Compact Camera from Rollei Launches, but Users Shouldn't Anticipate a New Rollei 35 AF Model
The Rollei Powerflex X8, a compact digital camera bearing the Rollei name, has been released as an affordable option for photography enthusiasts. While it may capitalise on the brand's historical reputation, it seems to be more of a generic product rather than a true successor to the legacy of Rollei's heritage.
The Powerflex X8 boasts a range of modern features, such as dual lenses, an 8x optical zoom, and the ability to record 5K video at 25p, although 4K maxes out at 30p and 1080p at 60p. It also sports a 3.6-inch IPS touchscreen LCD, which appears to be fixed in place, and a built-in flash positioned on the front of the lens.
One of the standout figures associated with the Powerflex X8 is Mike Harris, a photographer and writer who has contributed to various publications like Digital Camera, PhotoPlus: The Canon Magazine, Practical Photography, Digital Photographer, iMore, and TechRadar. Harris' expertise spans a variety of photography subjects, including portraits, landscapes, abstracts, architecture, wildlife, and fast things going around race tracks. He also serves as a tutor for techniques on cameras, lenses, tripods, filters, and more.
The Powerflex X8 is equipped with a single card slot that accepts class 10 U3 microSD cards of up to 64GB, and it features a USB-C port. However, it does not mention RAW shooting capabilities.
In terms of design, the Powerflex X8 is built around a 1/2.8-inch CMOS sensor, making it a digital, fixed-lens camera. The aperture of its lens varies from f/1.8 to f/2.6. The camera also comes with a battery, various cables, a wrist strap, neck strap, and a cleaning cloth in the purchase.
While the Rollei Powerflex X8 offers modern features at an affordable price, it does not share the same historical significance or quality standards as the classic Rollei cameras, such as the Mint Rollei 35AF. The Rollei 35 series, known for their compact size, mechanical precision, and high-quality optics, were among the first compact 35mm film cameras to offer a full range of manual controls. The Mint Rollei 35AF, in particular, introduced autofocus to the lineup, making it more accessible to casual users while maintaining the high standards of image quality expected from Rollei.
In conclusion, the Rollei Powerflex X8 is a budget-friendly digital camera with modern features, offering a practical choice for photography enthusiasts. However, it does not carry the same historical weight or quality standards as the Mint Rollei 35AF, which is celebrated for its mechanical excellence and optical quality. The Powerflex X8 is currently available for purchase at Photospecialist for £251.99.
- Mike Harris, a renowned photographer and writer, has reviewed the Rollei Powerflex X8, sharing his insights on various technology websites like Digital Camera, PhotoPlus, and TechRadar.
- The Powerflex X8's camera lens supports aperture variations from f/1.8 to f/2.6, allowing for greater control over depth of field and creative techniques.
- For those seeking to capture wildlife or landscapes, the Powerflex X8 features an 8x optical zoom, which can be further enhanced with digital zoom, providing a versatile focal length.
- The Powerflex X8's video capabilities extend up to 5K resolution at 25p, but for 4K, the highest frame rate is limited to 30p, and 1080p can be recorded at 60p for smoother motion.
- To stabilize the camera while shooting, a tripod can be employed, enhancing the overall steadiness of the shot and allowing for long exposure times when using cameras with slower shutter speeds.
- The Rollei Powerflex X8's sensor measures 1/2.8-inch, making it a compact digital, fixed-lens camera, worthy of photography gadget enthusiasts on a budget.
- The Powerflex X8 combines modern technology with traditional photography techniques, offering an entry point into both realms, especially for those interested in learning about cameras, lenses, or other photography equipment.
- In a market filled with smartphones and compact cameras, the Powerflex X8 aims to offer an affordable solution without compromising on key features, such as 8x optical zoom and 5K video recording.
- While the Powerflex X8 presents a contemporary approach to photography, it remains a far cry from the legacy of classic Rollei cameras like the Mint Rollei 35AF, known for their mechanical precision, high-quality optics, and historical significance in the field of photography.
