The Olympus FE-230 digital camera is one of the thinnest ultra-compact models available, at 0.65 inches in thickness. With a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $179, the FE-230 is also one of the least expensive ultra-compact models available. Unfortunately, the most important feature in a digital camera -- image quality -- is an area where the FE-230 comes up short.

The FE-230 features a 3X optical zoom lens, which is standard for a budget-priced digital camera. This model's 7.1 megapixels of resolution are good for a model at this price point. Normally, 7.1 megapixels would be enough for prints up to 11X14 inches, but the FE-230's inconsistent image quality often isn't quite good enough for such large prints, as you'll likely encounter some problems with image softness and noise.

This model's image quality is good in outdoor situations with adequate lighting, but overall, you just can't be sure what type of image quality you'll receive from shot to shot. Don't expect to make prints larger than 5X7 or 4X6 inches in most cases.

The FE-230 does include a digital image stabilization (IS) feature, but it's slightly less effective than optical IS. The digital IS simply bumps up the ISO setting, which reduces blur, but which also usually causes increased noise in your prints. You definitely won't want to make large prints of photos taken in low-light conditions because of the noise problems.

The FE-230 has a 2.5-inch liquid crystal display (LCD), which is pretty bright and sharp in all lighting conditions. Unfortunately, the FE-230 has no other option for a viewfinder. Although the LCD works well as the viewfinder, it would be nice to have another option for certain photos. The other problem with being forced to use the LCD to frame all photos is that you'll drain the battery fairly quickly.

We found that response times are slightly below average for the FE-230, at least when compared to other ultra-compact models; its response times, however, compare favorably to other models in the sub-$200 price range. Our testing revealed that you can shoot your first photo 2-3 seconds after you press the power button. Shutter lag averages about one-half second, although when shooting outdoors, you probably won't notice any shutter lag. Shot-to-shot delays range from 1.5-4 seconds, with longer delays occurring when using the flash over a distance.

Olympus offers an underwater housing for the FE-230 for an extra cost, which allows you to take photos up to 130 feet underwater. Such an add-on accessory is somewhat unusual for budget-priced, beginner digital camera.

On the plus side, you won't find many ultra-compact models that are easier to use than the FE-230. Because this camera is so thin, you'll probably want to try the FE-230 before you buy, just to make certain that you can hold and use it comfortably. Unfortunately, the image-quality problems with the FE-230 are tough to ignore. If you want an easy-to-use model at a low price and don't plan to make large prints, though, the FE-230 is worth considering.


Pros: Low price, very thin camera body, extremely easy to use, LCD is sharp and bright
Cons: Image quality is inconsistent, can't make large prints some of the time, no optical viewfinder, response times only average

Warranty
1 year, limited