The Fuji Finepix F480 is one of the few ultra-compact cameras to feature a wide-angle lens. The functionally of the F480 is extremely basic, even when comparing to other point-and-shoot models. Notably missing features are metering modes, custom white-balance, automatic flash with red-eye reduction. Even ISO control and exposure compensation are only available in the Manual scene mode, which is not manual at all.

 

The Finepix F480 finds itself in a lonely spot among Fuji's digital camera lineup. Although it has an F-series designation, it do not use the outstanding sensor of the 2-digit F-series Fuji Finepix cameras, not does it share those cameras more-comprehensive controls. It does share a physical resemblance though and its build quality seems good. Performance and quality was closer to the 3-digit A-series Finepix cameras, making it rather average in those respects. With a recent price of $120 USD on Amazon, this is a very affordable camera.

 

The competition from ultra-compact cameras with wide-angle lenses is thin but there is the pricier Canon Powershot SD800 IS is worth its price due to its outstanding performance. The Panasonic has its FX-series too, including the FX30 reviewed here, but their image quality lags even behind the F480, although they have more features. Forgetting about the wide-angle lens, the higher grade Fuji Finepix F40fd is an even better choice.

 

 

For a deeper look at the Fuji Finepix F480, see our full-length review here.