For some photographers, a digital camera only can be labeled impressive when it has the newest, top-of-the-line features. For others, though, an impressive camera simply delivers a comprehensive list of good features at a great value. With a price of less than $200, Olympus has squeezed its FE-190 directly into the latter grouping.

The FE-190 is an ultra-thin model, weighing just a few ounces (0.7 oz.) and measuring less than three-fourths of an inch in thickness. As is becoming more common with ultra-thin digital cameras, the FE-190 does include a standard 3X optical zoom lens.

With 6 megapixels, the FE-190's resolution is above average compared to other models in this price range. You can make high-quality prints at sizes up to 8x10 or 11x14 inches with this unit. Image quality is good with the FE-190 most of the time, but photo quality suffers in low-light conditions.

Perhaps the Olympus FE-190's biggest drawback is in its shutter lag, which during our tests ranged from one-half second to almost 1.5 seconds, depending on shooting conditions. If you're planning to use this model to capture moving subjects, you will miss some photos. The FE-190's other response times are OK. You can shoot your first photo about 2 seconds after pressing the power button. Shot-to-shot delays are 2-3 seconds in most instances.

The 2.5-inch LCD screen is bright, and it's easy to see in almost all lighting conditions, which is good because it serves as the digital camera's only viewfinder. It is difficult at times to view the LCD in bright sunlight. The screen could be a little sharper, too.

In addition to giving beginning photographers an easy-to-use, point-and-shoot digital camera, Olympus has included some other very handy features for novices. First, the FE-190 has a built-in Help system, giving users access to tips about features they're currently using. Second, Olympus has included "one touch" buttons for providing quick access to commonly used features. Finally, the tutorial shooting guide will help beginning photographers deal with tricky lighting situations. Intermediate photographers won't find many manual-setting features, but you'll have a difficult time finding a model that's easier to use.

The Olympus FE-190 doesn't offer any high-end features, but it provides average to slightly above average features in nearly every category, making it a solid choice for beginning photographers. The sub-$200 price tag simply adds to the appeal for this model.


Pros: Good all-around feature list, great value, extremely easy to use
Cons: Image quality suffers in low light, shutter lag is a problem, no high-end features, LCD is only viewfinder and could be sharper

Warranty
1 year, limited