Pentax intros Optio60 digicam, focusing on ease of use

This new 6 megapixel unit from Pentax is aimed at the entry-level crowd, as evidenced by its "Simple mode" that allows the shooter to concentrate on the subject while the Optio60 selects the optimal settings automagically. Other specs include a 2.0-inch LCD monitor, 3X optical zoom and 4X digital for combined 12X zoom capability, 12MB built-in memory with SD slot for expansion, and USB mass storage compatibility. It can run on AA batteries, making it a decent choice for travellers. The going price will be about $200 when it rolls out in the US next month.

[morgan @ Dec 19th 2005 1:24AM]

i prefer canon !

[Rory Bigger @ Dec 19th 2005 1:24AM]

Pentax profits were down 42% last quater. I think it'll take more than this to make it up. They say they will be changing focus to DSLR's which have bigger profit margins... it'll be interesting to see where this goes.

[Jeff @ Dec 19th 2005 1:24AM]

"�Simple mode� that allows the shooter to concentrate on the subject while the Optio60 selects the optimal settings automagically."

How does this differ from the "auto" mode available on every single other camera in the world that is not a pro-level SLR?

[Anne @ Dec 19th 2005 1:24AM]

I guess there's the allitertion with "simple" and the smiley face that represents that mode, Jeff...hehehe. That's how it's designated on my Pentax Optio S40, which is one of the best investments I've ever made. Before buying it, I did my research and made a list of what I wanted (something suitable for a digital photography novice like myself, decent 4X6 family photos, compact, staying under $400 for the camera itself) I purchased it from a camera store, which IMHO is the best way to procure it.

Lest I sound like a shill for Pentax, I'm just speaking from my experience. If other brands of cameras meet your needs, power to you.

[UFG @ Dec 19th 2005 1:24AM]

Yeah you can buy it from a camera store if you like paying $100-$200 more for something.

[Rory Bigger @ Dec 19th 2005 1:24AM]

I really like how camera stores let you walk around the store with a bunch of different cameras and actually let you snap off a few shots and sometimes even give you some advice doing it. Most digital cameras these days are so similar that how it feels in your hands can really be the ultimate decision maker. That said, for my latest camera I went to the camera store, decided what I liked, then bought it online for less.

[Anne @ Dec 19th 2005 1:24AM]

I happened to find the best price in the store, so I'm sorry if you got burned, UFG. Perhaps the pricing structure changed since I made my purchase. I like browsing in stores and online; each has its benefits.