Kodak EasyShare LS420 2MP Digital Camera with Dock

Kodak's LS420 represents something new in the world of digital cameras--it's the first quality ultracompact aimed directly at the point-and-shoot crowd. Its size and shape are appealing, and the simplicity of its controls makes it a great choice for those who like to take pictures but don't want to deal with the more technical aspects of digital photography.

Optics and Resolution
The LS420 features a 2-megapixel sensor that captures enough detail for crisp 8-by-10-inch prints. For the typical family photographer, 2 megapixels is a great balance between price and performance. If you want a camera with even more resolution, you'll need to step up to 3 or 4 megapixels--Kodak's 3-megapixel DX3900 and 4-megapixel DX4900 are designed to be as easy to use as the LS420, though they aren't as sleek or compact.

The Kodak all-glass aspheric focus-free lens has a focal length equivalent to 38mm in film cameras and an aperture of f3.9. To get closer to the action, there's a 3x digital telephoto zoom, but remember that digital zoom tends to reduce the sharpness and detail of your image, so it's best used sparingly.

To compose your images, either use the traditional camera viewfinder or the 1.6-inch LCD display (which is also used to review the shots you've taken). Having both types of viewfinders offers the best of both worlds: if you're used to using a film camera or want to conserve battery life, use the viewfinder. If you want to see exactly the picture you'll be capturing, use the LCD display.

Operation and Design
At a mere 4.3 by 1.8 by 1.1 inches, the camera feels similar in dimensions to a cell phone or remote control--it's long and slim, and it slips easily into a purse or pocket. Despite its light weight, the camera still feels solid and reasonably rugged in the hands. A sliding power switch on top of the unit simultaneously retracts the integrated lens cover and turns the camera on. After a few moments of "warming up," the camera is ready for use. Most functions are menu-driven and are selected by a joystick-style controller on the back of the camera.

Features
The LS420 is clearly designed for point-and-shooters. Adjustments are limited to setting features like resolution, flash mode, and the self-timer.

Power
Power is provided by the same slim rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack that has been showing up in more and more ultracompact consumer electronics, including the Minolta DiMAGE X, Pentax Optio 330 and 430, Panasonic's SV-AV10 mini camcorder, and the Sharp Zaurus handheld. It's a great little battery, holding the same amount of power as substantially larger packs found in some other digital cameras. Battery life varies greatly, depending mostly upon how much time you leave the LCD display on between shots and how much you use the flash. Even with the LCD on and frequent flash pictures, a typical user should be able to take 50 photos without any problems.

Because the battery charges automatically whenever the camera is docked, the typical owner will never have to think about it after it's inserted in the LS420 the first time. Just leave the camera in the dock, and you'll always have a full charge when you're ready to shoot. The dock also provides power when you're transferring pictures to your computer.

If you're going on an extended vacation or take more than 50 pictures at a time, you'll want to pick up a spare battery and, for more convenient charging, a separate battery charger.

Movie Mode
In movie mode, the camera captures video clips with sound. Most cameras can only shoot for a limited amount of time (often 30 seconds) before filling the buffer, but the LS420 lets you keep shooting as long as you have memory available. Movies are shot at 320 x 240 pixels (approximately VHS quality) with a frame rate of around 19 frames per second. Camcorders offer both higher resolution and faster frame rates, but this feature is perfect for when you just want to capture a quick movie and e-mail it to a friend or relative.

Storage and Transfer
The camera stores images in its 8 MB of internal memory. Memory capacity of 8 MB is enough for 12 high-resolution pictures, 49 low-resolution pictures, around 35 seconds of high-quality video, or some combination of each. Since most people will use the included dock to transfer photos to the computer, internal memory works as well as a removable card. If you plan to use a dedicated card reader (for example, a USB reader to let you put pictures on your laptop while on the go), or plan to take more photos than the internal memory can hold, an expansion slot lets you add an MMC or SD memory card. A 64 MB card holds around 100 high-quality images, four minutes of highest-quality video, or a combination of the two.

Size
The LS420 is just 4.3 by 1.8 by 1.1 inches and 5.6 ounces, making it one of the smallest and lightest digital cameras on the market.

Contents and Recommended Accessories
The package includes the camera with 8 MB internal memory, EasyShare docking station, AC adapter/charger (for use with dock), battery, carrying case, cables, neck strap, and software on CD.

Everything you need to get started is included in the box, but we recommend a higher-capacity card to make the most of your camera. If you're planning to be away from the dock for extended periods, a spare battery is also a good choice. Compatible accessories for this camera are listed near the top of this page. --Shane Burnett

Pros:

• Tiny, lightweight, and easy to use
• Focus-free lens means fast startups and quick operation between shots
• Docking station makes image transfers and battery charging a snap
• Movie mode is better than on many cameras--includes sound and unlimited recording time

Cons:

• Lack of manual features could frustrate advanced photographers
• Internal memory is more limiting than removable cards, though the camera does include a slot for removable MMC or SD cards.