Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Fujifilm brings 30x optical zoom to Finepix HS20EXR, 15x to F500EXR and F550EXR]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/fujifilm-brings-30x-optical-zoom-to-finepix-hs20exr-15x-to-f500/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/fujifilm-brings-30x-optical-zoom-to-finepix-hs20exr-15x-to-f500/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/fujifilm-brings-30x-optical-zoom-to-finepix-hs20exr-15x-to-f500/#comments Is 2011 the year of the superzoom? It's doubtful, but darn if Fujifilm isn't trying hard to make it so. Following up on the outfit's CES 2011 unveiling of the Finepix XP30, XP20 and a slew of low-to-mid-range point and shoots comes this stash: a pocketful 'tater sack full of nicely specced megazooms. Let's break 'em down, cool?
  • The Finepix HS20EXR (which leaked just a few hours ago) is easily the crown jewel of this bunch, boasting a 16 megapixel EXR-CMOS sensor, a 30x Fujinon manual optical zoom lens (24mm to 720mm equivilent), a tilting 3.0-inch LCD, a 'heads-up' sensor that automatically changes from LCD to EVF, 8fps continuous shooting, 1080p movie recording, the ability to shoot in RAW (or RAW + JPEG), an optional remote release cable and support for two Fujifilm external flashes. This bad boy will ship in late March for $499.95.
  • Looking for megazoom range in a compact's body? You've found it. The Finepix F500EXR and F550EXR both offer relatively sleek bodies, a new 16 megapixel EXR-CMOS sensor, a 15x Fujinon wide-angle zoom lens and a 3-inch LCD on the rear. You'll also get high-speed shooting capabilities as well as a 1080p movie mode, with the 550EXR stepping up and adding both GPS geotagging and the ability to capture files in RAW. Both cameras measure 22.9mm thick, offer image stabilization and have an ISO range of up to 1600. Both of these shooters will hit in mid-March, with the 500EXR going for $329.95 and the 550EXR seeming like a pure-tee bargain at just $20 more.
  • Bringing up the rear, it's the new S series. The SLR-styled Finepix S2950, S3200 and S4000 superzooms boast a 14 megapixel sensor, with 18x, 24x and 30x Fujinon optical zoomers available in order of mention. You'll also get dual image stabilization, a 3-inch LCD around back, an electronic viewfinder, 720p movie mode and the ability to power these with a pair of AA batteries. The S2950 will go on sale this month for $229.95, while the S3200 hits next month for $249.95 and the S4000 lands in March for $279.95.

Gallery: Fujifilm's CES 2011 superzoom camera lineup

Continue reading Fujifilm brings 30x optical zoom to Finepix HS20EXR, 15x to F500EXR and F550EXR

Fujifilm brings 30x optical zoom to Finepix HS20EXR, 15x to F500EXR and F550EXR originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracesces 2011ces2011digicamdigital cameraDigitalCameraexrexr-cmosF500EXRF550EXRfinepixFinePix F500EXRFinePix F550EXRfinepix hs20exfinepix hs20exrFinePix S2950finepix s3200finepix s4000FinepixF550exrFinepixHs20exFinepixHs20exrFinepixS2950FinepixS3200FinepixS4000Fujifilmfujinonhs20exhs20exrmegazoompoint and shootpoint-and-shootPointAndShoots2950S3200S4000superzoomWed, 05 Jan 2011 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Leica V-Lux 2 looks like an FZ100, shoots like an FZ100, costs a lot more than an FZ100]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/21/leica-v-lux-2-looks-like-an-fz100-shoots-like-an-fz100-costs-a/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/21/leica-v-lux-2-looks-like-an-fz100-shoots-like-an-fz100-costs-a/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/21/leica-v-lux-2-looks-like-an-fz100-shoots-like-an-fz100-costs-a/#comments Continuing today's series of rebadged Panasonic shooters, let us welcome the Leica V-Lux 2. As we noted yesterday when we spotted and photographed what was still unannounced hardware, this camera is pretty much a standard issue FZ100, only outfitted with a red dot logo and more highfalutin marketing language. Let's not let that detract from what's an appealing shooter, however: a 14 megapixel CMOS sensor can be brought 24 times closer to the action thanks to a superzoom lens, while an 11fps burst mode and 1080i video recording will cause a few of your DSLR-sporting buddies to look on in envy. Moreover, given the FZ100's sterling reputation, there should be little doubt the V-Lux 2 will be a similarly pleasing piece of kit -- although after seeing the £675 ($1,053) price tag for this October, we find ourselves asking a familiar question, why the massive markup, Leica?

