Kodak EasyShare LS753

Value (7.5)
For this price, getting a 5 megapixel CCD is appropriate, as are the sleek and smooth features and the nicely sized 1.8-inch LCD screen. However, the zoom only rates at 2.8x optical, and the camera does not include an optional memory card, forcing the user to initially rely upon the internal memory provided with the camera. This camera is definitely among the higher end of the point-and-shoot cameras.

Comparisons
Kodak EasyShare LS743 - This predecessor to the LS753 comes with a smaller CCD of only 4 megapixels, but a comparable 2.8x optical zoom lens for the retail price of $349. It has no lens ring accessory ability, and the overall design is very similar to the LS753’s. Like all Kodak EasyShare cameras, it is Direct Print-capable. It has only 16MB of internal memory, and is capable of capturing either video or still image footage. It has a real image optical viewfinder, a 1.8-inch LCD, and a 1/2.5-inch CCD.

Kodak EasyShare LS443 - This camera, also by Kodak, sells for $399.95, but comes with a less powerful 4.2 MP CCD. The 3x optical zoom lens is slightly larger than that of the LS753, and the 1.8-inch LCD screen is identical to that of the LS743 and LS753. The 16MB of internal memory is also smaller, giving the user only half the internal memory of the Kodak LS753.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P93 - This camera is priced slightly lower than the LS753, retailing for $329.95. It has a 3x optical zoom lens, the potential for direct printing, and a 1/1.8-inch 5.1 MP CCD. However, it falls short of the Kodak LS753 with a smaller 1.5-inch LCD screen. It has a fantastic amount of manual control available, unlike either the LS743 or the LS753. This camera is also capable of capturing video at 640 x 480 resolution with audio at a speed of 30 frames per second.

Konica Minolta DiMage Z2 - This Konica is included to offer a comparison with a camera that has a quite impressive zoom range, with a 10x optical rating. This camera goes above and beyond the other cameras in this section. However, it does have a much smaller CCD, at only 4.0 MP.The Konica Minolta DiMage Z2 has such features as fast focus and a super macro mode, and is comparably priced at $324.95.

Who It's For
Point-and-Shooters - For the point-and-shoot user with a bit of money, this camera looks great and feels great. Its controls are straightforward and uncomplicated.

Budget Consumers- Considering what the camera provides, it appears that a fair amount of the price can be attributed to the aesthetics and ease of use. Less expensive products with similar options are readily available.

Gadget Freaks- This camera may look like an attractive option for the gadget freak, with its nicely lit controls and LED lights all over the camera body. However, there are few functional features or gadgets available. The gadget freak would enjoy the sleek and glamorous exterior, but would become bored and look elsewhere.

Manual Control Freaks- Some manual controls are available to the user of the Kodak EasyShare LS753. However, this camera is weighted more toward the point-and-shoot consumer.

Pros/Serious Hobbyists— Neither the pro nor the serious hobbyist would find themselves in desperate need of the Kodak EasyShare LS753. Its foundation is in automatic shooting and lacks real user control beyond the basic functions.