Casio Exilim EX-Z60 First Impressions Review

Viewfinder
The camera has no viewfinder, but this component would be unexpected on a thin Exilim anyway.

LCD Screen
Casio describes the LCD as a 2.5-inch TFT color LCD with 115,000 pixels. This is typical for the new standard in entry level cameras, although still lacking a bit in resolution. Brightness was typical of models in this price range, as was angle of view; there was the usual falloff in brightness past about a 45 degree angle. This camera, like its competitors, is designed to be passed around to allow viewing of recorded images. Considering the modest cost of the camera, the display is certainly usable for this purpose: the casual portraits we took had a clear, natural image quality. The brushed aluminum back panel sets off the screen itself and provides a look that belies the low cost of the camera.

Users can cycle through several variations on displayed information, ranging from nothing at all to a full four-quadrant display of shooting presets, flash status, resolution, images remaining, time and date, battery life and a live histogram. The histogram is perhaps a shade larger than others, a mixed blessing in that it is easier to read, but cuts more into the viewing area.

Flash
With a flash tube measuring only about 1/4 inch by 3/4 inch, the camera’s long distance flash performance is going to be limited. Maximum range is listed at 12 ft. in the wide and just over 6 ft. in the telephoto positions of the focal range. The usual flash modes are represented: Auto, forced on, forced off and red-eye reduction pre-flash. In addition, the camera features what Casio calls "soft flash", a digital imaging effect that is designed to reduce the harsh look of direct flash. Images taken with the "soft flash" option turned on have the look of images shot through a fog filter, with reduced blacks and a more hazy cast. I’m not sure if this is an option that most users would be drawn to.

The flash took about six seconds to recharge. Menu options allow you to adjust flash intensity in +/- 2 EV range in a flash assist mode; this is a valuable feature that can greatly improve outdoor images.

Zoom Lens
The 3X zoom is a Casio-branded lens, with maximum apertures of f/3.1 to f/5.9 from wide to telephoto. The lens is composed of five groups of six lens elements and includes aspheric components, although it was not stated if the construction is all glass or includes plastic elements. Initial testing reveals no obvious color fringing or flare, using the maximum playback enlargement. Zoom range runs from 6.3-18.9mm, or a 35mm to 114mm equivalent. In other words, this lens is right in the middle range for this camera category, just what other manufacturers are offering. It’s a good range for all-around shooting. However, buyers should be aware that the telephoto capabilities are modest and the wide angle does not grant too much opportunity in tight indoor spaces.

Zoom adjustment is via a pair of buttons on the back and works in a typical fashion. Zoom speed was comfortable, though perhaps a shade too fast. Action was smooth and quiet. The camera has an anti-shake digital signal processor option that can be turned off or left in Auto mode.