The Fujifilm FinePix F600EXR updates the mid-2011 F550EXR model. Although the latest release adds very little to the features list, it still offers a rangey 24-360mm optical zoom and a 16-megapixel 1/2in sensor with Fujifilm’s unique EXR sensor technology. What Digital Camera takes a closer look at the Fuji F600EXR…

Fujifilm FinePix F600EXR review – Features

The FinePix F600EXR has a list of features that make it an ideal travel compact. The 1/2in-size 16-megapixel EXR CMOS sensor marries up with a 15x optical zoom lens that ranges from 24-360mm. This is squeezed into a small body considering the lens range, and the ability to nab wide-angle and far-away shots all from this little compact is a most attractive feature.

The thing is, the F600EXR is barely any different to its F550EXR predecessor. All that differs is the addition of the F600EXR’s more accurate scene detection with Motion Detection, upgraded Landmark Navigator GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) technology and a new intelligent digital zoom feature. A software upgrade could have made all these features possible in the F550EXR body, so the difference is slight.

 

But taken in isolation and the F600EXR has lots on offer. The EXR technology means the sensor is performance-optimised for either maximum resolution, low-light performance or dynamic range. 
The sensor also features a CMOS-shift image stabilisation mechanism to reduce camera shake and is able to capture images from ISO 100-3200 (or ISO 6400 at 8-megapixels and ISO 12,800 at 4-megapizels).

Optics are taken care of by Fujinon’s Double Sliding Structured Lens that has made it
possible for the large focal range to fit neatly inside the slim body.

Along with a dedicated EXR mode (you can choose between the three EXR modes as well as an Auto mode), there’re Program, Aperture priority, Shutter priority and full manual options for more creative control. On top of that, there’s an Auto mode, Advanced (with the choice of either Panorama, Pro Focus or Pro Low-light) and lots of scene modes (even some more obscure ones like ‘Cat’ and ‘Dog).

As well as shooting in JPEG, the FinePix F600EXR can also capture Raw as well, plus 1080p HD movie clips can be recorded at 30fps using H.264 compression.

Although there’s no viewfinder the F600’s rear screen is 3-inches in size and has a decent 460k-dot resolution.