Fujifilm's 2004 entry compact — 4.1MP CCD, wide 28-91mm equiv 3.2x zoom, 2-inch LCD, xD card, AA power.
The Fujifilm FinePix E500 (also listed as the FinePix E500 Zoom) was an entry-level digital compact announced on 28 July 2004 alongside the higher-resolution E510. It opened Fujifilm's E-series line, which pitched wide-angle lenses and large screens at family buyers on a budget.
It used a 4.1-megapixel 1/2.5-inch conventional CCD behind a 3.2x Fujinon zoom with an unusually wide 28-91mm equivalent range for its class. The rear carried a 2-inch 154k-pixel TFT LCD. Images stored to xD-Picture Card (a 16MB card was typically bundled), and power came from two AA batteries, alkaline or Ni-MH.
The 28mm-equivalent wide end set the E500 apart from the 35-38mm starting points of most 2004 rivals, making it handy for landscapes, interiors and group shots. It suits collectors of early-2000s CCD compacts and anyone wanting simple point-and-shoot operation with AA convenience; expect modest resolution and slow responsiveness by later standards.
Used buyers should note the xD-Picture Card dependency — cards are discontinued, small in capacity and increasingly expensive, so check one is included. AA power is trouble-free. Inspect the lens barrel for extension faults, the battery contacts and door for corrosion or cracks, and test the screen and flash. CCD age means checking images for lines or colour blotches.