Pentax Optio W80 - the Outdoor camera with HD
The list of waterproof digital compact cameras is growing. Pentax just has announced the Optio W80, an outdoor compact camera camera, that is certified waterproof at depths of up to 5 meters for two hours. More over it is shockproof for drops of up to 1m. With it's 12.1MP image sensor, an 5x optical zoom and a 2.5" LCD it is certainly interesting for underwater snapshots. Additionally the Pentax Optio W80 allows HD movie recording (1280x720) and Pixel Track digital Shake Reduction tries to enhance images in low light condition.
PENTAX first introduced dunkable digital cameras in 2003 to the delight of outdoor enthusiasts, travelers and families everywhere. Today, the PENTAX Optio W80’s waterproof design withstands depths of up to 16 feet (5 meters) to protect from rain and spills, as well as allowing full underwater photos and video for up to two hours. On dry land, the rugged, shockproof design protects against drops of up to 3.3 feet to protect the camera from hard use and occasional spills. Also featuring 12.1 megapixels, a 5X internal optical zoom (equivalent to 28-140mm), a slim one inch body, and a wide angle 28mm lens, the Optio W80 offers an expanded perspective that is ideal for landscape, group and more confined shots. With a PENTAX-developed imaging engine and a high-performance PENTAX zoom lens, the Optio W80 delivers brilliant, high-quality images with well-defined details. A Super Protect (SP) coating applied to the mineral crystal cover of the internal zoom lens helps repel water, grime and finger marks.
Other important features in the Optio W80 include a:
Available in Cardinal Red, Azure Blue and Gunmetal Gray, the Optio W80 will be available in July 2009 for $299.95 USD. To help keep the Optio W80 fresh and at hand, PENTAX offers a custom designed clear protective skin ($16.95 USD) and a comfortable floating wrist strap ($19.95 USD). More information about the Optio W80 and these accessories is available at: http://www.pentaximaging.com
Technology has really progressed so much! I am really impressed by the durability of the camera, on top of its great functions! I will definitely recommend it to any friends who are looking for cameras which are suitable for taking photos underwater. I’m sure they would be able to capture wonderful shots with this camera.
Stanley Davies
Looking forward to the next waterproof camera from Pentax. They have been losing market share to canon in the camera market nowadays, and making their niche market in waterproof cameras might just help them survive.





