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Fujifilm FinePix A201 2.1MP Digital Camera

  • 2.1 megapixel sensor captures enough detail for photo-quality prints at 8 x 10 inches
  • 2.5x digital zoom lens
  • Included 16 MB SmartMedia card holds 25 images at default resolution
  • Connects with PCs via USB port
  • Uses 2 AA batteries

The small, stylish, and capable Fuji FinePix A201 offers plenty of pixel resolution and a point-and-shoot simplicity. This lightweight and compact digital camera is aimed at those who don’t want to get bogged down in the complexities of photography, but who just want to take pictures without fuss. It can take pictures up to 1,600 by 1,200 pixels, which is more than adequate for anything but the most demanding tasks. A picture at this resolution is suitable for making prints up to 8 by 10 inches.

There are two lesser modes and three levels of compression, although all three of these are only available on the highest resolution. The included 16 MB memory card provides adequate capacity unless you insist on the highest settings, but we recommend purchasing a higher capacity SmartMedia card to maximize the pixel quality of your photos.

You can even capture tiny videos on the FinePix A201, although the resolution renders the capability a bit of a gimmick. The digital zoom on the camera only works in the lower resolution modes and is fairly limited–2.5x at maximum. The fixed-focus lens does a commendable job, although it can distort a little at close range. For really close work there is a macro mode that’s especially good. The built-in flash is good to about 10 feet.

Everything can be set to automatic, for simple point-and-shoot operation. For the more adventurous there are manual modes for white balance and exposure compensation. Altering these is a tad fiddly and you need to experiment a little. The LCD screen doesn’t quite have the range of contrast needed for indoor shooting. It can be tricky to see what you’re aiming at and the viewfinder isn’t quite as accurate, so closer images are offset a little.

The two AA batteries (included) do their best, but battery consumption can be horrific. The batteries can be flat before you’ve half filled the memory card. This isn’t helped by the fact that it is very tempting to view images on the LCD screen as soon as you’ve taken them. A charger and a few sets of rechargeable batteries are highly recommended.

The quality of the pictures is superb; color accuracy and saturation are excellent. Indoor with a flash the pictures are slightly warm, but this can be compensated for using the manual white balance modes. The A210 is easy to use and a quick read of the excellent manual is all you’ll need. The results are good and the A201 makes an ideal no-fuss compact digital camera. –Miles Berkeley

Pros:

  • No muss, no fuss point-and-shoot 2-megapixel digital camera
  • Resolution good for prints up to 8 by 10 inches
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Bonus feature: movie mode

Cons:

  • Battery life is limited–extra rechargeables a must-have addition
  • LCD screen contrast can be problematic indoors

Looking for an affordable basic point-and-shoot camera that’s fun to use and captures enough detail for crisp, vibrant pictures at sizes up to 8-by-10 inches? The Fuji FinePix A201 is a great choice.

Designed for people who like to push one button and let the camera figure out everything else, the A201 is fully automatic. Just flip a switch to open the lens cover and turn the camera on, then aim and press the button. It’s that simple. For photographers who want more control over their photos, there are several options: the flash has five modes, the white balance can be adjusted to optimize colors under various lighting conditions, and exposure compensation can be set to lighten or darken your shots.

Like many other entry-level digital models, the Fuji keeps the price low by using a focus-free lens with no optical zoom. A 2.5x digital zoom does bring your shooting subject closer like an optical zoom, but at the expense of image detail. The lens also has a macro setting (for shooting extreme close-ups).

In addition to taking still photos, the A201 can also record silent movie clips of up to 20 seconds. Though image quality is not on a par with a movie made in a camcorder, the feature is very convenient and is perfect for sending videos by e-mail. What’s more, the camera can be connected directly to your computer’s USB port for use as a Webcam.

The camera is powered by two AA batteries (alkalines are provided)–but it is strongly recommend that the customer buy a set of rechargeable batteries, as they last longer on a single charge and quickly pay for themselves. Images are stored on SmartMedia cards, and a 16 MB card is included.

One of the A201′s most surprising features is its speediness. It’s one of the quickest cameras in its class, and, in fact, is faster than many more expensive cameras. From virtually the moment you turn it on, the camera is ready to start shooting, and shot-to-shot performance won’t keep you waiting.

With the camera’s slim dimensions, sleek design, and integrated lens cover, it’s easy to slip into your pocket to take along anywhere. Its sharp 2-megapixel sensor provides great detail, and its speedy processing and simple controls make it fun to use. Among basic digital point-and-shoots, the A201 is hard to beat.

List Price: $ 299.99

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