Samsung DualView TL225 Review - It'll Have You Seeing Double

Samsung TL225 DualView  Specs

Image Processor

  • Image Sensor: CCD
  • Number of Image Sensor Pixels: 12,400,000

Lens Features

  • Camera Type: Digital Compact
  • Optical Zoom: 4.6 X
  • Digital Zoom: 5 X
  • Max Aperture: 3.5 1/f

Other Features

  • LCD Screen Size: 3.5 in
  • Image Stabilization: Optical
  • Maximum Video Capture Resolution: 1280 x 720
  • Flash: Built-in Flash
  • Interface Connection: A/V (RCA Composite), HDMI, USB

Storage

  • Memory Type: Internal Memory, microSD Card, microSDHC Card
  • Installed Memory: 55 MB

Dimensions

  • normalized-Installed Memory: 55MB
  • normalized-Weight: 5.84 oz.
  • Height: 2.35 in.
  • Width: 3.93 in.
  • Depth: 0.73 cm.
  • Weight: 5.84 oz.

Conclusion

As camera makers rush to try and come up with the next big thing to move camera volume during these economic hardships, Samsung has engineered a new idea that will either turn on new customers or have them scratching their heads.

My first thoughts about the TL225 were a bit cynical to say the least. I opened up the package and saw that there was no printed out manual (relying on a CD-ROM once again), strike one, and started to inspect the camera body and the rest of the contents. I played with the camera and wondered how the touch screen would fare, then I opened the trap door on the bottom, squinting in search of a memory card slot, until I realized it takes the same kind my Blackberry takes (MicroSD) - another strike.

The DualView proved to be a great idea, and is not gimmicky; it provides people who have to rely on others to take the picture the freedom to shoot themselves without help. This camera is for the independent photographer who prizes self-reliance, for the mother who wants to keep the attention of their infant child staring up at the screen, and for that matter, any person who wants a stylish and small camera that makes and processes decent images.

The cost might be a little bit high with a retail price of $350, and may turn off more than a few consumers. But if you like what you read, I'd suggest you take a shot at the TL225. I enjoyed shooting with it and found very little wrong with it once I got past my cynicism. The Samsung TL225 really is a cool camera. It works exactly as it is marketed, and it's worth trying out.

Pros:

  • Unique DualView LCD technology
  • Small and stylish form factor
  • Haptic touch screen
  • Good image quality
  • Sharp lens

Cons:

  • ISO performance not great
  • Uses MicroSD (Really?)
  • Video quality subpar
  • Slow image buffer
Al.O.

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