Update: Like its brethren the D-Lux 5, Leica's already priced this V-Lux 2 for stateside release -- it'll run you the tidy sum of $849 when it ships this October. Yes, we know, not much of an improvement.

Gallery: Leica's V-Lux 2M shown at Photokina 2010

Continue reading Leica V-Lux 2 looks like an FZ100, shoots like an FZ100, costs a lot more than an FZ100

Leica V-Lux 2 looks like an FZ100, shoots like an FZ100, costs a lot more than an FZ100 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 07:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camerafz100leicaleica v-lux 2LeicaV-lux2megazoomofficialpanasonicphotokinaphotokina 2010Photokina2010rebadgesuperzoomultrazoomv-luxv-lux 2V-lux2Tue, 21 Sep 2010 07:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Leica quietly showcases D-Lux 5, redesigned X1 and rebranded DMC-FZ100]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/20/leica-quietly-showcases-d-lux-5-redesigned-x1-and-rebranded-dmc/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/20/leica-quietly-showcases-d-lux-5-redesigned-x1-and-rebranded-dmc/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/20/leica-quietly-showcases-d-lux-5-redesigned-x1-and-rebranded-dmc/#comments We're tucked away in Leica's high-brow design preview event here in Köln, and while it appears that the vast majority of those in attendance showed just to boast about their suit, we're strictly here for the gear. That being said, let us be the first to formally introduce you to the now-official D-Lux 5 rangefinder. Or, sort of official D-Lux 5. Unlike the M9 'Titanium' -- which the company spent a solid two hours boasting about -- the D-Lux 5 (a rebranded / tweaked LX5?) has been given nothing but a passing glance of affirmation, though we're anticipating a more formal release with specifications and the like tomorrow. Leica aficionados have likely been hearing whispers of this beaut for the past dozen months, but at long last, the unicorn has apparently transformed into a Gypsy Vanner. Though, still a mysterious one.

In case that's not exactly your cup of million-dollar tea, it appears that Panasonic's DMC-FZ100 -- deemed the world's best megazoom by critics back in August -- has been reborn as a Leica, though the shell doesn't appear to have changed at all. Of course, we've seen Leica pull this rebranding trick before, but we're sure the so-called V-Lux 2M is far superior in some way that we've yet to be informed about. Rounding out the round of mystique is the gently refashioned X1, which was seen sporting a far more luxurious casing compared to the original. Feel free to drown yourself in the images below, and keep it locked right here for more as we hear it.

