Casio Exilim Pro EX-FH25

The basics

This bridge-style camera blends a 10.1MP back-illuminated sensor with a 20x ultra wideangle zoom lens for a great compromise between affordability and DSLR-type functions. Features include image stabilisation, manual focus and exposure, and a 3in colour LCD.
The FH25 can also capture HD video at 720p and packs in ‘burst’ shooting rates of up to 40fps for stills and 1000fps for movies.

The good

The mix of compact design and pro-style features means the FH25 has its feet in two camps at once but this is a definitely a good compromise option. The 20x zoom lens is of high quality and the LCD is clear, crisp and bright.
In stills mode the potential for up to 40fps is spot-on for capturing fleeting moments before they disappear, while manual focus and exposure give you decent levels of control over image taking.

The bad

In video you’ll find that the higher the frame rate (anything from 120fps to 1,000fps is available) the lower the resolution of the image. This is particularly frustrating should you want to grab a still photo from a video sequence, as it won’t be of very good quality. Using 4x AA batteries for power means there is a tendency for these to drain very quickly.

The bottom line

If you’re on a tight budget but still want the functionality of a DSLR in a compact body the FH25 is a strong candidate – and one that benefits from being easy to use, too.