FujiFilm FinePix S2550HD/S1800 Review

Review posted 5/3/2010

Quick Take

Pros

Nice wide zoom range covers 28 - 504mm in 35mm equivalence; Improved image quality and performance over past models; Captures decent photos outdoors; Accurate SR Auto exposure mode; Excellent build quality

Cons

Image quality not up to par with competition; Weak flash; Poor HD video results; Excessive noise above ISO 400 makes the higher options almost useless; Tiny EVF eye piece; LCD is reflective; Sporadic white balance results when using Auto setting; Lack of Aperture value control in the specified A position on the mode dial makes it difficult to control DOF (either wide open or closed down, nothing in between)

Bottom Line

While one of the most affordable super-zoom models on the market, the S2550HD/S1800 offers sub par image quality both when shooting stills and video. We highly recommend studying the competition before making your purchase. Read more in our Full Conclusion.

For 2010, FujiFilm released two new super-zoom models that offer pretty much identical specifications, the S1800 and S2550HD. Both models offer a 12-megapixel CCD image sensor, an 18x optical zoom lens, 3.0-inch LCD screens, Dual image stabilization, Tracking AF mode, 720p HD video recording, ISO capabilities up to 6400, SR Auto, AA power source and much more. All these powerful specifications are packed into a comfortable frame, with a dSLR look and feel.

The only difference between the S1800 and S2550HD is the latter features a HDMI port. Be sure to continue reading as we take a closer look at the S2550HD model. 


FinePix S2550HD (S1800) Features:

• 12-Megapixel CCD imager for pictures up to 4000x3000 pixels
• Fujinon 18x optical zoom covers 28-504mm (35mm equiv.)
• Dual Image Stabilization uses both mechanical sensor-shift and high ISO technologies
• 0.2-inch EVF (Electronic ViewFinder) w/200K pixels
• 3.0-inch LCD Color Monitor w/230K pixels and 97% frame coverage
• Movie Mode; 30fps @ 1280x720, 640x480 or 320x240 with audio
• Voice memos can be attached to still images
• Top-3/Last-3 (max 1.3 frames/sec @12M), Top-10 (up to 3.3fps @6M ), Top-20 (Up to 8fps @ 3M) and Long-period (max.1.3 frames/sec)
• SR Auto (Scene Recognition Auto), Program AE, Shutter speed or Aperture priority and Manual exposure modes
• 17 Scene modes (including Panorama)
• ISO speeds: Auto (Auto 800/400), 64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400 (ISO 3200 and 6400 @ 3M)
• TTL 256-zone Metering: Multi, Spot, Average
• Built-in manual popup multi-mode flash
• 8 - 1/2000 sec Shutter Speeds, depending on shooting mode
• ~23MB of internal flash memory
• Uses removable SD/SDHC memory cards
• Powered by 4 AA type batteries, 4 Alkaline cells included
• USB 2.0 (High-speed) connectivity, PictBridge, DPOF, and EXIF Print Compatible

The FujiFilm Finepix S1500 is available now with an MSRP of US$249.95

What's in the box:

• 4xAA Alkaline batteries
• Software CD-ROM
• Manuals
• Shoulder Strap
• USB/AV cable
• Lens Cap and cord

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