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SAMSUNG'S FLAGSHIP 7- megapixel, 3x optical zoom V700 is a step-up from previous models in more than just megapixels. A well-rounded feature set, surprisingly good image quality and competitive price puts the V700 on solid footing among other affordable 7-megapixel models.
Compact and nicely designed, the V700 is easy to carry around everywhere you go--it even comes with a case. You can pick your favorite color from noble wine, indigo blue and silver.
A large, 2" LCD is usable under most conditions, although it doesn't gain up (get brighter) in low light, so it's difficult to see what you're shooting; the tiny optical viewfinder isn't a great alternative. With a few exceptions, the control layout is logically arranged, but don't be fooled by what looks like a zoom lever on the bevel of the shutter button. It's a jog dial, which allows you to adjust aperture and shutter speed for the camera's manual exposure modes; the zoom lever is on the back of the camera.
In addition to manual exposure, the V700 offers a number of less obvious features such as metering options, eight resolution and three quality settings, exposure and focus bracketing and much more. On the other hand, the V700 is snapshooter-friendly with a nice selection of scene modes.
Although the camera offers a high-resolution movie setting at 30 frames per second, the AVI file (MPEG-4) may be problematic for Mac users not on Tiger. However, the printed manual points you to a possible solution via third-party software.
Quick startup time and good battery life are two strong points of performance. However, the noticeable shutter lag and continuous shooting speed are nothing to write home about.
The V700 did well in test shots, with accurate exposure. Its color rendition and macro mode produced nicely detailed images. While there was minimal purple fringing, the camera produced an above-average frequency of image noise.
Still, the V700 is a worthy competitor in the ever-growing realm of moderately priced 7-megapixel cameras.
-THEANO NIKITAS
Digimax V700: 
Samsung | www.samsungcamerausa.com | 866-344-4629 | $400
Pros: Affordable, a balance of snapshooter and advanced features, good image quality, nice design, vibration reduction for movie mode.
Cons: Mixed performance, AVI movies can be problematic for Macs, higher than average image noise.
Requires: G3 or better, built-in USB port, OS 9.2 or OS X; DivX for movie clips
macHOME recommends: High-capacity SD card
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