The Kodak EasyShare Z1012 IS features a 12x (33-396mm) Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon optical zoom lens that supports optical image stabilization with a resolution of 10.1MP.
KODAK Color Science Image Processing Chip. The “classic” shape of the camera body with black mainstream intermingled with some black rubber, but the Z1012 IS is very compact, lightweight, compact in the palm.
High-definition MPEG-4 camcorder (HD) capable of supporting 16: 9 frames for viewing on HDTVs or HD devices.
All of the “strong” shooting modes are incorporated into the control ring on the top, at the camera body, for flash, macro / panorama, and self-timer / shutter buttons.
The control system is streamlined on the back but keeps the traditional “share” button; In particular, the rotating wheel / selector is quite nice to adjust the shooting parameters.
In addition to the 2.5-inch LCD, you can adjust the brightness, the camera also has an EVF and has its own button to switch between the two type.
Two AA batteries are very convenient; SD card support.
Kodak Easyshare Z1012 10.1 MP Digital Camera with 12xOptical Image Stabilized Zoom: Buy it now
Overview
Not quite a point-and-shoot, not quite a serious camera either — it splits the difference, giving you enough zoom and manual control to feel like you’re driving, minus the DSLR learning curve.
Design and build
The grip is comfortable, the controls are where your fingers land naturally, and nothing important is buried three menus deep. Body’s durable plastic — solid, if a step below premium. The screen won’t win any awards for sharpness, but it’s fine for lining up a shot and checking it after.
Sensor and lens
12 megapixels covers most everyday needs, up to a 13×19 print without losing detail. It’s an older CCD sensor rather than CMOS, but colors and detail hold up fine in normal light. The 12x zoom (35-420mm) is the reason to pick this camera up — wide for landscapes, long enough to reach a bird across the yard — staying sharp until you push it to full extension, where it softens slightly. The zoom rocker moves fast and smoothly.
Stabilization and low light
Stabilization genuinely helps, especially zoomed in, cutting down on the shake that ruins handheld shots. It’s not a cure-all: very low light or maxed-out zoom can still beat it. And low light is exactly where this camera struggles — push past ISO 800 and noise shows up fast. Stick to lower settings when you can.
Ease of use
Scene modes and auto settings cover most situations from a simple mode dial. Manual controls for aperture, shutter, and ISO are there if you want them, though they’re not as deep as a pricier camera’s. HD video caps at 720p, fine for casual clips, dated next to full HD or 4K. USB and HDMI handle basic connectivity, and Kodak’s own software covers simple photo management — anything fancier means reaching for a different program. Battery life runs 200-250 shots per charge, so pack a spare for a full day out.
Against the competition
Canon’s SX130 matches the zoom and stabilization, and pulls very slightly ahead in low light thanks to a newer sensor though not by enough to base a decision on. Panasonic’s ZS5 is the real upgrade: sharper screen, better video, more reliable stabilization. Sony’s H20 trades some reach for cleaner images in low light.
None of that changes what this camera is for. If you want a long zoom and a camera you don’t have to think about, it delivers that. It won’t win in dim rooms or impress you with its screen, but pack it for a trip and it’ll keep up.
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Tech Reviewer & Product Analyst
Định Bia has spent over 10 years testing consumer electronics with a focus on smart technology. He work as a product advisor at Biareview where he helped customers find the right devices for their needs. He personally tests every product featured on this site using a consistent evaluation framework covering quality, durability, and value. All reviews are based on experience, not influenced by the manufacturer.