Pentax Launches Waterproof Optio WS80

2009.09.03

Today Pentax Canada has announced the Optio WS80, an ultra-compact digital camera which is waterproof up to 5 ft. The WS80 is equipped with a 10 megapixels sensor and an internal 5X optical zoom lens, equivalent to 35-175mm. As Pentax's other waterproof models, this one shoots 720p HD video as well, at 30 FPS no less. This is a rather small water-proof camera with dimensions of 3.6 x 2.3 x 0.9".

Basic features of the Pentax Optio WS80 are:

• 10 Megapixels sensor
• 5X Optical zoom, 35-175mm equivalent
• ISO 64-1600 at full-resolution
• ISO 3200 and 6400 at 5 megapixels
• 1/1500-4s Shutter-speeds
• Auto, infinity, pan (hyperfocal), macro and manual focus
• 2.7" LCD 230K pixels
• 1280x720 @ 30 FPS HD movie mode
• JIS Class 8 waterproof submersible to 5'
• JIS Class 6 dustproof
• 240-shot battery-life

Compared to the rugged Optio W80, the WS80 is lighter and more compact with a longer zoom as well. It is part of the new trend of offering lower-cost underwater-capable cameras which can be used under a variety of conditions including rain, snow, dust, sand and more. It is much easier to take such a camera anywhere.

• Digital Camera