Casio EX-Z4 Review

Click on the EX-Z4 for a QTVR tour

(Right up front we need to mention that there are TWO different EX-Z4 cameras being sold. The EX-Z4 outside of N. America and the EX-Z4U which is what we have reviewed and is sold in the U.S. They are identical except that the Z4U does NOT have a movie mode.)

The EXILIM ZOOM EX-Z4 is the latest addition to the EXILIM Series of card-size LCD digital cameras. The EX-Z4 features a CCD imager with 4 million effective pixels plus a high- performance 3X zoom lens. Like the original EXILIM EX-S1 and EX-S2 cameras introduced in 2002, the EX-Z4 packs the features of a full-sized camera in a thin, compact configuration, 3.43" (W) x 2.24" (H) x .93" (D) and lightweight, 4.55 oz - small enough to tote in any pocket or purse - portable, wearable, fashionable technology for today's lifestyles.

The lens of the EX-Z4 uses a 3-segment telescoping lens mechanism that makes it possible to provide 3X optical zoom capabilities in an amazingly thin camera configuration. The EX-Z4 is ready to shoot in less than 2 seconds after it is turned on. The big 2.0-inch TFT LCD monitor screen features a digital interface for a clearer display of images. The monitor screen can be used to compose images, and a collection of display features helps to make image viewing easier and more fun than ever before.

The EX-Z4 CCD provides 4 million pixels of high-resolution digital imaging. This level of resolution makes it possible to capture all the nuances of subtle flesh tones and fine details of scenery shots. Primary color filtering ensures vivid colors every time. The Best Shot Mode provides optimum camera setups in an instant. The user simply selects the sample scene closest to the desired image, and the camera's light metering, exposure compensation, saturation, and other settings are configured accordingly. The EX-Z4 has total of 21 sample scenes built in, including "Coupling Shot" and "Pre Shot".

Automatic image transfer to computer - the procedure to download photos is accomplished by connecting the supplied docking cradle to the computer's USB port, placing the EX-Z4 onto the cradle, and pressing the cradle's USB button. From there, the PhotoLoader software automatically transfers all JPEG and AVI files in image memory to the computer. Placing the EX-Z4 onto its cradle and pressing the Photo button starts a slideshow of images currently in camera memory. The camera can even be set up to display the desired images whenever it is placed on the cradle.

The EX-Z4 stores images in a Web browser-viewable that allows you to browse images in an album format. The album feature uses HTML format, which means you can incorporate an album directly into a web site, and even print directly from the album.

In addition to its 10 MB of built-in Flash Memory, the EX-Z4 also supports use of a thin, compact SD memory cards and MMC cards (not included). An easy operation copies images between a memory card and built-in memory. Key customization enables assigned recording mode, exposure compensation, white balance, ISO sensitivity or self-timer functions to the left/right controller buttons. These settings may be changed by simply pressing the left or right control button.

Exilim EX-Z4U Features:

• 4.0-Megapixel effective CCD imager
• Credit card-size stainless steel body, only 23mm thick
• Still Image: 2304x1728, 1600x1200, 1280x960, 640x480
• Audio recording, attach to images or audio-only
• Pentax 3x optical zoom (35-105mm equiv) with 4x digital zoom
• Less two second startup time
• Fast shot to shot time - even with flash
• AF Area is selectable: Multi or Spot AF
• 10 Megabytes of internal memory
• Automatic 4 to 1/2000 sec. shutter speeds
• Built-in flash with Red Eye Reduction
• 2" TFT color LCD with 354x240 (84,960 pixels) resolution
• 4X playback zoom magnification
• USB 1.1 data transfer to PC or Mac computers
• Lithium rechargeable battery and charging cradle included
• Secure Digital/MMC card slot for memory expansion
• DPOF, PRINT Image Matching II, Exif Print and Epson USB Direct-Print compatible

The Casio EX-Z4 will retail for about $399.99 and is available now.

Physical Views

Casio EX-Z4 Specifications