Kodak EasyShare M883: Review

Posted to Digital Cameras 2010-01-19

Kodak EasyShare M883 review:

One of Kodak's less-pleasing digital cameras is the Kodak EasyShare M883, an entry level camera that doesn't confuse consumers with too many features. This simple point-and-shoot camera lacks the picture quality of models that cost $50-$100 more, but new camera buyers will likely not mind the difference. If you need something basic, small, and useful, then consider this camera. It is perfect for those family gatherings, such as holidays and vacations. Just don't expect too much out of this camera. You may want to do some serious shopping-around before deciding on this one.

Because the Kodak EasyShare M883 features a huge 3-inch LCD display, the camera is insignificantly larger than comparable models; however, it is still compact and great for taking anywhere. This model measures 3.6 x 2.2 x 0.8 inches and weighs 4.1 ounces. It is marketed as a basic digital camera, but it captures high-quality photos and comes with features such as Face Detection. Despite offering high-quality snapshots, the pictures are substandard in resolution and a disappointment for veteran Kodak users. If you are a picky buyer, consider a more expensive model.

Rating:

2.6 out of 5

Quality

For entry level and intermediate users, the pictures will look good, especially zoom prints. Unfortunately, the majority of digital camera buyers have owned similar cameras before, and they find that this model is particularly disappointing. Veteran Kodak camera owners claim that the prints are far too grainy than the camera should allow for. Naturally, each shot depends on the lighting and environment, so some results may come from faulty use of one of the scene modes. Needless to say, the picture quality is lower than the camera's price suggests it to be. But if you are happy with "average" looking pictures, and you are aiming more for simplicity, then you may still want to consider the 8-megapixel Kodak EasyShare M883.

Features

If you are not tech-savvy, but you still want some great features, then you may want to look at what this camera offers. It is simple, easy to use, and very user-friendly; however, it doesn't sacrifice sophistication for simplicity. This model takes 8-megapixel snapshots with an ISO range of up to 3200, plus a zoom range of 3x optical/5x digital. The ability to capture HD stills is even more lucrative, so now you can take favorite pictures to be displayed on an HDTV (dock sold separately). Although the picture quality is not as good as it should be, the Kodak EasyShare M883 comes with picture stabilization to cut down on motion blur and other artifacts. What makes this camera great for family gatherings is the Face Detection Technology, which recognizes up to 10 faces at a time and automatically adjusts the camera to accommodate. Finally, this model utilizes 16MB internal memory and supports SD/MMC/SDHC memory cards (not included).

Summary

Although the Kodak EasyShare M883 is satisfying for most entry-level consumers, overall it is somewhat of a disappointment when compared to other digital camera models. For the quality, the price is simply too much. If you are really picky about your cameras, then you definitely need to consider spending an extra $50 on a better camera. If you need something basic yet well-featured, then this model is good for you. Otherwise, we recommend that you shop around.

Pros

8-megapixel digital camera with 3x optical
Produces HD stills that are viewable on HDTVs (dock sold separately)
Quick and easy snapshots with multiple scene shooting modes

Cons

Picture quality is poor- Kodak veterans will be disappointed
Price is great for the features but too much for the quality