Pentax Optio E80
By Pentax

        Pentax has done it again with the
surprising capabilities of this “oh so” compact digital camera. The Optio E80
is a great starter camera with features similar to other devices on the market
with one major exception, the price tag (but we’ll talk about that later). The
camera was very easy to set up with the rather large 2.7 inch LCD screen.
Nothing is worse than a huge camera with a small display, but fortunately this
is not the case. Likewise, the large print and text on both the screen and
buttons make it easy to read, especially for those aging customers. 

        Similarly,
I liked how the buttons on the back were simple functions and I didn’t have to
go searching on the camera to erase a picture or turn the flash on. The Optio
E80 comes with the typical features of other cameras, flash options, language
support, and captures video. I found the various capture modes such as movie,
flower, and surf and snow to be a nice touch. In addition, the camera is
10-10.7 pixel with a 3X optical zoom and a digital zoom of 5.7X. It also
records widescreen HD video with a nice sound capture and relatively high
resolution. Aesthetically, the camera is comparable to Canon or similar Kodak
cameras with a sturdy design and basic functionality. The series comes in black
or silver and is powered by 2 AA batteries, not a rechargeable battery.
Personally, I prefer the dependability of non rechargeable batteries especially
if you are on vacation and a power supply is not readily available.

        You really
can’t go wrong with the minimalist design, more than adequate features, and 120 dollar price tag. Why not surprise someone for Christmas with this great
camera, without making a huge dent in your savings.

Technical Specifications

3X optical zoom
5.7X digital zoom
10 pixels
2.7” LCD display
6 MB storage
Built-in Auto Flash
White Balance
4.0×2.3×1.0
6.2oz in weight

Grab your own: Amazon.com: $102.99