Gallery: Leica D-Lux 5 behind glass at Photokina 2010

Gallery: Leica's redesigned X1 on display at Photokina 2010

Gallery: Leica's V-Lux 2M shown at Photokina 2010

Leica quietly showcases D-Lux 5, redesigned X1 and rebranded DMC-FZ100 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d-luxd-lux 5D-lux5dmc-fz100expensivefz100high-endleicalumixluxurylx4lx5megazoompanasonicphotokinaphotokina 2010Photokina2010rangefinderrebadgesuperzoomv-luxv-lux 2V-Lux 2MV-lux2V-lux2mx1Mon, 20 Sep 2010 17:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 reviewed: the best megazoom shooter your dough can buy]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/panasonic-lumix-dmc-fz100-reviewed-the-best-megazoom-shooter-yo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/panasonic-lumix-dmc-fz100-reviewed-the-best-megazoom-shooter-yo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/13/panasonic-lumix-dmc-fz100-reviewed-the-best-megazoom-shooter-yo/#commentsPanasonic and superzoom cameras go together like... well, like any two things that are undoubtedly meant to be together. The company has a history of outdoing itself time and time again when it comes to enlarged point-and-shoots with atypically long zooms, and the all-new DMC-FX100 is most certainly not bucking the trend. Announced just a few weeks back, this here Lumix carries a 24x optical zoom, 11fps burst mode, 1080p movie recording and a 14 megapixel sensor. The gurus over at PhotographyBLOG have been testing its every feature for the past few days, and they drew some rather positive conclusions. Confessing that the FZ38 was a hard act to follow, they still felt that the FZ100 managed to top even that, with the only real (expected) knock being the noise that made itself too evident once you pushed beyond the ISO 400 mark. They also felt that the $499.95 asking price was a bit on the high side, but now that Panny's building somewhat of a reputation in this space, we guess it's entitled to try and take advantage. Hit the source link for the fully skinny, but don't even bother if you're hoping for someone to talk you out of pulling the trigger.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 reviewed: the best megazoom shooter your dough can buy originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 06:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigital cameraDigitalCameraDMC-FZ100lumixLumix DMC-FZ100LumixDmc-fz100megazoomPanasonicreviewedsuperzoomFri, 13 Aug 2010 06:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic FZ35 and Canon SX20 IS superzoom cameras shoot it out in group test, rise to the top]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/06/panasonic-fz35-and-canon-sx20-is-superzoom-cameras-shoot-it-out/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/06/panasonic-fz35-and-canon-sx20-is-superzoom-cameras-shoot-it-out/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/06/panasonic-fz35-and-canon-sx20-is-superzoom-cameras-shoot-it-out/#comments
The DP Review gang (motto: "blood in / blood out") has just done another one of its world famous superzoom group camera tests, and the results are guaranteed to frighten and enlighten you. Both the Panasonic FZ35 and Canon SX20 IS were singled out for boffo kudos (that's right -- boffo kudos). Apparently they're "the most refined models in this test," with lenses deemed "sharp across the zoom range," and kickass quality images and HD video. Of course, each of these bad boys has its own character, with the Canon feeling more like an entry-level DSLR to the reviewer, even with "by far the best viewfinder in this test." Panny's entry, on the other hand, gets points for portability and an intuitive user interface. Besides those two guys, there are a half dozen or so other cameras in the test. How did your favorite hold up? Hit the source link to check it out for your own self.

Panasonic FZ35 and Canon SX20 IS superzoom cameras shoot it out in group test, rise to the top originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Jul 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameraCanonCanon SX20Canon SX20 ISCanonSx20CanonSx20Isdigital cameraDigitalCameradmc-fz35DMC-FZ38fz35fz38LumixLUMIX dmc-FZ35LumixDmc-fz35megazoomPanasonicPowerShotPowerShot SX20PowerShot SX20 ISPowershotSx20PowershotSx20Isreviewreview roundupReviewRounduproundupsuperzoomSX20SX20 ISSx20IsTue, 06 Jul 2010 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus intros $600 12.3 megapixel PEN E-PL1 Micro Four Thirds camera]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/03/olympus-intros-600-12-3-megapixel-pen-e-pl1-micro-four-thirds-c/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/03/olympus-intros-600-12-3-megapixel-pen-e-pl1-micro-four-thirds-c/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/03/olympus-intros-600-12-3-megapixel-pen-e-pl1-micro-four-thirds-c/#comments
 It certainly took them long enough, but Olympus has finally (finally!) introduced a Micro Four Thirds camera with a price tag that's a little closer to earth. If you'll recall, both of the previous PENs cost upwards of $750, but the E-PL1 touts a much more reasonable MSRP of $599.99. And that doesn't mean Olympus has been stingy on features. Nope, quite the contrary as the the minuscule body is packed with the same 12.3 megapixel image sensor as the E-30 and E-620 (check the images in the gallery to see a size comparison of the actual sensors), in-body image stabilization, continuous autofocus, a 2.7-inch rear LCD, HD movie mode, in-camera "art filters" and a bundled ED 14-42mm f3.5/5.6 zoom lens (28-84mm equivalent in 35mm cameras). Oh and don't forget the addition of the pop-up flash which just reminds us of E.T. You won't be able to nab a E-PL1 until next month, but hit the break for some of our hands-on impressions.

