Digital-Camera Reviews

I purchased the Optio 550 to replace my original Kodak DC215. I was looking for a camera with decent Optical zoom, good photo resolution, and not something so big I would dread carrying it around.

So far I have been VERY pleased with this camera. It weighs significantly less than the Kodak, and is a good deal smaller too. It's a little big to put in your pocket, but I was able to get a reasonably small camera case which will work very well.

The pictures I have taken so far have all been very good quality, and you can't beat the 5MP resolution :) Connecting it to my computer was a snap, and the menus and options while a little bit criptic, provide easy access to lots of features.

I only have 2 complaints with this camera. 1) You will DEFINITELY need a larger memory card. The bundled 16MB card will only hold 4 pictures at the highest quality setting (below TIFF). However, this is true with every single digital camera I was looking at so I can't hold it against Pentax. 2) The movie mode does not support Optical zoom, only digital zoom. I have no idea why they did this, but for some reason you cannot use the optical zoom while shooting movies. Granted, this is a still picture camera, and I will probably seldom use the video mode, but it seems to be a very strange oversight.

I would DEFINITELY recommend this camera to anyone who wants a relatively easy to use camera, that takes very good pictures.

As someone who strted taking photographs 40 years ago with a Box Brownie, worked his way up through various SLRs, and basically lives & dies in public presentations on the basis of slides, I confess that I was VERY sceptical about going digital. The Pentax Optio has changed all that. I have been using this camera for about a month now, and my poor Canon F1 has stayed in its case. I am simply STUNNED with the quality of the image, the ease & accuracy of the "point and shoot" features, and the impressive array of options that Pentax offers me. Battery life seems excellent, the camera has survived a tough month in the field in high humidity/salt air being jostled and banged (and dropped at least once) in transfers from boats to dories to shore, and the 5x optical zoom lets me get reasonably close to my birds (it still isn't a "real" telephoto, don't be confused, but it beats the heck out of other digital cameras that I have played with). Downsides are that the enclosed 16mb card is a joke, I didn't even bother with it, get at least a 64mb & start shooting. The lens DOES take a while to extend, and there is a slight-but-noticeable delay between pressing shutter release & the actual image. This is annoying in an "action" setting. In addition, the viewscreen, while brighter than I expected, is invisible in bright sunlight. The biggest problem with this (the optical viewfnder is just fine for actually taking photos) is that messages like "memory card full" may not be conveyed to you unless you look really closely -I lost half a dozen pictures from not paying attention. Overall I am VERY impressed with this camera, it is light, portable, versatile, gives me very high quality pictures, and seems tough enough to stand up to a demanding life on off-shore seabird colonies. Go for it.

I love the Optio 550. It takes great pictures, with lots of options for the more technical person. I haven't figured out how to use the 3D function yet (but I'm not sure I ever would) and the flap to the PC/AV card is a little flimsy (but it hasn't broken yet). The zoom is awesome. I love to be able to blow up a picture and have it maintain its resolution. The pictures are clear. I am still trying it out, but so far it works great.

I got this camera for one reason - fishing pictures - and it is adequate for that or beach photos. If everything is evenly lit and you don't need to rely on the flash it's OK. And no problem if it gets wet or sandy. By the way, the imaging software that comes with it is bad beyond belief and makes all the pix look worse so don't bother installing it - use whatever you have. It is serviceable and sturdy and will probably never endear itself to me unless I become enamoured of taking pictures in the rain. However, I must say it has an excellent macro capability and if you're not catching any fish you can take nice flower closeups along the bank.

This camera may have 4 MP resolution but it has low definition and is one of the noisiest cameras I have ever seen. My old 2MP coolpix 950 looks much better. Exchanged it for the 3.2MP Canon Powershot A70 today.

Cool looks can be misleading...

Most high-feature cameras are too large to carry with me all the time. The Pentax Optio 430, on the other hand, fits EASILY in a shirt pocket, yet includes every feature I wanted, plus its quality matches Canon and Nikon. Interestingly, smaller size and matching features and quality was also the main virtues of the Pentax I used 30 years ago over the same competitors.
I've just returned from a two week trip to Northern California, during which it took over 300 pictures. I consider many of them great...
4MP means you can crop without losing visible detail. I added a Sandisk Ultra 512 Meg Compact Flash card and a spare battery, allowing me to take as many pictures as I wished each day, deleting bad ones each evening.
This camera replaced two Canons that still work well. Compared to both, I find it easier to use.
One suggestion: 1) cover the LCD with a plastic Palm screen cover. I once damaged a Canon for lack of that.
After 9 months of use, I still consider this the best small digital camera at any price. Highly recommended!

