Testing / Performance
We tested the color proficiency of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 using a GretagMacbeth color chart and Imatest Imaging Software. The software reads the images produced by the camera and determines the degree of error for each color tone. In the chart below, for each tile, the outer square is the actual color produced by the camera, the inner square is the camera’s produced color corrected by the software and the small inverted rectangle is the ideal tone.
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The graph below is a portrayal of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330’s color production. The circles are the actual tones produced by the camera, while the squares are the ideal. The line linking the two is color error, with the length of the line representing the degree of variance. When the square is farther towards the edge of the frame, the color is over-saturated. If the square is closer to the center of the chart than its corresponding circle, the produced color is duller than the ideal tone.
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 received an 8.46 overall color score. This is a respectable score for any camera, let alone a point-and-shooter that relies on automatic settings. The 7.09 color accuracy score attests to the proficiency of the CX7330 and will replicate most tones with near "spot on" accuracy. The colors that stray most from their ideal are red and orange tones, a common occurrence in most digital cameras, particularly point-and-shoot cameras. This is a means of improving skin tones and creating more vivid colors with greater intensity. As the 118.4% mean saturation score shows, the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 does over-saturate its tones extremely, not to the point where they do not look realistic; however, it is clear that this camera is going for more intensity and less naturalism in its color reproduction.
Still Life Scene
This is a shot of our provocative still life scene taken with the Kodak EasyShare CX7330.
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Click on the image above to view a full resolution version (CAUTION: the linked file is very large)](../viewer.php?picture=Kodak_EasyShareCX7330-FULLS.jpg)
**Resolution/Sharpness ***(2.6)*
To gauge the actual resolution of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330, we tested a series of exposures of our ISO resolution chart with Imatest Imaging Software. The software reads the resolution within the image and provides analysis of the image quality. Generally, we will take a series of images at the camera’s optimal settings; however, for the EasyShare CX7330, there is only an automatic mode to select from. We use the best image scores from each camera and report the results. There is always some discrepancy between the real resolution within the images the camera produces and the manufacturer’s claim on the box. The amount of variance is dependent on the manufacturer and model of the camera. Therefore, any camera that produces resolution above 80-89% of its intended resolution is considered a "good" performance while anything above 90% is thought of as "excellent."
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 produced images that were composed of 2.6 megapixels of resolution. This is 83% of its stated resolution capabilities. While some may feel 2.6 megapixels of resolution is not incredibly high by current standards, the 83% score the CX7330 received surpasses most point-and-shoot cameras, many of which offer far more manual image controls. As far as automatic imagery goes, there is no camera easier to operate that will parallel the EasyShare CX7330’s performance. If I were looking to purchase a fully automatic camera without the need for manual options, I would feel more than secure behind the EasyShare CX7330.
**Noise — Auto ISO ***(3.68)*
Noise production is a particular area of weakness for the Kodak EasyShare CX7330. With only automatic ISO settings from 90-180, the camera is working with an extremely limited range. This means that any shooting situation that is not in daylight or a well lit indoor setting is going to have to rely heavily on the flash. This will do two things to the image; one is that all illumination on the subject will come from a single, straight-on and direct source, forcing the image into a similar "glamor shot" look. The other thing is that everything that is not brightened by the direct flash will be dark and muddy. Noise values are high in the EasyShare CX7330 because there will always be a struggle for exposure. This would have been helped immensely with the addition of an IS0 400 speed, something that is commonly found on most of the CX7330’s point-and-shoot competition.
**Noise — Manual ISO ***(0.0)*
Unfortunately, the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 does not offer manual control of ISO settings.
Speed/Timing
Start-up to First Shot (5.5)
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 has a very long start-up time, comparatively. At its best it took 4.5 seconds to go from the off position to shooting mode.
Shot to Shot (6.7)
Similarly with the lag time between shots, it took 3.3 seconds for the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 to finishing recording one shot and take another. This won't be a huge problem with day-to-day shooting, but will probably cause problems if the user wants to capture a series of quick events.
Shutter to Shot (7.8)
On a nicer note, the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 does not suffer from an extremely long shutter to shot lag time. It took about 0.6 seconds in between pressing down the shutter and taking an image.
