Kodak and Sony Lead the Field for Consumer Satisfaction

Consumers find improved functionality and speed in new digital cameras on the market, even as digital camera prices fall, according to the "2005 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study" released today by J.D. Power and Associates, Westlake Village, Calif., USA. The study finds digital camera buyers are increasingly satisfied with the functionality and speed of the cameras they purchase, particularly with cameras in the lower price segments. The gap in terms of camera performance between high and low-priced cameras has shrunk considerably compared to 2004.

The study measures satisfaction of digital camera owners across four price segments: or less; -; -; and or more. Overall satisfaction is based on performance across four factors: performance, connectivity, cost and appearance.

Kodak ranks highest in the or less price segment and, for the second consecutive year, in the - segment. Kodak experiences considerable gains in customer satisfaction ratings in both segments, receiving high ratings from owners in performance, connectivity and cost. Kodak also receives the highest ratings in the - segment for appearance.

Sony ranks highest in the - and or more segments, with very strong satisfaction improvements. Sony performs particularly well in both segments in appearance, performance and connectivity and leads the or more segment in cost.

The study finds digital single-lens reflex cameras with interchangeable lenses make up the fastest-growing segment in the market. While particularly popular among serious photographers, these high-end models are increasingly attracting mainstream consumers.

The study finds the Internet plays an important role in helping digital camera buyers make their purchase decisions, and buyers are relying less on recommendations from retail salespeople. Overall, 62% of buyers used the Internet to conduct research before purchasing a camera. (Needless to say - we are thrilled to hear this news and our web site visitor stats certainly reflect it.)

The study is based on responses from 4,256 consumers who purchased a digital camera between January 2005 and July 2005. For more information, visit the J.D. Power Consumer Center at www.jdpower.com.