Since it introduced the Optio 330 in 2001, the first camera in the Optio seies, Pentax’s compact camera output has been restricted almost exclusively to 3x zoom models, with the range extending to over forty different models over the last six years. It has flirted occasionally with 5x zoom models, but the last of those was the Optio SVi launched over two years ago. Bearing this in mind, the announcement last month of the new Optio Z10 came as something of a surprise, because it is equipped with an all-new non-protruding 7x zoom lens, as well as an 8.0-megapixel sensor and 2.5-in 230k wide-view monitor. I’ve got one of the first production samples, so hopefully this should be the first full review in the UK.
The first impression of the new camera is certainly favourable. Like most of Pentax’s compacts it has an all-metal aluminium body, and is available in black or the silver version I have here. The overall design bears a superficial resemblance to the Casio EX-V7, with a sliding lens cover that doubles as the on/off switch. As with the Casio, the 7x zoom lens is mounted sideways inside the camera, looking out via a prism. This means that it doesn’t protrude from the front, while allowing the camera to have a relatively slim profile.
TrustedReviews - Pentax Optio Z10