Physical Tour
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Front (7.5)**
The front of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 features a flat rectilinear design, with a raised grip placed upon the right side of the body. When turned off, the lens barrel becomes recessed. The lens itself is a 10x optical zoom. Above and slightly to the right of the lens is the viewfinder. To the right of the viewfinder and centrally positioned is the Kodak EasyShare CX7330’s automatic flash. Beneath the flash, the user will discover a series of small recessed "dots" which are from top to bottom: the Self Timer/Video Light, the Light Sensor, and the Microphone.
Back ***(7.5)***
The most noticeable feature on the back of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 would be the 1.6-inch (312 x 230 pixel) color LCD monitor. Above and to the left side of the LCD is the optical viewfinder and the ready light LED. Along the left side, running vertically from top to bottom, the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 features a distinctly and clearly marked delete button, the 4-way controller (with a central OK button embedded), and the share button. To the right of the viewfinder, along the top of the back, is the self-timer/burst button, the flash/status button, and the zoom (wide angle/telephoto) control. In the right bottom corner of the back, the user of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 will find the menu and review buttons.
**
Left Side (7.5)**
The only feature on the left side of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 is the camera’s DC in port.
Right Side ***(7.5)***
The right side of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 has a port cover which flips open, exposing an A/V output for television viewing. Beneath the A/V port is the optional SD/MMC memory card slot which lies just above a USB port. There is also a strap bracket at the top of the right side to attach a shoulder strap.
Top*(7.5)*
The top of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 has only two features: the Power/Mode Dial, which sits behind the shutter button. These essential controls are given enough space so the user can take a picture without looking up from the viewfinder or LCD monitor.
Components
**Viewfinder ***(6.0)*
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 comes with a real image optical viewfinder. This unit is not electronically enhanced, and there is no diopter adjustment available on this model. Its extremely small size and awkward placement makes it a rarely used feature, relegating it to a historical accoutrement, left for merely nostalgic purposes.
LCD Screen ***(5.0)*
**The LCD screen on the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 is 1.6 inches in size and contains 312 x 230 (72K) pixels. The LCD is centrally located on the back of the camera and is generally used as the sole means of framing and reviewing images. Alterations and shooting conditions can be seen on the LCD similarly to the way they will appear when captured. The only problem is that there is minimal resolution with only 72K pixels, so users may not get as accurate of a representation of the image as they might assume. This can create a discrepancy in the imported or printed image from what is projected on the LCD, so users beware, this can be frustrating!
Flash*(6.5)*
The flash for the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 is located in the upper central portion of the front of the camera. The flash range for a wide angle shot is 2-11.8 ft, and with the telephoto engaged the range is 2-6.9 ft. To turn the flash on, the button directly to the right of the zoom toggle on the back of the camera must be pressed; it is represented by a lightning bolt symbol. The icon will thus be shown on the status bar on the LCD monitor. Each time the flash button is pressed, the user will be able to scroll through a series of flash possibilities. The possibilities for the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 are Auto flash, Off (never), Fill (activates every time, no matter the lighting condition), and Red-eye (normalizes the subject’s eyes prior to flash, thus eliminating red eye).
**Zoom Lens ***(7.0)*
The lens for the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 is a 3x optical zoom lens, with a focal length of 37-111mm (equivalent) with an aperture range of f/2.7-f/4.6. The focusing system runs from 5.1-27.6 inches in "macro/close-up" mode for focusing within the wide angle lens element and 8.7-27.6 inches. There is an additional digital zoom from 1-3.3x with 0.3 increment change when focusing with the telephoto aspect of the lens, though this is not supported when capturing for movies.
The lens on the EasyShare somewhat contains manual zoom capabilities. Perhaps one of the only options left up to the user, the manual zoom on the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 is located on the back of the camera body, in the upper right-hand corner. With variable choices between wide angle and telephoto, this optical zoom allows for 3x possibilities. To use digital zoom, the user must first turn the LCD monitor on, and then they must press the telephoto (T) portion of the zoom button until maximum zoom levels have been reached. Within the onscreen menu it is possible to dictate whether the digital zoom will be continuous, paused, or none. The pause aspect will be the default choice until otherwise dictated. Once engaged, the user can press the (T) button again, showing the onscreen display for zoom capabilities between 3.3x and 10x in 0.3 increments.
