yes. If you chase top quality or fast sharing, look elsewhere. Set your expectations right and the FZ45 will please you.

In 2026, the Kodak PixPro FZ45 stays a smart budget pick. It is one of the cheapest new cameras around. For the right buyer, it offers fun and value that is hard to beat at this price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kodak PixPro FZ45 good for beginners?

Yes, the Kodak PixPro FZ45 is great for beginners. It has a simple Auto mode for easy shooting. It also has a Manual mode so you can learn more as you grow. The low price and easy controls make it a friendly first camera.

Does the Kodak PixPro FZ45 have Wi-Fi?

No, the Kodak PixPro FZ45 does not have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. You cannot send photos straight to your phone. To move your photos, you use a card reader or the included MicroUSB cable with a computer.

What batteries does the Kodak PixPro FZ45 use?

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 uses 2x AA batteries. It comes with alkaline cells in the box. For better life and less waste, you should buy rechargeable AA batteries. The AA design lets you refuel power almost anywhere.

Can the Kodak PixPro FZ45 shoot 4K video?

No, the Kodak PixPro FZ45 records video in Full HD 1080p at 30fps. It does not shoot 4K. It also offers a slow motion VGA mode at 120fps. The video works well for casual clips and social media.

How much does the Kodak PixPro FZ45 cost?

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 costs around $99. This makes it one of the cheapest new branded cameras you can buy. Prices may change over time and by seller. Always check the current listing for the latest price.

Is the Kodak PixPro FZ45 better than a phone camera?

In some ways, yes. The FZ45 has a real 4x optical zoom and a true Xenon flash, which phones lack. But a modern phone often beats it in low light and overall image quality. The FZ45 wins on zoom, flash, and that fun retro feel.

Last update on 2026-06-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API