On August 26, CNET is launched a substantial redesign of its Web sites. As part of the changes, we are altering the rating system to include numerals (1 through 10 with decimals) and a five-star system, with half stars. Nothing changed regarding how we test products or calculate their ratings. (Read more about this process below.) You can send feedback by clicking on the link at the top of this page.
- Reviewed by:
- Will Greenwald
- Reviewed on:
- 03/05/07
- Updated on:
- 03/05/07
- Click here to see CNET editors' review for Olympus FE-240 (silver)
- Design:
- 7.0
- Features:
- 6.0
- Performance:
- 5.0
- Image quality:
- 8.0
- Overall score:
- 6.6
Editors' rating: Digital cameras
We rate digital cameras on a scale of 0.0 through 10.0 (see "What the numbers mean" below). The editors calculate the overall rating from a series of subratings, on a scale of 1 to 10, that gauge key aspects of the product. On the product review page and elsewhere
on the Web site, the overall rating is displayed as a series of stars, based on a five-star scale with half stars (see conversion details below). The digital cameras we review can generally be divided into three classes: point-and-shoot, midrange, and semipro. Each subrating is weighted based on its relative importance within a specific product class. For example, a camera's image quality score counts for less in a review of a point-and-shoot camera than it does in one of a semipro camera.
The rating criteria with the weightings by class are:
This criterion covers the look and feel of the camera as well as ease of operation. We look for qualities such as a relatively flat learning curve (relative to the sophistication of the feature set); buttons, dials, and other controls that are easy to reach and operate but not easy to trip accidentally; easy access to frequently used settings; and well-organized menu systems and understandable icons. We also take into account ergonomics, how cool the camera looks, and how well the implementation achieves its implicit design goals.
- Point-and-shoot: 40 percent
- Midrange: 20 percent
- Semipro: 10 percent
Features
We rate a camera's feature set relative to its market segment, looking for that perfect combination of capabilities that matches its users' needs. Key features we consider include resolution; lens type, speed, and focal length; variety of exposure and metering modes; image parameter controls; breadth of accessories available; video capture options; compression and file output options; and playback controls.
- Point-and-shoot: 20 percent
- Midrange: 20 percent
- Semipro: 20 percent
Performance
In addition to considering the things that can be timed and tested--shutter lag, write speed, battery life, and so on--we evaluate the photographic experience that the responsiveness, speed, and accuracy of the camera provides. This includes characteristics such as how quickly, smoothly, and accurately the lens zooms and focuses; how sharp and accurate the viewfinder and LCD are; and whether the camera as a whole is fast enough to keep you from missing the shot.
- Point-and-shoot: 20 percent
- Midrange: 30 percent
- Semipro: 30 percent
Image quality
We assess the appeal of the camera's images, as well as all the factors that contribute to a good capture. We look for good exposure, accurate colors, broad dynamic range and tonal separation, sharpness and sufficient resolution, and low noise. We also scrutinize images for compression or optical artifacts, such as color shifts, fringing, blockiness, and edge distortions.
- Point-and-shoot: 20 percent
- Midrange: 30 percent
- Semipro: 40 percent
What the numbers mean
9.6 to 10.0 = 5 stars (Spectacular):
This exceedingly rare score is reserved for a product that is as perfect as it could be.
9.0 to 9.5 = 4.5 stars (Outstanding):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores high on all of its rating criteria. It succeeds at meeting all of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful drawbacks.
8.0 to 8.9 = 4 stars (Excellent):
A product that receives a rating in this range is superior in so many ways that its relatively few drawbacks are not very important.
7.0 to 7.9 = 3.5 stars (Very good):
While the strengths of a product scoring in this range certainly outweigh its weaknesses, it has some minor faults that certain users should be aware of.
6.0 to 6.9 = 3 stars (Good):
This range represents a product that is above average. Its strengths slightly outweigh its weaknesses, making it good for most uses but not a standout.
5.0 to 5.9 = 2.5 stars (Average):
A product that scores in this range is functional but unremarkable.
4.0 to 4.9 = 2 stars (Mediocre):
Products in this range are below average. They fall in the middle of the pack for most features, but suffer from a few additional major flaws.
3.0 to 3.9 = 1.5 stars (Poor):
You probably should not consider a product in this range or lower. There may be one or two specialized circumstances, however, that could justify the purchase of this product for a very low price for a specific demand.
2.0 to 2.9 = 1 star (Terrible):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores low on all of its rating criteria. It does not satisfy any of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful strengths.
1.0 to 1.9 = 1/2 star (Abysmal):
A product in this range should never have been produced. This product has no redeeming qualities and worse, may actually harm you or your productivity.
0 - 0.9 = 0 stars
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