Design / Layout
**Model Design / Appearance ***(7.0)*
With a functional, rounded-square design and entirely silver shell, the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 appears to fulfill a more utilitarian function than aesthetic purpose. The structure is similar to traditional point-and-shoot 35mm cameras and does not take any giant leaps in terms of design. The camera’s exterior faces contain the necessary space for dials and controls, providing the proper layout for functionality. The EasyShare CX7330’s design is formed with appearance second to practical application and results in a camera that performs with ease. Therefore, if you're looking to turn heads, the EasyShare series may not be the best fit; however, if it’s performance that is desired in a compact camera that is easy to use, look no further.
**Size/Portability ***(7.5)*
Although a slightly larger camera model, the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 is still small enough to comfortably fit into a pocket, without having the irritation of always needing a carrying case when traveling. The Kodak EasyShare CX7330’s size may actually be perhaps an advantage over smaller, sleeker cameras in providing the necessary surface area for comfortable control and handling without sacrificing portability.
**Handling Ability ***(7.5)*
When holding the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 in two hands to steady a shot, the lens placement to the far left side on the front of the camera becomes extremely awkward. I had no real ability to grip it without placing my fingers on the lens barrel itself, making changes in distance impossible. The viewfinder on this camera feels as if it were something of an afterthought; its placement above and to the right of the lens barrel makes it necessary to recheck the framing using the LCD monitor and ultimately defeats its purpose. However, the slim size and weight (6.2 oz) along with its user-friendly functionality and print capabilities makes the EasyShare CX7330 effortless for even the beginner user to handle.
**Control Button / Dial Positioning / Size ***(7.5)*
For the most part, the placement of the buttons and dials on the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 is logical and makes it easy to use. The controls are large enough to access without taking up unnecessary space. The simple text labeling notes each button’s purpose and again helps to make the CX7330 approachable for the amateur user. Most of the buttons are really only feasible if using the LCD monitor; however, even the wide angle/telephoto buttons are hard to use when the viewfinder is engaged.
Menu*(6.5)*
The menu on the EasyShare CX7330 houses all the major functions on this camera. With a limited button selection, most controls are embedded within the grand MENU setting. There are controls for image storage, exposure compensation, picture quality options, choice of color mode, album choice, date stamp, orientation sensor, as well as an entry to the other major SETUP menu which leads to more general and less image-related settings.
**Ease of Use ***(9.0)*
Ease of use is where the entire EasyShare series shines. While the CX7330 contains virtually no manual control options and ultimately restricts its users to point-and-shoot controls, for automatic, effortless images and prints, you can’t beat it. Images are instantly recorded with proper exposure and can be printed with a single button. This is the way to go for the point-and-shoot user who is far more interested in capturing moments and events than exploring the photographic nature of their camera. If room for growth is not of importance, there is no reason to hold out on the EasyShare CX7330. This is the most simplistic do-it-all-for-you camera I have ever come across and truly a gem for the former disposable 35mm users who is looking to move into the digital medium.
Modes
**Auto Mode ***(8.0)*
As a point-and-shoot camera, the fully automatic Kodak EasyShare CX7330 provides automatic adjustments to focus, exposure, white balance and ISO rating. In addition, the CX7330 will control metering and activate the in-camera flash when necessary. The alterations are made quickly and seamlessly on the CX7330, enabling the user to pick up the camera and shoot without the need for measurements or worry.
Movie Mode*(7.0)*
Movie mode is offered on the Kodak EasyShare CX7330, by turning the jog dial located on the top of the camera to the film camera symbol. Once within the movie mode option, the user can shoot up to 18 minutes of continuous video/audio, if using the largest SD/MMC memory card, or 53 seconds, when relying solely on the internal 16MB of memory offered with the Kodak EasyShare CX7330.
Playback Mode*(7.0)*
The playback mode on the EasyShare CX7330 features three distinct features: a thumbnail function, a slideshow feature, and the ability to crop and zoom in on the pre-recorded image. To access the thumbnail view, press the review button, and then press the (v) on the four-way keypad. Once in the thumbnail mode, the user of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 can skip and highlight between nine pictures per screen merely by using the four-way keypad’s controls. To view a single picture, it needs to be highlighted, and the centrally located OK button (within the four-way key pad) needs to be pressed. To exit the thumbnail mode, the user needs to press the review button once, and they will be returned to regular camera mode.
The playback mode also contains a slideshow function, enabling the user to review subsequent captured images. This feature is accessible when the review button is pressed. To scroll between individual pictures, the user merely has to press the directional buttons on the four-way keypad. To exit the review mode, the review button just needs to be pressed again.
