Review 2 of 3
Price Paid:
$200.00
from Ritz Camera Summary: This is a private label deal for Ritz. Olympus sold it as the SuperZoom 3500. I''ve owned both. There are minor cosmetic differences, but functionally they are the same. There may be some improvements in the 120 over it''s older twin. The lens covers 35 to 120 mm. Most competitive cameras are 38 to xxx and the extra 3 mm does make a difference. Lens is pretty sharp for a zoom, and fairly fast (f/8.7) at the long end. Close focus is 2'' which gives very good macro at 100-120 mm.
The metering system is through the finder (TTF), The meter sees exactly the same scene you do. The meter has several zones (3 I think) and has a real spotmeter. The flash has very good range and coverage with little or no fall off in the corners at 35 mm. I think this is one of the improved areas over the 3500.
It is weatherproof, not too big (pants or jacket pocket), pretty rugged, and convenient to use. The LCD display on the camera top is easy to read and is backlighted in the dark.
The camera uses 2 CR-123A cells, so battery life is very good, and because of the extra battery power, the responses of the camera to your input are quick. This responsiveness, plus the size, weight, balance, and pretty good ergonomics makes the camera nicer to use than any other in its class. It is very easy to use one handed which I find comes in handy on travel. Strengths: Responsiveness, picture quality, very good macro, weatherproofing, size and weight, back lighted top LCD. Dual CR-123A cells. TTF metering and a real spot meter. Fast (for a P&S) at the long end. Weaknesses: I wish the 35 mm f/L was faster than f/4.5. The meter calls for flash for back light compensation too easily, a minor annoyance. Similar Products Used: Canon Z-115, Canon Z-135, Pentax IQZoom 140, Olympus Stylus 105, Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 80, Ricoh 500D. Customer Service: non-needed on the 120 or the 3500 my son now has.
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