Fujifilm FinePix Z1 Zoom review

Twelve months ago, Sony's Cyber-shot DSC T-series demonstrated that credit-card sized pocket cameras needn't be devoid of features or flair and could actually take good snaps.

Since then, there has been a proliferation of ultra-compact digital cameras - some of which sadly feature more style over substance. The latest small camera on the market is Fuji's new FinePix Z1 Zoom.

Fuji has gone all out for the style title with the Z1. It has an unusual wraparound metal body that's even more distinct on the black-and-chrome version. Its high-class finish and the body materials are well chosen, giving a robust and solid feel. A large sliding panel to the front reveals the non-extending 3x (36-108mm) zoom, built-in flash and the fact that, like Nikon's Coolpix S2, the FinePix Z1 has no viewfinder. Even though it's thoroughly modern looking, there's a retro elegance to it all.

Along with the compulsory design nous, pocket-hugging dimensions, 5 megapixel sensor and detailed 2.5in screen, the FinePix Z1 has several other attractive features that make it stand out from the crowd. Foremost of these is the ability to operate in low ambient light levels without a flash. Useful for parties, clubs or museums, this admirable feature is achieved by a combination of new RP (Real Photo) processor and a 1/2.5in Super CCD with the sensitivity equivalent to 800 ISO at its maximum.

Fortunately, you don't have to be concerned with any of this. By simply selecting the Natural Light scene mode, the Z1 switches off the tiny built-in flash, and turns up the volume, keeping sensitivity around 400-800 ISO without reducing resolution. With the lens automatically programmed to its maximum aperture (a not-so-fast f/3.5-4.2), the Z1 will try to set at least 1/60th of a second shutter speed in an attempt to reduce the effects of blur from camera movement.

Noise levels are low enough for frequent use, and all but the most challenging lighting is handled well by the camera's exposure and auto white balance systems.

Flicking between stills and a smooth, 30fps, 640 x 480 pixel movie capture is simple enough using a fingertip-friendly switch next to the shutter button.

Admittedly, the controls to the rear are sparse, but they're well machined and clearly labelled. Context-sensitive menus have been around for some time, but Fuji's new layout isn't quite as clear as it could be. We would have liked the greyed-out options to have been removed completely, and there's an unnecessary extra button-push required to scroll through the options.

Fuji's choice of a toughened screen is wise, as this camera will probably spend much of its life in a pocket, but an uncovered port for the supplied docking station is an open invitation to all sorts of debris. What's more, there's no internal memory and you'll have to ditch the 16MB starter card for something larger.

Ultimately, the Z1 is a nicely designed, pocket-friendly number that ticks many of our boxes. It's also rather smart and capable camera, which we found irresistible.