Verdict

Pros

• Packed full of imaging technology: Sleek design

Cons

• Issues with mode and command dial

The F660EXR is one of Fujifilm’s latest triple-digit EXR compacts. It shares a lot of its basic specification with its bigger brother – the F770EXR – although with a few key differences. The model features a 16MP CMOS sensor complete with Fujifilm’s unique EXR imaging technology, complete with an ISO range of 100-3200, extendable to 12800 in reduced resolution mode.

The 15x optical zoom covers a focal range of 24-360mm in traditional 35mm terms, and is supported by Fujifilm’s dual image stabilisation (a combination of mechanical CMOS shift and high ISO settings). A 3in, 460k-dot LCD screen is housed on the camera’s rear, while full HD 1080p video capture is also offered. Shooting functionality takes a number of forms – photographers can shoot manually through PASM settings, allow the camera to take control through various auto modes or alternatively through an EXR optimisation mode.

The F660EXR is sleekly designed, managing to fit the substantial zoom in to an easily pocketable body. The necessary control buttons are intelligently placed, with the mode dial located at a 45-degree angle between the top plate and rear of the camera. One criticism of the mode dial, and the control wheel on the rear of the camera for that matter, is that the pair are both quite loose and as a result easily disturbed while shooting.

In use, the F660EXR is generally impressive – the model offers fast focus speeds that are also pleasing accurate, as well as being suitably customisable to suit unconventional subjects. The fact that a wide and varied range of automated settings supports full PASM shooting controls is also a benefit, proving accommodating to even novice photographers.

Image quality is generally good, and once again the range of settings allows for good results in a range of scenes. For example, the model’s dynamic range can appear limited at times, although a quick selection of the models ‘dynamic range optimisation’ EXR setting soon puts paid to that. ISO performance is capable in the lower settings, although when you head to ISO 800 and above grain becomes an issue. Finally, while the model’s lens displays good sharpness throughout the focal range at the centre of the frame, it begins to fall off quite dramatically towards the tele-end of the zoom.

Verdict

The F660EXR is, on the whole, a well designed compact which delivers generally good image quality. There are a few disappointments with certain elements of the handling, although on the whole it represents good value for money and is certainly worthy of consideration.

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