Digital Camera News

Samsung Unveils 2nd Half Line-up

July 16, 2008 – Today Samsung introduced four new cameras, ranging from the 14.7-megapixel all-metal TL34HD at $329.95 to a 10.2-megapixel compact, the SL201, that still boasts manual controls and other sophisticated features for $169.95. All four cameras are expected to ship in September.

TL34D
This 14.7-megapixel model incorporates a 3.6x Schneider optical zoom lens starting at 28mm at the widest setting. The 3-inch touch-screen LCD supports Samsung's updated Smart Touch 2.0 user interface, designed to simplify navigation and multiply time spent screen-wiping between shots. The camera will be available in all black or silver with bright red accents. The TL34D employs two kinds of image stabilization, both optical and digital. On the still image side, ISO settings range up to 3200 to accommodate low-light shooters. And on the video side, users can shoot 720p high-def at 30 frames per second. The TL34D measures 3.68 x 2.34 x 0.80 inches, giving it a slim pocket-friendly physique. And with an all-metal body, we expect it to deliver the substantial in-hand feel appropriate for a $330 camera.

TL9
Another slender contender, the 10-megapixel TL9 delivers a 5x optical zoom lens with optical and digital image stabilization in a camera that measures 3.74 x 2.36 x 0.84 inches. The most unusual feature is certainly the two analog gauges on the camera top, indicating remaining battery life and memory capacity in a fun Back to the Future way. In addition to face detection that can track up to nine people, the TL9 can be set to wait for smiling faces before shooting, and prevent a shot if the subject is blinking. And if you're less interested in demonstrating your creativity than enjoying the creations of others, the camera offers music and video playback, though the need to convert your files for use on the TL9 makes this feature significantly less practical. Manufacturer's suggested price is $279.95.

SL310W
The SL310W offers solid fundamental photo specs, including 13.6-megapixel resolution, a 28mm wide-angle lens with 3.6x optical zoom and dual image stabilization, along with novice-friendly features including 11 scene modes, blink and smile detection, automatic red-eye correction and on-screen function descriptions and help. It supports MPEG-4 movie recording, including in-camera movie editing and the ability to zoom while shooting. The LCD screen measures 2.7 inches, and the price is $229.95.

SL201
Rounding out the lineup on the low end, at $169.95, the 10.2-megapixel SL201 offers a 3x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD, manual controls, face detection technology, preset scene modes and on-screen help. Optical image stabilization is missing from this model (digital stabilization is provided), and ISO settings top out at 1600. However, the SL201 does share a noteworthy special feature with the SL310W. For long-armed photographers who like to hold their cameras out and shoot themselves, the Self Portrait Mode will detect your face, adjust focus and exposure, and keep you from firing off a shot unless you're centered in the frame.