The 6-megapixel Olympus FE-200 is an entry-level compact that combines point-and-shoot simplicity with a zoom range to give it that little bit extra

Product Overview

Overall rating:

76%

Olympus FE-200

Overall score:76%
Features:75%
Value:80%
Performance:75%
Image Quality:70%
Design:80%

Pros:

  • Fully automatic, Impressive zoom.

Cons:

  • Primitive image quality, Feeble flash.

Product:

Olympus FE-200 Review

Manufacturer:

Price as reviewed:

£170.00

Features
The FE-200’s 6MP resolution is more than reasonable and its 28-140mm optical zoom covers a greater range than most cameras in its class. When it comes to image capture it’s a question of point-and-shoot, with just Automatic or Scene modes provided – you can’t even choose the ISO or white balance.

Design
The FE-200 is a chunky metal camera with a control layout offering few surprises. Despite its large size, your thumb still ends up sitting on a button or dial at all times and the resolution of the 2.5in LCD could be better.

Performance
It’s slow to start up, the AF system needs a few moments to lock on and images take a few moments to clear before you can shoot again, making the FE-200 a camera that gets the job done in a basic fashion.

Image Quality
If you’re happy printing no larger than 5x7in the FE-200 is adequate, but not exceptional. Exposures vary, images contain little detail and fringing is noticeable. In short, images are quite primitive.

Value For Money
A metal body and 5x zoom aren’t often found at this price, which makes it a reasonable value camera in the entry-level stakes.

Verdict

If you just want to point-and-shoot and make 5x7in prints that’s what the FE-200 does, and the zoom range is impressive.

Details

Memory Card:xD +24Mb Internal Memory
Flash Modes:6
White Balance:Auto, Sunlight, Tungsten, Overcast, Flourescent 1, Flourescent 2, Flourescent 3
ISO Range:Auto only, 64-400
Metering System:-
Exposure Modes:Auto, 13 Sc, Mov
Shutter Speeds:4-1/2000sec
File Formats:JPEG
LCD:2.5in LCD with 150,000 pixels
Lens:4.6-23mm (28-140mm) f3.3-4.8
Sensor:6MP effective, 1/2.5in CCD
Connectivity:USB 2.0
Power:Li-ion cell
Dimensions:97.5 x 59 x 27mm
Weight:155g
Other:-