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Fujifilm FinePix Z30 Review

Author Cliff Smith
Published 3rd Jul 2009
Manufacturer Fujifilm
Price £113.04 (Exc VAT)
as reviewed £130.00 (Inc VAT)
Latest Price
Build Quality Score 8 for Build Quality
Features Score 4 for Features
Image Quality Score 6 for Image Quality
Value Score 7 for Value
Overall Score 7 for Overall
Fujifilm FinePix Z30
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Like most of the big camera companies, Fujifilm makes a wide range of models to suit every type of photographer, including high-spec professional SLRs such as the S5 Pro (review coming soon), powerful superzooms like the S100FS and S2000HD, high-tech luxury compacts like the F200 EXR and F100fd, and simple budget compacts such as the J50 and J12. It also makes a popular range of cameras aimed at the more style-conscious consumer, including models such as the Z100fd and the Z20fd. Today I'm taking a look at the latest in the Z series, the FinePix Z30. It's a 10.0-megapixel 3x zoom ultra-compact with a 2.7-inch 230k monitor, currently selling for around £130.


Even at first glance there's little room for doubt as to exactly what sort of camera the Z30 is. The slim, rounded plastic body, the simplified controls and the fact that it's available in a range of colours including pink, purple, orange, white and black, are a sure-fire indicator that this is a camera for people more concerned with style than with substance. Its relatively low price makes it a good choice if you're looking for a present for a fashion-conscious teenager, and its extremely simple controls mean that even those with the shortest attention spans should be able to work out fairly quickly how to take pictures with it.


The Z30 is very compact and lightweight, tipping the scales at approximately 131g including battery and measuring just 90.5 x 59.0 x 25.7mm. Despite the rather toy-like plastic body the build quality is up to Fujifilm's usual high standard and the camera feels solid and well made. The shiny finish resists dirt and scratches, and the curved shape is inherently strong, although it does make the camera rather slippery and hard to grip securely. There's no denying that it's a nice looking camera, although the white finish and the rubber-covered buttons on the back do remind me of a Sinclair ZX80, and not in a good way. (If you don't know what a ZX80 is, ask your grandparents.)

 

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comment swifty said on 4th July 2009

I purchased this camera for one reason only the auction function. I have read Cliff Smiths review and the buttons may be a bit fiddly for a man but for a woman or teanager they wou... more

comment hero11 said on 18th August 2009

This has to be the worst review ever. If I had read it before buying the Z30 I wouldn't know what a GREAT little camera this is!

It is as light as the best Canon Ixu... more

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