Review posted 11/09/2010

Quick Take

Pros

Nice wide 10x optical zoom with 24mm extreme Captures nice 12-megapixel images outdoors Loads of great best Shot modes Cool Art filters in Playback, like Oil Painting Good ISO performance up to a max of about ISO 800 Record decent HD video for a compact digicam Speedy shooting performance

Cons

ISO 1600 and 3200 look horrible Small White Balance issue under tungsten and/or fluorescent lighting Lack of labeling on the 4-way controller AF during video struggled at times in lower lighting Can't turn the instant review feature off, which slows the camera's shot to shot performance

Bottom Line

Casio has created a very nice compact long-zoom digicam. The Exilim EX-H5 has a lot to offer, including a nice wide 10x optical zoom, sensor-shift IS system, 12-megapixels, some nice Burst mode options, and a Li-ion power source for only $179 US or less. Read more in our Full Conclusion.

Answering the call to provide consumers with an affordable compact camera that still packs a punch, Casio has created their Exilim EX-H5. This inexpensive digicam boasts some appealing features for a camera of its size, including 12-megapixels, a 10x optical zoom lens with wide 24-240mm equivalent zoom range, 720p HD video recording, and a plethora of useful exposure modes.

The EX-H5 was designed with ease of use in mind, with minimal controls for less complicated operations as well as fully automatic exposure control so you can keep your eye on the subject, and not the camera settings.

Casio Exilim EX-H5 Features:

• 12-Megapixel CCD imager for large prints
  
• 10x optical zoom: 24 - 240mm equivalent to 35mm film
• Mechanical sensor-shift image stabilization system
• 2.7-inch LCD Color Monitor
• Record movies @ 1280x720, 640x480 or 320x240 with audio
• Voice memos can be attached to still images
• 4 Continuous Shooting modes at various resolutions (max 10fps @1M or 4fps @2M)
  
• 42 Best Shot modes
• 3 new Art filters: Oil Painting, Crayon and Watercolor
  
• ISO speeds: Auto, 64, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200
• Uses removable SD/SDHC memory cards
• Powered by Lithium Ion battery
  

The Casio Exilim EX-H5 is available now with an MSRP of $179.99 US.

What's in the box:

• Casio EX-H5 camera body
  
• Lithium ion rechargeable battery
  
• Battery Charger
• AC Power Cord
  
• Strap
• CD Rom
  
• USB cable
• AV cable