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Konica  KD-500Z  5MP Digital Camera w/3x Optical Zoom

Konica KD-500Z 5MP Digital Camera w/3x Optical Zoom

List Price: $649.99
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Product Info Reviews

Features:
  • 5.0 megapixel sensor creates 2592 ? 1944 images for high-resolution prints up to poster size
  • 3x optical (plus 4x digital) zoom lens with autofocus
  • 2 MB internal memory and 16 MB SD card, also expandable via Memory Sticks
  • Connects with Macs and PCs via USB port
  • Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included)


Description:

From a purely technical standpoint, the Konica KD-500Z is an amazing bit of engineering. That Konica was able to squeeze a 5-megapixel sensor into the KD-500Z's tiny 3.7-by-1.2-by-2.2-inch frame is quite an achievement, and the fact that its case is rugged and well-designed makes it even more impressive. The LCD screen on the back is bright and responsive, a control pad makes it easy to navigate the camera's extensive software options with the flick of your thumb, and a 3x optical zoom places this product amongst the best in its size range.

Setting up the device is a piece of cake, and a USB cable is included for downloading pictures to a PC. Considering the high available resolution that this camera is capable of, the included 16 MB Secure Digital memory card is barely adequate, although you can expand the memory size by adding a higher-capacity SD card or Memory Stick. Two slots are included, so you can use and manage both memory types simultaneously.

Despite its high resolution, the camera took below-average pictures exhibiting an overall lack of sharpness and with solid-colored areas that were marred by lots of noise. It isn't possible to change ISO settings manually to compensate, so this is definitely a snapshot camera. It is capable of taking macro shots from an extremely close distance, and in many cases we were able to get it to focus on objects that were a little over an inch from the lens.

This camera would be a dream for those who need to capture close-up details, such as for selling products at Internet auction sites and such, but everyone else save the most casual user should look elsewhere for a 5-megapixel camera that lives up to its specifications sheet. --T. Byrl Baker

Pros:

  • Compact and rugged design
  • Excellent for close-up work
  • Simple controls
Cons:
  • Relatively poor image quality considering the resolution of the sensor
  • Few manual controls
  • Will need a larger memory card
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