Value (7.0)
The FinePix F440 comes with a sizable 1/2.5-inch, 4.1 MP CCD, video potential with audio, six different format settings, some manual control options, and a 3.4x optical zoom rating. For a relatively inexpensive camera, retailing online for $249.95 (USD), the F440 may not be a bad bargain. There are some significant options included, with web cam capabilities, preset options, and an impressive 2.0-inch LCD screen, although the F440 falls short in some critical areas. When it comes down to it, a 4 MP camera with a 2-inch LCD for under $250 (USD) is a bargain by today’s standards; however, with the way the market is developing and as high-end digital cameras continually drop in price, it may not be a bargain tomorrow.

Comparisons
Nikon Coolpix 3200 – Selling for $199.95 (USD), the Nikon Coolpix 3200 contains a 1/2.7-inch, 3.2 MP CCD, slightly smaller than the sensor used in the Fuji F440. The Coolpix 3200 stocks seven format settings between both video and still images, with potential audio recording available, and it also records in QuickTime format. The Coolpix 3200 contains a slightly smaller 3x optical zoom lens. A number of preset options are available as well as manual control for EV. The Coolpix 3200 is a stronger camera, providing more flexibility within settings and overall control over the image then the F440. The Coolpix 3200 also packs 14.5MB of internal memory.

Canon PowerShot A85 – The Canon PowerShot A85 retails for the same price as the FinePix F440. Relying on a 1/2.7-inch 4.2 MP CCD, the A85’s imager is comparable to the F440. The A85 comes with a 3x optical zoom lens and records in seven modes. The A85 will also capture audio and video footage simultaneously in QuickTime format. The PowerShot A85 allows for focal control, preset scene options, white balance, exposure and flash control. Also the A85, unlike the FinePix F440, contains a burst capture setting for added speed and recording capabilities. The A85 comes packaged with a 32MB CF memory card, which is twice the size of the Fuji‘s packaged media card. While the A85 is also direct print compliant, the 1.8” LCD is slightly smaller then the F440’s 2” display, on a larger overall frame.

Fujifilm FinePix S3100 – The FinePix S3100 currently retails online for slightly less than the F440, around $244.95 (USD); however, it should be noted that this camera has a much different shape and larger body, based more on the traditional 35mm styling. The S3100 has a 1/2.7-inch, 4.23 MP CCD, with a much larger 6x optical zoom lens. The S3100 records in six formats and quality settings, with audio and video capabilities comparable to the F440. The S3100 also lacks manual focus control, and the focus controls that it does have are less effective or on par with the F440. The S3100 ships with a 16MB xD memory card and also has an Electronic Viewfinder, which mirrors the LCD screen. Even though this camera has a larger body, the user is forced to deal with a smaller, 1.5 inch LCD screen.

Olympus Stylus Verve – The Stylus Verve was heavily marketed upon its release, advertising the camera’s body design and style: bright candy colors and compact size. These point-and-shoot cameras each come with 1/2.5-inch, 4.2 MP CCD, although the Stylus Verve contains a smaller 2.0x optical zoom lens. The Verve does have the potential to record still and video images in eight formats, but only four seconds audio clips can be recorded. Scene presets, manual white balance and exposure compensation, and a 16MB memory card complement the Verve’s 1.8 inch LCD, but there is no viewfinder.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters - This camera is definitely intended for the point-and-shoot consumer. With basic controls at an affordable price, it's a good choice for beginners.

Budget Consumers - As mentioned, the camera’s low price, compact size, impressive LCD display, and 4.1 megapixel imager make the F440 a strong buy for the price.

Gadget Freaks - This camera is a straightforward point-and-shooter; if it’s gadgets you seek, better look elsewhere.

Manual Control Freaks - The F440 is not designed to appease the manual user. With minimal control, the point-and-shooter may not feel constrained, but users accustomed to controlling their camera will feel instantly claustrophobic.

Pros/Serious Hobbyists - For the pro or serious hobbyist, there would really be no reason to look to this camera other than as a relatively disposable vacation accessory.