Gallery: Olympus PEN E-PL1 hands-on


Gallery: Olympus PEN E-PL1 press shots

Continue reading Olympus intros $600 12.3 megapixel PEN E-PL1 Micro Four Thirds camera

Olympus intros $600 12.3 megapixel PEN E-PL1 Micro Four Thirds camera originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 01:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigicamdigital cameraDigitalCameraE-PL1hands-onmegazoomMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsOlympusolympus E-PL1Olympus PEN E-PL1OlympusE-pl1OlympusPenE-pl1penPEN E-PL1PenE-pl1PMAPMA 2010Pma2010ruggedSP-600UZSP-800UZStylus ToughStylusToughsuperzoomtoughWed, 03 Feb 2010 01:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus intros SP-800UZ and SP-600UZ megazooms, Stylus Tough 8010 / 6020 (Updated: with hands-on impressions)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/02/olympus-intros-sp-800uz-and-sp-600uz-megazooms-stylus-tough-801/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/02/olympus-intros-sp-800uz-and-sp-600uz-megazooms-stylus-tough-801/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/02/olympus-intros-sp-800uz-and-sp-600uz-megazooms-stylus-tough-801/#comments Aw, yeah. The pre-PMA part is officially on. Olympus is kicking out a foursome of new shooters this fine morning (or evening, for those camped out in the great state of Hawaii), so we'll just get right to it. The SP-800UZ megazoom (which we spotted a few days ago) boasts an almost mind-melting 30x optical zoomer, a 14 megapixel image sensor, dual image stabilization, AF tracking, 720p movie mode, face detection and a 3-inch rear LCD. The SP-600UZ sports a stepped-down list of features, including a 12 megapixel sensor, 15x optical zoom and a 2.7-inch rear LCD. Both cams support SDHC / SD cards and are slated to ship next month, with the big boy setting you back $349.99 and the other guy $249.99. Moving on, there's the "shockproof, waterproof, crushproof and freezeproof" Stylus Tough 8010 and 6020, both of which feature a 14 megapixel sensor, HD movie mode, 5x wide-angle optical zoom, 2.7-inch rear LCD and an HDMI output. The only major difference is the toughness level; the 8010 can withstand a 6.6-foot drop and 220 pounds of pressure, whereas the 6020 can only withstand a 5-foot drop and undisclosed amount of pressure. Check 'em later this month for $399.99 (8010) / $299.99 (6020). Full releases are after the break, per usual.

Updated: The good guys at Olympus gave us a chance to check out the new cams today. The Stylus Tough point and shoots continue to feel really solid, and the SP-800UZ felt surpsingly light in our hands. We also dig the comfortable rubberry grip on both the SP-800UZ and the SP-600UZ. But the new bodies aside, the Magic Filter mode is pretty cool, especially the drawing function that turns your shot into a sketch. Check out some of our hands-on shots below.

Gallery: Olympus intros SP-800UZ and SP-600UZ, Stylus Tough 8010 / 6020


Gallery: Olympus SP-800UZ and SP-600UZ megazooms, Stylus Tough 8010 / 6020 hands-on

Continue reading Olympus intros SP-800UZ and SP-600UZ megazooms, Stylus Tough 8010 / 6020 (Updated: with hands-on impressions)

Olympus intros SP-800UZ and SP-600UZ megazooms, Stylus Tough 8010 / 6020 (Updated: with hands-on impressions) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameramega zoommegazoomolympusruggedSP-600UZSP-800UZSTYLUS TOUGH-6020STYLUS TOUGH-8010StylusTough-8010super zoomSuperZoomtoughTue, 02 Feb 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Canon PowerShot G11 leaks out, looks promising]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/19/canon-powershot-g11-leaks-out-looks-promising/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/19/canon-powershot-g11-leaks-out-looks-promising/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/19/canon-powershot-g11-leaks-out-looks-promising/#comments Canon's PowerShot G10 has lived a long, fruitful life, but after being on the market for right around a year now, it's time for a proper successor to step in and take things over. The slick little bugger you see above purports to be that very device, with the predictably titled PowerShot G11 supposedly boasting a swiveling LCD, 10 megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom lens, optical image stabilization, SD / SDHC card slot and full manual controls with RAW support and a hotshoe. We're told that it'll be available this fall for an undisclosed sum, and we get the feeling this will all become a lot more official in a matter of days / hours / minutes.

