The Bottom Line
My Casio EX-FC100 review reveals a digital camera that is one of those models that excels in a few areas, primarily high-speed video and continuous-shot still imaging, which will make it a great camera for those needing those features. Few small, stylish cameras can match the high-speed capabilities of this Casio model, either with video or with still images. If, however, you need more of an all-around camera, the EX-FC100's $349 price tag might be a bit high for what it offers. (Casio dropped the price of the EX-FC100 from $399 soon after it was introduced.)
Pros
- Offers great high-speed image capture
- Offers strong high-speed video capture
- Stylish model
- Good LCD screen
- 5X optical zoom lens is above average
Cons
- Close-up image quality could be better
- Price is a little high for point and shoot model
- 9.1 megapixels is below average
- Low-light performance could be better
- Can be difficult to hold without inadvertently pressing buttons
Description
- Resolution: 9.1 megapixels
- Optical zoom: 5X (37-185mm equivalent)
- LCD: 2.7-inch, 230,400 pixels
- Maximum image size: 3456x2592
- Battery: Rechargeable Li-Ion
- Dimensions: 3.92 x 2.30 x 0.88 inches
- Weight: 5.1 oz. (without battery and memory card)
- Image sensor: 1/2.3-inch CMOS
Guide Review - Casio EX-FC100 Review
Image Quality
The EX-FC100's image quality is good in some areas, while lacking in other areas, making it about average. With normal, outdoor shooting conditions, the EX-FC100 performs very well, creating bright, sharp photos.
However, in low-light conditions, this model struggles a bit, as do many point and shoot models. Noise is especially problematic in poor lighting. The EX-FC100 has no long-shutter mode for shooting night-time photos, which is disappointing. Focusing on close-up subjects wasn't as good as we'd like to see, either.
Casio did include an anti-shake mode with this camera that works pretty well, helping you prevent blurry photos.
Performance
The performance levels for the EX-FC100 were pretty good. It responds quickly when you press the power button.
The EX-FC100 really shines in its high-speed modes, though. With still images, you have the option of a continuous-shot mode that can snap up to 30 images in one second. The resolution size of these images is limited, but this is a great feature for ensuring you can snap at least one good photo of a moving subject. The high-speed video mode is great, too, including a 1,000 frames per second mode (at a low resolution).
Finally, this Casio model is very easy to use. You'll be shooting photos quickly after taking it out of the box and charging the battery.
Design
Casio has created a good-looking camera with the EX-FC100. This ultra-compact model is very thin (0.88 inches), and the lens retracts completely inside the camera body when it is powered down. For a small, thin camera, the EX-FC100 has a sturdy feel to it.
The biggest problem with the EX-FC100's design is finding a place for your thumb when shooting images. The EX-FC100 has a lot of buttons, and it can be a little tough to hold it comfortably. Once you find a spot for your thumb, though, it's easy to use.
