Pentax Optio W10 Digital Camera Review

Pentax Optio W10

Digital Camera Review

Jul 07, 2006 - By Patrick Singleton
1.7 The Pentax Optio W10 is a waterproof compact camera with a 3x zoom lens, 6-megapixel CCD and a list price of $299.95. Though waterproofing might seem like a gimmick – how many pictures does anyone need of their kids underwater? -- Waterproof cameras are, by definition, sealed against dust, dirt, and moisture. The W10 should be a durable camera, ready to be carried in pockets and taken out in the rain. It's also tough enough for even small children to use on their own.
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Likes
– Waterproofing is a great feature
- Excellent seals
– Simple interface
– Attractive styling
– Picture effects available as post-processing, rather than during shooting
Dislikes
- No manual exposure mode
- Picture quality lacking
- Short battery life
- LCD is hard to see outdoors

Conclusion
The Optio W10's unique benefits are its waterproofing, its simplicity and its styling. Its image quality is by no means outstanding. Still, there will be plenty of people who want a convenient, moderately-priced beach camera or even a snorkeling camera, and they will be pleased with the W10. For under $300, the 6-megapixel, 3x optical zoom Optio W10 offers a unique feature set at its price point, although users will have accept the sacrifice in image quality for the added durability and underwater functionality.

Overall Impressions Page 7 of 12 Specs / Ratings
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