[Thanks, Reznov]

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Canon PowerShot G11 leaks out, looks promising originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CanondigicamG11megazoompowershotpowershot g11PowershotG11rumorsuperzoomWed, 19 Aug 2009 08:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Kodak debuts EasyShare Z950, M381 and M341 digicams]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/29/kodak-debuts-easyshare-z950-m381-and-m341-digicams/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/29/kodak-debuts-easyshare-z950-m381-and-m341-digicams/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/29/kodak-debuts-easyshare-z950-m381-and-m341-digicams/#comments
Had enough Kodak this fine morning? No? Good. Just hours after showcasing its newest 1080p pocket camcorder, the aforesaid firm is hitting us up with a few more new pieces to digest. First up is the EasyShare Z950, a modest megazoom-in-a-P&S-body that packs a 10x optical zoom, 12 megapixel sensor and a $279.99 price tag. Next, we've got the totally ho hum EasyShare M381, which also offers a dozen megapixels alongside a 3-inch rear LCD, 5x zoomer, easy upload to Facebook / YouTube, face detection, a variety of lovely hues and an MSRP of $179.99. The last cam is the M341, which steps down to a 3x optical zoom and a smaller 2.7-inch LCD for $149. Closing things out is the EasyShare D830 (£119.99; $196) and D1030 (£169.99; $279) digital photo frames, which check in at 8- and 10-inches respectively (in terms of display size) and tout interchangeable face plates, 512MB of internal memory, a Quick Touch border, memory card reader and a USB port. Everything here should ship in the US and UK by September, though those hungry for additional details are welcome to tap that read link.

[Via DigitalCameraInfo]

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Kodak debuts EasyShare Z950, M381 and M341 digicams originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameraD1030D830digiframedigital cameradigital photo frameDigitalCameraDigitalPhotoFrameeasyshareeasyshare d830easyshare m341easyshare M381easyshare Z950EasyshareD830EasyshareM341EasyshareM381EasyshareZ950kodakM341M381megazoomphoto framePhotoFramepoint and shootpoint-and-shootPointAndShootsuperzoomultrazoomz950Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 superzoom reviewed: crème de la crème]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/28/panasonic-lumix-dmc-fz35-superzoom-reviewed-creme-de-la-creme/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/28/panasonic-lumix-dmc-fz35-superzoom-reviewed-creme-de-la-creme/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/28/panasonic-lumix-dmc-fz35-superzoom-reviewed-creme-de-la-creme/#comments
If you're in the market for a superzoom, and you've already decided that none of those Micro Four Thirds options will sway you, it looks as if you'll be hard pressed to find a superior alternative to Panasonic's minty fresh Lumix DMC-FZ35 (FZ38 in some regions). Both TrustedReviews and PhotographyBLOG managed to score a unit for review, and both outlets came away generally impressed. The former concluded that the outfit's newest 18x zoomer was only marginally changed from its predecessor, but those who skipped on over the FZ28 should certainly give this one a look. In fact, it straight up confessed that to "get anything better than this, you'll have to move up to a DSLR." You may notice that this bugger doesn't offer the greatest zoom nor the most megapixels in its class, but the stellar image quality and even more stirring video mode kept critics from suggesting any of those more marketable rivals. Don't believe us? Check the read links below for all the proof you can handle.