I really like this camera. I have been using digital cameras for several years now and this one is easy to use and takes great pictures. The most important thing for me was size - I found that unless I could put the camera in my shirt pocket I rarely took it with me. This on is only slightly bigger than a pack of cigerettes. You need to buy a compact flash memory for it if you are going to take high resolution pic's as you can only get something like 8 of the highest res pictures. The battery is a strong one and will run for a long time, and one ought to have a extra - but finding one of these new lithium ion batteries has not been easy. You can even zoom in on a picture you have taken while reviewing it.

I can be rough on cameras so I wanted a digital camera that could take at least a little abuse. I considered the Olympus Stylus 300/400 but didn't care for some of the reviews and the kind of batteries they use (I'm a rechargeable AA fan). What I read on the Optio 33WR was impressive, it has more mode features than I'll probably use (even a specialty mode for fireworks!) Although not quite as easy to use as the Kodak 6330 I feel this is offset by the extra features of the Optio 33WR. Since the Optio 33WR is "immersible" it *should* be able to handle rain and splashing from white water rafting and other water sports (I'll find out the hard way next summer) which greatly appeals to me. Taking pictures is easy and the 3.2 megapixel results are great even for 8x10 prints. Pictures are easy to download to your computer w/the included USB cable and the ACDSee photo-editing software is surprisingly easy to use as well. With a 256MB SD memory card I can take over 100 max quality/resolution photos and battery life is very good. It's small enough to drop in a pocket yet controls are large enough to be easily used. However, the Optio 33WR is not *quite* perfect... A docking bay w/battery charger for downloading photos would be nice and very convenient, I can't locate the optional AC adapter *anywhere*, a *slightly* more powerful flash (adequate as is) would be good, the power on/off button is a little too close to the shutter release for my comfort and the camera strap can dangle in front of the lens/flash when holding the camera at 90 degrees for more vertically oriented shots. Despite these minor quibbles I'm *very* happy w/my Optio 33WR and recommend it to anyone looking for a good digital camera that isn't afraid of the water. I give it 4.75 stars out of 5.
Added: I found a suitable AC adapter at Radio Shack (...) and the ACDSee photo-editing software that comes with the 33WR does a good job of lightening/brightening photos that the flash couldn't quite handle.
Added: The Vivitar DF200 Digital Flash looks to be my choice for better flash performance: It takes AA batteries like my Optio 33WR, "learns" the camera's flash characteristics for better results, tilts/aims for more lighting options and comes with a mini flex tripod & a special bracket for attaching to the tripod hole of the 33WR.
EDITED 5/04: The Phoenix D91-BZS 4-Stop Digital Slave Flash looks to be even better than the Vivitar (even comes w/a camera bracket). I now have the Optio 43WR which is nearly identical to the 33WR except for slightly greater resolution (no big deal) and a much-improved movie mode (640x480@30fps instead of 320x240@15fps) which I really like. However, it requires hi-speed memory to achieve 30fps and the SanDisk 512Mb Ultra II will provide 7.5 minutes of movie recording time at 640x480@30fps. If the movie mode isn't that important to you then I suggest you stick with the 33WR and less expensive memory.

I am new to Digital cameras, but have been shooting film in a variety of formats and systems for over 30 years. After much research and agonizing compromises, I waited and purchased this Pentax Optio 33WR. It is small, but fits my small hands well. All the controls are nicely defined and laid out. I began using the camera prior to consulting the manual because the camera is logically engineered. The manual is well done and thorough, and Pentax also spells out the accompanying ACDSEE software - not needed if you own a Mac. You can also download the manual and specs for this and many Pentax cameras directly from Pentax's doc site - free, prior to purchase if you want to study this. The specs available are quite accurate. Output is great! Sharp lens, fast focus, accurate exposure, and it fits in my pants pocket. It has a lot of flexibility for a P&S and a fair number of manual features if you need them. Nicely sealed, all weather unit. solid feel! Lots of positives! Negatives are: Came with 2 inexpensive alkaline batteries instead of lithium versions - I replaced them, but one can find power for this camera anywhere. The camera comes with an 16MB SD memory card which is good for about 8-10 hi-res pix, so I replaced it with a 64MB version ($34). All-in-all, 4 stars may be conservative because I like it and it is nearly all I need and want.

I've waited a long time for a decent digital camera that's rugged enough for going outdoors and enduring a little punishment. This thing is all you could ask for if your looking for a camera to go fishing, duck hunting and anything else you throw at it. It's simple and well laid out but still has all the features of a mid-range camera. It takes great pictures and comes with ACDsee for a wonderful software package.
Enjoy!!!!

