Model Design / Appearance (8.0)
The Optio W10 is an appealing camera. Its curved lines and subtly tinted front panel give it a playful, inviting feel, which the simple interface accentuates. The materials feel solid, and the fit and finish are very good, which brings up an interesting distinction. Most of the cameras that are built as tough as the W10 look tough and high-tech, while many of the cameras that look as pretty as the W10 are fairly flimsy. It's great to see a combination of good construction and “fashion” styling.
Size / Portability (7.75)
At 4.2 x 2.1 x 0.9 inches (106.5 x 54.5 x 23 mm), the Optio W10 is small enough for a wide range of pockets and just about any bag. Its exterior features are relatively smooth, so it's easy to fit just about anywhere. Just as important, its dust and water seals will protect it in pockets and purses.
Handling Ability (7.75)
The Optio W10 feels good in our hands--our grip felt very secure--particularly for a camera without rubber gripping surfaces. We would rely on the wrist strap to avoid dropping the W10, but generally had an easy time holding on to the camera.
It's always better to hold a camera with two hands while shooting, and the top and bottom of the W10 are convenient for adults' left hand grips. Children who tried out the W10 with us were able to hold the left side front and back without obstructing the lens.
Control Button / Dial Positioning / Size (6.75)
The Optio W10 doesn't have many controls, but those it has generally work well. The push-button power switch is problematic – levers or sliding switches are more positive and less likely to be accidentally activated. The W10's button is inset into the top of the camera, which makes it harder to press accidentally but also slower and less convenient to use on purpose.
The shutter release, on the other hand, is large and sensitive. The zoom rocker switch is nicely-shaped but, like most electric zoom controls, hard to set accurately. We found ourselves overshooting the setting we wanted. The other buttons are large, well-marked, and functional. We expect that the robust construction that waterproofing entails will add to the W10's general durability. Its buttons should not jam, stick or get loose.
The Optio W10's “Green Button” is a nice touch. By default, it starts the camera's simple mode, but it can be configured so that two and three presses bring up manual functions like exposure compensation, ISO and so on.
Menu (7.0)
The Optio W10's menus are straightforward. The camera is targeted toward casual shooting, so it lacks many exotic controls that would complicate its use.