[Thanks, TheLostSwede]

Read - TrustedReviews' take
Read - PhotographyBLOG review

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 superzoom reviewed: crème de la crème originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 07:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dmc-fz35DMC-FZ38fz35fz38LumixLUMIX dmc-FZ35LumixDmc-fz35megazoomPanasonicreview roundupReviewRounduproundupsuperzoomTue, 28 Jul 2009 07:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony readying CyberShot DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1 cameras?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/03/sony-readying-cybershot-dsc-tx1-and-dsc-wx1-megazooms/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/03/sony-readying-cybershot-dsc-tx1-and-dsc-wx1-megazooms/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/03/sony-readying-cybershot-dsc-tx1-and-dsc-wx1-megazooms/#comments
It was only a few months ago that we were fielding rumors about Sony's CyberShot DSC-HX1, and now we're struggling to keep our credit card at bay each time we waltz by one in the local camera shop. Today, Sony Insider has pointed out that the outfit may be readying a new duo to complement the megazoom: the DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1. If the latest whispers prove legitimate, the TX1 will boast a 10 megapixel sensor, 4x optical zoom, 3-inch LCD, 720p movie mode and a price tag somewhere south of $400. The WX1 should check in as a lower-end model with 10 megapixels, a 5x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD and the same 720p movie mode; why exactly it'll be cheaper we're not sure, but that's the good word at the moment. E-tailer Provantage already has listings for both cameras up, so it seems as if it's just a matter of time before Sony confirms all the good news.

[Via Sony Insider]

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Sony readying CyberShot DSC-TX1 and DSC-WX1 cameras? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracyber shotcybershotcybershot dsc tx1cybershot dsc wx1cybershot dsc-tx1cybershot dsc-wx1cybershot tx1cybershot wx1CybershotDsc-tx1CybershotDsc-wx1CybershotDscTx1CybershotDscWx1CybershotTx1CybershotWx1digicamdigital cameraDigitalCameradsc tx1dsc wx1DSC-HX1DSC-TX1DSC-WX1DscTx1DscWx1DSLRmegazoomrumorsonytx1wx1Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus SP-590UZ (and its 26x zoomer) gets reviewed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/06/olympus-sp-590uz-and-its-26x-zoomer-gets-reviewed/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/06/olympus-sp-590uz-and-its-26x-zoomer-gets-reviewed/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/06/olympus-sp-590uz-and-its-26x-zoomer-gets-reviewed/#comments
We're beginning to think there really is no number too high for the megazoom focal length. Back in the day, just boasting a 10x zoomer was enough to fall into said category; today, you best top 20x if you even want into the discussion. Olympus' 26x SP-590UZ is definitely amongst the craziest out there, sporting a 12 megapixel sensor, 2.7-inch LCD and a launch price of just under $450. Reviewers over at PhotographyBLOG were duly impressed across the board, with a certain critic noting that "the ability to go from capturing wide-angle landscapes to distant details in a four second zoom of the lens cannot be underestimated, especially as there's little distortion to worry about at either end and excellent sharpness across its entire range." Not surprisingly, the cam notched a "Highly Recommended" badge along with 4.5 out of 5 overall stars -- that said, are you really willing to buy in knowing a 58.983x successor is just around the bend?

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Olympus SP-590UZ (and its 26x zoomer) gets reviewed originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Apr 2009 22:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Oh sure, you've got plenty of options when it comes to selecting a shooter with zoom for days, but what's the harm in having one more option to comb over? The X70, which we saw peek out ahead of PMA, is finally up for pre-order on the outfit's own site. In case you've forgotten, this 12 megapixeler boasts a stupendous 24x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD monitor and an SDHC card slot. Worth four Benjamins? Depends on how bad you want to see that blade of grass way over there on the 30 yard line.

Gallery: Pentax's $399.95 X70 megazoom up for pre-order

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Pentax's $399.95 X70 megazoom up for pre-order originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 19:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PMA may be but a few months off, but that's not stopping Kodak from dropping a few show-stoppers here at CES. Up first is the Z980 megazoom ($399.95; Spring 2009 availability), which offers up a 26-millimeter wide angle lens with a mind-boggling 24x image stabilized optical zoom. You'll also find a 12-megapixel sensor, a vertical shutter release, HD video capture and a detachable vertical grip. On deck is the March-bound EasyShare M380 point-and-shoot ($179), a 10-megapixeler with a 5x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD monitor and your choice of black, red, or teal color schemes. Finally, we've got a few new SDHC cards from the outfit, with 4GB, 8GB and 16GB variations coming soon for undisclosed amounts. Full release is just past the break.

