CNET editors' review
-
CNET editors' rating:
stars
Very good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 06/12/2002
- Updated on: 10/30/2002
Snapshots and stereoscopics
A touch bigger than the latest crop of 2-megapixel ultracompacts, the Optio 230 is solidly built but lightweight at 8.1 ounces with the battery and the media installed. Its plastic body belies the metallic feel that's falsely promised by the camera's shiny exterior. The 230 is well designed for beginning snapshooters, from the straightforward command dial to the uncluttered interface on the camera back.
You can easily access commonly adjusted functions such as flash, self-timer, macro, and infinite focus through buttons. The camera's more advanced features require some menu surfing, but the menus are clearly labeled and easy to navigate. Beware the power button, however; it can be tripped easily while the camera rests in your bag or pocket. The camera's 1.6-inch LCD conveniently swings out 180 degrees for self-portraits, though it would be more useful if it also twisted on its axis.
The 230 limits you to automatic exposure, but it also offers more advanced options such as spot metering; uncompressed output; exposure and white-balance bracketing; and adjustable saturation, sharpness, and contrast. You don't get a lot of preset scene modes, but you do get Night Portrait (slow-sync flash) and Movie (up to 30 seconds without sound) modes, both of which are selectable via the command dial.
You also get a unique 3D image mode, but we can't imagine that you'll use it regularly. The camera ships with plastic stereoscopic 3D glasses that allow you to take advantage of the feature, which enables you to take two shots in one frame, aided by a guide for the second shot. To see the effect, you'll need to either make an 11cm print of the image or display it at just the right size on your monitor, with your face pushed up against the 3D glasses, which are in turn pushed up against the screen. Continue reading
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