Pentax Optio W60

3 comments | June 19th, 2008 | Trackback

Pentax Optio W60 - An affordable 10 Megapixel waterproof camera.

The Pentax Optio W60 might not have all the features of the other waterproof digital cameras on the market, but that doesn’t mean you should cross it off your list just yet. While it is marketed as a waterproof digital camera, it should be marked as, “the perfect digital camera for clumsy and adventurous travelers.” The Pentax Optio W60 might not have all the features a regular diver needs, but it offers plenty in the area of “accidental insurance” for travelers. Things like its waterproof housing, ability to operate in extreme cold, and wide angle lens are just a few of the reasons the Pentax Optio W60 should stay on your list.

Keep in mind that the Pentax Optio W60 is a waterproof digital camera and not really an underwater digital camera. It is only designed to handle depths of about 13 feet, so SCUBA divers may find that a little restricting. The snorkeling tourist on the other hand, should have no problems with that. The battery last for up to two hours, so you’ll probably have a hard time wearing out the battery while you snorkel.

A cool feature of the Pentax Optio W60 is its video functions. Aside from just being able to capture low quality video footage, the Pentax Optio W60 can also capture high def video. The camera has the ability to record resolutions up to 1280 x 720. To make sure that HD video looks as good as possible, there is also built in shake reduction and an underwater movie mode. Withs specs like that you’ll be creating your own Animal Planet mini series in now time.

The quick & dirty:

Where you can get one:
Amazon.com $329.00

Why it rocks:

10 Megapixels for large, detailed images up to 3648×2736 resolution for stills
5X optical zoom in a slim 1-inch body is equivalent to 28-140mm if it were a 35mm camera
Wide-angle 28mm zoom lens ideal for landscape, indoor, or group photos
Waterproof to 4m (13 feet) protects from rain and spills, as well as allowing underwater photos and video
Macro focusing can focus on subjects as close as a centimeter (less than one inch) for stunning close-up shots
Pentax proprietary SP (Super Protect) coating adds superior water repellency and scratch resistance to the lens’s front protective glass to prevent water droplets from forming
Panorama mode stitches a series of up to three shots into one wide photo

Seat-of-the-pants rating: 9 out of 10

If you travel regularly and are looking for a camera that can keep up with your adventurous lifestyle, the Pentax Optio W60 can certianly meet those standards. If it is a little out of your price range, you can always try to older model. The Pentax Optio W20 is just as good, but has a lower resolution and lower price tag. Either way, you can not go wrong with one of these suckers.

Looking to buy? Check out these sites:
Amazon.com $329.00