If you’re looking for big features on a compact point-and-shoot, the Samsung SL820 should prove an excellent choice. With a 12.2 megapixel sensor, 5X zoom, a large 3-inch LCD and 720p video recording, it’s fitted with plenty of capabilities at a largely affordable price.
Physically, the SL820 is a bit too bulky and hefty to our liking. It still manages to slip into a pocket with no problem, though, despite coming in slightly larger than a typical compact camera. It’s also because of the size that it’s able to fit in a large 230,000-pixel display panel, with very high contrast ratio, and a wide 5X zoom lens.
Controls are largely straightforward and easy to manage, although the zoom dial could have been better designed. Performance is great, with a very helpful UI and very fast operation. Overall, the outside package looks great, with the extra mass not proving all that much of a bother.
Image quality is particularly impressive, with very little noise up to ISO 800. It manages vibrant colors and very sharp lines, with little fiddling required on your part. The camcorder manages terrific 720p videos at 30fps, with a very useful zoom feature. Built-in video features are not as impressive, though, but the quality more than makes up for it.
Priced at $280, the Samsung SL820 is a top performer at this price range, with possible contention only coming from the equally good (though, differently-featured) Canon PowerShot SD780 IS. It’s a toss-up between the two and you’d be wise to put both in consideration when shopping for a point-and-shoot under $300.
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