Olympus SP-500 UZ Ultra Zoom Reviews and Comparisons
DigiCamReview: (Above Average) The Olympus SP-500 Ultra Zoom is an appealing digital camera, it feels very comfortable in hand, and produces very pleasing (saturated) colors, with generally low noise. The screen and electronic viewfinder let the camera down due to the screens low resolution, and the electronic viewfinders small size. This camera is easy to use (in auto mode) especially with the built in help guide, although it offers a mixed bag with regards to camera speed. The camera offers good battery life, with very good controls and good build quality. I would recommend this camera to people who want greater creative control that normal, however I’d recommend trying out the camera and comparing with other brands before purchase, especially those with image stabilization. If you can live without image stabilization, and aren’t interested in recording videos then this is well worth considering, especially if you find the vibrant colors, numerous features, and ease of use, appealing.
LetsGoDigital meanwhile concludes that “by the end of the trial period, the Olympus SP-500 UZ had made a mixed impression on me. The image quality and functionality was convincing enough, but it is just a fact that the specifications of contemporary Megazoom cameras are more extensive than ever. The Olympus SP-500 UZ misses several features found elsewhere, the worst being the lack of an optical image stabilizer. For the time being, the Olympus SP-500 UZ is an all-round digital camera, and if it is priced considerably lower that its competitors, it will be a perfect find for an experienced photographer in search of a second camera or a compact version of their digital reflex camera. Starters will be less convinced and will probably look around to see what the competition has to offer.”