Samsung ST80 Review

Review posted 12/10/2010

Quick Take

Pros

Excellent build quality Produces nice 14-megapixel photos Acceptable noise levels up to ISO 800 Cool Wi-Fi options for direct uploads when connected to a network as well as sharing with compatible devices over the network Great bang for your buck at $250 US or less Motion Recognition options in record and playback Lots of in-camera editing and filter options; like Smart Crop

Cons

Lens starts at 35mm (equivalent), which might cause some headaches when framing indoors Uses microSD/SDHC cards, which are VERY easy to lose LCD quality not up to par with other 3.0-inch displays Coating on the LCD is Very reflective Increased noise at ISO 1600 and 3200

Bottom Line

The Samsung ST80 is a feature packed touchscreen digicam that has a lot to offer for only $250 US. While we did have a few complaints about the camera, overall performed well. Read more in our Full Conclusion.

Samsung's latest ST-series point-n-shoot, the ST80 is an impressive ultra-compact camera that boasts some appealing features; with the most grabbing being its built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. When a Wi-Fi network is available, the ST80 will allow you to send pictures or video via email, or directly upload to social networks like FaceBook, YouTube, or Picasa.

The ST80 also offers 14-megapixels of resolution, a 3x optical zoom lens, Samsung's AllShare (DLNA supported) connectivity, a 3.0-inch touchscreen display, 720p HD video recording, Smart Auto for both stills and video, and much more.

Samsung ST80 key features:

• 14.2-megapixel image sensor for creating large prints
• 3x optical zoom lens covers 35 - 105mm equivalent range
  
• 3.0-inch touchscreen LCD with 230K pixels
  
• 720p (1280x720, 30fps) HD video recording (H.264, MPEG-4format)
• Smart Auto exposure mode makes taking photos or capturing video easy
• Built-in W-Fi connectivity; includes account with Boingo mobile hotspot service 
• Samsung AllShare connectivity (DLNA supported)
• Smart Crop and Smart Filter technologies
• Motion Recognition menu for quickly changing record modes or playback options
  
• Li-ion battery (up to 200 photos per charge)
  
• Ultra-compact body available in four colors
  

The ST80 is available in four colors (Black, White, Teal, Pink) with a suggested retail price of $249.99 US.

What's in the box?:

• ST80 camera body
• AC Adapter + USB cable
• Li-ion battery pack
• Wrist strap
• Touch Pen
• Quick start manuals
• User Manual CD-ROM
  

Visitors of Steves can visit the stores below for real-time pricing and availability. You can also find hot, soon to expire online offers on a variety of cameras and accessories at our very own Camera Deals page.