I think this should be one of the best buy 3 MP camera. I have another digital camera with 5 MP (Kyocera S5R) but I like this one much more. The most striking thing about this camera (33L) is the beautiful color high resolution swivelling LCD monitor. The swivel monitor is very useful. The images taken by this camera are also real good. The balance of flash is extremely good eventhough it seems to be a bit of reddish saturation. 3D , filters , and panorama are fun to use. I used the rechargeable NIMH (AA , 2000 mAh) with no problem.
All in all , I love this one and carry it with me whenever possible. The only complaint I may have is that it lacks of date imprint mode. ( I use camera to record my work so date imprint is important for me.)

Once I got this camera, I was in love. I love how the LCD swivels. I takes picture-taking to a whole other level. If your just going to use this camera for everyday use, you can stop right here. This is the camera to buy. The software for editing that comes with it is GREAT too. It's a whole lotta fun.

This camera is great. Lots of features, super-cool LCD monitor...and a GREAT price.

However, beware of one thing. Do not try to power the camera with the "Power 2000" brand rechargeable AA batteries. I bought these batteries along with the charger from a website that suggested these batteries as an accessory for this camera. When I tried to use 2 fully charged Power 2000s, the camera would make 4 quick beep sounds and wouldn't turn on. After calling Pentax and telling them about my problem, they said I had to send it in for repair, and that it could take over a month. When I got the camera back I found out there was no problem with the camera. I was just using an "off brand" of AA battery that is not intended to power this specific camera.

I was angry at the retailer for suggesting a brand of battery that isn't even capable of powering this camera, but I was even more upset that the Pentax service rep didn't ask me over the phone which type of battery I was using. That whole problem and time spent without my camera could've been avoided if he had asked me that one simple question.

In summary, I would only use the Lithium Ion CR-V3 type battery with this camera. It lasts the longest, and now that Pentax themselves told me that it's the type of battery that is intended for use with this model, I won't try any other. It's too bad because I find it very wasteful and expensive to constantly purchase and throw away non-rechargeable batteries.

And one other thing - the reviewer that said he's had his camera "for 2 years" is either lying or accidentally reviewed the wrong camera. The Pentax Optio 33L was introduced in March 2003. It's less than a year old.

Don't let the negativity of my review deter you, though, because I love the camera. I'm just bothered by the service I got.

We purchased this camera and had to return it because the shutter delay is excruciating. I filled an entire memory card with pictures of my boys and didn't get one good shot. In some frames there was no subject because my toddler was 6 feet away before the shutter finally clicked (3 to 4 seconds after the hitting the button). The LED screen on the back was also faulty giving a red cast to the scene at hand - not like my previous Olympus digital.
I can't recommend another model as we are still looking for that perfect choice.

I was comparing this camera to other major brand 3M cameras and decided to pick this one because it is good value for a compact camera with 3x optical zoom. Canon S230 is great but it only has 2x optical zoom. Sony P7 is great but it's a little long and thick. On top of that, both S230 and P7 are selling for a higher price.
I've been using it a lot indoor and it has given good quality pictures at Normal setting. The shutter is a little slow but it's not a big deal to me after a little practice. I guess this is the only thing I'm not too happy with.
In conclusion I'm satisfied with the overall quality and would recommend it.

This is my first Digital Camera. I did some research on 3+ megapixel cameras with Compact Flash card. I was looking at Canon S230, Kodak DX4900& Pentax 330RS and decided to go for this one - looking at its size and additional features like 3D. Even though I like this, I am not very happy with this Pentax camera.
The 3D image is something unique in this camera, but we may not be using it often - viewing Glass is not great. The picture quality is superb when it is set in 'BEST - ***' with Max pixel, otherwise the picture quality is no good. The flash range is very less. The worst thing in this camera is - the shutter speed. It takes more than 3 seconds after clicking the button. Overall - it is a good camera but surely it is NOT a Great one.

I absolutely love this camera. I purchased the camera in December and have been impressed with the results. It is easy to use and I just love all the features that it offers, especially the 3D mode. I found the night shooting mode gave great results, although you must be careful to keep the camera still, allowing for the longer exposure. I download the photos into iphoto (which also is great) so am not familiar with the software that comes with the optio 330 gs. Overall this camera is great for the novice because of its simplicity, but also has a lot to offer the more creative photographer as well. My SLR has been a little neglected of late!

Before I purchased the Optio 330GS I had tried using an early Kodak digital model. It had no zoom, limited functions and drained batteries.

