Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit Review A Must Read Before You Buy

Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit Review A Must Read Before You Buy
Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit Review A Must Read Before You Buy

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The Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit delivers immersive 360-degree video in a rugged, user-friendly design, making it a standout for adventure enthusiasts. With high-resolution capture, intuitive controls, and a versatile mounting system, it excels in dynamic environments—offering excellent value for content creators seeking unique perspectives. Just be mindful of its slightly bulkier form and average low-light performance.

Key Takeaways

  • Dual-lens 360° capture: Shoot immersive VR content with synchronized dual lenses.
  • Rugged, waterproof design: Use confidently in harsh conditions without extra housing.
  • Compact but limited battery: Carry spare batteries for extended shooting sessions.
  • Intuitive mobile app: Edit and share 360° footage instantly via Wi-Fi.
  • Mounting versatility: Kit includes multiple mounts for creative angles and setups.

Why I Decided to Try the Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit

Let’s be honest: choosing an action camera can feel overwhelming. With GoPro dominating the market, it’s easy to overlook lesser-known brands like Kodak. But when I saw the Kodak SP360 action camera kit, something caught my eye. It wasn’t just the price point—it was the promise of a 360-degree field of view, rugged build, and a bundle that seemed too good to pass up. I’ve used a few action cams in my time, from budget knockoffs to high-end models, but the SP360 felt like a wildcard. Could this be the underdog that finally challenges the status quo?

I decided to buy the full Kodak SP360 action camera kit—not just the camera, but the mounts, case, and accessories—to test it in real-world scenarios. Over the next few weeks, I took it hiking, biking, snorkeling, and even to a friend’s chaotic backyard birthday party. What I discovered surprised me. This isn’t a perfect camera, but it has some unique strengths that might just make it the right choice for you—if you know what you’re getting into. So, if you’re on the fence about whether the SP360 is worth your money, stick around. I’ll break down everything you need to know, from video quality to battery life, and even how it compares to the competition.

What’s in the Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit? Unboxing the Bundle

When the box arrived, I was immediately impressed by how compact and well-organized everything was. The Kodak SP360 action camera kit includes more than just the camera. It’s a full ecosystem designed for adventure, and that’s a big plus if you don’t already own mounts or cases.

Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit Review A Must Read Before You Buy

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The Camera: A Dome-Shaped Powerhouse

The star of the show is the SP360 itself. Unlike most action cams with a flat lens, this one has a rounded, dome-shaped lens that captures a full 180-degree vertical and 360-degree horizontal field of view. It’s small—about the size of a golf ball—and feels solid in the hand. The matte black finish gives it a rugged, no-nonsense look, and the single button on top is intuitive (though I’ll talk about its limitations later).

Accessories: Mounts, Cases, and More

The kit includes:

  • A standard tripod mount (compatible with GoPro mounts)
  • A handlebar mount (perfect for bikes and scooters)
  • A suction cup mount (great for cars and glass surfaces)
  • A waterproof case (rated to 60 meters)
  • A protective lens cover (for when you’re not filming)
  • A USB charging cable and wall adapter
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One thing I loved? The mounts are all high-quality plastic with rubberized grips. The handlebar mount, for example, held tight even on bumpy mountain bike trails. And the waterproof case is thick, with a secure latch—no flimsy zippers here.

What’s Missing (and Why It Matters)

While the bundle is generous, it’s missing a few things you might expect:

  • Extra batteries: The SP360 only has one battery, and it’s not user-replaceable. You’ll need to charge it between uses.
  • External microphone support: There’s no mic port, so audio is captured via the built-in mic (more on that later).
  • Wi-Fi remote: You can connect to your phone via Wi-Fi, but there’s no dedicated remote control in the box.

For the price (usually under $200 for the full kit), these omissions are forgivable. But if you plan on extended filming or need pro-level audio, you’ll need to budget for extras.

Video and Photo Quality: Does the Kodak SP360 Deliver?

This is where the SP360 either wins or loses you. As someone who values both quality and versatility, I put it through its paces in different environments. Here’s what I found.

360-Degree Footage: The Good, the Bad, and the Stitching

The SP360 captures 1080p video at 30fps (or 720p at 60fps). The 360-degree field of view is its standout feature. Imagine filming a sunset hike: you don’t have to point the camera—you can capture the trail ahead, the sky above, and the friends beside you, all in one shot. It’s magical.

