Pentax Optio A10

Review summary: The Optio A10 ($350) is an ultra-compact 8 Megapixel camera with Pentax's new Shake Reduction system. While some image stabilization systems shift an element in the lens, the SR system actually moves the CCD sensor around for the same effect. A ...

Pros: Very good photo quality (though see issues below) ; Image stabilization ; Compact, stylish metal body ; Large, sharp 2.5" LCD display (but see issues below) ; AF-assist lamp, good low light focusing ; Good movie mode with long record times (though see ...

Cons: Poor performance: slow startup, shot-to-shot times ; noticeable shutter lag ; Details in photos can be muddy ; some corner blurring ; Redeye a problem (though removal tool helps) ; Below average battery life ; Poor continuous shooting mode ; Poor LCD ...

Verdict: As is the case with so many cameras this year, the Optio A10 has memory built right into the camera in lieu of a bundled memory card. Pentax gives you 24MB of onboard memory, which will hold just seven photos at the highest image quality setting. With ...

Verdict: Not yet reviewed by editors.

Review summary: Pentax make a whole range of point and- click cameras, but the stylish Optio A10 is the current flagship model in the compact line-up, and is a more than worthy holder of that lofty position

Pros: Top-notch image 90 per cent of the time

Cons: Sometimes over-exposes images

Verdict: Offering great image quality, this should be near the top of your wish list

Review summary: The high resolution CCD picks up lots of detail, and it's possible to print the images out easily up to A4

Pros: Top-notch image 90 per cent of the time

Cons: Sometimes over-exposes images

Verdict: And that album should be a cracker, as this snapper produces top-notch images 90 per cent of the time. The high resolution CCD picks up lots of detail, and it's possible to print the images out easily up to A4 without too much of the unsightly digital ...