pros:
- 2MP resolution, 3x optical zoom.
- about the same size as the xt with dimensions of 3.4 x 2.6 x 0.9 in, weighing in at 4.1oz.
- generally good photo quality, low noise levels.
- automatic white balance performs well.
- AF locks rapidly and decisively in good light.
- short shutter lag in good light.
- fast startup.
- fast shot-to-shot speeds.
- ability to record in movie mode until memory card is full.
- all metal body feels solid.
- 1.6" LCD is bright and fluid.
- uses non-proprietary AA batteries (i highly recommend rechargeables). this means that in a pinch, replacement batteries are as close as the nearest convenience store.

cons:
- some purple fringing.
- corners are soft.
- some vignetting.
- above average barrel distortion.
- some redeye occurrence.
- no manual controls.
- no optical viewfinder - this makes it tough when you use this camera with bright sunlight.
- RAW and TIFF formats not supported.
- no AF illuminator - this would really help shutter lag when using this camera in low light.
- scratches easily.
- 8MB SD card provided is inadequate so add $$ to your budget to buy more memory.
- only 2 AA non-rechargeables included; again, add more $$ for some rechargeables and a fast charger.

the X20 is a great looking ultracompact camera but the quality of the images you take could be better. if you want a pocketable camera for web photos and small prints, consider the X20. if you want larger prints and like the design of the x20, try the DiMAGE Xt. if you want manual controls, you'll have to find another camera altogether, as none of the X-series cameras have them. i would recommend the optio s or casio ex-z3. for even better image quality (in a slightly bigger package), also consider canon's sd100.

i hope this helps you with your buying decision. peace.


Great super compact camera   September 28, 2003
Bart Willems (Elmwood Park, New Jersey United States)
15 out of 15 found this review helpful

I have the X20 for about a week now - and it doesn't dissapoint me. This is my 2nd digital camera. I choose it because it's small size, and the fact that it uses regular AA batteries so you'll always have a backup for power.
Picture quality is good, though the flash lacks power; indoor flashes do look a bit pale (compared to Canon A20). Outdoor seems to overexpose a little bit. Outdoor shots can be hard because the viewfinder is missing.
For my goal - point and shoot - very good camera. Don't expect top-of-the line image quality - but for it's size it's definitely acceptable