Value & Verdict
Fujifilm Finepix HS30EXR review – Value
Considering that the HS30 is packed out with more tech than the HS20 has, the £359 launch price represents good value. Shop online and the likes of the Canon PowerShot SX40 HS can be picked up for around the same price, while the shorter-focal-length Panasonic Lumix FZ150 is around £369.
Fujifilm Finepix HS30EXR review – Verdict
The HS30EXR takes the superzoom formula and tweaks it into better shape than its predecessor. The 24-720mm manual zoom not only offers a significant range but the hands-on zoom ring makes it feel more DSLR-like than other superzoom cameras. Add to this the far superior electronic viewfinder that outclasses the competition and the rechargeable li-ion battery and the HS30 is on the right track.
But for all its good points, there are a couple of things that we’d still like to see: more accurate exposure and a lower-resolution sensor to help with critical detail would be at the top of the list, along with a faster continuous autofocus system. Image quality is reasonable, but won’t compare to a DSLR with long lens – so buy the HS30EXR with realistic expectations. Of course, such kit would cost considerably more, and this is where the HS30 comes into its own: a fair balance of price to features make it a great success.
Score
Score in detail
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Features 95
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Image Quality 85
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Design 90
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Performance 85
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Value 90