In comparison, this camera is a gem. It has everything the novice photographer could ever need: 3 x digital zoom, several picture modes (including self portrait and 'snow and surf' modes), movie function (upto 30 seconds) and a good autofocus. Furthermore it is easy to use and the software provided is fast and efficient. The LCD screen is clear and is still visible in bright light outdoors.

It is important that if you buy this camera, you also buy a 128mb or 256mb Compact flash card. This allows you to take as many photos as you need. Some critics have also complained that it chews AA batteries. This is true. If you use normal AA alkaline batteries - it will use them up very quickly. However, if you buy some rechargeable NIMH AA's, then they should last for as long as you need. And as they are rechargeable you don't have to keep forking out.

I use this camera mainly to take pictures of surfing (and the ocean) and it functions very well for this purpose. It is also great for taking everyday pictures of your friends and family, as well as self portraits - thus eliminating the need to hand your camera over to a stranger when there is no-one around to take your photo. Good value for money and a quality product.

This a great little pocket rocket camera. Takes compact flash,uses AA rechargable Nimh batteries and has a 3X fast optical zoom. The Nimh's are the way to go-get the 1800mAh capacity and they will last longer than you think. The lens looks like it's the same as the one on the new nikon 3100. Amazon.com had it on sale...shipped-a screamin deal!

Bought in 2001 and now the shuttler can hardly respond. Also focus is always a problem.

The Pentax is my 3rd digital camera and it is the best in terms of size, features and image quality. I had a Canon Powershot A5 (.9 MPixel) and a Canon Powershot S10 (2.1 MPixels). Both were good cameras in their class but the Pentax Optio 330 has done a significant step forward. I was looking for a smaller Camera which I could take always with me and it should have 3 million pixels resolution and if possibel a 3x optical zoom lens. The Pentax fullfilled this wishlist and the 800 pictures which I have taken so far showed impressively a significantly improved image quality over my previous cameras beyond its obvious resolution advantage. Pro:
- Great color management, sharpness, large contrast - overall - very realistic images
- Large resolution 3 MPixels
- 3x optical Zoom 37-111 mm which produces very good and sharp images
- Rechargable Lithium battery which lasts through the day
- compact battery charger (100-240V)
- wealth of information about exposure data on the LCD display
- Compactflash Memory Type 1 - important when coming from Canon
- auto and manual exposure mode with shutter speed range 15 sec to 1/2000
- many more features
Con:
- LCD display quality does no match up to image quality - not important but annoying and reason for 4 instead of 5 stars! Not good enough to use for the manual focusing mode as it does not allow to judge correctly in focus or out of focus
- no additional 'low power' display with basic information on number of exposures flash mode or makro
- makro mode only in wide postion of zoom - a sacrifice to the small form factor
All in all a great small camera for every day use and well worth the money

I bought a pentax optio 330 about a month ago and I just love the little guy! I was considering the Nikon 885 but a sales rep at National Camera suggested this one to me. It is about 100 dollars more but with the mail in rebate it comes down to the same price as the Nikon. He also indicated to me that more customers had complaints about the Nikon and had more problems with the Nikon's menu screen. Well I can't say for sure since I have never used that camera but with my Pentax, I don't think I will ever need to.

I have enjoyed beautiful, crisp pictures with this camera. I took shots of my doll collection, my artwork, and my cat and they all turned out great (once I got used to the different light settings which wasn't too hard). I did take it to my cousin's wedding and I have to say that it didn't work as well for me there. One reason was that I was loathe to use the flash since I didn't like the way the flash looked in my other indoor pics I had taken earlier. I also reasoned that the camera has special "dark room" settings to compensate. Futhermore, the pics on my viewscreen were looking good so I trusted that. Well I wished I had used more flash cause when I uploaded them, most of the pics were blurry. Granted most of them were of people dancing but I wonder if the flash would have helped the focus. The camera does seem to have a problem focusing in dark situations but I am still experimenting with that and I don't think that it is a major problem.

I saw in a previous review that someone mentioned the viewscreen being too small. I have to agree since I can't tell whether or not the pic is blurry based on the screen. But if the screen were any bigger, the camera would be too and that is not what you want in a compact camera.

I love the small size! It fits in my coat pocket and when I have it around my neck it doesn't feel like it is cutting off circulation. It is also cased in stainless steel as opposed to the Nikon's plastic casing which does give me more confidence - although I wouldn't recommend dropping it ;)

Overall it is a great point and shoot digital camera! I would highly recommend! And if the price bothers you - well you won't have to hassle with photo developing services any more now will you?