ST550
Latest
Samsung TL225 / ST550 review roundup: some smiles, some frowns
Incredulously enough, no other major camera maker has come out and mimicked Samsung's front-facing LCD approach found on the TL225 (or ST550 in some areas), so if you're in the market, it's either this one or the lesser-specced TL220 (ST500). If you're considering picking up the former as a bang-up gift for your special someone, you'd probably do yourself a solid by taking a peek at a few reviews around the web. The long and short of it is this: the camera's dual LCDs are well implemented, and they actually do come in handy for those looking to handle the "self-portrait" duties in the relationship. Beyond that, however, there wasn't a lot of praise to go around. For starters, the camera relies only on microSD memory, so those spare SD cards you've got laying around are no good here. Then there's the so-so image quality coupled with the staggeringly weak battery life; Photography Blog was only able to squeeze out around 100 shots while making heavy use of the touchscreen. Everyone seemed to agree that the cam wasn't for everyone, so be sure and take a look around before committing. Read - Photography Blog Read - About Read - Photography Bay Read - Digital Camera Info Read - CNET Read - Steves Digicams
Video: Samsung's TL220 and TL225 cameras add a LCD in front to help with your self-portraits
Cameras with projectors? That's old tricks by now. Samsung wants you to know the new, hip differentiator in the point and shoot market is two LCDs -- one in the back like usual, and a 1.5-inch LCD in the front, right next to the lens, such as what you see with the new TL220 and TL225 (also known as ST500 / ST550, respectively). That should be good for making sure your self-portraits are just right, or alternatively, it can play "cute animations to capture kids' attention." We also think it might also be useful for capturing the exact moment of horror from a coulrophobist. Both 12.2 megapixel cameras sport a 4.6x optical zoom, image stabilization, 720p video capabilities in H.264 format, and a touchscreen rear LCD with haptic feedback. The TL220 has a 3-inch display in the back, while the TL225 (pictured) features a 3.5-inch display that's also much, much sharper. Price is $299.90 / $349.99 for TL220 and TL225, respectively, and both are due out in September. Full presser -- and video -- after the break.Update: The video (after the break) is now live.
