Compact action cameras are easy to slip into a bag, but the real decision is what you trade off at each price. Spend more and you generally get more resolution and a lithium-ion battery; spend less and you may get an older tested camera that runs on AA cells.
Quick take
In the range from USD 28.95 to USD 103.49, these four cameras cover two distinct needs. If you want a new unit, the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45-BK is the only one listed as new and brings 16MP plus a 4X optical zoom. If you want the lowest listed price, the Nikon Coolpix 3200 is a tested/works camera with a modest 3.2MP sensor. The middle choices are two used cameras: the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 with AA batteries and the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W220 with a lithium-ion battery.
Listed price comparison
| Camera | Listed Price | Price Bar | Standout Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kodak PIXPRO FZ45-BK 16MP Digital Camera - Black - 4X Optical Zoom | USD 103.49 | New, 16MP, lithium-ion | |
| Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W220 Digital Camera 12.1 MP 4x Optical Zoom Tested | USD 95.99 | Used, 12.1MP, lithium-ion | |
| Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 Compact Digital Camera 16MP 4x Zoom 2.7in Black | USD 89.87 | Used, 16MP, AA battery | |
| Nikon Coolpix 3200 Silver 3.2 MP 3x Optical Zoom Digital Camera - Tested/Works | USD 28.95 | Used, 3.2MP, AA battery |
How to choose
If new condition matters and you want 16MP, the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45-BK is the only new camera here. If you want the lowest listed price and can work with a lower-resolution sensor, the Nikon Coolpix 3200 is the pick. If you want a tested used camera with a lithium-ion battery and 12.1MP, the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W220 fits. If you prefer AA batteries and want 16MP without paying for a new unit, the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 is the middle path.
Product notes
Kodak PIXPRO FZ45-BK 16MP Digital Camera - Black - 4X Optical Zoom
The strongest reason to choose this Kodak is condition: it is the only camera here listed as new, and the 16MP sensor pairs with a 4X optical zoom and a 27mm wide-angle lens. The 2.7-inch LCD and lithium-ion battery make it a complete grab-and-go option. The main limitation is in the listing details: the charger is not included, so you will need a way to recharge the lithium-ion battery. If you want the newest unit with the most resolution in this group, this is the one to start with.
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W220 Digital Camera 12.1 MP 4x Optical Zoom Tested
This Sony is a used camera that comes with a tested/works listing. You get a 12.1MP sensor, a 4x optical zoom, and a lithium-ion battery, plus USB connectivity for transferring shots. The silver body keeps it discreet, and the description notes that the display has a couple of scratches that do not affect picture quality. The trade-off is that it is pre-owned and the listing says only the camera is included, so you will need to supply the extras. If you want a Sony compact with a solid resolution-to-price balance among the used options, this fits.
Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 Compact Digital Camera 16MP 4x Zoom 2.7in Black
If you like the idea of being able to swap in AA batteries, this used Kodak runs on them, and the listing says it comes with batteries. It still records 16MP images, and the 2.7-inch screen, built-in flash, and f/3.0 maximum aperture cover the basics. The condition is used, so you are accepting a pre-owned unit rather than a new one. That makes sense if you want 16MP and USB connectivity without the top listed price. Just weigh the used condition against the benefit of a lower price than the new Kodak.
Nikon Coolpix 3200 Silver 3.2 MP 3x Optical Zoom Digital Camera - Tested/Works
The selling point here is the price: it is the lowest listed price in the group. The camera is listed as tested/works and uses AA batteries, so it avoids proprietary chargers. It weighs only 5 ounces, and the built-in flash and LCD display are part of the package. The main limitation is resolution: 3.2MP is far below the others. The listing also says camera unit only, so you will need to bring your own accessories. For someone on a tight budget who wants a small tested camera for basic shooting, this is the value pick.
Final recommendation
If you want a new camera with 16MP and don't mind supplying your own charger, the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45-BK is the cleanest choice. If the lowest listed price matters more than resolution, the Nikon Coolpix 3200 is the budget pick. The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W220 and Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 both sit in the middle, with the Sony offering a lithium-ion battery and the Kodak running on AA cells. The right buy depends on whether you prioritize condition, resolution, battery type, or price. For most people who want a straightforward new compact, the Kodak PIXPRO FZ45-BK is the easiest recommendation.
