Value
The 10.1-megapixel Samsung S1050 costs $349, which is similar to other compact digital cameras with that amount of resolution. This camera has manual functionality though, something that can’t be found on 10-megapixel cameras like the Casio Z1000 and Olympus Stylus 1000. The 8.1-megapixel Samsung S850 has less resolution and an LCD screen that is a half-inch smaller, but provides all the same modes and effects for fifty dollars less. Neither of these cameras is a huge bargain, but they are both fairly priced – if they work at production time.
Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters – These consumers will be baffled by the horribly confusing menu setup, and will struggle to find the tiny black buttons on the black body.
Budget Consumers – The Samsung S1050 costs $349 with its 10.1 megapixels, 3-inch LCD screen, and face detection technology. The Samsung S850 has 8.1 megapixels, a 2.5-inch LCD screen, and a $299 price tag. Both cameras are fairly priced if the resolution lives up to the hype and all of the promised features work by the time they are released. Neither of them are exceptionally great deals though, so consumers on a budget may bypass them.
Gadget Freaks – These two models aren’t as gadget-saturated as other Samsung models. They don’t have the Smart Touch interface, although they do have face detection technology. Unfortunately it didn’t work on the show floor, so gadget freaks would have been disappointed to hold it.
Manual Control Freaks – There is manual control on the Samsung S1050 and S850, but it is not a very accessible system. The +/- button must be pushed, then the multi-selector navigates through shutter speeds, apertures, and other controls. Manual control freaks may not like the inaccessible controls, but may appreciate having a compact model with manual control nonetheless.
Pros / Serious Hobbyists – The Samsung S1050 and Samsung S850 are not tailored to fit the professional audience.
