Review posted 7/30/2012

Quick Take

Pros

Awesome 30x optical zoom lens covers 24-720mm Manual zoom operation allows for precise framing Comfortable dSLR-like body Plethora of automatic and manual exposure options Improved shooting performance over past models Excellent battery life Captures pleasing 16-megapixel images High quality LCD and EVF Cool high-speed videos HDMI output Competitively priced

Cons

Good amount of noise present across the sensitivity range from 200 on up ISO 3200 and above are not usable in my opinion Some edge softness present at wide angle AF system has some difficulties when shooting at full telephoto in low light AE system had some trouble when shooting video from the shade

Bottom Line

Fuji has taken an already a highly regarded super-zoom camera and made it even better. With better shooting performance and various other upgrades, the HS30EXR is a welcomed addition to the HS-series from Fuji. Read more in our Full Conclusion.

FujiFilm continues to upgrade their popular HS-series of FinePix super-zooms, and for the first half of 2012 they've released two new models; the HS30EXR and HS25EXR. Both models carry over several of the awesome features users loved on the HS20EXR from last year; with some obvious upgrades.

The HS30EXR is the new holder of the HS-series' top-of-the-line spot, with some impressive features to boot. These include a 16-megapixel (1/2" type) EXR CMOS image sensor, a 30x manual optical zoom lens that covers a 24-720mm equivalent zoom range (same sensor and lens found on the HS20EXR), Dual IS (Sensor-Shift + High ISO), maximum aperture range of f/2.8-5.6, a 3.0-inch tiling LCD, high resolution (920k pixel) EVF, full 1080p HD (h.264 format), EXR Auto (uses 59 scene settings and 3 sensor modes), Motion 360 degree panorama mode, P/A/S/M modes for advanced users, a Li-ion battery good for up to 600 shots on a single charge, and loads of scene modes.

Fujifilm FinePix HS30EXR Features: