amazon Kodak EasyShare M530 reviews
Kodak has just added the EasyShare M point-and-shoot camera to their fashionable M530 model. Compact, beautiful and many features.
With its unique design, the front of the M530 incorporates a metal frame (blue) and a black lacquered aluminum profile to create a very distinctive style. The machine is quite thin and compact.
Included accessories include battery chargers, USB cables and manuals.
The EasyShare M530 looks elegant, neat and the details are neatly designed.
On the right side there is only a USB port to connect to the computer.
The M530 uses lithium-ion batteries and SD memory cards.
The face on the machine looks very clean, the buttons slightly submersible but easy to hit. Note that the right edge of the machine is thicker than the left edge, making it easier for the user to feel comfortable.
The 2.7″ LCD screen is bright and sharp, with easy-to-use buttons for easy, intuitive menus.
where can you get a Kodak EasyShare M530 online
Kodak Easyshare M530 12 MP Digital Camera with 3x Wide Angle Optical Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Carbon): Buy it now
Kodak Easyshare M530 12 MP Digital Camera with 3x Wide Angle Optical Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Blue): Buy it now
Kodak Easyshare M530 12 MP Digital Camera with 3x Wide Angle Optical Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Red): Buy it now
Kodak Easyshare M530 12 MP Digital Camera with 3x Wide Angle Optical Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Green): Buy it now
1. Overview and Key Features
The Kodak EasyShare M530 is a point-and-shoot camera positioned as an affordable option for those seeking a compact device that delivers good performance without the complexity of advanced cameras. Here are the main specifications and features of the M530:
- Sensor: 12 MP CCD sensor
- Lens: 5x optical zoom lens, equivalent to 35-175mm
- LCD Screen: 2.7-inch LCD with 230,000 dots
- ISO Range: 64-3200
- Image Stabilization: Digital image stabilization
- Video Recording: VGA (640×480) at 30fps
- Battery: Li-ion rechargeable battery
- Connectivity: USB 2.0, SD/SDHC card slot
- Dimensions: 3.8 x 2.3 x 1.2 inches (96 x 58 x 30 mm)
- Weight: Approximately 4.3 oz (122 g)
The M530 is designed to offer a balance of usability and performance, making it a suitable choice for everyday photography needs.
2. Design and Build Quality
2.1. Ergonomics and Handling
The Kodak EasyShare M530 boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable. Its small size allows it to fit comfortably in a pocket or small bag, making it easy to carry around for spontaneous photography. The camera’s grip is modest but functional, providing a secure hold despite its compact dimensions.
The control layout is straightforward, featuring a well-placed shutter button, zoom controls, and a mode dial on the back. The simplicity of the design ensures that users can quickly access the main functions of the camera without the need for extensive training or adjustment.
2.2. Build Quality
The M530 is constructed from plastic, which contributes to its lightweight and portable nature. While the build quality is not as robust as higher-end models, it is durable enough for everyday use. The camera includes a protective lens cover that opens automatically when the camera is powered on, safeguarding the lens from potential damage.
2.3. LCD Screen
The camera features a 2.7-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 230,000 dots. The screen is adequate for composing and reviewing images, though it is relatively modest compared to newer models. The display is clear and bright in various lighting conditions, though direct sunlight can make it challenging to view the screen clearly. This is a common issue with many compact cameras and is not a significant drawback for its intended use.
3. Image Quality and Performance
3.1. Sensor and Processor
The Kodak EasyShare M530 is equipped with a 12 MP CCD sensor, which provides sufficient resolution for everyday photography. The sensor captures decent detail and clarity for casual use, including web sharing and standard prints. However, it is important to note that the CCD sensor may not offer the same level of performance as more modern CMOS sensors.
The image processor in the M530 handles the sensor data competently, delivering acceptable performance for an entry-level camera. While it may not provide the speed or noise control of more advanced systems, it is adequate for the camera’s intended user base.
3.2. Lens and Zoom
The M530 features a 5x optical zoom lens with a focal length equivalent to 35-175mm. This zoom range offers versatility for various shooting scenarios, from wide-angle landscapes to moderate telephoto shots. The lens delivers satisfactory sharpness and clarity, although it may exhibit some softness at the telephoto end of the zoom range.
The digital image stabilization included in the M530 helps reduce the effects of camera shake, though it is less effective than optical stabilization systems found in more advanced cameras. Users should be mindful of camera shake, especially at longer zoom settings, to achieve the best image quality.
