Samsung NV100HD

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The NV100HD was announced in August and it succeeds the ultra-wide-angle NV24HD. The NV100HD was a surprise then as it's one of the first point-and-shoots to house a 14.7-megapixel sensor. On top of that, Samsung has implemented a new touchscreen interface. The stylish shooter has a wealth of features that could probably satisfy those who want a camera with loads of functions, though picky photographers will find its image quality not up to expectations.

Design

The aesthetics of the NV100HD don't deviate much from its predecessor, the NV24HD. However, there are more color options available for the new shooter. Besides the typical silver or black version, the Korean firm has also released the point-and-shoot in gold with black trimmings or silver with red accents.

The NV100HD is relatively slim but definitely compact enough to ferry around even in a handbag. What we like about the package is the provision of a pouch which the camera fits snugly.

The battery charging port found at the bottom of the camera.
(click for larger image)

We found the popup flash on the top left of the shooter to be poorly positioned. While holding the camera with two hands, the flash would automatically (when set to auto mode) pop up in dimly lit areas and push our fingers back. First-timers we tried the camera on received a shock when this happened.

The mode dial on the top deck is placed besides the shutter button whose design didn't allow us to switch between shooting options on the fly. We had to remove our index finger from the shutter to turn the dial before we could snap a picture. While this may not be an issue for some people, we felt that the navigation could have been better.

A 3-inch touchscreen takes up most of the rear estate, with only four buttons at its side to facilitate zoom operation, menu and playback. This clean and simple layout makes the shooter look sleek and less intimidating to use at the same time.

As the NV100HD doesn't come with an external charger, and even though it is functional while charging, you can't go very far when it's tethered to the power point.

Tags: Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Camera, touch screen, battery, Samsung NV100HD

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