Value (7.0)
The Fujifilm FinePix F40fd was introduced in January and landed on store shelves in March with a retail price of $299, nearly a hundred dollars less than the F31fd that has ISO sensitivity up to 3200 and more manual control. The F40fd has a nice feature set, including face detection, high ISO sensitivity, and a trendier looking housing. However, it lacks other features like manual control and optical image stabilization. Unfortunately, the F40 is a step down from the F31fd and F30 in terms of image quality, though it's still a reasonably solid performer for its price bracket. When the F40fd is compared with other 8-megapixel digital cameras, it is fairly priced. It isn’t a fantastic bargain, but it is definitely not overpriced either.
Comparisons
Fujifilm FinePix F20 - The Fujifilm FinePix F20 was released last year with many classic characteristics of the F-series line: 6.3 megapixels on a 1/1.7-inch Super CCD, a 36-108mm 3x optical zoom lens, a 2.5-inch LCD screen, and ISO sensitivity up to 2000. The new F40fd has more resolution at 8.3 megapixels on a similarly sized 1/1.6 inch Super CCD. The zoom lens is the same, but the LCD monitors on the two cameras are different. The F20’s has less resolution at 153,000 pixels and a narrower angle of view than the F40fd. The exposure modes and ISO range on the two cameras are the same. The Fujifilm FinePix F20 does not have internal memory or dual memory card compatibility. The FinePix F20 has only xD-Picture card compatibility, while the F40fd adds SD card compatibility. The F20 and F40fd both run from the same lithium-ion battery. The Fujifilm F20 originally retailed for $299 when it was released last year, but it has since dropped in price to $199 to make room for the fancier F40fd.
Nikon Coolpix S50c – The S50c has an all-metal body that is slimmer at 0.8 inches and feels sturdier too. It packs less resolution at 7.2 megapixels but still comes with a 3x optical zoom lens and wireless image transfer technology. This wireless technology is more prevalent in the United States, whereas Fujifilm’s IrSimple technology is still up and coming. The S50c can also store up to 30 e-mail addresses in the camera. The Nikon Coolpix S50c has a sleek wave design that is trendier looking and fits neatly into a pocket. The camera has similar automated modes and a slower 1.4 fps burst mode. It has a larger 3-inch LCD screen with 230,000 pixels of resolution. Its control interface includes an interesting rotary dial that navigates through images and menus quickly. The playback mode includes a Pictmotion slide show that merges cool transitions and effects with different music soundtracks. The Nikon Coolpix S50c has many of the same modes and features but comes in a sleeker body for $349.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T20 – This digital camera has a sleek, slim metal casing that comes in silver, black, white, and pink. It has 8.1 megapixels and a 3x optical zoom lens with an image stabilization system. Like the Fuji, it has an effective face detection system that tracks faces and adjusts the exposure so they always look great. The Sony T20 also has a 9-point auto focus system and ISO options up to 3200. There are nine scene modes, a program mode, an automatic mode, and a movie mode – although the T20 requires users to buy a Memory Stick Duo Pro card to record movies at 30 fps. Slide shows with music can be created on the Sony T20, and output in high definition is available if users purchase an optional cable. The camera has a 2.5-inch LCD screen with 230,000 pixels and a wide viewing angle. The T20 is thin but fits a tiny optical viewfinder on its body. Its battery can snap 380 shots per charge and its burst mode clicks away at 2.2 fps for up to 100 shots. This Cyber-shot requires Memory Stick media to function, but it is compatible with cards up to 8 GB. The digital camera sells for $329.
Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters – This digital camera makes everything easy with its automated modes and face detection technology.
Budget Consumers – The $299 price isn’t much to ask for face detection, wireless image transfer, and great pictures. The F40fd is one of the cheapest cameras on the market that includes face detection.
Gadget Freaks – The FinePix F40fd is something a gadget freak would love to show off with its IrSimple wireless image transfer and face detection.
Manual Control Freaks – This camera won’t satisfy the needs of these consumers. There are a few manual controls for items like white balance and ISO, but there is no control over shutter speed or aperture.
Pros/ Serious Hobbyists – These consumers won’t give the F40fd a look. It doesn’t have manual control and doesn’t handle properly for lengthy photo shoots.