Another feature of the EasyShare CX7330’s playback mode is the ability to zoom in and crop images that have already been captured. To crop or zoom in on a previously taken photograph, the user must first enter the review mode by pressing the review button on the back of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330. Once a picture has been selected and chosen, the user can zoom in 2x by pressing the OK button on the four-way keypad once. To magnify 4x the OK button must be pressed a second time. To view different portions of a magnified image, the directional keypad is used to navigate around the frame. To exit this function the OK button must be pressed again, and to exit review mode, the review button must be pressed as well.
**Drive / Burst ***(5.5)*
Burst mode is possible within Kodak EasyShare CX7330, which allows for three images to be taken in short order. On average, there will be three frames shot in a one second interval. To engage this feature, the user must depress the burst button, which may be found directly to the right of the viewfinder on the back of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330. Once pressed, the burst icon will appear on the LCD monitor in the status bar. Then press the shutter button halfway to engage auto focus and exposure for all pictures to be taken within the sequence. To take the burst of pictures the user then presses the shutter button completely.
**Custom Image Presets ***(6.5)*
There are 5 preset still shooting modes within the Kodak EasyShare CX7330. There is an "Auto" mode which controls all shooting aspects and is the default setting. There is also a "Sport" mode which acts somewhat like an internal shutter priority mode as the camera increases the shutter speed to freeze subjects in motion. A "Night" mode is also available, designed for night shooting or dimly lit conditions. In night mode, the camera slows down the shutter speed to gain as much information within the span of exposure as possible. In night mode, the flash will also fire, but the shutter speed is significantly decreased so that any motion will be blurred. The CX7330 also contains a "Landscape" setting that is oriented for distant multi-planned images. The flash does not fire in landscape mode unless activated because for most landscape shots, the subject will be too distant for the light to reflect off of. The Kodak CX7330 also contains a "Close-Up" mode for subjects that are near to the camera. In these situations the wide angle element of the zoom is utilized to get as much of the subject in focus and in the frame as possible.
Control Options
Manual Control Options
There really is not much room for manual control on the Kodak EasyShare CX7330. Designed for automatic ease, the manual control freak is left in the dark on this one. There is opportunity to disengage the flash but that is really the extent of manual control over any single image feature. Some functions, such as focus, allow for control within a series of automatic options but fully manual selections are non-existent on the CX7330.
**Focus ***
Manual (0.0)*
Although not technically a manual focus feature, the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 does claim to provide some maneuverability within their realm of the automatic focus controls. The user must press the OK button to engage the LCD screen. Once it's engaged, the user must press the shutter button partially, changing the focus bracket from blue to red on the LCD monitor. There are 5 settings within this system, varying from center, center wide, side, center and side, and left/right options. However, it appears the user has no bearing over which of these is chosen; the selection being left to the camera itself, forcing the user to spend excessive amounts of time constantly pressing the shutter button partially in the vain hopes that perhaps their own choice could be made. Rather than helping the user, this feature merely complicates the issue of taking a photo, inevitably making it so the user gives up all control, or spends inordinate amounts of time combating the frustrating lack of power over this camera.
**Metering ***(7.0)*
Automatic metering provides even exposures with the EasyShare CX7330, taking care of all measurements for the user.
**Exposure ***(7.0)*
There is no direct manual control over exposure; however, like many other point-and-shoot models, the Kodak CX7330 does offer an exposure compensation feature that ranges from +/-2.0 in .5 EV step increments. This feature is easily accessible with a specific exposure compensation button, marked with a black and white, yin-yang like "+/-" icon. By increasing the numeric equivalent, more light is provided by the camera and the image will become brighter; conversely, when the numeric setting drops below 0, less light is given to the image and the scene will become darker.
**White Balance ***(0.0)*
White balance on the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 is an automatic feature, void of manual control. There are no preset options to select from.
**ISO ***(0.0)*
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 comes equipped with ISO sensitivity ratings equivalent to ISO 90-180, controlled automatically by the camera.
**Shutter Speed ***(0.0)*
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 comes equipped with shutter settings of 1/2-1/4000 sec. To adjust the camera’s shutter speed, the user of the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 must depress the shutter button partially; taking this action will indicate to the camera the necessity for a longer or shorter shutter speed within the general mode the user has chosen to shoot within.
**Aperture ***(0.0)*
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 has no manual aperture settings available to the user.
