The 3.1-megapixel Kodak DX3900 offers excellent images, the ease of use of a point-and-click digital camera, and a number of interesting features that help it stand out from the crowd.
The camera's 3.1-megapixel resolution captures images at 2,160 x 1,440 pixels, while lower-resolution modes are offered at 1,800 x 1,200; 1,536 x 1,024; and 1,008 x 720. Picture quality is excellent as the camera picks out the most detail possible, while color reproduction is spot on. The automatic white balance is also very good, helping correct picture color no matter what the lighting conditions.
The camera will happily work automatically; however, a range of manual controls lets you specify exposure, white balance, focusing, ISO speed, and shutter speed. The LCD menu system is well designed, clear, and very easy to use, even though the display itself is a bit on the small side. A 2x optical zoom--with additional 3x digital zoom--is provided and works quickly with a snappy auto focus.
Part of the EasyShare lineup, the camera is compatible with the separately available docking station, which not only provides a permanent USB connection with your PC, but also charges the camera's batteries that are supplied with the pack. The software ties in with the docking tray, letting you transfer images with the press of a button. When connected, the camera also appears in the My Computer window as a new drive, giving you direct access to the memory card. The dock isn't an essential purchase, as you can sync the camera with your PC without it, but it does come in handy and is well worth considering.
The only annoyance with the camera is the tiny 8 MB memory card supplied, which simply isn't big enough for this camera's megapixel capacity. This size of card only allows you to store 7 images at top quality or 15 with a higher compression mode. Fortunately, buying additional memory is not going to set you back too much more. Otherwise, the only missing feature is video-capture, which is offered by many competing cameras. However, there's no doubt about the excellent image quality and the DX3900's ease of use. --Nick Baxter
Product Description:
Kodak EasyShare DX3900 is the high-performance camera for the ultimate in creative freedom with the performance you want, the quality you demand and the simplicity of EasyShare. Being behind the camera is second nature. You love the creativity, the chance to capture the shot you'll be proud to print and share. The EasyShare DX3900 is for you. Thanks to 3.1-megapixel resolution, you'll get excellent picture quality for prints up to 11" x 14" (28cm x 36cm). Its 6x zoom (2x optical and 3x digital) lets you get closer to your subject for crisp detail. Set your own color mode, ISO, and lighting exposure settings to get your perfect picture. The DX3900 comes with a CompactFlash memory card to keep you shooting longer. And with the DX3900's optional telephoto, wide-angle, and close-up lens attachments, you can extend your creativity.If you use the Kodak EasyShare Camera Dock, sharing is just as easy. Simply place your DX3900 in the dock, touch the button, and pictures are automatically sent to your computer ready for e-mailing and printing. The Camera Dock will also recharge your camera's battery pack, so you'll always be ready to take more pictures.
Kodak EasyShare DX3900 3MP Digital Camera w/ 2x Optical Zoom