Continue reading Kodak delivers Z980 24x megazoom, M380 point-and-shoot cameras

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Kodak delivers Z980 24x megazoom, M380 point-and-shoot cameras originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Jan 2009 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2009Ces2009EasyShareEasyShare m830EasyshareM830flash memoryFlashMemorykodakM380megazoommemory cardMemoryCardSDHCultrazoomZ980Sun, 04 Jan 2009 14:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Fujifilm FinePix S2000HD gets reviewed, all 15x of it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/08/fujifilm-finepix-s2000hd-gets-reviewed-all-15x-of-it/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/08/fujifilm-finepix-s2000hd-gets-reviewed-all-15x-of-it/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/08/fujifilm-finepix-s2000hd-gets-reviewed-all-15x-of-it/#comments
With a zoom this long, it has to be good, right? Evidently that's absolutely correct, as the critics over at PhotographyBLOG adored what the FinePix S2000HD was packin'. The camera wasn't the sharpest nor most evenly exposed megazoom they'd ever seen, but given the respectable asking price ($269), it was still deemed a winner. More specifically, reviewers found the image quality to be "perfectly acceptable given the build and asking price," and while the video wasn't true HD, it still trumped that of most rivals. In the end, the relatively compact 10-megapixel cam was seen as a perfect option for those not ready to splurge on a DSLR and a decent zoom lens, notching a very admirable 4 out of 5 overall rating.

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Fujifilm FinePix S2000HD gets reviewed, all 15x of it originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 23:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Had enough from Cologne? Nah, we didn't think so, so we'll happily pass along Samsung's latest compact from Photokina 2008. The pocket-friendly HZ1 doesn't look too outrageous at first glance, but closer inspection reveals that it's packing a mighty fine 10x optical zoom. You'll also find face detection technology and dual image stabilization, and word on the street also claims a 720p movie mode. Sadly, there aren't any details on price or availability, but we can definitely see this one moving quite briskly from store shelves whenever it lands.

[Via PhotographyBLOG]

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Samsung shoves 10x optical zoom into HZ1 point-and-shoot originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Sep 2008 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Shortly after Samsung unveiled its summer stable of cameras, along comes Panasonic with a new trio of its own. Kicking things off is the zoom-infatuated DMC-FZ28, which features a remarkable 18x optical zoom, 10.1-megapixel sensor, Intelligent Auto Mode, Auto Focus and a 27-millimeter wide-angle lens. Moving on, we see the DMC-LX2's rightful successor -- the unimaginatively named LX3 -- which lands in August alongside the aforementioned FZ28. Said shooter packs a 10.1-megapixel sensor, F2.0 24mm LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens and the ability to capture 720p movies at 24fps. Bringing up the rear is the pocket-friendly LUMIX DMC-FX37 (due in September), which touts a 25mm ultra wide-angle LEICA DC lens, 10.1-megapixel sensor (are you sensing a trend?), a 5x optical zoom and 720p movie mode. Ready for the sting(s)? Try $449.99, $499.95 and $349.95 in order of mention.

[Via LetsGoDigital]

Read - DMC-FZ28
Read - DMC-LX3
Read - DMC-FX37

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Panasonic reveals DMC-FZ28 megazoom, DMC-LX3 and DMC-FX37 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Easily one of the most peculiar looking digicams we've seen, the GX200 picks right up where the GX100 left off and aims to fill the pockets of those not quite ready for a DSLR. Design wise, reviewers couldn't help but fall in love. Despite the curious build, critics found it to be "a joy" to hold and operate and not quite a burden in their left cargo pocket. When it came time to view results, however, the tone quickly shifted; put simply, the 12-megapixel sensor / processing combination was deemed "poor," once again substantiating the belief that more megapixels isn't always better. To be fair, the EVF and monitor were among the best they had seen, and some of the other minor details were really impressive, but the lackluster image quality easily overshadowed those flashes of brilliance in the grand scheme of things.

