With its slim dimensions, the FinePix F700 is almost the odd one out in this test. It’s certainly no IXUS, but the F700 will still fit into your pocket and the brushed metal casing looks the part. But the main reason the F700 costs more than the bigger S5000 is because of the new Super CCD SR. Instead of one photodiode per pixel, this fourth-generation CCD has two: a high-sensitivity one for shadows and mid-tones, and a low-sensitivity one for highlights. Fujifilm claims this gives a greater dynamic range, aiding tricky lighting situations by capturing shadow detail without bleaching out highlights.
However, despite other claims of an effective 6.2-megapixel output, the F700 still interpolates from a 3.1-megapixel image. This means you’re not capturing any more information, a fact borne out in our testing. That said, our still life indoor shot showed a definite improvement on the third-generation Super CCD with a notably better dynamic range and more shadow detail captured. Noise was average, but resolution was almost as poor as the S5000’s – interpolation was noticeable when shooting at six megapixels.
Outdoors, we again noticed the greater dynamic range, with good exposure on our model without a bleached sky. The shot looked very natural and the fill-in flash also gave good results. However, we found that the flash was underpowered and it was far too easy to accidentally cover it with your index finger. Macro ability was nothing special either – the F700 captured 63 x 47mm of our bank note.
In general use, the F700 proved to be a desirable camera. This wasn’t just because it weighs less than 200g, but because it takes only two seconds to turn on and take a photo. In low light, though, the small 3x optical zoom lens needs long exposures without the flash, so you either need a tripod or to be close to your subject.
As usual, usability is one of the Fujifilm’s strong points. The main dial selects the shooting mode from full manual control to automatic as well as movie and scene presets. The now-familiar blue ‘F’ button allows direct access to quality and ISO settings and another lets you choose between multi, spot and average metering modes. Contrast and saturation settings are missing, though, and there’s no AE lock either – only the shutter locks it.
However, the 640 x 480 movie mode will appeal to many. Length is only limited to memory capacity and clips are incredibly smooth. Add to this the lithium ion battery and bundled docking cradle and the F700 is a compelling camera. Only the lack of resolution counts against it.