After the release last year of the world’s first Android-powered camera, the Samsung Galaxy Camera, Samsung now rolls out a new toy, a blend between a smartphone and a compact digital camera, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom. We took this hybrid for a test to see if the larger 16MP backlit CMOS sensor and 10X optical zoom are really worth your while.

 

 

Plugged:

(+) The 10x optical zoom ensures good image quality and stabilization
(+) The smartphone automatically switches to different photography modes when the zoom ring is turned
(+)  You can easily share images even when on calls
(+)  The shutter button is conveniently located in the right corner, just like an actual camera 
(+) Comes with a screw mount on the bottom for use with tripods
(+) Operates well in low-light thanks to its xenon flash 
 
Bugged:
 
(-) Bulky to hold and difficult to fit in your pocket due to the large lens
(-)Feels slippery; despite its grip
(-)The resolution on the 4.3” screen isn’t very sharp
(-)Poor battery life
(-)Rather sluggish performance despite the dual-core processor
(-)Comes with only 8GB built-in storage; disappointing considering it is meant to act as both a smartphone and compact digital camera
 
Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom’s 16MP camera with 10x optical zoom is rather impressive, but it does come at the cost of a large camera lens, slow performance and a screen that’s smaller than the S4. For those looking for a compact camera with basic smartphone capabilities, this is one solid option, but if you’re aiming for both a top notch camera and smartphone with speed, power and great screen resolution, you’re better off waiting for newer models. By Nutthachai Bunluthangthum
 
Specs:
4.3” Super AMOLED touch screen
1.5GB Ram with 8GB storage (Micro SD up to 64GB)
16MP BSI CMOS with Xenon Flash, 1.9MP front camera
Bluetooth, WiFi, NFC, USB 2.0, GPS
Android OS JellyBean 4.2
B15,800 at Samsung retailers nationwide.
 

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