Kodak Launches M-Series of Budget Cameras

Kodak's new cameras will attempt to roll style and functionality into compact digital cameras costing no more than $229.

Kodak took the wraps off four new digital cameras in its latest line on Tuesday. The M753, M853, M873 and M883 will target consumers who are after style on a budget with compact sizes, metal cases and a variety of colors.

On the lower end of the line, the M753 and M853 will be able to take pictures in 7- and 8-megapixel resolutions, respectively  (as denoted by the first digit in their model numbers). Besides the difference in resolution, both cameras will sport many of the same features, including 3x optical zoom lenses and 2.5-inch LCD screens. Kodak didn’t give exact dimensions for the new models, but called them "pocketable." The M753 will be available in black, silver, purple, copper, pink and blue, while the M853 will come out in white, red, graphite, silver and espresso.

Moving up in the line, the M873 and M883 will both come with 8-megapixel sensors and high ISO settings. The top-of-the-line M883 will add face-detection to its host of features. Both cameras will have 3-inch LCD screens. Like their brethren on the lower end of the M-series, the higher-end cameras will have metal cases, but color choices will be more limited. The M873 will come only in silver and black, while the M883 will come in silver, black and red.

Kodak will release the cameras from the bottom of the line to top, with the M753 coming out in June for $149. The M853 and M873 will follow in August, retailing for $179 and $199 respectively. Consumers seeking the M883 will have to wait until September, when it will appear in stores for $229.