High-Speed Digital Cameras

I am frequently asked about the camera I use to capture the videos I show on my site. I have put this page up in order to answer this and related questions.

The camera I use is a 2008 model that is no longer available in most stores but still available at Amazon.com - the Casio Exilim EX-FH20. Casio released a 2009 model with similar features - Casio Exilim EX-FC100. Technically speaking, the new model is not as good, but it is available in more than one color.

Both models offer the following recording speeds: 30 fps, 210 fps, 420 fps, and 1000 fps. Both models have an HD recording mode as well.

The EX-FH20 offers a 7 megapixel burst shot at 40 fps, while the EX-FC100 offers a 6 megapixel burst shot at 30 fps. Additionally, the EX-FH20 has a 20x optical zoom, compared to the 5x optical zoom of the EX-FC100.

The EX-FC100 has a much lower suggested retail price ($399 vs. $599), but the EX-FH20 is currently available on Amazon.com for under $299.99 (as of 11/27/2009). The EX-FC100 is also available for only $226.10 (as of 11/27/2009).

When I purchased by EX-FH20, both models were available. If I had to do it over again, I would still choose the EX-FH20 over the EX-FC100. For me, the larger camera is easier to steady and with the 20x optical zoom, you can get solid video from almost any seat in any stadium.

Casio seems to be the only company with the current technology available for use in consumer market digital cameras. The professional market offers far superior cameras if you're looking to spend at least $8,000, but unless you're trying to break new ground with your high-speed video analysis, I'd suggest sticking to the consumer market.

I will do my best to update this page as new high-speed cameras become available in the consumer electronics market.