Samsung launches the EX1 premium compact camera

1 of 3

Posted on 22 Feb 2010 at 16:30

Samsung has announced the EX1, a premium compact camera with a fast wide angle, image stabilised 3x optical zoom lens, which is designed for advanced and enthusiast photographers.

The EX1 uses a 10 megapixel 1/1.7in CCD sensor with sensitivities up to ISO 3200. It also has full manual control in addition to shutter and aperture priority modes, and can capture photos in RAW format, as well as the standard JPEG. Samsung says that this, combined with the re-engineered DRIMeIII image processor, allows the EX1 to capture high-quality images in all lighting conditions.

Of course, for those times when ease of use is preferable over complete control, Samsung's Smart Auto 2.0 scene recognition modes will be of use.

However, probably the most impressive thing about the EX1 is its fast ultra-wide angle Schneider KREUZNACK f/1.8 to 2.4 3x optical zoom lens. In addition to the wide aperture, the lens covers a 35mm equivalent focal range of 24-72mm and includes image stabilisation.

On the back of the EX1's body, there's a swivelling 3.0in AMOLED screen, which will make composing images very simple and enable users to focus on capturing the image they want even if it means holding the camera close to ground or overhead. Samsung says the AMOLED screen will deliver higher contrast ratios, deeper blacks and more accurate, but very vivid colours, while also reducing power consumption compared to traditional LCDs.

In addition to still photos, the EX1 can capture video at 30fps with a VGA (640x480) resolution in H.264. It uses Samsung's Smart Auto 2.0 technology to analyse the scene and then automatically select the one that'll deliver the best results.

The EX1 will cost around £400 when it's released in April.

Author: Tim Smalley

Get more reviews, tutorials and in-depth advice, every month with Computer Shopper.
Click here to try 3 issues for £1

< Previous News : Compact digital cameras Next >

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to Login or Register to comment.