3.3. ISO Performance
The M530’s ISO range spans from 64 to 3200. At lower ISO settings, the camera produces relatively clean images with minimal noise. As the ISO value increases, noise becomes more noticeable, particularly at higher settings. While the camera’s performance at higher ISO values is acceptable for casual use, it may not meet the expectations of users seeking superior low-light performance.
3.4. Image Stabilization
The M530 employs digital image stabilization to help mitigate the effects of camera shake. Although digital stabilization provides some improvement in image clarity, it is not as effective as optical stabilization systems. Users should take care to steady the camera, particularly at longer focal lengths, to ensure sharper images.
3.5. Video Recording
The M530 supports VGA video recording at 30 frames per second (fps). While VGA resolution is lower than HD standards, it is adequate for casual video recording and sharing. The video quality is acceptable for an entry-level camera, but those seeking higher-resolution video will need to explore more advanced options.
4. Usability and Features
4.1. User Interface
The Kodak EasyShare M530 features a user-friendly interface designed for ease of use. The camera’s menu system is intuitive, allowing users to quickly navigate through settings and options. The mode dial provides access to various shooting modes, including auto, scene, and video modes.
The camera’s controls are straightforward, making it easy for users to capture images without the need for extensive technical knowledge. The user-friendly design is ideal for beginners or those who prefer a hassle-free photography experience.
4.2. Shooting Modes
The M530 offers several shooting modes to accommodate different photography needs:
- Auto Mode: Automatically adjusts settings for a wide range of shooting conditions.
- Scene Modes: Includes options such as portrait, landscape, macro, and night mode. Each scene mode optimizes settings for specific scenarios, making it easier to achieve good results.
- Video Mode: Allows users to capture VGA-resolution video.
These modes simplify the shooting process, making it accessible for users with varying levels of photography experience.
4.3. Customization and Control
The M530 provides basic customization options, allowing users to adjust settings such as image quality, white balance, and color effects. While the camera does not offer extensive customization compared to higher-end models, it provides enough control for users to achieve satisfactory results.
4.4. Connectivity
The M530 includes USB 2.0 connectivity for transferring images to a computer. The camera also features an SD/SDHC card slot for storing photos and videos. Although the M530 lacks built-in wireless capabilities, it supports easy data transfer via USB and card removal.
4.5. Battery Life
The M530 is powered by a Li-ion rechargeable battery, providing adequate battery life for casual use. The battery offers sufficient power for several hundred shots on a single charge, making it suitable for day-to-day photography without frequent recharging.
5. Comparisons with Similar Models
5.1. Canon PowerShot A3100 IS
The Canon PowerShot A3100 IS is a competitor to the Kodak EasyShare M530. It features a similar resolution (12.1 MP) and a slightly higher ISO range (100-1600). The A3100 IS includes optical image stabilization, which provides better performance compared to the M530’s digital stabilization. Additionally, the A3100 IS has a slightly larger LCD screen (2.7 inches) with higher resolution.
5.2. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 is another competitor in the entry-level compact camera market. It boasts a 14.1 MP sensor and an 8x optical zoom lens. The FH20’s higher resolution and longer zoom range offer added flexibility. It also includes optical image stabilization, providing improved performance over the M530’s digital stabilization.
5.3. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W310
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W310 is a compact camera with a 12.1 MP sensor and a 4x optical zoom lens. It offers similar resolution to the M530 but has a slightly shorter zoom range. The DSC-W310 includes optical image stabilization and a 2.7-inch LCD screen with better resolution, enhancing both image stabilization and display clarity.
6. Strengths and Weaknesses
6.1. Strengths
- Compact and Lightweight: The M530’s small size and lightweight construction make it highly portable, ideal for casual photography and travel.
- User-Friendly Interface: The straightforward controls and menu system cater to beginners and those seeking a simple photography experience.
- Versatile Zoom Range: The 5x optical zoom lens provides flexibility for various shooting scenarios.
- Good Battery Life: The rechargeable battery offers sufficient power for extended use.
6.2. Weaknesses
- Modest LCD Resolution: The 2.7-inch LCD screen has a resolution that may be considered low compared to newer models.
- Digital Image Stabilization: The digital stabilization system is less effective than optical stabilization, potentially leading to image blur.
- Limited Video Quality: VGA video recording is lower in resolution compared to HD standards.
- Basic Connectivity: The lack of wireless capabilities may be a drawback for users seeking more advanced connectivity options.