I've owned one of these cameras for a few years now. I bought it quite soon after it was released as it had the highest megapixels and spec for a compact digital camera.

Even now, a few years later its spec is comparable to most other cameras.

Build Quality.

If you are looking for a camera to 'lug around', this is it. It's got a metal case which can take bumps and scuffs over time without any problem. Everything about it has a solid feel. It's not the lightest, but is still absolutely fine to pop in your pocket and not notice really. The lens is well protected and the LCD screen isn't prone to scratches or marks.

User interface.

This is where is takes a little getting used to. You don't have a touch screen, but you do get a row of horizontal and vertical buttons on the back. These are used to select the various functions and settings (the buttons line up to what is being displayed on the screen above them or to the side). It's hard to describe so take a look at a google image to look for yourself.

The zoom function is via a small horizontal switch that is ideally placed for your thumb and works well.

The photo button on top allows you to 'squeeze' to focus and then press down to take, which also works well but it's close to the power button and so anyone using this camera for the first time normal switches it off rather than take a photo! bear that in mind when asking someone to take a photo of you.

Quality of photo and performance.

In good light conditions and when using a tripod in manual mode without a flash on non-moving scenes the quality of colour and depth is excellent. It doesn't perform as well in low light and when you have to use the flash it takes all the depth and depth of colour from a scene. It depends on what you are shooting, family photos or other general use will be fine but for anything else you might get frustrated with the results. This is the case with all compact cameras like this though to be honest; it's not a specific criticism of the Samsung.

The flash pop ups when in auto mode and the light is low, or you can set things up manually.

Battery life is also excellent, which is built in but can be removed. I charge it via a usb lead which is supplied.

Features.

It has a wealth of features and you can control the camera in manual mode to change just about everything. It also has a macro mode for close ups of things like flowers etc. The mode will be useful for anyone selling small items for ebay etc where you need close up detail. Anyone looking to take professional looking photo's in good light or alternatively in lower light conditions using a tripod and non moving subjects will be pleased with the results.

It has many other decent features so shoot in most conditions and lots of settings for those who want more than just point-and-shoot, which is does equally well.

Overall, a decent choice of camera that maybe doesn't perform as well as I'd hoped in low light. I have been happy with it though and until it gives up the ghost, I'm sticking with it.