Casio Exilim EX-Z100

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Performance

Start-up is respectable. The autofocus is quick even when finding faces and rarely needs to hunt around, even in low light. The automatic white balance is also capable, although occasional confusion over indoor light sources may make it worth setting up a shortcut for the manual white balance option.

There are three continuous modes. The normal mode shoots full-resolution 10-megapixel images and manages one shot every 2 seconds. The high-speed mode manages a much more creditable 0.27 frames per second, but only at 2 megapixels. A compromise between speed and resolution may have been preferable, but that's a minor quibble. The continuous flash mode is misleadingly named as it's actually just one flash with three pictures taken.

Image Quality

This crop from a test shot shows the difference in noise levels at ISO 400, on the left, and ISO 800 on the right.
(click for larger image)

Images look crisp and sharp. There's a warmth to colors, especially portraits, and we were happy with the exposure metering. Some of the common compact camera problems, like the tendency to blow out highlights in high-contrast shots, do show up. But purple fringing is barely noticeable and noise is present but not too intrusive even up to ISO 400. In low lightings and at higher ISO speeds, noise is a problem, but this is to be expected.

The Exilim EX-Z100 is another success for Casio. Its understated style complements accessible controls and a large screen, while an above-average lens and useful features take care of the business end. Those looking for more manual control may prefer the Samsung L830, while those seeking better low-light performance could go for the Fujifilm FinePix F50fd. But really, we just can't fault Casio these days.

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