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Fujifilm FinePix HS20EXR reviews
You can find here the most interesting reviews / ratings from the well-known expert sites about the Fujifilm FinePix HS20EXR Camera. Here are the reviewers:
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- 07 September 2011 - |
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- 4 |
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- 26 July 2011 - |
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- 0 |
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- 11 July 2011 - |
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- 4.5 |
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- 09 July 2011 - |
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- 0 |
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- 06 July 2011 - |
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- 3.5 |
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- 23 May 2011 - |
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- 3.5 |
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- 16 May 2011 - |
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- 2 |
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- 06 May 2011 - |
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- 4 |
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- 05 May 2011 - |
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- 4.5 |
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- 28 April 2011 - |
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- 4 |
DigitalCameraReview 's conclusion / rating - 07 September 2011 |
“ The FinePix HS20 is Fuji's latest entrant in the ultrazoom compact digital sweepstakes, and while the camera size, shape and feel mimic that of a DSLR and Fuji ad copy makes references to DSLR - like performance and image quality, potential buyers of this camera should understand that, first and foremost, this is a compact digital camera with a very large focal range. That has always been the major attraction with super zoom compact digitals and it is the major selling point for the HS20 as well.
That big lens is supported with the latest in Fuji's hardware department, a newly designed sensor and processor, as well as a variety of automatic and manual shooting modes, face detection and recognition technology, and a true HD video capability.
It doesn't power up as quickly as a DSLR, AF acquisition times are slower than a DSLR and AF isn't as precise as a DSLR. Still image quality, while quite good for a compact digital camera is not up to DSLR levels. High ISO noise performance is not as good as a DSLR. And nothing in this paragraph should be construed as an indictment of the HS20's performance.
The HS20 is a fine super zoom with still image quality that is among the best I've seen from a camera in this class. In a way, I think Fuji did a disservice to the camera in suggesting it as a DSLR alternative, because in so many performance parameters the HS20 will finish as the runner-up when in fact it's being compared to a camera class that is very clearly configured for image capture performance at the next level. Better for Fuji to promote the HS20 for what it is - a very capable super zoom with good still image quality, good shutter lag and auto focus acquisition times, competitive high ISO performance within its class and a host of other features designed to appeal to both novice and advanced shooter like... ”
DigitalCameraReview's rating: |
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- 4 |
Complete review here
Steves Digicams 's conclusion / rating - 26 July 2011 |
“ FujiFilm's FinePix HS20EXR is an incredibly powerful and versatile digicam. It's loaded with appealing features, sporting Fuji's 16-Megapixel EXR CMOS imaging sensor, EXR processor and a 30x optical Fujinon lens. Its full auto modes make it easy enough for anyone to use, while the fully manual settings allow even a professional to be creative with it. It does lack a little on the performance end, and the images show a lot of image noise, especially at the mid to high ISO levels. With a MSRP of US $499 US, you are entering the price range of an entry-level dSLR. However, with the HS20's 30x optical zoom lens, and it vast array of exposure options, you will receive comparable features and versatility.... ”
Steves Digicams's rating: |
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- 0 |
Complete review here
PhotoReview 's conclusion / rating - 11 July 2011 |
“ Buy this camera if:
- You're looking for a superzoom digicam with PASM shooting modes and support for raw file capture.
- You want good video performance and would like to record both Full HD video clips and slow-motion movies.
- You want good wide-angle coverage and image stabilisation for shooting both video and still pictures.
- You would like a powerful and easy-to-use panorama setting.
Don't buy this camera if:
- You want to be able to access the full range of shutter speed and aperture settings in the P, A and S shooting modes.
- You require full resolution images in the EXR modes.
- You want high burst capacity at high resolution (burst capacity is limited by image size/quality settings).
- You require fast image file processing... ”
PhotoReview's rating: |
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- 4.5 |
Complete review here
Dpinterface 's conclusion / rating - 09 July 2011 |
“ The Fujifilm FinePix HS20EXR is a fixed lens camera that does a nice job at blending an ‘SLR like’ experience (but minus the weight and costs of a bunch of lenses involved if one was to buy into a SLR system) with the long zoom lens and small size benefits of a more compact camera. With a retail price of $499, the camera has an impressive feature set to go and plenty of noteworthy features. The camera has a larger-than-average 1/2 inch EXR CMOS sensor, whose specialty is low noise but also delivers very good image quality out of the camera along with other EXR modes like high dynamic range.
The camera’s build quality was good with a nice ergonomic grip and well-placed controls. I liked that Fujifilm paired the extremely versatile 30X optical zoom lens with manual zoom and electronic focus rings which improves usability a bunch versus buttons and levers used on other cameras to operate zoom/focus. The big and sharp LCD can also be tilted outwards to shoot at high and low angles; an EVF is present for those who want to use it but the LCD presents a much better experience than the small and comparatively low-resolution EVF.