But there’s a catch: stitching. The camera uses two lenses (front and back) to create the 360 view, and the software has to “stitch” them together. In ideal conditions (bright, evenly lit scenes), the stitching is seamless. But in low light or high-contrast situations (like a sunset), you’ll see a faint line where the two halves meet. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s noticeable if you’re editing closely.

Pro tip: Use the Kodak app to adjust the stitching manually. It helps, but it’s not perfect.

Photo Quality: 16MP Shots, but Not for Portraits

The SP360 takes 16MP photos, which sounds great on paper. In reality, the wide-angle lens distorts faces if you’re too close (don’t use it for selfies!). But for landscapes, group shots, or action scenes, it’s fantastic. I used it to capture a friend’s mountain biking jump, and the photo looked like it was taken from multiple angles at once—because it was.

Low Light Performance: A Struggle

Here’s where the SP360 falls short. In dim lighting (think campfires or indoor events), the footage gets grainy. The camera lacks image stabilization, so any movement—even a shaky hand—makes it worse. For night adventures, I’d recommend sticking to well-lit areas or using a light source (like a bike headlight).

Audio Quality: Built-in Mic, But It’s Basic

The built-in mic picks up sound, but it’s muffled in windy conditions. During my bike ride, I had to shout to be heard over the wind. If audio is critical (like vlogging or interviews), consider an external mic or a windscreen. Otherwise, it’s fine for casual use.

Usability and Design: Is the SP360 Easy to Use?

Action cameras should be simple: press a button, start filming, and go. The SP360 mostly delivers, but with some quirks.

The Single-Button Interface: Simple, but Limiting

The camera has one button on top. Short press to power on/off. Long press to start/stop recording. Double-click to take a photo. It’s intuitive, but it means you can’t adjust settings on the fly. Want to change resolution or turn on Wi-Fi? You’ll need to connect to your phone or use the tiny LCD screen (more on that below).

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I found myself fumbling during fast-paced activities. For example, I wanted to switch from 1080p to 720p while biking, but I had to stop, pull out my phone, and adjust it. Not ideal.

The LCD Screen: Small but Helpful

The back has a 1.5-inch LCD screen. It’s tiny, but it shows battery life, recording time, and settings. You can navigate menus with the button (press to select, hold to back out). It’s not as slick as a touchscreen, but it works.

Wi-Fi and App Integration: A Mixed Bag

You can connect the SP360 to your phone via Wi-Fi using the Kodak app (available for iOS and Android). The app lets you:

  • Preview the camera’s view
  • Start/stop recording remotely
  • Adjust settings (resolution, photo mode, etc.)
  • Download and edit footage

The app is functional but clunky. It took me a few tries to connect, and the preview lagged occasionally. That said, being able to control the camera from my phone saved me during group shots—no more running back and forth to start recording.

Durability and Waterproofing: Built for Adventure

The camera itself isn’t waterproof, but the included case is. I took it snorkeling in 10-meter-deep water, and it held up perfectly. The case is rated to 60 meters, so it’s safe for scuba diving (though I didn’t test that). The rubberized grip on the case also prevents it from slipping out of your hands.

Battery Life and Charging: How Long Does It Last?

Battery life is a common pain point with action cameras, and the SP360 is no exception.

Real-World Battery Performance

Kodak claims 90 minutes of recording time. In practice, I got:

  • 1080p/30fps: 75–80 minutes (with Wi-Fi off)
  • 720p/60fps: 85–90 minutes (with Wi-Fi off)
  • With Wi-Fi on (app connected): 50–60 minutes

Wi-Fi drains the battery fast. If you’re using the app to preview or control the camera, expect shorter life. I learned this the hard way during a hike—I connected to my phone to check framing, and by the time I reached the summit, the battery was at 20%.

Charging: Slow but Steady

The camera charges via micro-USB (not USB-C, which is a bummer). A full charge takes about 2 hours. There’s no quick-charge option, so plan ahead. The battery isn’t removable, so you can’t swap in a spare. If you’re filming all day, bring a power bank.

