| Likes |
|
- Monocoque construction is durable and fashionable
- Camera performed well in our noise and resolution tests
- Completely internal lens is more durable than telescoping style and makes for quick start-up speed
- Minimal shutter lag
- Provides ISO 800 setting at full resolution
- “Natural Light” preset will be valuable to target audience
|
| Dislikes |
- White balance presets are limited, didn’t adapt well to strong tungsten light sources, and does not provide a custom setting
- Disappointing color performance
- Weak flash range
- Slow max aperture (f/3.5)
- Buttons are small and crowded
- Lack of burst mode results in slow shot to shot speeds
- Black finish shows fingerprints and smudges |
Conclusion
The FinePix Z1, like the Nikon Coolpix S2 and Sony Cyber-shot T-series models, aspires to be jewelry or at least a fashion accessory in addition to a pocket-friendly imager. Unfortunately, some performance capabilities and operating conveniences have been sacrificed on the Z1 in creating the distinctive styling. The cramped buttons and limited maximum aperture will likely dissuade many potential consumers. A large segment of buyers might be better served with a more capable or less expensive alternative.
Performance-wise, the FinePix Z1 is impressive for this type of camera in terms of noise suppression and image definition. The sliding lens cover breeds quicker start-up speeds in addition to increased durability. For a sleek, aesthetically-driven camera, the Z1 is yards beyond many of its competitors; however, that’s unfortunately not saying much. Many of these models are essentially glamorized camera phones – providing far more in the way of portability and style than image quality.
At 3.5 x 2.2 x 0.7 inches and 5.3 ounces (including battery and media), the Z1’s monocoque construction is surprisingly durable without sacrificing its fashion sensibility. Unfortunately, without a manual white balance setting, tripod socket, wide maximum aperture, or strong flash unit, the Z1 will have a limited range of photographic applications. Resulting colors from the Z1 were heavily over-saturated and significantly inferior to Fuji’s FinePix F10, which is also designed for portability, but relies on performance rather than aesthetics for characterization.
Available online for roughly $100 less than its $450 list price, the Z1 will have a limited audience, but should serve those users well. Consumers in search of an elegant-looking camera, who are fastidious enough to keep it clean, will get aesthetic charm with respectable imaging quality from the Z1.
