We all tend to be a bit rough on our digital cameras at times. Now Pentax has introduced a camera that is designed to specifically to handle the wear and tear that the average camera gets put through.

The Pentax Optio W80 is a water-resistant camera that takes pictures at a 12.1-megapixel resolution and has a 5x optical zoom. The camera reportedly is waterproof up to five meters (16 feet), can handle being dropped from a height of one meter (3.3 feet), and can work in temperatures down to negative 10 degrees C.

In addition to being able to take pictures, the Pentax Optio W80 can also shoot high-definition video at 720p and 30 frames per second. The video function also works in all those before mentioned conditions, so you’re essentially getting a digital camera and a camcorder that can both handle the elements pretty well.

I personally carry around a small Canon Elph for my day to day shooting while I’m out and about. The camera stays permanently in my purse and gets exposed to literally everything that my purse gets exposed to (which tends to add up to quite a bit). I originally selected the camera because of its tough exterior, cameras like the Pentax Optio W80 certainly give it a run for its money however.

If you’re looking for a camera to tote around through the elements (and especially one to use near water) I would give this model a serious look. The camera measures in at 3.9 x 2.2 x 1.0 inches (9.9 x 5.6 x 2.5cm) which means it could very easily fit in a pocket or bag without adding much bulk into the situation. With all the gadgets we tend to carry around these days there is certainly something to be said for a camera that can fit in your pocket.

The camera is expected to become available in July in red, gray, and blue for around $300.

Entry was posted on Sunday, June 28th, 2009 at 4:20 pm under Compact digital cameras.  Print This Post