The Bottom Line
The Casio EX-FH20 digital camera carries the look and feel of a digital SLR camera, but it’s more of an advanced point-and-shoot model, thanks to its built-in lens. It offers two particularly strong features: A 20X optical zoom lens and a high-speed continuous-shot and video mode. However, my Casio EX-FH20 reviews shows that with a suggested price tag of about $600, the EX-FH20 is an expensive model, especially when it comes up short in the most important area for a digital camera: Image quality.
Pros
- 20X optical zoom lens is very impressive
- Great high-speed continuous-shot mode
- Good wide-angle options
- White balance settings are very accurate
- Camera has good balance between large lens and handgrip
Cons
- Overall image quality should be much better
- Color accuracy in images isn't as good as it should be
- Too much noise in low-light photos
- Start-up time is below average
- Batteries don't last long
Description
- Resolution: 10.29 megapixels
- Optical zoom: 20X (26-520mm equivalent)
- LCD: 3.0-inch, 230,400 pixels
- Maximum image size: 3456x2592
- Battery: 4 AA-size
- Dimensions: 4.83 x 3.20 x 3.33 inches
- Weight: 17.04 oz. (without battery and memory card)
- Image sensor: 1/2.3-inch CMOS
Guide Review - Casio EX-FH20 Review
Image Quality
Image quality is only average with the EX-FH20, which is especially unfortunate for a digital camera aimed at beginners or intermediate photographers, while carrying a top-of-the-line price tag. The color capabilities of this model just aren't quite as good as they should be. The EX-FH20’s low-light performance was especially poor, creating shots with unacceptable levels of noise.
Overall, photos just aren't as sharp and bright as they should be. The model's contrast isn't quite as good as expected, either; especially not for a $600 camera.
Performance
The overall response times for the EX-FH20 are very good. You won't miss a spontaneous photo because of shot-to-shot delays or shutter lag, and the EX-FH20’s continuous shot mode is one of the best around. However, it does take 3-4 seconds for the camera to “boot up” after you press the power button, which is below average for a model in this price range.
The EX-FH20 makes use of four AA batteries to power the camera, giving you the option of running the camera on off-the-shelf disposable batteries. This is a handy option for finding power while traveling. However, four disposable AA batteries do not last very long with this model.
Finally, it's impossible to ignore the power of this unit's 20X optical zoom lens. Its 35mm equivalent is 26-520mm, meaning it provides slightly more wide-angle capabilities than most consumer-level digital cameras, too.
Design
The EX-FH20 is a good-looking model, resembling a 35mm film camera. Its all-black camera body has a large lens in the front and a pop-up built-in flash that you can control manually. It seems to be a rugged model, too, with a sturdy construction.
If at all possible, be sure to try this model before you buy it because of its odd size. Some people will find it difficult to hold this unit with two hands.
