Casio's Exilim Hi-Zoom EX-V7 reviewed

While we could see the quality issues coming, it's hard not to hope that somehow Casio was able to cram a 7.2-megapixel sensor and a 7x optical zoom into a point-and-shoot enclosure that produced astounding (or at least good) results. Sadly, we're still waiting for that day, as reviewers at PopPhoto deflated our hopes that a wicked zoom could in fact be stuffed into an ultracompact without sacrificing image quality. As expected, the sleek, sexy frame of the Exilim Hi-Zoom EX-V7 was adored, the anti-shake technology was appreciated, and the choice to rely on H.264 compression in video mode was praised, but those tidbits weren't enough to overcome the "shaky" feel, questionably designed menus, unsteady cradle, and most importantly, the "pitiful" results. It was noted that the 7x zoom was quite impressive when shooting video clips, and without concern to the actual images produced by the EX-V7, the digicam was shown an "A" rating; unfortunately, the overall score was lowered to a (generous) "C" with all things considered, but feel free to hit the read link and read the painful writeup for yourself.

[Via DigitalPhotographyBlog]

[Brando @ Apr 20th 2007 12:38PM]

Personally, I think this would be a great camera for snapshots wich is what it is intended for. I think the reviewer has too high of expectations for a subcompact camera and is a bit too critical of it's performance. I mean really, where are you going to find a camera that small with all those features. I for one don't mind sacrificing a little image quality for the convenience of being able to carry a high zoom camera in my shirt pocket. Try doing that with a dslr and a long lens. As far as noise is concerned, I don't see using this camera for more than snapshots (unless you get in a crunch and have no other camera). You're not going to notice much noise at 4x6 or 5x7. If you have to print bigger prints, there's always noise ninja. Overall, I think the reviewer was expecting dslr performance out of a subcompact camera. That's just not going to happen for a while and I mean all around - not just image quality. I think what Casio has come up with is pretty impressive.