Fujifilm FinePix XP10

The rugged Fujifilm FinePix XP10 is a "four proof" camera, which means it is waterproof, shockproof, freeze-proof and dust-proof. According to professionals and users alike, the little camera does at least live up to the waterproof and shockproof standards. As for dust, reviewer "Matt S.K." on Amazon.com says "sand is its mortal enemy," noting that sand got stuck in his camera's shutter and power buttons, "rendering it useless." There are no reports from users as to the XP10's ability to withstand low temperatures, but the manufacturer rates it to minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Reviewers praise the stylish design of the XP10, which is available in bright pink, green and blue and in more traditional silver and black. A plastic membrane covers the buttons on the back of the phone, which some users say makes it a little difficult to differentiate the various controls. Reviewers do like the dedicated video button for starting and stopping movie capture. Other design problems mentioned by reviewers are non-standard cable connections and a difficult-to-open battery and SD card cover.

Compared to the Fujifilm Z33 WP waterproof camera released last year, the XP10 offers improved zoom (5x on the XP10 versus 3x on the Z33) and higher-resolution video capability. As a trade-off, the XP10 has a higher price tag (about $60 more) than the Z33. Consumers weighing in on picture quality give the XP10 high marks for outdoor and underwater photos. There are some complaints about photo quality in low light and indoor settings. Renaud Labracherie at DigitalVersus.com says, "In wide-angle mode, lens distortion is marked and remains uncorrected. In telephoto mode, the picture is much more consistent." As for video performance, Labracherie says the 720-pixel video is "nothing to write home about." Several users complain about low volume on movies.

DigitalVersus.com's Renaud Labracherie provides sample photos and comments on performance in his brief review. Steve Morgenstern at DigitalCameraInfo.com gives a detailed overview of the main camera features and functions, based on a preproduction model. Consumer reviews are trickling in on Amazon.com.