Fujifilm FinePix F401 Zoom Review

Click on the FinePix F401 to take a QuickTime VR tour

Fuji Photo Film U.S.A., Inc. continues its introduction of new cameras with the FinePix F401 digital camera. The FinePix F401's ultra-slim, trend-setting metallic body is sure to turn heads. It is one of the smallest 2.1-effective- megapixel zoom digital cameras in its category and features Fujifilm's third-generation Super CCD sensor and optional PC-sync cradle. The F401 is the perfect solution for those looking for excellent picture-taking performance, advanced multimedia features and pocket-sized convenience.

The FinePix F401 third-generation Super CCD image sensor system reflects significant advancements in the company's digital imaging technology history, enabling the camera to offer consumers such advantages as images with 2304 x 1728 (3.98 million) recorded pixels and ultra- high ISO sensitivity. Fujifilm's new, proprietary image processing method, known as Pixel Data Coupling Technology, along with a new noise reduction technology enable the FinePix F401 and other third-generation Super CCD models to deliver ISO sensitivities all the way up to 1600 in one megapixel mode while minimizing CCD "noise."

The Fujifilm FinePix F401 features a third generation Super CCD sensor system with 2.1 million effective pixels, the FinePix F401 can record 2304 x 1728 (3.98 million) pixels for clear, colorful 11 x 16-inch prints. This stylish, lightweight metal body camera measures a mere 3.3" W x 2.7" H x 1.1 "D and weighs only 6.5 ounces without batteries. One of the smallest zoom digital cameras in its class, the FinePix F401's ultra-slim body houses the camera's Super EBC Fujinon 3x optical, retractable zoom (with up to 3.6x digital zoom) lens, enabling picture- takers to capture detailed close-ups.

The FinePix F401 can capture a total of over 13 minutes of 320x240 AVI digital video with sound on a 128MB SmartMedia card at 10 frames per second (maximum per clip is 120 secs) or email-ready 160 x 120 resolution at 10 fps. With the camera's built-in microphone, picture takers can attach 30-second voice notes to each photo, allowing users to further enhance their memories or photo albums with narration.

The F401's automatic shutter speeds range from 1/4 to 1/1000 of a second with adjustable ISO sensitivity of 200/400. It also includes a high sensitivity one-megapixel (1280 x 960) mode at ISO 800/1600 that features Fujifilm's Pixel Data Coupling noise reduction technology for crisp, clear photos. Enabling picture takers to capture just the right image, the camera offers continuous, full-resolution shooting at three fps up to four frames or a special last-four-frame-only continuous shooting mode which enables photographers to record the last four frames of the subject after releasing the shutter button - a great feature for sports and action photography.

The FinePix F401 can also operate as a PC-cam permitting users to experience video conferencing via computer with friends, family or co-workers.

FinePix F401 Zoom Features:

• 1/2.7" 2.1 Million Effective Pixel Super CCD
• Up to 4.0 Million Output Pixels (2304 x 1728)
• Fujifilm's new 3rd generation Super CCD
• 3x zoom (38-114mm equiv) plus 3.6x digital zoom
• Movie Mode; 320 x 240: 10fps, up to 120 sec's
  160 x 120: 10fps, up to 480 sec's, all with sound
• Continuous Shooting Mode; Top-4 frame cont. up to 4 frames @ 0.3 sec. intervals
  Final-4 frame cont. up to 4 frames @ 0.3 sec. intervals w/i 8 sec.
• Voice Memo - up to 30 sec. Picture Annotations
• Auto or Manual exposure control
• 1/4 - 1/2000 sec Shutter Speeds
• ISO Modes; 200/400 and 800/1600 (1 MegaPixel Mode only)
• 1.5" LCD Color Monitor
• Uses removable SmartMedia cards (4-128MB)
• Optional USB / Battery Charger Cradle (sold separately)
• Weighs only 6.5 oz. (excluding battery)
  

The FinePix F401 is available now for about $399.99.

In addition, an optional PC-sync PictureCradle, for fast camera-to-computer photo transfer via USB cable, PC- cam videoconferencing and easy recharging of the camera's battery is available for $79.99.

Physical Views

The Fujifilm FinePix F401 and a standard CD for size comparison.