Fuji refreshes rugged waterproof and superzoom cameras
posted Thursday, January 15, 2015 at 1:01 AM EDT
Alongside today's other Fujifilm announcements, which included the updated X-A2, XQ2 and a pair of revised X-mount lenses, Fuji has also refreshed a trio of fixed-lens cameras, including a rugged, waterproof model.
The new Fujifilm XP80 serves as the replacement for the XP70 introduced last year, and gets beefed up a bit in the ruggedness department. The XP80 is waterproof to 50ft. (15m), shockproof from 5.8ft (1.75m), freeze proof to 14 degrees F (-10 degrees C) and all-around dustproof. This one-ups the XP70's capabilities, with waterproofing improved by 17ft./5m and the shockproof height by 0.8ft. (0.25m).
Most of the other technical specifications remain the same as the previous model, however Wi-Fi connectivity becomes a little more robust with the inclusion of remote shooting capabilities thanks to Fujifilm’s Camera Remote app.
For those looking for some major zoom range in a lightweight package, Fuji has also refreshed their budget-friendly superzoom models, the Fujifilm S9900W and S9800. Largely similar to last year's models, the S9400W and S9200, respectively, the two models retain the high-powered 50x optical zoom lens, 5-axis IS system and 16.2-megapizel sensor.
Both models, however, do get more built-in special effects filters and a vastly improved EVF that's bumped from a modest 201,000-dot resolution up to 920,000 dots. The S9400W, in addition to the improved wireless connectivity with remote shooting, is offered in red and white body colors as well as black. The black finish is updated slightly with a matte-like, lightly-textured finish as opposed to smooth matte black on the predecessor.
The S9200, as the lack of a "W" in the model name indicates, does not feature built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and is offered at a slightly lower pricepoint. This model is also offered in black, red and white colors.
The Fujifilm FinePix XP80 begins shipping March of 2015 for a suggested list price of US$229.95 and will be available in Blue, Yellow, and Graphite color options.
The Fuji FinePix S9900W and S9800 will be available in the US market from March 2015, priced at US$349.95 and $329.95, respectively.
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