Distinctions - There is very little to commend with the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45, but the main appeal decided during our testing was how prototypically early 2000s the footage recorded on it appeared. Those interested in a camera for film making capable of producing a grainy digital look without editing may find this an appeal.

Criticisms - There is no shortage of failures in the design of the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45, particularly with quality. The shutter speed is extraordinarily slow when combined with the high latency of image processing, making many shots blurry if any sort of movement was involved between photographer and subject. The whole user interface is clunky and slow as well, making manual adjustments to maximize functionality slow and unintuitive. Finally, and perhaps most pertinent to every consumer, the battery life on a regular AA battery is extraordinarily short, particularly with the flash involved. Shooting photos combined with short video can result in battery life shorter than even thirty minutes in our testing, which makes shooting events almost impossible.

Distinctions - The concise design of the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 does make for a tight feel, as well as a lack of flex between elements.

Criticisms - Every element of the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 feels unrefined. From the plastic case to the flat, waxy rear screen, the experience is one that feels budget, despite the uncompromising MSRP at most retailers. This is particularly apparent cosmetically, with prints on buttons and the exterior wearing off remarkably quick under a regular amount of use. Similarly, scratches on the lens aperture are easily sustained and prominently visible.

Distinctions - The Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 is offered in an array of colors, all of which are fairly sedate and decently saturated without becoming garish.

Criticisms - Plastic elements are not given a luster that makes them feel premium, with the oily glossy look being not overtly ugly, but definitely not bearing any design language that sophisticates it. Unfortunately blemishes are also very easily sustained and seen on every element from prints, to plastic, to chrome pieces.

Distinctions - Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 arrives with accessories that can be reused, like an HDMI cord and Micro USB plug.

Criticisms - There is very little that is eco-friendly about the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45, from the poor longevity of a weak and outdated design, to the power gobbling, to the use of AA batteries as a power supply. Considering other entries into the PIXPRO line use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, having a product that runs entirely off of disposable batteries is unnecessarily wasteful economically and ecologically.

Distinctions - There are no distinctions for the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45.

Criticisms - Resolution, performance, design, longevity and battery life are all easily outpaced by a significant amount of cameras on the market, with some around or below the cost. Kodak’s software and hardware limitations make this barely even recommendable for an elderly audience looking for simplification in their photography experience.