Image Parameters
**Picture Quality / Size Options ***(6.5)*
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 comes with four variable picture quality options. They are accessed through the menu and labeled with star icons. There is "Best" mode, which shoots at 3.1 megapixels. Then there is a "Best (3:2)" setting, which records images at 2.8 megapixels and is described by Kodak as the ideal setting to shoot with for 4 x 6-inch prints made with the EasyShare printer dock. The third setting is "Better," capable of capturing images at 2.1 megapixels of resolution. The final setting is "Good" mode, labeled with just the single star which will record at 1.1 megapixels.
Picture Effects Mode* (7.0)*
The EasyShare CX7330 comes with two standard effect modes, one being black and white mode and the other being sepia tone. While the black and white mode on most digital cameras will always appear somewhat gimmicky, it is still a customary inclusion and may come in handy when in the right mood or situation. Likewise there is also a sepia mode on the EasyShare CX7330 that applies a brownish hue to the image. The sepia feature is made to replicate the popular sepia tone that is often applied to silver prints to give the images an aged or old image feel. Again digital sepia effects are a far cry from the actual toner but again, a nice novelty.
Connectivity / Extras
Connectivity
Software*(6.0)*
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 comes with Kodak EasyShare software version 3.3 for Windows or Mac OSX, and Version 1.4.2 for Mac OS 8.6/9.X
Jacks, ports, plugs*(6.0)*
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 has a DC in port, SD/MMC memory card option, direct print port on the bottom of the camera, A/V out for direct television viewing, and a USB port. The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 comes equipped with an A/V cable, along with a USB cable for connection to the user’s personal computer.
Direct Print Options (8.0)
It is possible to print without a computer by purchasing a Kodak EasyShare printer. There is a red "Share" button on the back of the camera that leads into printing options and makes the output process effortless and simplistic. For simplified output, the EasyShare series is the way to go and will provide excellent prints with minimal effort.****
Memory (5.5)
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 comes with 16MB of internal memory, which can be used even when a memory card is not installed into the camera. It is capable of holding 13-45 images, based upon image size and resolution. The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 accepts SD/MMC memory cards ranging from 16MB to 256MB, allowing for up to 700 images to be captured to memory. Using the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 as a video camera, the internal memory can accept up to 53 seconds of video footage. If a SD/MMC memory card is used, there is the potential for 18 min. of footage to be recorded if a 256MB SD/MMC card is engaged.
16MB, 32MB, 64MB, 128MB, and 256MB SD/MMC cards are available along with the 16MB of internal memory the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 comes equipped with. This accounts for 13-700 images that can be feasibly stored on the SD/MMC cards, available for the Kodak EasyShare CX7330.
Other Features*(7.5)*
Printer Dock
The EasyShare CX7330, like the rest of the EasyShare series, is designed to be compatible with Kodak printer docks. These docks produce clean, clear imagery in rapid time. The quality is not only superior to most home printers but will ultimately save vast amounts of time and money that would go to additional print cartridges. Ultimately, the EasyShare functions with the compatible printer dock in tandem; the camera is functional on its own but its superiority comes from the shooting and printing ease that results from the combo.
*Self-timer
*The self-timer button also doubles as the burst button on the Kodak EasyShare CX7330. It is located to the right of the viewfinder on the back of the camera body. Once pressed, the icon for the self-timer will appear in the status bar. Hold the shutter to adjust for focus and exposure, and when the scene is established press the shutter button the rest of the way. At this point the user has 10 seconds prior to the photo being taken, wherein the self-timer light will blink slowly for eight seconds, and quickly for the final two. To cancel the self-timer if wrongly engaged, the user merely needs to re-press the self-timer button completely to disengage. To turn off the self-timer, press the self-timer twice.
Overall Impressions
Value
Although I’m not enamored with this model in the EasyShare series by Kodak, I will admit that, for the approximate price of US $200, the user will get a camera capable of shooting extended video and the option of installing larger SD/MMC memory cards, unlike many of the other brands' similarly priced models. It’s capable of direct print docking, as well as USB connection to a personal computer, a strong candidate for a user who has no interest in either manual control or reading the instructions prior to installing the batteries and shooting images.
