Kodak ultrasupermegazoom
A 24X zoom lens wins the Kodak Z980 IS the specsmanship prize.
Lori Grunin Senior Editor / Advice
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
Expertise Photography | PCs and laptops | Gaming and gaming accessories
The 12-megapixel EasyShare Z980 IS has a24X 26mm-629mm-equivalent lens,with optical image stabilization that Kodak says delivers up to five stops of shake prevention. It'll need it.
Kodak's attempting to provide a more dSLR-like experience with an optional vertical grip. It also has a hot shoe, and supports 720p HD movie capture. The company's Smart Capture technology turns it back into a point-and-shoot by automatically correcting your photos.
One of the biggest drawbacks to megazooms is they tend to be really slow. Kodak says it's not, but that's what they all say. We'll have to test it to find out. It's slated to ship this spring for $399.95.