5-megapixel digital cameras: latest models offer bargains for beginners and advanced features for enthusiasts.(Concord 5340z, HP Photosmart M417, Konica Minolta Dimage Z20, Konica Minolta Dimage Z5, Olympus C-5500 SportZoom)(Product/Service Evaluation)

Macworld, July, 2005 by Ellis, Robert

As digital camera prices fall, a 5-megapixel digital camera is becoming a smart entry-level choice for point-and-shooters who want a camera they can grow into, as well as for enthusiasts on a budget. I evaluated a new batch of models in this arena: the Concord 5340z, the Hewlett-Packard Photosmart M417, the Konica Minolta Dimage Z5 and Z20, and the Olympus C-5500 SportZoom. (I also reviewed four other 5-megapixel cameras earlier this year. See "5-Megapixel Cameras Compared.") While this group presents a wide variety of features and quality, the Olympus C-5500 and the two Konica Minolta models stand apart from the crowd.

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Note that none of these cameras comes with adequate memory or...

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