Casio debuts new line of EXILIM compacts

According to information presented at a press conference this afternoon, a completely new line of Casio EXILIM compact cameras will be available for purchase this spring. New models include the EXILIM Card EX-S10, an ultra-thin card camera, the high-style EXILIM Zoom EX-Z80, and the wide-angle 10.1 megapixel EXILIM Zoom EX-Z100 and EX-Z200.

The 10.1 megapixel EX-S10 is the latest iteration of Casio's noted card camera design. Casio claims that the EX-S10 represents the thinnest and lightest camera currently in production. The camera features a 3x retractable zoom lens, with a 35mm-equivalent range of 36-108mm. A 2.7-inch wide-format LCD screen rounds out the package.

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The EX-Z80 is an ultra-compact 8.1 megapixel device with a 3x optical zoom. Emphasizing ease of use and style, the EX-Z80 is available in six body colors. Casio's EXILIM Engine 2.0 promises lower noise and high performance. Notable soft features include face detection and a icon-based focusing frame system that simplifies making sure correct focus is locked.

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Complete specs for the EX-Z100 and slightly larger EX-Z200 haven’t been finalized yet, but both models will feature a 4x zoom lens with a wide-angle range down to an equivalent 28mm. The pocket-sized cameras also sport 10.1 megapixels effective resolution, a 2.7-inch LCD, and sensor-shifting image stabilization in addition to its Auto Shutter function, which can be configured to fire the camera shutter automatically when camera shake ceases.

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The EX-S10 should begin showing up in stores next month. The other three cameras are expected for sale in March. Suggested pricing for the EX-S10 is $249. The EX-Z80 should be available for around $199. Prices for the EX-Z100 and Z200 are $279 and $329, respectively.

Casio EXILIM Card EX-S10 specs and features:

• 10.1 megapixel, 1/2.3-inch CCD
• 3x (36-108mm) optical zoom
• 2.7-inch, 230K-pixel display
• Sensitivity range: ISO 50 to ISO 1600
• Continuous shooting at 4 fps (3 fps with flash)
• Ultra-thin body is only 15mm thick

Casio EXILIM Zoom EX-Z80

• 8.1 megapixel, 1/2.5-inch CCD
• 3x (38-114mm) optical zoom
• 2.6-inch, 115K-pixel display
• Sensitivity range: ISO 64 to ISO 1600
• Available in six colors

Casio EXILIM Zoom EX-Z100 and EX-Z200

• 10.1 megapixel, 1/2.3-inch CCD
• 4x (28-112mm) optical zoom
• 2.7-inch, 230K-pixel display
• Auto Shutter blur-control function
• Auto Best Shot mode analyzes the scene and automatically selects the best scene preset