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Survey: 11 ultra flat cameras
by Vincent Alzieu
Published on July 6, 2005
Video mode OK, we are testing cameras, and photos capabilities must be evaluated first. The video mode, however, is becoming more and more important. The better cameras in this category can even be used as part-time camcorders. The quality of sequences isn’t at the same level as a mini-DV standard camcorder, but they are already much better than photophones. Flowing 640 x 480 videos can be displayed on a big monitor to be enjoyed by all the entire family. It’s a real plus and a threat to camcorders.
We asked Panasonic, a photo sensor manufacturer, about the restrictions of 640 x 480 in video mode. The answer was quite clear. They are indeed one of the largest sensor manufacturers and also sell camcorders. They want to continue producing the latter and don’t want to make them obsolete. Just like Sony, the number one producer in sensors and camcorders.
The images below are video extracts resized in 1024 x 768 pixels. It’s a simulation of full screen quality and therefore an interpolated (bicubic) version of our videos. You can download short videos under the images.
 Look for two imposters. Nine cameras work in 640 x 480 and two in 320 x240. Can you recognise them? Forget about the Konica Minolta and Olympus for video. The Sony sequence is also disappointing. The camera is sold with a standard Memory Stick and it isn’t possible to record sequences in maximum quality. You have to buy the Memory Stick Pro to activate this option. It’s not really great for Nikon either. Image definition is one step below average. Four of the two left provide better results than the others for us: The Panasonic cameras (even if numeric sound is inactive during videos), the Canon and Casio (these two have numeric zoom activated) and the Kodak V550, the only one to have an optic zoom during sequences. These four are good! 
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