Value
The Fujifilm FinePix F100fd was announced on Jan. 24 to sell for $379, a price that seems high compared to other cameras put out by Fujifilm. It seems they have a whole army of cameras that sell for less than $200. The 12-megapixel Fuji F50fd has many of the same features, but comes with a shorter 3x lens and an older version of face detection. It has a big price cut, though, retailing at $299. To its credit, the F100fd crams a lot of newer pricier technology such as face detection, image stabilization, and red-eye removal.
Comparison to the Fujifilm FinePix F50fd
The Fujifilm FinePix F50fd has the same 12 megapixels as the newer model, but has the older version of face detection. It still recognizes up to 10 faces, but doesn’t do it as quickly as the F100fd and can’t recognize profiles and the full 360-degree range of a face like the new model. The F50fd has the same IrSimple wireless transfer technology and many of the same exposure modes, and even has dual image stabilization. They have the same 2.7-inch LCD screen, but the older camera has a shorter 3x optical zoom lens. Surprisingly, the F50fd has a faster 2 fps Burst mode. It sells for much less at $299, and there are trade-offs going both ways.
Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters – The Fujifilm FinePix F100fd is small enough to fit in a pocket and has way more performance features than the average compact digital camera. Perk: it’s easy to use, too.
Budget Consumers – The $379 price tag makes this camera one of the most expensive Fujifilm FinePix digital cameras on the market.
Gadget Freaks – These consumers will be pleased to hear that face detection can now track faces at a full 360 degrees: something new to show off to fellow geeks.
Manual Control Freaks – Manual controls are included, but they aren’t as easy to access as on a DSLR. But it's still a plus that they are there when needed.
Pros/ Serious Hobbyists – Compact digital cameras are unlikely to attract pros or hobbyists, but if they are searching for a small vacation companion the F100fd might be the one they’re looking for. Previous F-series cameras have tested well in our image quality tests, so we expect good things from the F100fd.