[Thanks, RTT]

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Ricoh's eye-catching GX200 camera gets reviewed originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Jun 2008 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yeah, Kodak's being a little slow with its pre-PMA goods, but barely early is better than nothin', right? Here we have the firm's newest megazoom, the EasyShare Z1012 IS, which steps it up over the CES-announced Z1085 IS by housing a 10-megapixel sensor and a full 12x optical zoom. Reportedly, this shooter sports a chassis small enough to "fit in the palm of your hand (all hands?)," and in case the "IS" didn't give it away, you can also expect optical image stabilization. Moreover, you'll find ISO up to 3,200, program, aperture and shutter priority (as well as "full manual mode") and face detection technology for good measure. What's clear is the $299.95 price tag, what's not so clear is the release date -- look for it sometime during "the first half of 2008."

[Via LetsGoDigital, thanks David]

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Kodak intros EasyShare Z1012 IS: 10-megapixels, 12x zoomer originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Jan 2008 20:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We know, some of you out there probably already bit the bullet and picked up one of Fujifilm's FinePix S8000fd cameras, but for those holding out for a little reassurance, here goes. PhotographyBLOG was able to spend some time with this 18x zoomer, and on almost every account, this thing performed admirably. Deemed Fujifilm's "best attempt yet to fuse the advantages of compact and DSLR cameras together," it managed to warm the hearts of reviewers. Granted, they weren't exactly pleased with the noise performance, but the zoom is really what vaulted this piece to a 4.5 out of 5 rating. So, if you're not kosher with carrying around a number of lenses for your DSLR, but would like to snap closeups from the nosebleeds, be sure and hit the read link for the full skinny on what was eventually dubbed "their current ultra-zoom camera of choice."

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Fujifilm's FinePix S8000fd megazoom camera gets reviewed originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Oct 2007 13:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If you (or your wallet) aren't quite ready to succumb to the DSLR urge just yet, but yearn for a solid megazoom to bridge the gap between your pocket-friendly P&S and that future money pit you're sure to eventually end up with, Sony's DSC-H9 offers an enticing list of options including a 15x optically stabilized zoom lens. Reviewers over at Megapixel were quite pleased with the "comprehensive bundle" that Sony includes in the package, and while the svelte three-inch flip-up LCD monitor, ridiculously long zoom, and "good image quality for printing past the widest angle" were praised, there seemed to be a negative vibe about the whole shebang. Among the lengthy list of digs were complaints that the compression was too strong, noticeable barrel distortion, purple fringing, and pincushion effects marred image quality, and a "convoluted menu system" kept operators on the verge of frustration. As if those weren't damaging enough, the battery was said to drain faster than other Sony digicams, and the plastic enclosure was dubbed "too slippery" for their preferences. Of course, it's not unusual to see these megazooms suffer in one area or another while still offering incredible closeups for a relatively low price, but we'd recommend perusing the read link for yourself before pulling the trigger on the H9.

[Via PhotographyBlog]

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Sony's DCS-H9 15x megazoom digicam reviewed originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 27 May 2007 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fujifilm's S6000df might not boast the same awe-inspiring specs as the similarly priced Sony DSC-H5, Canon S3 IS, or Panasonic DMC-FZ50, but apparently the company's exclusive "face detection" feature is enough of a boon to keep it in the running for your oh-so-coveted $500. The folks over at ZDNET best described the megazoom offering as a lesson in compromise; it settles for a 6.3-megapixel sensor and only rocks a 10.7x zoom, and even omits "true image stabilization." However, the high ISO (up to 3200), one-of-a-kind face finding processor, and "incredibly comfortable grip" proved to be impressive attributes nonetheless. Image quality was said to be "good, with well-saturated, accurate colors and tons of fine detail," while noise was effectively suppressed "to around ISO 800." Overall, reviewers were quite pleased with its face detecting goodness and "warm, natural" results, but if you need a serious dose of OIS to make good use of a fully extended zoom, you should probably look elsewhere.

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Fujifilm's FinePix S6000fd reviewed originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Oct 2006 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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[Via Daily Wireless]

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Fujifilm S9600 wireless adapter shown at Photokina originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 30 Sep 2006 13:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 reviewed originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 09 Sep 2006 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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