Casio Exilim EX-S2 2MP Digital Camera

• 2-megapixel sensor creates 1,600 x 1,200 images for sharp prints at sizes up to 8 x 10 inches
• 4x digital zoom autofocus lens
• Includes 12 MB of built-in memory--also expandable via Secure Digital memory cards
• Connects with PCs and Macs via USB port
• Powered by rechargeable lithium ion batter (included)

And Casio packs what it can into the tiny frame. The camera captures 2-megapixel still images and AVI movies (without sound) at 320 by 240 pixels. Its 1.6-inch TFT LCD is bright enough to use for framing shots and viewing captured images in daylight. And the built-in flash carries about six feet--some indoor images taken farther than that from our subjects appeared a little dark.

But, otherwise, images proved to be bright and crisp, with rich and realistic colors. Outdoor images were as good as much larger and more expensive cameras, while indoor shots within the EX-S2's flash range were sharp enough to print out.

The tiny docking station that ships with the camera recharges the battery and provides a link to your PC (you can't connect the camera to your computer without going through it). The EX-S2 includes 12 MB of internal memory that can be expanded by purchasing an optional Secure Digital memory card.

Of course, the small size does constrain the camera features. There's no optical zoom on the EX-S2--only a 4x digital zoom instead of a preferred optical zoom. And the 2-megapixel limit is best for snapshots and medium-quality enlargements up to 8 x 10.

But if it's portability and ease of use that you want from your camera, you won't find many that will fit as snugly in a pocket or around your wrist than this miniscule yet still powerful device. --J. Curtis

Pros:

• Extremely tiny and lightweight
• High-quality images
• Good features for its size.

Cons:

• No optical zoom
• Only 2-megapixel resolution