Pro Tip: Carry a Power Bank

I used a 10,000mAh power bank to recharge the SP360 between shoots. It added about 30–40 minutes of extra recording time. Not perfect, but it saved me during a full-day mountain biking trip.

How Does the Kodak SP360 Compare to the Competition?

Let’s be real: the SP360 isn’t a GoPro. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth considering. Here’s how it stacks up against other popular action cams.

Kodak SP360 vs. GoPro Hero (Budget Models)

The closest GoPro equivalent is the Hero (the entry-level model). Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature Kodak SP360 GoPro Hero
Video Resolution 1080p/30fps, 720p/60fps 1080p/30fps, 720p/60fps
Field of View 360-degree 170-degree (wide)
Stitching Required for 360 footage N/A
Battery Life 75–90 minutes 60–90 minutes
Waterproof With case (60m) 10m (no case)
App Basic but functional Highly polished
Price (Kit) Under $200 $200–$250

The SP360 wins on price and field of view. The GoPro has better app integration, stabilization, and low-light performance. If you want 360-degree footage, the SP360 is your only budget option. If you want a “set and forget” camera, the GoPro might be better.

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Kodak SP360 vs. Insta360 ONE X (360 Specialist)

The Insta360 ONE X is the SP360’s natural rival. It’s pricier (around $300) but offers 5.7K 360 video, better stabilization, and a more advanced app. The SP360 can’t match that quality, but it’s half the price and still delivers fun 360 footage. For casual users, the SP360 is a great entry point into 360 filming.

Who Should Buy the Kodak SP360?

The SP360 is ideal for:

  • Budget-conscious adventurers who want 360-degree footage
  • Beginners who don’t need pro-level features
  • Travelers who want a compact, versatile camera
  • Content creators looking for unique angles (e.g., vlogs, social media)

It’s not for:

  • Low-light videographers
  • Professional filmmakers
  • Anyone needing long battery life without a power bank

Final Thoughts: Is the Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit Worth It?

After weeks of testing, I’ve come to appreciate the Kodak SP360 action camera kit for what it is: a budget-friendly, 360-degree camera that delivers where it counts. It’s not perfect—the stitching can be rough, the app is clunky, and the battery life is middling—but it offers something most action cams don’t: a truly immersive field of view.

For under $200, you get a camera, mounts, a waterproof case, and the ability to capture 360-degree footage that’s fun to edit and share. It’s a great choice if you want to experiment with 360 video without breaking the bank. Just don’t expect GoPro-level polish or Insta360-level quality. This is a camera for adventurers, not perfectionists.

If you’re on the fence, ask yourself: Do I value unique angles and a low price point, or do I need top-tier stabilization and audio? If it’s the former, the SP360 is a solid pick. If it’s the latter, save up for something pricier. Either way, I’m glad I tried it. It’s not my main camera, but it’s earned a permanent spot in my adventure bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit stand out from other action cameras?

The Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit features a unique 360-degree lens, allowing users to capture immersive, spherical videos and photos. Its rugged design, included mounts, and 4K video capability make it a versatile choice for adventurers seeking creative angles.

Is the Kodak SP360 waterproof, and does the kit include a housing?

Yes, the SP360 is splash-resistant, but the kit includes a waterproof housing for full submersion up to 60 meters (197 feet). This makes it ideal for snorkeling, surfing, or rainy-day adventures.

How does the Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit perform in low-light conditions?

The SP360 struggles slightly in low light compared to premium competitors, with noticeable noise in dark scenes. However, its wide-angle lens and stabilization still deliver usable footage in dim environments like twilight or shaded trails.

What accessories are included in the Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit?

The kit includes a waterproof housing, adhesive mounts, a pivot arm, and a USB cable for charging and data transfer. These essentials let you start filming right away, though additional mounts may be needed for complex setups.

Can I use the Kodak SP360 as a dashcam or for live streaming?

While not designed for live streaming, the SP360 can function as a dashcam when connected to a power source via USB. Its loop recording and G-sensor features support basic dashcam use, but battery life is limited.

Is the Kodak SP360 Action Camera Kit worth the price for beginners?

Absolutely! The SP360 offers excellent value for beginners exploring 360-degree content creation, with intuitive controls and bundled accessories. While pros might crave more advanced features, its price-to-performance ratio is hard to beat.

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