As a result, video tapes recorded on one make and/or model of VTR could only be interchanged with other machines using that specific format, hampering compatibility.

Some of the first public-access television cable stations that started up around that time used EIAJ-1 equipment extensively, due to its portability, low cost, and versatility.

One of the main drawbacks to the format was the need to carefully thread the end of the tape around the head drum, through a gap between the capstan and pinch roller, and around a variety of guides and tensioners.

The U-Matic system offered many advantages over EIAJ-1, including color recording as standard, stereo sound, and automatic tape threading.

Neither the EIAJ-1 nor the U-Matic format were ever used in a camcorder (one piece) camera recorder unit, because of the size and weight of the mechanism involved.