The camera has lots of manual controls, including a flash hotshoe, RAW image mode and white balance tweaking (there’s a custom white balance setting present too), which more advanced users will appreciate. However, the FinePix HS20EXR is also easy to use enough for beginners and will have them feeling right at home with a broad array of scene modes. The camera sports quite a number of physical buttons which are straightforward to understand with just one function per button (along with playback-related functions indicated with blue icons).
The FinePix HS20EXR also has plenty of tricks up its sleeve; the camera’s high-speed shooting and panorama features are the two of its abilities which I liked the most, along with two ‘advanced’ shooting modes that give interchangeable lens cameras and big sensor cameras a run for their money. Those two modes are Pro Focus and Pro Low-light modes which create pictures with improved background blur and low-light image quality respectively. The camera managed to perform well in the speed department and especially well in terms of image quality. However, there were some minor quirks which may bother some, such as the limited images per burst and noticeable waiting after every continuous shooting sequence, along with below average startup time.
One of the other main appealing features of the FinePix HS20EXR is its movie mode with its various settings. You can choose between shooting at Full HD at 30 FPS, standard HD at 60 FPS or one of three high-speed modes that record at up to 320 FPS. Optical zoom and continuous focusing can be used throughout recording, though it would be good if they included more controls such as manual exposure.
All-in-all, the Fujifilm FinePix HS20EXR is a great all-rounder, prosumer camera that should be on your consideration list if you’re looking for an all-in-one camera that’s easy to use. The camera has several small imperfections (but what camera is perfect?) but they are minor enough for most folks to overlook, especially with the big list of other appealing features of the FinePix HS20EXR. I would highly recommend the Fujifilm FinePix HS20EXR indeed
... ”
Dpinterface's rating: |
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- 0 |
Complete review here
TrustedReviews 's conclusion / rating - 06 July 2011 |
“ On paper the HS20 looks to be an attractive proposition. The 30x zoom certainly appeals, as does the range of advanced shooting modes. However, it's important to bear in mind that despite its DSLR styling and dimensions the HS20 is essentially an advanced compact and delivers image quality to match. If all-in-one convenience tops your priorities then the HS20 certainly ticks a lot of boxes and is well worth a look. If, however, image quality is equally or more important then you might want to consider eschewing the 30x zoom and try out some entry-level DSLRs or perhaps even a rangefinder style compact system camera instead... ”
TrustedReviews's rating: |
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- 3.5 |
Complete review here
Neocamera 's conclusion / rating - 23 May 2011 |
“ This ultra-zoom provides an excellent feature set in an ergonomic design which emphasizes efficiency and quick access to photographic controls. Its unique mechanical 30X ultra-wide angle optical zoom lens, shared with its predecessor, is a pleasure to use. This lens combined with a EXR CMOS sensor capable of capturing 1600% dynamic-range images makes it the most versatile fixed-lens digital camera to date. Adding the 8 FPS continuous drive at 16 megapixels and full 1080p HD video with stereo sound, the Fuji Finepix HS20 EXR marks itself as truly exceptional.
Optically, results are impressive with good sharpness away from the ultra-wide end of the zoom, low distortion, no vignetting and extremely good control over chromatic aberrations. While it gained such high-resolution and high-speed features, the HS20 EXR had to compromise on ultimate image quality at its maximum resolution. This shows up as noise-levels and smearing of details that are just above average and a clear step behind the Fuji Finepix S100FS
Fuji Finepix S100FS which firmly keeps its spot at the highest image quality ultra-zoom. That being said, Low-Noise Priority mode delivers by producing much cleaner results at 8 MP. Dynamic-Range Priority mode is another winner than manages to capture scenes of unprecedented dynamic-range.
As discussed in this review, performance of the HS20 EXR is reasonable but not exceptional. The camera responds with a short shutter-lag, average shot-to-shot speed and slightly slow autofocus. Battery-life is excellent though using easily available AA batteries.
Overall, the Fuji Finepix HS20 EXR is most suitable for just about any static scene, close or far. The real key is to use the right EXR mode to get the best performance according to the lighting situation. HD video performance is rather good but count in using Center AF mode and starting a new clip when the subject distance changes. While not giving the best image quality in its class, this digital camera clearly delivers on capability... ”
Neocamera's rating: |
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- 3.5 |
Complete review here
TechRadar 's conclusion / rating - 16 May 2011 |
“ At £430 some may argue that the HS20 is a little over priced for the quality of images it produces, yet its wealth of high-end specs certainly do well to dilute any qualms.
Ideally Fujifilm wanted to create an easy-to-use super zoom camera, packed full of fun and creative features which ultimately produces a higher level of picture quality. What they have in fact achieved is a feature-filled super zoom that does produce stellar images when used manually, but may provide disappointing results for those shooters content with using auto commands... ”
Complete review here
Pocket-lint 's conclusion / rating - 06 May 2011 |
“ The Fujifilm FinePix HS20 EXR hardly re-invents what the previous HS10 model, though it’s still a highly-specified superzoom with an attractive and rangey 24-720mm manual zoom.
