Design & Layout

The Fujifilm FinePix S2000 HD and Kodak EasyShare Z1015 IS have the same SLR-inspired body shape, but a differing opinion on control placement. Both cameras have lots of on-camera buttons, but the Fuji keeps a more traditional placement and layout while the Kodak seems to gather its design from televisions. The Z1015’s buttons look aesthetically pleasing, but are harder to push because of their flattened physique and odd placement.

Fujifilm S2000 HD	Kodak Z1015 IS

The Kodak Z1015 does make an attempt to mimic SLR-like controls with its control dial to the left of the viewfinder. The dial can be pushed inward to lock and unlock settings such as ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and exposure compensation. The dial can then be rotated to scroll and select a setting. The control dial is a great concept, but its placement on the Kodak eliminates any convenience it may have aimed for.

Kodak Z1015 Control Dial

Besides the odd placement of its controls, the Kodak Z1015’s feel cheaper than those on the Fuji. Prime offender No. 1 is the shutter release button, which is shaped like a trapezoid and has the feel of a dollar-store toy moments before it hits the trash can. The Fujifilm S2000’s controls feel like they have some substance behind them – like they won’t break if you push hard. The Fuji’s mode dial is larger and has bigger grooves in its edge to make it easier to rotate.

Fujifilm S2000 HD	Kodak Z1015 IS

As far as menus go, the Kodak Z1015 wins hands-down. It is easier to read than the all-caps Fuji, and it is easier to navigate to different menus (on the Fuji, you have to scroll all the way to the bottom of the recording menu to get to the setup menu).