Labs

When we last reviewed an HP digital camera we criticised it for its bulk, poor image quality and basic features. This latest model fares better.

Image Quality

Amongst the high standards set by the other cameras on test, the HP's image quality was below average. Its main failing was the digital zoom, which produced much grainier pictures than any of the others. But the automatic mode handled even fluorescent lighting fine, and

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outdoors shots were OK too, with reasonably accurate flesh tones. The flash was bright enough to pick out the texture of the black dog's coat, which is a challenging test.

Features

The inclusion of video and burst modes saves this camera from the sin bin, but it still lacks many of the features that we'd expect. At least it can deal with different lighting situations and has an adjustable (ISO) sensitivity setting. An additional slot for an SD card is provided, but unusually, it's not compatible with MMC.

Design

All of the HP's main features are available as buttons, and while an image is being stored you have a second or two to delete it if necessary. The menu, should you need it, is accessed using three large, flat buttons. This makes life very easy. The camera is bulky, but at least its rubber grip makes it feel solid rather than hollow.

Overall

Don't be disappointed if this turns up in your stocking but, if there's still time, ask Santa for the Fujifilm FinePix F401 instead.