For all of its plus points there are certain areas (such as the viewfinder quality) that fall just short of the mark and other small niggles (like the awkwardly-placed flash that interferes with the manual zoom) which see the HS20 EXR shy of greatness. This may be forgiven if image quality was extra special, but that highly-populated 16-megapixel sensor won’t see the most critical of picture-lovers outwardly impressed. It’s perfectly good for standard day-to-day snaps, but it’s not encroaching on DSLR territory.
Superzoom cameras often pose a variety of issues though, and given what the market is like the HS20 EXR is most definitely up there at the top end. There are only one or two other models that could put up a fight for the superzoom crown, and with that considered the HS20 does offer plenty of kick for the cash. That manual zoom is a (currently) unique feature that will no doubt entice in purchasers and it is things like this that still see the HS20 as a winner.
Certainly good, just not quite as great as it could have been... ”
Pocket-lint's rating: |
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- 4 |
Complete review here
Whatdigitalcamera 's conclusion / rating - 05 May 2011 |
“ Although the HS20 doesn't propel the superzoom market further forward, it's still a mighty camera to behold.
The 24-720mm manual zoom is a unique point that'll hold of a lot of purchase power. A bit of a shame that image stabilisation is sensor-based rather than lens-based, but still an effective feature to have.
Where the HS20 comes a little undone is with its reasonable, though not staggering, image quality. The latest sensor is, frankly, over-populated in pixel count (the HS10 produced better images) and even the half resolution (8MP) EXR output can only provide so much of an improvement. For HS10 users hoping for a new revelation, this isn't the worthy upgrade model.
All in all there's a lot on offer here. The screen, viewfinder and lens combination provide a very useable and capable system that will come to good in a whole variety of scenarios... ”
Whatdigitalcamera's rating: |
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- 4.5 |
Complete review here
PhotographyBLOG 's conclusion / rating - 28 April 2011 |
“ The Fujifilm FinePix HS20 EXR builds on the success of the original HS10 predominantly by using a new 16 megapixel EXR sensor, which expands the ISO range up to 12,800, maintains a fast continuous shooting speed and slow-motion movies, and adds the useful EXR modes which improve your images in certain situations. It's not all good news, however, as the 16 megapixel sensor also results in more noise and loss of fine detail than on the 10 megapixel HS10, first appearing at the slow speed of ISO 200 and becoming all too obvious at ISO 400. The HS20 EXR also suffers from the same slow RAW processing speeds and high price tag that adversely affected its predecessor.
As the HS20 is so similar to last year's HS10, it offers the same main benefit of being a real all-in-one alternative to a DSLR. with no need to buy or change lenses thanks to the 30x lens, which is remarkably distortion-free and admirably fast at either end. There's no need to buy or change lenses thanks to the 30x lens, which is remarkably distortion-free and admirably fast at either end. The manual zoom and focus rings further reinforce that DSLR feeling, as do the external flash hotshoe, command dials, tilting LCD screen, full range of manual shooting modes and even RAW format support. Full 1080p movie recording with stereo sound is the icing on the cake, making the HS20 a viable replacement for your video camera too.
There are a couple of areas where the Fujifilm HS20 just can't compete with a DSLR, though, most notably the pedestrian processing speeds for RAW files and the poorer image quality once you get above ISO 200. Having to wait more than 5 seconds between every RAW image quickly becomes annoying, despite the headline-grabbing 8fps burst mode, and noise quickly rears its ugly head at ISO 400, becoming progressively worse throughout the rest of the ISO range. The average quality electronic viewfinder is also no match for even the cheapest optical viewfinder on a DSLR. To be fair most other super-zoom compacts don't do well in these areas, so as long as you don't expect the HS20 to offer DSLR-like quality and performance, you won't be disappointed.
The final bugbear is price. Although slightly cheaper in the UK than the HS10 on launch, £399 / $499 still feels like a lot to pay for a compact camera. Again it makes less or more sense depending upon what you're comparing it to. Taken as a super-zoom, the HS20 is one of the most expensive models on the market, but also one of the most capable in terms of features. As a DSLR alternative, it clearly makes a lot of economic sense if you want a similar handling experience but don't mind a significant drop in image quality or responsiveness.
We really liked last year's HS10, but can't shake off the feeling that this year's upgrade represents a step backwards rather than forwards, principally because of the 16 megapixel sensor and the resulting drop in image quality. The Fujifilm FinePix HS20 EXR is still a good camera, with a long list of stand-out features and a logical, well-thought-out interface, but ultimately the photos that it produces just aren't as good as the model that it has replaced... ”
PhotographyBLOG's rating: |
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- 4 |
Complete review here
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