HP's Photosmart 720 digital camera offers high 3.3-megapixel resolution and 3x optical zoom in a compact frame. It doesn't quite slip into a pocket, but as it weighs only a little over half a pound, it's easily portable.
A simple layout of well-labeled buttons makes the camera easy to operate for the beginning user. The 1.6-inch LCD can be quickly turned on and off, saving on battery life.
The HP 720 is powered by four AA batteries (included), but they will soon need to be replaced. Consider the optional HP dock (the 720 ships with an adapter for the dock), which includes four rechargeable batteries, and every time you dock the camera to transfer photos, the batteries recharge.
We were pleased with the 720's image quality--pictures appeared detailed and sharp. The camera can also capture 30-second video clips--complete with audio--at 20 frames per second and at 320 by 240 resolution. One minor annoyance: the lens was loud and slow as we zoomed in and out during shooting.
With 16 MB of internal memory, the 720 can house 17 high-quality shots. There's a Secure Digital memory slot for expanding the storage capability, always a useful upgrade.
The affordable HP Photosmart 720 makes a great camera for users wanting to break into the digital-image world, and features enough performance to make the trip worthwhile, yet without so many bells and whistles as to make digital photography frustrating. --J. Curtis
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Light and fairly compact
- High image quality
Cons:
- Noisy zoom lens
- Useful dock costs extra
Product Description:
Get extraordinary snapshots and enlargements up to 11 x 14 inches with the easy-to-use HP Photosmart 720 digital camera with a direct printing capability. The camera enables 3.3MP total resolution and 12x total zoom - 3x optical and 4x digital zoom. Add audio to every photo and video clip. Use HP Instant Share to select where photos will go - with up to 14 destinations including e-mail addresses, printers and more.
HP PS720 3.3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom