Digital Camera Resource Page have reviewed the Casio EX-S500, the 5-megapixel ultra-slim camera that offers a 3X optical zoom and a number of features missing in its predecessor, the S100. They include a burst mode, MPEG-4 video capture, and the ever-important AF illuminator, rounding out this pocket camera’s generous feature set.

The EX-S500 is a culmination of Casio’s core technologies, combining cutting-edge miniaturization and digital expertise with state-of-the-art movie recording capability. As with all digital cameras in the EXILIM Series, the EXILIM CARD features Casio’s EXILIM Engine, an image processing module that makes for high quality images, quick operation, and low power consumption that has made EXILIM the camera of choice for many users. The latest version of the EXILIM Engine features the Anti Shake DSP, which reduces blurring caused by shaking hands or moving subjects, while the Auto Macro and Quick Shutter functions ensure that photos are properly focused.

Casio Exilim EX-S500 5MP Digital Camera with 3x Anti Shake Optical Zoom

Here’s what DCRP had to say-

“The Casio Exilim EX-S500 is an ultra-thin camera that has a lot going for it, but I was ultimately let down by its poor image quality. The S500 is an ultra-compact camera that comes in your choice of three colors. It’s design is stunning and the orange body that I tested garners even more attention. The S500 features a 2.2″ LCD that could use some more pixels. Thankfully the screen is visible in low light situations. There is no optical viewfinder on the S500.

The S500 has plenty of features, though it’s lacking some useful manual controls. It has tons of Best Shot (scene) modes, and if you need more you can create your own. The only manual controls on the camera are for white balance and focus — which are both handy — though shutter speed would’ve been nice too. The camera’s anti-shake system works, but not as well as a camera with “real” image stabilization. In addition the anti-shake system cannot be used for filming movies, where it would come in awfully handy. The camera’s high ISO performance was not great, and it’s probably best to avoid using it. If you want that, buy the Fuji FinePix F10. The S500’s movie mode is quite good, with unlimited recording at 640 x 480, 30 frames/second.

The S500 is a fast performer, with a one second startup time, low shutter lag, and fast shot-to-shot times. Low light focusing was good thanks to the camera’s AF-assist lamp. Photo quality is where the S500 falls apart. Images were too soft and too noisy — much worse than the competition. On the bright side, redeye doesn’t seem to be too horrible for a compact camera. “

Click here to read the complete DCRP Casio Exilim EX-S500 review

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