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| Toshiba PDR-M60 |
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Hardware Reviews March 2001 • Vol.4 Issue 3 |
Toshiba PDR-M60 | ||
 The PDR-M60 from Toshiba isn't without a few limitations and problems, including a skimpy amount of bundled memory, a lack of manual control options, and the omission of an uncompressed shooting mode. But don't let these slight blemishes distract you from strongly considering this digital camera, especially if you're a newer user. This digital camera still has a lot to offer. Toshiba makes using the PDR-M60 exceptionally easy. That's primarily due to the fact that its manual controls are essentially limited to selecting the camera speed (ISO 100 to ISO 400), adjusting exposure and white balance settings (auto, outdoor, incandescent, fluorescent light 1, and fluorescent 2), and selecting a quality setting and flash mode. Combined, this doesn't leave much room for creativity, but it does make using the camera a simple matter of inserting four AA alkaline batteries and the bundled 4MB SmartMedia memory card (storing just three to 55 shots). The camera's resolutions are limited to 1,792 x 1,200 pixels and 896 x 600 pixels. Images we captured were slightly dark and not as sharp as we expected. However, the images did feature accurate colors and good overall clarity and are suitable for good 5- x 7-inch prints and Web uses. The camera compensates for any memory and image shortcomings with its shot-to-shot speed, which is about a second and is very good for a model in this price range. The camera's f2.8-to-f3.2 lens (equivalent to a 38mm-to-86mm lens on a 35mm camera) has 2.3X optical zoom and can focus on objects as close as 2 inches in macro mode. There's also 2X digital zoom and a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection to transfer shots. Managing the camera is extremely easy thanks to a four-way jog button and mode dial. In addition, the camera is well organized and designed. However, the 1.8-inch LCD (liquid-crystal display) is a bit too far to the left, as are the optical viewfinder and lens, so take care not to cover the lens with your fingers. More positive is the built-in lens cover, oversized right-hand grip, slanted mode dial, and good position of the zoom lever. At about $375 (ESP), the PDR-M60 is easy on the checkbook, and it won't take long for users to learn how to operate it. Its manual options are few, but the camera's speed, ease of use, and image quality are well worth checking out. by Blaine Flamig
$375 Toshiba (800) 550-8674 (949) 583-3000 http://www.toshiba.com
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