Hey folks, Valkor here. The people at Casio know how to make a fine camera and their Exilim line is quite impressive. But it doesn’t always work out that way. Last year I had the chance to review the Z-1000 and I wasn’t impressed by it. So when I was able to get my hands on the EX Z-1050 that downward spiral continues. Read on.
The Z-1050 isn’t too much different than it’s Z-1000 brother. It’s small, thin (but not as thin as the z-1000) and fits in your pocket without taking up too much space. Outside Aesthetics you have your very large 2.6” view screen, at the top you have your power button, zoom switch. In the back you have your display options such as your Menu, Best Shot (For instant access to the Best Shot menu rather than pressing menu and finding it that way), on the right you have the USB port and on the bottom you have your battery and SD card slot. It’s all a very simple, very neat package that isn’t at all confusing. I’m talking right out the box you will be ready to take pics.
But that’s where the positives start and the negatives begin. The EX Z-1050 simply does not take good pics. The pics I always took came out too blurry and this is in ten meg mode with the anti shake turned on. And even with the Best Shot option I still couldn't get a decent pic. And don’t get me started on night shots. I was able to use the camera during the Laura Cheadle concert and was unable to get one decent shot. And the best pic I was able to take was in 5 meg mode and that was just decent.
What I do love about the Z-1050 is its battery charging ability. Rather than plugging it in camera and all, now we just take the battery out and place it in the charger. Also I still enjoy Best Shot and its 35 templates, too bad it doesn’t go well with this camera.
Overall folks, I would say, until Casio can get this line right, stand clear of the Z-line. And always stick with TOV as we’ll be keeping our eye on this prize. I know it can be better because we’ve tested some of their best and know what their capable of. The EX Z-1050 retails for $249 which is pretty good price, but you don’t get a lot of bang for your buck.