Casio Exilim EX-FH20

Value (4.00)
Calling the value on this camera is a difficult task, as it really depends on what you want out of it. Based on pure image quality, you can do much, much better in an ultra-zoom for considerably less price. However, 40 frames per second at 7 megapixels is an impressive feat, and if you're absolutely dedicated to catching that perfect frame, maybe $600 isn't such a problem. But if you don't need the ludicrous speed, it just strikes us as too much money for a not very good camera.

Comparisons

Canon EOS Rebel XS – The least expensive of Canon's SLRs, the XS can be found for about the same price as the FH20. If you're looking for more control than you can get from a point-and-shoot, and don't need the high speed, video, or extended zooming capabilities, then the XS is a great introduction to the world of SLRs. The XS also out-scored the FH20 in every image quality test we run except white balance, plus you get the advantage of being able to change lenses, and shoots at 10MP rather than 9MP. It has a list price of $599.99.

 

 

 Casio Exilim EX-F1 – The F1 is the big brother to the HF20. It shoots faster video in a larger size, more still frames per second, and generally provides more options and controls. However, it also has a lower overall resolution (6MP versus up to 9MP for the HF20), smaller zoom and costs $400 more. While neither camera is cheap, the F1 did outscore the HF20 in most tests. If that, plus the faster speed, is worth the $1000 price tag, then go for it.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 – The FZ18 is currently our highest rated point-and-shoot camera, and can be bought for less than half the cost of the HF20. It has a slightly lower zoom range (18x), shoots 8-megapixels rather than 9, and can't hold a candle to the speed of the Casio. However, in terms of image quality, the FZ18 is far superior, and costs $370, a significant price difference.

 

 

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H7 – Another highly rated ultra-zoom, available for a fraction of the price of the HF20, the H7 blew the HF20 out of the water for color, noise and resolution scores. Once again, if you don't need the super fast abilities of the Casio, then the Sony is a highly competent camera which will handle itself admirably. The Cyber-shot can be bought for around $400, depending on where you look.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters – The lack of a strong automatic mode makes this a bit problematic to put into the hands of a complete novice. That said, for soccer moms wanting to catch key parts of the game, this could be ideal.

Budget Consumers – At $600, not so much.

Gadget Freaks – Definitely. If you've ever wanted to explode a water balloon in front of a high speed camera, and show your awed friends the results, here's a camera for you. Many of the features of the camera are toy-like in the joy they can cause, and are a gadget freak's dream.

Manual Control Freaks – While there are manual controls in this camera, the implementation is poor. They're difficult to control, and lacking in the information you really need to make good decisions about the shot you're going to take.

Pros / Serious Hobbyists – Pros and serious hobbyists will probably turned off by the low megapixel count, clunky controls, flimsy body and poor test scores. But, if they want the ultra-hight-speed, it's certainly cheaper than the F1.

Connectivity / Extras	Page 11 of 14		Conclusion
Casio Exilim EX-FH20 Digital Camera Review Navigation
Intro	Physical Tour	Color and Resolution	Speed and Timing
Components	Design / Layout	Modes	Control Options
Image Parameters	Connectivity / Extras	Overall Impressions	Conclusion
Sample Photos	Specs / Ratings