Samsung DV300F

CONDITION: 8.3/10

THE CAMERA IS IN VERY GOOD COSMETIC CONDITION WITH NORMAL SIGNS OF CAREFUL USE. THE BLACK AND DARK NAVY BODY SHOWS MINIMAL WEAR AND REMAINS ATTRACTIVE. BOTH THE FRONT 1.5-INCH LCD AND REAR 2.7-INCH SCREEN HAVE SLIGHT SCRATCHING THAT IS NOT VISIBLE DURING NORMAL USE OR OPERATION. ALL FUNCTIONS WORK CORRECTLY AND THE CAMERA IS FULLY OPERATIONAL.

The Samsung DV300F arrived in 2012 as part of Samsung's aggressive push into Wi-Fi-enabled compacts, combining dual-screen functionality with genuine wireless connectivity that went beyond simple gimmickry. It featured a 5× optical zoom range, 16-megapixel CCD image sensor, and ISO range of 80-3200, along with built-in Wi-Fi that could backup photos automatically and use smartphones as remote viewfinders.

THE PICS

THE LOOKS

In black with dark navy accents, the DV300F has a subdued, professional look compared to the bolder red and blue variants. The camera measured 95.2 × 56.5 × 18.3mm and weighed only 120g, with a smooth brushed metal faceplate and textured faux-leather rear. The front-facing 1.5-inch LCD gave it its distinctive DualView identity for self-portraits and group shots.

THE SPECS

The DV300F combined a wide-angle 5× optical zoom lens with a bright f/2.5 maximum aperture, a specification reviewers noted was relatively uncommon for budget compacts. The 16-megapixel CCD sensor paired with dual image stabilization and Smart Auto processing handled everyday shooting duties. The camera featured 720p HD video recording and a generous range of digital filter effects that could be applied to both movies and still images.

DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS

• Smartphone integration: The DV300F could use Android and iOS devices as a remote viewfinder, shutter release, and exposure controller, with the camera serving as its own portable hotspot.
• Automatic backup functionality: Could send images to your home computer via Wi-Fi upon arrival, or to cloud services like Microsoft's SkyDrive and Samsung's AllShare Play.
• Built-in log-on browser: Enabled use with public Wi-Fi hotspots requiring authentication, addressing real-world connectivity challenges.

THE VERDICT

The DV300F delivered advanced Wi-Fi connectivity and plenty of fun features at a price that undercut most direct competition. The combination of dual screens, smartphone integration, and automatic backup made it compelling for users who wanted more capability than their phone offered.