I mentioned "warts" earlier in the article, and there
are a few...Some of them are similar problems that I faced with the Kodak DC215.
First off, the serial interface for uploading pictures. It's just a bad idea. I
know it's inexpensive to implement, but uploading BEST quality 1024x768 pictures
via serial is a 45second-per-picture affair. After seeing Largan's other "new"
camera, the Largan Chameleon, with a USB interface, I had hoped to see one on
this camera. Unlike Largan's other cameras, this one does use standard Compact
Flash memory (a 4meg card is included). Luckily, I already had a USB Compact
Flash card reader, as the Kodak DC-215 also only supports serial interface
uploads. For those who lack patience, consider the extra $30 or so expense for a
USB CF Card reader, when you look at this camera. Like nearly all digital
cameras, the Largan is no exception in it's appetite for AA batteries. Although
it would have been very nice to see NiMH rechargeables, and the AC adaptor
oncluded with this camera, most cameras in the low end price ranges include
these amenities. Another favorite feature that's missing here, is an LCD
preview/viewfinder. Part of the magic of digital cameras, is the ability to
trashcan images on the fly. It's the main advantage in my eyes that digital
cameras have over film cameras. Develop a few 36 exposure rolls of film where
all but 3 pictures are crap, and you'll understand the appeal.
The deciding factor for me, as to whether or not the
above caveats matter, is of course price. Purchased directly from Largan, the
Easy 800 retails for $199, putting it into the low end territory of cameras that
are better deals for the money. A quick run over to
Egghead.com shows auction
sales going on on lots of these cameras for as low as $119 dollars as I write
this. At that price, the above "warts" really don't matter at all. With
megapixel cameras expected to hit the $200 range solid this holiday season, this
has been a hard review to call. There's really nothing basic to the Largan Easy
800 I can say that's bad, not at all. You should be able to find the camera for
sale significantly cheaper than the MSRP price with a little online shopping. I
would have to say that "if" you can find the camera below $150 U.S., it's
heartily recommended as good value for your hard-earned buck. Above that mark,
and you're approaching into more competitive territory, where you may be able to
make a better deal.
Pros:
Cost. "Can" be found quite cheap, if you look hard.
Exposure compensation and Macro mode settings add to the cameras usefulness.
Cons:
Eats batteries for breakfast, like most digital cameras do
Only 4Meg Compact Flash card.
Rating: 7/10