Comparisons
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P72* — The Sony DSC-P72 has a 3.2x digital zoom, with a total zoom possibility rated at 9.6x and is equipped with a 1.5-inch LCD screen. With a CCD measuring 0.55 inches, and at 3.2 MP, this camera is comparable to the Kodak EasyShare CX7330, not only in its price, but also in its features. However, it only has a 16MB memory stick, a feature that will highly limit the amount of video which a user can capture, making it less of a hybrid digital camera and more of a still image specific model.
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The Canon PowerShot A75* — The Canon A75 has a CCD size of 0.370 inches and 3.2 MP, and a slightly larger LCD screen measuring 1.8 inches. The digital zoom is 3.2x and has a total zoom measuring 10x. Direct printing is possible with the Canon printer series, as well as through their image editing software. It has a removable memory card of 32MB and is capable of capturing to video formats and a monaural sound format. Auto and Manual focus options exist, along with the standard preset functions equipped on most digital cameras today.
*
The Konica Minolta DiMage Xt - *This is the third comparably priced model when considered in regards to the Kodak EasyShare CX7330. Its CCD measures 1/2.7 inches, with 3.3 MP. A 3x optical and 4x digital zoom give this camera 12x total zoom options. The LCD is slightly smaller than the other models in this comparison, measuring 1.5 inches. It has the ability to capture both video and audio to its SD memory card. It is equipped for direct printing, and can also be connected to a user's personal computer via USB cables.
The Kodak EasyShare CX7300* — This camera is one step below the Kodak EasyShare CX7330, with an MSRP of US $129.95. It has a CCD resolution of 3.2 MP, and an image resolution of 3.2 megapixels. The continuous digital lens for the Kodak EasyShare CX7300 is a 3x digital model. The movie mode is capable of capturing 30 seconds of video, without audio, on the 16MB internal memory, with possibilities existing for additional SD/MMC memory card options. The LCD is slightly smaller, at 1.6 inches, which is to be expected with a slightly less expensive camera model.
*
The Kodak EasyShare CX7430* - The CX7430 has an MSRP of US $249.95. It has a CCD resolution of 4.23 MP and an image resolution of 4 megapixels. It has a 3x optical zoom, 4x digital zoom, and 12x total zoom, along with the possibility for more in-menu selections. This is a better choice for the user wanting more control over their shots, and who doesn’t mind paying a little bit more money.
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Who It's For
Point-and-Shooters - This camera is intended for you, the point-and-shoot enthusiast, and it is limited enough in its settings and options to never confuse you, if all you need is a camera you can take on vacation or to the local bar. However, if you should ever be interested in having any control over your photographs or video, I would suggest a different model. But try this one out; it may fit your needs perfectly.
Budget Consumers - Priced right around US $200, this camera is a plain, no-frills digital camera, which although not sleek or gorgeously designed, will dependably take pictures, and can accept large memory cards for extended periods of use. If you are looking for a camera which you can use without reading the manual, and automatic is the only setting you use, then perhaps this will be a strong candidate.
Gadget Freaks - This camera is relatively free of any functions besides automatically taking a basic still image. The gadget freak will be disappointed not only by the Kodak EasyShare CX7330’s bulky camera body, but visual appeal aside, there is not much more to discover. It’s a basic camera, stripped down and simplified, and bound to bore you quickly.
Manual Control Freaks - For the manual control freak, I’m sorry to say, this camera will be a frustrating purchase. Kodak has removed most of the user controls, eliminating many standard manual options, and those remaining are an awkward hybrid of manual and automatic control. The menu is limiting, and your best feature options will exist in the choice of holiday border options to add to your photos.
Pros / Serious Hobbyists - Like my comments to the manual controllers, if you’ve spent time with digital cameras, you are bound to find this camera to be aggravating. Its limited controls and options make it so that searching for any sort of manual settings quickly becomes a trying experience.
Conclusion
Conclusion
The Kodak EasyShare CX7330 is a point-and-shooter's dream. It is hands down one of the best cameras on the market for users who don't want to think about anything. Its simple design brings to mind a toy, but its image quality isn't a joke. For an MSRP of US $199.95 the Kodak EasyShare CX7330 will give you good pictures as well as do all the thinking for you. However, if you are planning to expand your knowledge of digital cameras and would like room to explore and experiment, this camera is not for you. Most of the settings are automatic with no option of adjusting anything yourself.
Specs
Specs
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Meet the tester
James Murray
Editor
James Murray is a valued contributor to the Reviewed.com family of sites.
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