The Bottom Line
For a certain segment of photographers, the Exilim EX-FS10 from Casio is going to be a great camera, thanks to its high-speed capabilities, both with video and still images. If my Casio Exilim EX-FS10 review was written solely for that segment of photographers, this camera would receive a very high rating.
However, this Casio EX-FS10 review is written for all types of photographers, especially beginners, and this camera doesn't quite stack up for those photographers. The EX-FS10 has some very cool features, but it can be difficult to learn how to use all of them, especially for someone new to digital photography.
Pros
- Camera excels at high-speed video and still images
- Images are good, colors are realistic
- Response times, for the most part, are very good
- "Best Shot" feature works great for making YouTube videos
Cons
- EX-FS10 can be confusing to learn to use
- 3X optical zoom lens could be larger
- Focus seems a little soft
- Performance in low light with flash could be better
- Printed user guide mixes numerous languages; is very difficult to use
Description
- Resolution: 9.1 megapixels
- Optical zoom: 3X (38-114mm)
- LCD: 2.5-inch, 230,400 pixels
- Maximum image size: 3456 x 2592 pixels
- Battery: Rechargeable Li-ion
- Dimensions: 2.3 x 3.82 x 0.64 inches
- Weight: 4.2 ounces (no battery, no memory card)
- Image sensor: CMOS 1/2.3 in.
Guide Review - Casio Exilim EX-FS10 Review
Image Quality
For the most part, the image quality with the Casio EX-FS10 is pretty good. Colors are realistic and most photos are well exposed, even in low light. The autofocus struggles a bit in low light, leaving some photos a little soft, though.
With 9.1 megapixels of resolution, the EX-FS10 lags behind some other ultra compact cameras, but it should have enough resolution for beginner and intermediate photographers to make good prints.
Design
The EX-FS10 is easy to hold, and it's very thin (0.64 inches) and lightweight. You can choose between deep red, deep blue, and gray. The 2.5-inch LCD could be larger.
The biggest problem with this camera's design is with all of the buttons used to select various features. It's easy when you're in a hurry to press the wrong button. You really need to study the user guide on the CD to figure out all of the buttons and features.
Performance
In terms of response times, the EX-FS10 starts fast, and it's ready to shoot less than a second after you press the power button. Shutter lag can be a problem when using the flash in low light.
Obviously, however, high-speed performance is where the EX-FS10 shines. You can shoot at high speeds between five and 30 images per second, while shooting at 6 megapixels, which is very impressive for a point and shoot camera. High speed movies are possible, too, shooting up to 1,000 frames per second (fps) at a low resolution. You can increase the resolution while decreasing the speed to between 30 and 210 fps. You even can shoot HD video at up to 30 fps.
If you need this type of high speed performance out of an ultra compact camera, the EX-FS10 is a great option, especially because you probably can find it for around $225, much less than the $299 MSRP. However, those beginning photographers seeking an easy-to-use camera probably will want to pass on this model.
